T-Shirt Ruler Guide for Perfect Vinyl & Sublimation Placement | Free Rulers + Directions!

Get my free T-shirt ruler guides at jennifermaker.com/t-shirt-rul...
Custom T-shirts are so much fun to make, but how do you get the design placed perfectly? Too high or too low and they just don't look right! Not to worry, you can make your own T-shirt ruler guide for any kind of shirt from infant to adult! After all, making your own tools and project accessories is one of the best parts of being a Cricut crafter! I'll show you how to make them out of either cardstock or plastic (wait 'til you see what we're using!) and how to use them with my free ruler patterns. Your new T-shirt rulers will work for any of my custom T-shirt projects, whether it's iron-on vinyl, sublimation, or even screen printing!
I appreciate every subscriber. It's free and easy to subscribe -- just click here: bit.ly/sub2jennifer
Correct placement can be the difference between success and sadness for T-shirt projects! If you get it wrong, the design might be hard to read or uncomfortable to wear. Not to fear, you can make the perfect T-shirt alignment tool using your Cricut! I'll show you how to use my free SVGs to make a t-shirt ruler guide out of cardstock or plastic.
Which should you make? It depends on your different needs!
If you make the paper version in premium quality cardstock like the kind in my material list, it will hold up for many uses. It might be easier to use if you have vision trouble since we'll draw the markings on top using a Cricut pen before cutting it on a StandardGrip mat.
But if you might need to see the fabric's surface during alignment -- like if you're using a patterned shirt -- or plan to make A LOT of shirts, the chopping mat version is easier to make than you might think and extremely durable. It actually just takes a fine-point blade and StrongGrip mat!
MATERIALS LIST (contains my affiliate links):
View my Amazon shopping list with the exact items we used to make this project at a.co/id1omjo
To make a cardstock T-shirt alignment ruler, you will need:
* 110 lb, 8.5" x 11" Cardstock in a color that will stand out on shirts - amzn.to/3cxVM1R
* Fine-tip pen - amzn.to/3CzAbiz
* 12" x 12" StandardGrip Machine Mat - amzn.to/3f0qoKe
To make the plastic T-shirt ruler guides, you will need:
* 11" x 14" plastic chopping mats, which you can purchase from the Dollar Tree website at shrsl.com/3o2xr
or on Amazon - amzn.to/3RHJQJp
* 12" x 12" StrongGrip Machine Mat - amzn.to/3f0qoKe
And for either version, you want:
* A way to cut your T-shirt rulers and vinyl. I used the amazing Cricut Maker 3 but you can also use the original Maker or an Explore series machine with the Fine-Point Blade - see jennifermaker.com/which-cricu...
Measuring tape - amzn.to/3CAPlEt
, scissors, weeding tool, and brayer.
To make the custom t-shirts, you'll also need:
* A shirt of your preference - I tried several with good results including an Adult Unisex crew neck - amzn.to/3B0NQQ8 , a Cotton Ladies V-Neck, a Youth T-Shirt, baby onesies, and a sweatshirt
* Iron-on vinyl - I used Cricut Everday Iron-On in yellow at amzn.to/3cAnFXb and Holographic Iron-On in red and cobalt - amzn.to/3dZV6me
* An appropriate heat press - I used my EasyPress 2 - amzn.to/3wJtZCB
Design #433 (My free T-shirt ruler guide SVG/PDF/DXF design files and example decals available in my free resource library at jennifermaker.com/library )
0:00 - Make a T-Shirt Ruler Guide for Vinyl & Sublimation Placement
0:40 - Why Do You Need a T-Shirt Ruler?
2:05 - Supplies & Tools
3:03 - Get Free T-Shirt Ruler Files
4:34 - (Learn How to Upload SVG Files to Cricut Design Space)
4:50 - Prepare and Cut the Ruler Designs on Your Cricut
4:54 - Version 1: Heavyweight Cardstock T-Shirt Ruler
7:21 - Tip: Learn How to Get Cleaner Cuts on Your Cricut
7:46 - Version 2: Plastic T-Shirt Ruler
10:17 - Cut T-Shirt Designs for Your T-Shirts
10:39 - Get Reference Graphic for Sizing Your Decal
11:35 - Use Your T-Shirt Ruler Guide and Apply Your Decal
17:08 - Apply Decals to Different Types of Shirts
18:08 - Apply a Vinyl Decal to the Back of a Hoodie
19:14 - Closing Notes and Link to More Information
#cricut #cricutmade #designspace
============
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Blog: jennifermaker.com
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Please subscribe to my channel at / jennifermaker for more video tutorials to craft a life you love!
Credits:
Introduction: PixelBytes (my child!)
Music: Cute by Bensound (licensed, royalty and copyright free)
Videography: Jennifer Marx on a Panasonic Lumix FZ-1000 DSLR 4K camera
Design: A Jennifer Maker original!

