How to Use Cricut Infusible Ink Pens with Cricut Mug Press Tutorial

[@DianaDayDreams]

THANK YOU!! This is the FIRST time I’ve seen a demonstration of using the pens to draw a multicolored design!

[@DIYAlex]

I’m so glad this was helpful!

[@BreadMachineVideosWithEllenH]

Best of any Cricut related video I’ve seen!

[@DIYAlex]

Thank you so much!

[@CinnamonDelight-xb8pl]

All information was useful 👍, especially the info on laser vs regular paper for infusible ink.

[@bmall1656]

Love your videos Alex. I have an answer/tip about the different types of copy paper. I’m a professional calligrapher and we usually use 32lb laser paper because it is smoother and the ink takes better. The higher the pound (24, 32) is better as your ink won’t bleed as it would on regular copy paper. The brightness really doesn’t have any effect on your project. Keep up the awesome videos. Been watching you from day 1.

[@DIYAlex]

That’s great to know! Thank you so much!

[@miriampalanchi2798]

Great Tutorial, I so needed this since I'm getting a mug press for Christmas and I'm totally lost!

[@DIYAlex]

Thank you! It takes some experimenting but you’ll get there! ☺️

[@Jacilynn1978]

Great tutorial! I'm new to the Cricut world and am so nervous of trying all the different projects. this video made me feel a little more confident. Thanks!

[@DIYAlex]

I'm so glad! You're welcome!

[@joyscranfield5527]

DIY Alex, this is an absolute amazing video! Have added laser copy Paper to my shopping list. Thank you for all the info, it is truly appreciated😃👏 Our get together was very good; there were 8 in today's group which isn't bad for our age group & time graduated, 52 years!

[@DIYAlex]

You're so welcome! I'm glad you enjoyed it. I agree, that's pretty awesome!

[@anddab211]

Thanks for this video, never knew I could do this with my mug press.

[@denisa6171]

What an amazing video!!!! Answered every single question I had! Thank youuuuu!

[@DIYAlex]

Glad it was helpful!

[@shirleyscudder9050]

Absolute the best tutorial! I was nervous to use my new cricut mug press. Watched other video, you explained each step so nicely. Thank you!!

[@DIYAlex]

Thank you! I am so glad that this helped you! -Lindsay

[@emilexblingparties]

I absolutely enjoyed your video! You explained everything about the coloring because I was lost. I couldn't figure out why every time I changed it to pen, my color would disappear and there would only be lines. Thank you so much!

[@DIYAlex]

You’re welcome!

[@sylviebradley4951]

Thank you for this beautiful project. 🌸

[@DIYAlex]

You're welcome! :)

[@bkgoldoverseernana1291]

😍I', definitely going to try this!

[@yesiamsharon]

Very nicely done and explained. I so appreciate it!!

[@DIYAlex]

Thank you!! I’m glad it helped!

[@ramonamendez7495]

Thanks for the video..will have to try my markers!!!

[@DIYAlex]

You are so welcome!

[@purpledragondc7532]

That came out perfect!!! Awesome tutorial!!

[@Polly_Prozac]

Bravo! Excellent instructions! Inspired me, making a mug right now! Thank you

[@DIYAlex]

I'm so glad to hear that! You're welcome!

[@leoniepreece1784]

Love it Alex, thank you so very much. See in the next video ❤😊

[@lorianncordova3986]

Fantastic tutorial!! TYSM for all the great tips. I’m getting myself a mug press for Christmas, so I’m excited to try it. All your tips are getting me excited to begin! 👍🏻

[@DIYAlex]

Yay!!! I hope you enjoy it! ☺️

[@artebee905]

Thank you so much for this video. The company I work for created a training video for using the mug press and it left me asking so many questions that your video has answered. They advised placing the actual mug press on a heat resistant surface like the easy press mat. I can see from your video, that isn’t necessary. You rest the hot mug on the mat instead. They used copier paper to protect the mug press from ink seepage, you have used butcher paper, though I'm not sure what that is in the UK. I also liked your comparison of the different types of copier paper. Thank you for this in depth guide. 😊

[@DIYAlex]

I'm so glad this helps! Yes, the easy press mat is just for the hot mug. Butcher paper is similar to baking paper or parchment paper. Maybe that will help you track some down!

[@artebee905]

@@DIYAlex thank you. x

[@matthewsmith1782]

Great video Alex, thanks!

[@artebee905]

You don’t need butcher paper, you can also use the laser paper to wrap around the mug when using the ink pens.

[@user-ik1qj8ni4o]

How many pieces of laser paper did you use to wrap around it?

[@anastasiasoulakarlikiotis8389]

Great tutorial I enjoyed watching. Explanation was very helpful. Thank you I have one question can you use on light coloured mugs?

[@DIYAlex]

They have to be VERY light colored and sublimation-friendly. If you can find those, then yes!

[@joyscranfield5527]

DIY ALEX, catch your replay, have late lunch (early supper) with friends from HS, class of '69!

