Transfer Tape Comparison: Which is the best?

Today I am comparing seven different transfer tape brands to see which performs best. Will your favorite win? Will you find a new favorite? You might just be surprised at the results. Be sure to watch until the end where I discuss pricing as well because I feel that price really factors into which I would buy. I am sure it does for you as well.
You can purchase any of the transfer tape brands mentioned in the video with our affiliate links below:
Vinyl Ease (paper version) amzn.to/3ecUsND
Expressions Vinyl amzn.to/2YR3IRc
Craftopia amzn.to/3hxFzaN
Cricut Brand www.thecountrychiccottage.net...
Direct Vinyl Supply www.directvinylsupply.com?sca_ref=123714.cvtCqM37rl
Oratape from Vvivid Technologies amzn.to/2N3PO8K
Frisco Craft amzn.to/2zKuLVG

[@nezzie5071]

Thank you for doing this, I just got my cricut for Christmas and now I am fully informed on transfer tape.

[@AngieHolden]

You are so welcome!

[@fanmommusicismedicine7035]

Your videos are always so helpful. I have been having so many issues finding a good transfer tape. So many people say they don’t like the Cricut brand but it seemed like it worked so well!

[@AngieHolden]

Happy to help!

[@keylacortez1]

Thank you so much. I just bought my cricut explore and I'm excited

[@AngieHolden]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@debbiegultch2414]

Thank you for the review! I am very new to cricut using and having a difficult time using cricut brand transf tape and just thought it was me!!

[@Michael-lo3ht]

I think a quick spreadsheet would be a way to quickly pick, since you have so many variables. I kind of know which one I'm leaning toward. Thanks for a very helpful video. It was quick and concise.

[@Brineytoes]

Super, super helpful! Thank you for doing the hard things for us, Angie! (I put one on my list to buy)

[@AngieHolden]

Glad it was helpful!

[@daisyaintb]

I certainly appreciated this video. As a rookie Cricut ever, it was invaluable.

[@AngieHolden]

Glad it was helpful!

[@brif5777]

I absolutely love the comparison-type videos. This video really did help me with having a better understanding of how different transfer tapes work. However when it came to the price part of this, seeing a chart of some kind with all of the information that you explained laid out on a grid would help me personally understand what you are saying.

[@stestany]

Thank you for doing this, I love stuff like this so I can make better decisions without spending a ton to 'figure it out'.

[@AngieHolden]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@nonnacindyx5]

If you do order from expression vinyl, they do have a rewards and they always have great sales.

[@abbiebullard4773]

Would you be willing or have you done a video testing transfer tape using permanent vinyl instead of removable? I wondered if that made a difference in the ease of picking up the vinyl. Thank you!

[@BLoveOfGod]

I love all your comparison videos, very helpful. Thank you so much! :)

[@AngieHolden]

Glad you like them!

[@hallsvillenana]

Great comparison! Thanks!

[@franallison9823]

I love how your comparisons are super-fair

[@Luxinda]

Fantastic comparison - thank you!

[@AngieHolden]

Glad you liked it!

[@isidraroberson5474]

Thanks so much this was what I needed to see. I’m kinda new at this and this has helped me so much.

[@AngieHolden]

Glad it was helpful!

[@rmm9110]

I really enjoyed your comparison videos. Thank you. I can never get my cricut to release that well. I may try the Expressions when my other runs out.

[@AngieHolden]

Glad it was helpful!

[@carmensepulveda1368]

Thank you so much! I was just about to order (Cricut of course, because I am a newbie)! I can now order like an informed consumer.

[@AngieHolden]

Glad it was helpful!

[@TheBehutchens]

New to the Cricut world! This was soooo helpful!!

[@nomic50]

Thank you very much you are so patient to do all of the test. for us.

[@geriputman4030]

Thank you so much for this video, it was very informative and helpful.

[@AngieHolden]

Glad it was helpful!

[@lindsayjohns941]

This was extremely helpful! Thank you so very much!!!!

[@AngieHolden]

Glad it was helpful!

[@kiran48875]

I searched up videos I was about to click on some other video but then saw your video was there too Didn’t double think and clicked on yours! Definitely happy about it!

[@AngieHolden]

Yay! Happy to help!

[@Dmaes381965]

Love your vids... adding to the cricut option, yes its pricey...but it is the best for reusing it!

[@AngieHolden]

Yes! Thank you!

[@holyfreeholy2329]

I love your video!! One quick tip that has helped me is to peel the transfer tape from the clear side at an acute angle .. works line a charm.

[@AngieHolden]

I never have luck doing it that way!! Maybe I should try again....

[@fanmommusicismedicine7035]

No luck that way for me either.

[@ronaldnolte1074]

Great comparison video. I use TransferRite Ultra clear and get form US Cutters for $.14 a foot it works great.

[@AngieHolden]

Thanks for the tip!

[@F15mother]

Thank you so much, Angie!

[@AngieHolden]

Glad it was helpful!

[@aebusta1]

This was an awesome comparison! I have the silhouette brand oratape and absolutely hate it. I came here looking for a better transfer tape and I definitely got a few great options! Thanks so much for this video

[@AngieHolden]

Happy to help!

[@kHoPhAe]

Omgoodness, the worst ever! I agree

[@jimifiedler7667]

Thank you! What a fabulous video!

[@AngieHolden]

You are so welcome!