[@marydonnell5178]

I have to say that if it wasn't for you and your video's I would never have done as much as I have with my cricut. I was fortunate to find you when I first got my cricut and I have learned so much. Thank you Jennifer for all your instruction. Mary 💙

[@JenniferMaker]

I'm so happy you're here crafting with us Mary! 😊🌻

[@elizabethenholm45]

Thank you so much for your generosity and time. Your instructional techniques are perfectly detailed and easy to follow.

[@JenniferMaker]

Glad it was helpful! 😊🌻

[@tammy5590]

You can always laminate the cardstock ones to keep them longer.

[@annebond8237]

That’s an EXCELLENT idea, Thank You!!

[@JenniferMaker]

You could definitely laminate them! 😊🌻

[@grandmacricut6405]

@@JenniferMaker Once laminated would you cut it out by hand or could you cut it out with the cricut?

[@DisMindy5767]

@@grandmacricut6405 I would make the heavyweight cardstock one normally on the cricut with pens, then run it through the laminator and trim the edges flush with scissors or xacto knife. By the way, I noticed your screen name. I named my old original cartridge machine Grandma Cricut and applied the name to the front of the machine and added a Cricut Character with readers.

[@shariz2998]

Thank you again for your generosity in sharing your expertise, files, and time and resources with all of us. You’ve helped this cricut newbie from last February to become a confident beginner 💕.

[@JenniferMaker]

I'm happy to help! Thank you!

[@imadish5356]

Thank you for your kindness and generosity. I might even try shirts again -they just might come out right with your rulers and technique!

[@JenniferMaker]

You definitely should try them out again, I bet they'll turn out great! 😊🌻

[@laurafox916]

Thank you very much, Jennifer! What a great tool to have and the video was so clear to follow.

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome! Thanks for watching! 😊🌻

[@keithgustafson5104]

This has been very helpful! Thank you for your video! I ran to my dollar tree to get the chopping mats and it cut perfectly!

[@JenniferMaker]

Wonderful!

[@fshnfool45]

Ha! I just bought some on Prime day in July, but I haven't had a chance to use them yet. So glad you made this video because I had no idea how to use them. Thank you. You really are a great teacher!😊

[@JenniferMaker]

That makes me so happy! Glad I could help! 😊🌻

[@mrsdizi1234]

Thank you Jennifer so much for the time you took to prepare this and willing to share your hard work for us for this well needed tool and for free you are awesome.

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome! I'm so happy everyone is making and using their rulers! 😊🌻

[@emmym563]

This is SUCH amazing timing, I really needed one of these TODAY cause I need to finish making a custom onesie for my cousins new baby before I leave to visit them tomorrow morning. I messed up on my first try- the baby's name is Arrow, so I picked a cute little arrow design with hearts, but didn't notice til after I had ironed on the HTV that it wasn't centered. This morning I bought another onesie to try again. I happened to be scrolling through KZbin just now and the algorithm somehow showed me this video at exactly the perfect time. Thank you Jennifer! 💘

[@JenniferMaker]

YAY! So happy you're putting them to use! 😊🌻

[@feltthefluff]

Your generosity and skills never cease to amaze me! Thank you so much for sharing everything.