[@DIYAlex]

That's awesome Joy! Enjoy, this replay will be available any time here on my channel!

[@christines.4444]

Excellent tutorial!

[@DIYAlex]

Thank you!

[@MicheleLorenz]

Thanks for the information. How did you make the penguin?

[@DIYAlex]

The Penguin is an image from Design Space

[@barbking2708]

Awesome tutorial, 😊

[@andreawilson344]

All of this is amazing information, and has helped me a ton. However, I made my own multi colored design, saved it and would like to get it on a mug. How do I get it onto the paper. I consider myself a rookie and could use some help. Thank you so much.

[@DIYAlex]

It depends a lot on your design. I recommend you join my Facebook group for more help from myself and other crafters! facebook.com/groups/cricutandcrafty/?ref=share_group_link&exp=9594

[@CarlaNieves-s3y]

Hi Alex, hope you’re doing great. Can I use 4 layers of laser paper instead of the butcher paper? If not, what other material can I use to substitute the butcher paper. Thank you so much!

[@DIYAlex]

I haven’t tried it with anything but butcher paper. Sorry!

[@annetteduguay-bruce581]

Where did you use the heat resistant tape?

[@bkkorner]

Very cool! Subbed.

[@debrahall2764]

hi love the video I am having trouble finding laser copy paper can I use a different paper to do my own design the colour with the infusible ink pens and if I can what the name of the laser copy paper I am from Perth Western Australia thank you

[@DIYAlex]

Look for extra bright white paper! That's the only thing that makes it different from regular copy paper. Regular copy paper will work too, but the design won't be as crisp.

[@freedomwryta2983]

This is amazing!!!!!! Thank you!

[@DIYAlex]

You’re welcome!

[@hershey562039]

Thank You 😊 this was a great tutorial I will definitely try this .. I’ve been hesitant on using my mug press but will definitely try this…

[@DIYAlex]

You will have so much fun with your mug press! Definitely don’t be shy. The best way to learn is to give it a shot!

[@anaelvic]

I LOVE this tutorial but I cannot download the Drawn Mug Design Set up file. Maybe it’s no longer available?

[@DIYAlex]

You don't need to download it, you just search for it in Cricut Design Space.

[@juaquinawilliams3]

Cab you use regular copy paper or does it have to be laser copy paper only?

[@DIYAlex]

Laser copy paper will give way better results.

[@KejBossy]

Which mat should i use

[@DIYAlex]

Blue mat for paper

[@jenp2301]

can you use astrobright cardstock?

[@DIYAlex]

If it’s laser compatible then yes

[@AndriaMrs]

Thank you that was so helpful. But i need to ask, can i use the Infusible Ink Pens in the Joy please? I'm hoping you say yes as that is the only one i have since selling my Maker.

[@DIYAlex]

I believe they make Infusible ink pens in the joy size, but I’m not positive! I would check your local Michaels to see if they have them.

[@AndriaMrs]

@@DIYAlex Thank you Alex. I spoke with Cricut and ordered some for my Joy. They are smaller in size so will fit. GREAT. They were really helpful as I live in UK and are restricted to shops or places we can buy Craft stuff from. You have lots of great shop/supplies in USA, unfortunately we don't here. 😢. Thank you for your help though.

[@DIYAlex]

I have heard that from several crafters in the UK! I wish I could send you guys all the craft supplies you want 💕. Maybe Cricut will get more reach in the UK soon!

[@AndriaMrs]

@@DIYAlex Hopefully 🤞. I have found though that when I ring Cricut, they are always extremely helpful and understanding, and for that I thank them. Thank you also Alex for all your help. 😊😊

[@CinnamonDelight-xb8pl]

@@DIYAlex yes there is infusible ink for the joy.

[@deenacurls]

Can I buy the sublimation paper and just draw the design by hand with the pens ?

[@DIYAlex]

In theory yes, that would work!

[@brandihughes1337]

Can you use regular inkjet paper and can you use sublimation paper

[@DIYAlex]

You can use regular inkjet paper, but laser paper transfers much better. I had very crappy results from sublimation paper.

[@cc8368]

Coated or uncoated laser copy paper. Thank you

[@ashleywilliams8480]

Hi, does this work on Dollar Tree mugs too?

[@DIYAlex]

No, it has to be sublimation compatible with a polyester coating.

[@ucanfindmedancing]

Can you cut a design and adhere it, then color it in with markers and heat again?

[@DIYAlex]

You know I’m honestly not sure! That’s something I haven’t tried.

[@KristenCenci]

Quick question: I have seen "Pink Butcher Paper" in my local grocery store....do you know if you can use that type for the butcher paper.

[@DIYAlex]

Pink butcher paper will discolor Infusible ink, so only use white. ☺️

[@KristenCenci]

@@DIYAlex thanks Alex.

