Cricut EasyPress 2: Mastering Iron-On Transfers for Pro Results
The Cricut EasyPress 2 is a smart heat press machine that makes cutting-edge designs onto the desirable materials. Whether it is a bag or shirt design, EasyPress 2 can do all of this. This machine is a portable heat press that applies heat evenly to your iron-on materials, providing professional, good-looking results in less than a minute. Besides, we will discuss everything about EasyPress 2 and how to apply iron-on vinyl throughout this post. With this project, you will learn to create your first project on EasyPress 2. So, without further ado, let’s get started.
What is Cricut EasyPress 2?
The Cricut EasyPress is considered the best companion for the Cricut machine. Above all, it is portable like a regular iron and distributes heat evenly on the material surface. However, Cricut released EasyPress 2 in 2018, which is available in 3 different sizes they are small ( 6” x 7”) for smaller projects, Medium (9” x 9”) for everyday use, and large size (12” x 10”) for larger format projects.
The significant changes included in Cricut EasyPress 2 are as follows:
Temperature: The precise temperature control up to 400°F (205°C). Whereas the original EasyPress has precise temperatures up to 360°F (180°C).
Heats up quickly: It heats 25% faster than the original press.
Available in different sizes with a range of price points.
It also has a micro USB port to update the firmware.
Things available in Cricut EasyPress 2 but not in the original EasyPress model:
Various color choices: A range of colors are available.
Educational materials: You can avail of educational materials and updates via online product registration.
Smart safety: The engineered design heat press keeps the work surface up to 60°F cooler.
Remembers settings: It can remember time and temperature settings from previous usage.
How to Make Cricut Iron-on Vinyl Projects With EasyPress 2?
Cricut EasyPress 2 works efficiently and faster. It offers top-notch quality when we apply an iron on vinyl on materials (fabric or others). The press can apply iron within 60 seconds or less. Further, we will explain through the sample project with EasyPress 2. In addition, we do not need to cut and weed the design because it already comes with the shape of graphics. But we will still provide all the steps so that it will be helpful for you while applying the self-made design.
Now, let us now see the step-by-step procedure to apply iron on vinyl:
Step 1: Cut Your Design
Firstly, you should create your design using the Cricut Design Space app. Then, you will need to cut it with the help of any Cricut machine and finally weed it. Also, if you are using heat transfer vinyl, then you must mirror the design before cutting it.
Step 2: Turn On Cricut EasyPress 2
Now, plug your press and set the temperature accordingly ( depending on what you are using). For example, we are working at a temperature of 290°F (145°C). Also, you will need to set the timer for 30 seconds.
Step 3: Preheat the Surface
After reaching the desired temperature, EasyPress will beep, meaning you can press your surface for about 5 seconds. Afterward, doing these things will remove the wrinkles from the surface. However, you can press for another 5 seconds if you can still see the wrinkles.
Step 4: Lay Down the Project
In order to get the top result, you may prefer working on a flat, solid surface. Essentially, measure the design to keep it in the center or wherever you want it to be.
Step 5: Set the Timer and Apply the Pressure
When everything is done, set the timer and apply the pressure downward by holding the handle of the Cricut EasyPress 2. Additionally, you can turn your project inside out to give some more press, which will result in good quality.
Step 6: Peel off the Carrier Sheet
Now, it is time to peel your carrier sheet attached to your design. Be careful when you are using a different brand of iron-on vinyl; see if it’s cold, warm, or hot peel. Note that some heat transfer vinyl works great when it is peeled off at a certain temperature.
Step 7: Finally, You are Done!
Finally, you have done it, but remember not to wash it for the first 24 hours.
Conclusion
For serious crafters, the Cricut EasyPress 2 is a must-have tool. The press design is great, making it portable and durable. Also, the result is satisfactory with high quality. Moreover, EasyPress 2 is available in 3 different sizes. Depending on the type of usage, users can buy this Cricut EasyPress in various sizes, which is suitable for different project sizes. Lastly, the machine’s precision will make you feel safe when you work with your iron-on materials. We hope that you have learned how to apply the iron-on vinyl.
FAQs
Question 1: What comes in the box of Cricut EasyPress 2?
Answer: In the EasyPress 2 box, there will be a machine. Besides, you will get some other items such as a safety base, quick time and temperature reference for pressing different transfers, a warranty card, a welcome booklet, and other materials for practice purposes. With these items, you can start your crafting and make various projects easily.
Question 2: Is the Cricut EasyPress 2 worth buying?
Answer: In a nutshell, Yes! You must buy it as it has good performance, like it is faster, durable, light in weight, precise, and designed especially for heat transfer projects. In addition to that, it comes with many safety features which protect you from burns. Hence, you will not need to worry about having the kids around it. Still, you should avoid your pet and kids around (where you are working).
Question 3: How much pressure should I apply while using the EasyPress 2?
Answer: It completely depends on the type of projects you are working on and the materials involved in it. Some people may advise you to apply one of two levels of pressure. For instance,
Light Pressure: You must use one hand and apply the pressure (body weight) of 5 to 10 lbs.
Firm Pressure: To apply muscular pressure, you must use two hands and ensure the pressure is about 15-20.
Visit: cricut.com/setup
cricut design space
cricut explore air 2