[@JenniferMaker]

So happy you love this project!! You're so welcome! 😊🌻

[@TracyT555]

I didn’t have the acetate on my explore 2, I only had the FOIL ACETATE, so I had previously left a comment abt what I needed to do, but I waited 2days (almost exactly) and never got a response from anyone. So, for those of u who have had my same problem with the materials not matching up… I did find a cutting mat protector setting… I went in and adjusted my pressure cut (idk what it’s called) to 300 and set it at 2x (I really Dnt know much abt my machine but we learn as we go🤷🏽‍♀️🤣) ALSO I set the pressure from default to more and this worked PERFECTLY!! I wasn’t sure if it wrkd at first bt I applied a little more pressure when I went to ck that it went thru and it popped thru at the corner so I didn’t hVe to guess any more!!! I figured it out!😁🤷🏽‍♀️🤣❤️ I used the 2pk cutting mats from the Dollar Tree and I didn’t feel a diff in either side lol. So I jst n put it on the mat and got to work lol Also on a side not: when I say I adjusted to pressure cut to 300… when u go into browse materials and u see settings (I believe is what the word is) click that and u can go in and adjust ur machine… Jennifer has a video (prob more than one lol) on her page explaining it for those of you who don’t know what I’m talking abt. I’m still new and learning, but Jennifer has helped me learn sooo many things! I’m thankful I found her and thankful that she’s kind enough to share her videos and teach us all kinds of neat things! So, Ms.Jennifer, THANK YOU! I appreciate you so much!💯❤️ @jennifermaker

[@JenniferMaker]

Thanks so much! 😃❤️

[@normacmckay-morris3268]

Hello Jennifer , thank you for this tutorial on the T shir’s template .and thank you for your kindness and your generosity . I will be trying it out very soon ❤💕

[@vernialarris7033]

Jennifer, thank you so much for this freebie.💚 Will be making shirts for our family reunion, was looking to purchase some of these. Now thanks to you a trip to $$tree is all needed.

[@JenniferMaker]

You are so welcome! 😊🌻

[@dianekosch5254]

This couldn't come at a better time. Thank you!

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome! I love perfect timing! 😊

[@lindalowery6153]

These T- Shirt guides will be so much more useful than the 3 fingers or 2 fingers, etc! Thank you so much!

[@JenniferMaker]

Glad you like them! 😊🌻

[@sylviabiggs6632]

Jennifer, I am 72 years old and a little slow with the computer and other technology so please be patient with me. I am determined to learn as much as I can. I bought a new lap top and I am trying to learn also how to work the software on this computer while learning to work with my new cricut machine. Thank you so very much for your help and may God continue to bless you for helping so many people.

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you for watching and learning! You've got this! 💗

[@lindalaney2642]

Thank you Jennifer for this amazing gift. I quickly downloaded the svg files and made all 7 of the t-shirt templates

[@lindalaney2642]

I used 3 sheets of 12 x 12 Craft Plastic from "Grafix", using my Cricut Maker. Used the Transparency setting, more pressure. I mirrored the image and etched with cutting tool 41 and cut with my Black Cricut cutting Blade. I had to run the cut twice and got amazing results.

[@JenniferMaker]

Awesome, so glad you made them! 🌻😊

[@cinthiaflores2302]

Waooo, you really think about your subscribers! It's just what I needed to buy but I never thought I could make my own. I thank you very much for giving us so many tools that help us improve our projects.

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so kind, thank you!! 😊🌻

[@nancykost2472]

Thank you, thank you thank you!! Best tshirt ruler video that I have seen, in my opinion! Absolutely love your videos and projects! I have made several and will be making this one today after a quick trip to Dollar Tree

[@JenniferMaker]

You are so welcome! 😊🌻

[@angela1026]

Hi Jennifer, thank you so much for doing this for us! I just printed one of the guides and am about to make mother/daughter shirts. The few shirts I've made so far are just enough off to distract me, I'm thrilled to have a guide. :)

[@JenniferMaker]

You are so welcome!