[@tracyhayward3361]

Good morning I got a question if I use the special markers and pens can I make my own design downloaded into design space and still be able to put it on the mug with the mug press

[@DIYAlex]

Yes. You just upload the image instead of finding it in the image library.

[@rochelleblaha5612]

I am doing a solid black image and I can only use pen which does the outline. How do I fill in the entire image with black.

[@DIYAlex]

An all black image is not a good choice for the pens. You would have to find a specific SVG with the lines all filled in. I recommend either using vinyl or print then cut products for a solid black image.

[@rochelleblaha5612]

@@DIYAlex I am using white paper with an svg file that the letters are filled in with black only.. if I have to hand fill it in, which would but need a thin pen. Gi Guess that is my next purchase.

[@josephvalerie1541]

Wonderful

[@AllieinCali]

I think you do a great job of explaining, but I have to agree about the music. It's super distracting. Maybe drop the volume? I ended up muting and using CC. Thanks sharing.

[@angelaw108]

Thanks for the video. I had purchased an image and uploaded it as a print then cut. I would like to apply it to my mug but I’m unable to separate the lips 👄 and color it red using the Infusible ink, & the eye color brown, & the earrings gold. What do I do with the uploaded images to use it on my Cricut mug press? Please & thank you

[@DIYAlex]

You need to upload it as an SVG file with different layers so you can separate the colors.

[@angelaw108]

@@DIYAlex oh ty!!!

[@sandybal3380]

So I made 2 mugs and mirror the image but when I put on the mug it came out upside down

[@DIYAlex]

If the mug is upside down, then you taped the image on the mug upside down. That happens more often than you'd think!

[@karge1969]

How would you use a beveled mug.

[@DIYAlex]

Get it as close to the edge as you can and either tape over the edges or leave them blank by cutting your paper so it doesn’t wrap around the edges.

[@LaurieRyan-vl9sh]

I have a question - I did all the steps and my imagine was not crisp at all and dark in some areas and not in others why?

[@DIYAlex]

Did you use laser paper? It sounds like you used regular copy paper.

[@artebee905]

I suspect laser copier paper is better because laser printing also uses a heated ink transfer process.

[@DIYAlex]

You need laser paper because it is a brighter white than regular copy paper. So the pen or marker ink transfers better onto the mug.

[@vivalatalea]

Is laser copy paper just normal printing paper ?

[@DIYAlex]

Some printer paper is laser friendly, but most is not as bright as laser copy paper. Check your paper's packaging.

[@juliacannings509]

There is no sure way of entering them is there? I normally centre best can and eye ball it

[@DIYAlex]

You'll just want to eyeball it.

[@artebee905]

Could you try making a small mark, with a pencil or washable pen or heat resistant tape, from the centre of the mug handle to the opposite rim and bottom edge of the mug? If you gently crease the centre of your paper with the design on it, maybe you can match the crease with the mark. Just a guess.

[@nickfatsis9607]

What's the purpose of putting tape on the bottom?

[@DIYAlex]

Just to keep the laser paper in place when putting the mug in the press.

[@nickfatsis9607]

@@DIYAlex seems like such a waste of tape and time, better to place one piece of tape through the mug handle, that’s enough to hold it, the pressure of the mug press will hold the paper.

[@artebee905]

Do you need a mug press, or can you use a heat gun?

[@DIYAlex]

You will need a mug press or a cup press (other than Cricut brand). A heat gun will not work for this project.

[@artebee905]

@@DIYAlex Thank you.

[@emilygraham9008]

Could you just triple up on the laser paper and cut out that same design three extra times?

[@DIYAlex]

I haven't tried it with laser copy paper, but probably! I don't see why that wouldn't work!

[@IMV61]

Listening to you and learning from you is a blessing to me. Please, drop the background music. It is annoying.

[@DIYAlex]

Thanks for your feedback.

[@emilyyanke4013]

I’m so confused why my markers looked super ugly and faded :( everyone else’s look amazing. I’m using laser paper too. So I don’t understand why mine isn’t vibrant at all

[@DIYAlex]

Are you sure you’re using Infusible ink markers or pens? Cricut also makes regular pens and markers that aren’t meant to be heated like these.

[@eileenwenzel9391]

Why did mine only write on the left side?!!

[@DIYAlex]

I’m going to need more details to help you.

[@eileenwenzel9391]

@@DIYAlex Every time I use a Cricut pen other then the fine point, it will start ok, then stop making any contact .This is a new problem & I can't figure out why

[@hopeyouadventure9327]

my ADD won't allow me to focus with this music in the background 😭

[@jillb7234]

Music is very distracting!

[@sunshinejenny777]

Please STOP the MUSIC. I can't hear you. PLUS, please USE a Microphone!!

[@Sherinthomas791]

Dragging

[@dennisburgess2940]

The sound is too distracting

[@Jennifer85987]

I hate infusible ink pens, the design never turns out the way it should 🙈

[@DIYAlex]

What do you mean? I’ve never had a design not match design space.