[@debchiu]

Jennifer, you are the BEST. Every time I’m stuck on a project, I just look you up and help is on the way. Thank you!!!!

[@JenniferMaker]

You are so welcome!

[@suebeefly08]

Girl, your videos are always right on time🙏🏾🌹🥰💯❤ Thank you!!!

[@SafariSis]

How helpful! I just got back from my walk and caught the end of this, so I will go back and watch the beginning! Thanks, Jennifer!

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome! 😊🌻

[@SABan-bh4hi]

Many thanks for putting so much of your time and expertise into these projects, much appreciated.

[@JenniferMaker]

Glad you like them!😊🌻

[@sherriebryan1110]

Ty very much Jennifer! You are to kind to us all!

[@JenniferMaker]

So happy you're here crafting with us!! 😊🌻

[@debsmith8459]

Just what I needed. Thanks so much for designing and sharing. ❤️

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome!! 🌻😊

[@sandywootten6792]

Wow what a wonderful gift💕 Excellent explanation of the technique to use.

[@JenniferMaker]

Thanks so much 😊

[@melaniesimpkins765]

Thank you, I've been wanting to purchase a tshirt guide but just haven't yet and now I can save that money! You rock!

[@JenniferMaker]

YAY! Thank you!😊🌻

[@michellecollins70]

Thank you SOOOO much!! This was the first time using the pen and it was so cool!! I appreciate all your videos!! Very self explanatory!!

[@JenniferMaker]

Glad I could help!

[@annellewellyn8942]

I made my first t shirt decal yesterday. I wish I'd had the rulers then! You make it all so simple Jennifer, thank you :-)

[@JenniferMaker]

You are so welcome! 😊🌻

[@shirlshiu]

Thank you for sharing and teaching us how to make it. So helpful and useful. I really appreciate your time and tutorials. I cannot wait to make a set and use it for Christmas Family hoodies. Have a wonderful Christmas to you and your family.

[@lavernemorris3804]

Thank you so much! I have never been able to draw, cut or do anything straight! This will help me so much! You are the best!

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so kind! Thank you and you're so welcome! 🌻😊

[@josiekerr7799]

Thank you so much for the free T-shirt rulers and most of all for the awesome video tutorials. You make crafting fun. I always look forward to the next craft.

[@JenniferMaker]

Aw! Thank you so much for the kind words! 😊🌻

[@kayherrera2922]

Thank you Jennifer, I am looking forward to making these rulers. What a great tool to have. I appreciate your informative videos.

[@JenniferMaker]

You are so welcome!

[@valeriebartrum8913]

Thank you so much for all you do! Can't wait to make my rulers!

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome! 😊🌻

[@michelecr]

Love these! I almost ordered some . . now I can make my own!

[@JenniferMaker]

YAY! DIY is so much better! 🌻😊

[@kevinandpennylct2415]

Thank you, I was just planning on buying these, now I will make as I have materials.

[@JenniferMaker]

Wonderful!

[@jackiekington1554]

can't wait to make them thank you

[@JenniferMaker]

So happy you're inspired! 😊🌻

[@christinastreet6542]

This is exactly what I need help with.... Thank you so much!

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome!

[@tanoaiwilliams3462]

Thank you!! I love making shirts and this will help me TREMENDOUSLY!!!

[@JenniferMaker]

So happy we could help! Thanks for watching! 😊🌻

[@selliott494]

wonderful information as usual and such a useful tool. Thank you for all your hard work.

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome! 🌻😊

[@evafranke9552]

Thank you so much for this tutorial! I know this will be a very handy tool!

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome! 😊🌻

[@ms.b8075]

Thank you soooo much Jennifer. You are amazing! I needed this tool.

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome! Happy to help! 😊🌻

[@J0BeKillinEM]

Thank you for your hard work and tutorials. Always appreciated

[@JenniferMaker]

Glad you like them! 😊🌻

[@brendareyes289]

Thank you for sharing these. I really appreciate your generousity!

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome! 😊🌻

[@vickywray7285]

These are awesome, I use them often.

[@JenniferMaker]

YAY! I'm so happy you'll put them to use! 😊🌻

[@willettemalone3017]

Loved this tutorial. It has a lot of information. Answered a lot my questions.

[@JenniferMaker]

Glad it was helpful!😊🌻

[@celiamalave7218]

Thank you for sharing, it will make my projects easier to handle. Thanks again

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome! 😊🌻

[@melissalogan8391]

Such concise, easy to follow directions! Thank you!

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome! 😊🌻

[@fraubu5386]

Herzlichen Dank für die Ideen und die Dateien! Du machst wunderbare Videos! 👍

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you so much! 😊🌻

[@rosepratt8263]

Thank you so much. I have needed something like this for quite awhile. You are a neat Lady

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you so much Rose! 🌻😊

[@147ILoveVintage]

I will print them out today. Love and thank you

[@JenniferMaker]

Wonderful!😊🌻

[@maribeltorres3351]

oh my goodness! thank you for this. I have not done a t shirt yet but i may now because of this and your t shirt tutorials

[@JenniferMaker]

You should! 😊🌻

[@maribeltorres3351]

@@JenniferMaker I did your owl😄

[@mildredpepe552]

Fantastic. This is a game changer. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

[@JenniferMaker]

Glad it was helpful! 😊🌻

[@carolinch1979]

LOVE this!!! Thanks!!

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome! 😊🌻

[@christiecavender1223]

This is going to be such a great help. You are fabulous 👌

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you so much!! 🌻😊

[@Aries040460]

Thank you for this video. While making wedding party shirts for my sister I accidently touched one of my plastic ones with my heat press. Now I can make another set for less than what I paid to order them.

[@JenniferMaker]

YAY! So happy we are able to help and save you some money! 😊🌻

[@ryoung5592]

I just printed. Thanks so much

[@JenniferMaker]

Wonderful! 😊🌻

[@user123guest]

thank you jennifer great video

[@betsypahut]

Jennifer You are the BEST! Thank you!!

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so sweet! Thank you for watching! 😊🌻

[@Wrightn221]

You’re so sweet! Thanks so much Jennifer.

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so very welcome! 😊🌻

[@Special-T_Crafts]

Another great tutorial! Thank you!❤

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome! 🌻😊

[@elizabethvallely4044]

WOW! Awesome Jennifer! Wonderful idea thank you so much for your kindness! Hugs Liz x

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome Liz! 😊🌻

[@elizabethvallely4044]

@@JenniferMaker 💐♥

[@karenpippin6486]

Thank you so much! I really needed these!

[@JenniferMaker]

YAY! So happy we could help! 🌻😊

[@lindaharry3128]

Thank you Iam going to make the cardstock and laminate mine.

[@JenniferMaker]

Wonderful!

[@danceninja21]

Thanks so much for these!!! Really appreciate it!

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome! 😊🌻

[@nenetmirano2887]

Thank you for sharing!! Love this soo much..

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you! So happy you love it! 😊🌻

[@delciethompson8920]

This is awesome!! Thank you so much! ❤

[@JenniferMaker]

I'm so happy you like them! 😊🌻

[@cynthiafelder9097]

Jennifer thank you so much for this video it is so helpful

[@JenniferMaker]

You are so welcome! 😊🌻

[@whitewave1480]

I'm definitely making those.

[@JenniferMaker]

So happy you like them! 😊🌻

[@Sarah-bp3pt]

I love your channel! Thanks for sharing! I appreciate you!

[@JenniferMaker]

Thanks so much!

[@susanolmo4516]

This video was awesome!! Thank you so much!!!

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome! 😊🌻

[@mickeydinges8191]

I ran a lamination pouch through the laminator, and then printed the ruler on sublimation printer. Then I just heat pressed it to the laminated pouch and cut out the rulers. Now I have a nice, sturdy transparent set of rulers. Having it see through is really helpful for me

[@JenniferMaker]

that's awesome!🥰

[@jeanlee1911]

thank you so much for all you do!

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so kind! Thanks! 😊🌻

[@tamaragravelle1277]

Thanks Jennifer! Very helpful.

[@JenniferMaker]

Thanks for watching! 😊🌻

[@donnakirkendoll2586]

Thank you, I always blame it on my old eyes when mines a little crooked! LOL. This will be very helpful!

[@JenniferMaker]

YAY! So happy you'll them to good use! 😊🌻

[@Lala-pi4eg]

Thank you! These are great!!

[@JenniferMaker]

Glad you like them!😊🌻

[@paintingchick]

Thank you, Jennifer!

[@JenniferMaker]

You are so welcome! 😊🌻

[@acasacommary]

thank youuuuuuu it worked perfectly!!!!!!!!! i love you

[@JenniferMaker]

So happy to hear that! Thank you!

[@12cubed]

Great idea! Thanks for sharing!

[@JenniferMaker]

Thanks for watching!😊🌻

[@galefondren3782]

Thank you for this video, it was very helpful

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome! Thanks for watching! 😊🌻

[@blossomflower4575]

Thank you for sharing and showing how to use these templates.

[@JenniferMaker]

My pleasure!

[@barbaraseverino925]

What can I say, you are so awesome!!!!!

[@JenniferMaker]

Wow, thank you!😊🌻

[@trg273]

These are awesome, thanks! Mine actually did cut all the way through on the letters and measurements, but it still works fine. The next one I made, I changed that layer to engrave since I do have an engraving tip and that worked great.

[@JenniferMaker]

Awesome! That does work better.

[@CupcakeGrogan]

@@JenniferMakerHelp please. Can I cut the plastic one on an Explore Air 2? And if so what setting? Acetate isn’t a choice. And if I can’t, how to I make this a print and cut? Thanks

[@chippewagirl7299]

Thank You Jennifer.

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome! 😊🌻

[@christinatondo1381]

Thank you so much for this and all your helpful videos. :)

[@JenniferMaker]

Happy to help!

[@aimeegiles3677]

These are amazing thank you

[@JenniferMaker]

Glad you like them!

[@debbienagy2674]

Thank you for this!

[@JenniferMaker]

Glad it was helpful! 😊🌻

[@ericaguzman6013]

Thank you so much!!...You're AMAZING!!

[@JenniferMaker]

That means so much to me! Thank you! 😊🌻

[@patriciawisdom6270]

Didn't catch the show on time will watch later today thanks..

[@JenniferMaker]

Awesome! 😊🌻

[@terrijopeterson2277]

Thanks so much for the help!

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome! I'm happy to help everyone! 😊🌻

[@DJFATSTAX]

Thanks for your help I could really use this for a change :)

[@JenniferMaker]

You are so welcome!

[@tammyh7305]

Definitely needed that

[@JenniferMaker]

YAY! So happy it's useful!

[@joycepyor3178]

Thank you for sharing this

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome! 🌻😊

[@hyh7350]

How did you know I just want it! Thank you!!!

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so welcome! 😊🌻

[@kymberly2460]

Hello Jennifer, Just wanted to stop by and say Thx for all you do I appreciate you, Im a newbie to the world of T-Shirts, .. Have an Awesome weekend to you and yours. Kymberly

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate your support! 💗

[@maxineneale]

Thank you Jennifer - BTW - I love your nails ❤

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you so much! 😊🌻

[@sharondupree7447]

This awesome, mine are always in the wrong places. Thanks Jennifer!!

[@JenniferMaker]

You are so welcome! 😊🌻

[@lynnkaufman9006]

thank you so much....love this....

[@JenniferMaker]

You are so welcome!