[@katieb3358]

I love the craftopia for sticking things to cardstock, it let's me see thru it but it's not as tacky so I almost never have paper tearing issues when I stick it down.

[@AngieHolden]

Oh yes! Good point!

[@Reneesfun]

Thanks! Just ordered some new transfer paper as per your recommendations. Nice that you do all the testing for us! I'm pretty sure some of my glue became ineffective over time (like almost 2 years) because I didn't use it. Is your brayer magical? Two Swipes!!! Wowza!!!

[@AngieHolden]

Ha! Yes adhesive can become less sticky over time. And maybe it is magical!!

[@carlametcalfe4342]

Thanks Angie

[@lizahernandez950]

I really like this video and all the other comparison videos you do. It really is helpful. I use the Cricut brand transfer to tape and it works fine for me most times however, I am always willing to try something new. I might just try a few of the ones you tried here and see how it goes.

[@AngieHolden]

Glad it was helpful!

[@planning_with_patches5860]

I've only used Cricut transfer tape. Pretty new to using vinyl. I have only used permanent vinyl and have had a super hard time getting it to stick with all the smaller cuts and have to let vinyl stick to item before I peel back. It doesn't want release. I will try the first 2 brands you used.

[@bernadettebertrand6474]

Thank you for this!

[@AngieHolden]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ammmk09]

BTW your comparisons have helped me so much.

[@AngieHolden]

Glad I could help!

[@deborahswallow6788]

Sally, she was using Cricut brand removable vynal, to test the different transfer tapes, that's why you saw the Cricut name.

[@raventolbert233]

What is your point?

[@kdiverdown]

Thanks for the comparison! Next time try it with shimmer vinyl - it always gives me trouble!

[@AngieHolden]

Great idea!

[@emilygigliotti2021]

I am not a fan of the cricut transfer tape personally. I find it doesn’t do well with thin fonts or script fonts. I always struggled with it.

[@yourfactstory]

tu suggères quoi alors?

[@Crafty-corner]

It. For sure sucks it won’t transfer my vinyl to wood!

[@roxannecox7861]

Excellent information. Than you!

[@AngieHolden]

Very welcome!

[@mellightbody8212]

Very helpful. Off to buy Vinyl Ease.

[@AngieHolden]

Have fun!

[@presleywolf]

Watching you do ONE SWIPE on both sides and have it work just blew my mind lol

[@AngieHolden]

HA! It sometimes takes more but I wanted to do a fair comparison of each one.

[@shortywpsfb]

Right! I just been struggling with 2 diff brands 😑

[@Gibsonlove87]

@presley lmao same!!

[@alejandraguevara3650]

thanks I use craftopita but wanted to try something else I will try expression vinyl next

[@AngieHolden]

I think you will like it!

[@karieroper3130]

I would think most people would do several scrapes and not just once. But thank you for the testing.

[@yemari]

THANK YOU FOR THIS VIDEO...VERY HELPFUL....

[@AngieHolden]

Glad it was helpful!

[@MidwinterEclipse]

Your voice is very relaxing.

[@hollyhold6960]

WHAT is your gorgeous worktop surface???? I love it! What do you recommend? Thank you, Angie. You are one of the most professional youtube tutors.❤

[@AngieHolden]

Ha! My worktop is contact paper! It is easy to film on and I can throw it away when it gets dirty!

[@chantalleledesmaa]

My favorite brand is the htvront transfer tape, the vinyl I use is from them and I love their transfer tape, I thought about getting craftopia transfer tape a while ago cause it was on sale on Amazon but then I never did, might have to check it out depending on the outcome of it on this video cause I’m almost out of my htvront transfer tape although I have two rolls of contact tape that I’ve heard works as well as the transfer tape you get from Amazon or your local supermarket

[@lwhite530]

Thank you! This was very helpful.... can you do one on the strong grip transfer tape?

[@AngieHolden]

good suggestion!

[@diannerobert3822]

Very nice démonstration video !! 👍

[@AngieHolden]

Thank you!

[@slpalms1466]

this helped a lot in ways that may not seem likely. i recently did some custom work with rather large names on both holographic and glow in the dark vinyl. i’ve always used YRTM HT transfer tape because of the performance on regular vinyl. But on the holographic and glow in the dark media it’s way too sticky, it seems to have a stronger adhesion than the actual vinyl. i purchased Vivid low tack and it was actually worse. i’m going to try one of the ones that didn’t pick up as well to see if that a better option. Hopefully it won’t pull the design off the surface i’m applying it to.

[@AngieHolden]

Oh that is a great idea! Thanks for watching!

[@carolchatmon9433]

Let me know what you find for Holographic vinyl please 😊

[@EJ3.16]

Thank you excellent video 👍🏻👍🏻 appreciate it....

[@AngieHolden]

Glad it was helpful!

[@thatjerseyb]

I'm sitting here in awe that you didn't have to stick any of these to your shirt to get some of the sticky off to get it onto the glass. I know I've tried the vivid one... and the vinyl doesnt ever want to stick full strength. But off to expressions vinyl i go!

[@AngieHolden]

hope you love it!!

[@angelanecole785]

This was so helpful!!!! Im new to cricut and i bought Silhouette tape and its not sticking good.. I need vinyl ease!

[@AngieHolden]

I'm so glad!

[@Arielcmr]

Thank you Angie. It was very helpful. Would you be able to do a video with tips on smart vinyl? I really struggle with it, most bits are left on the carrier sheet even after a lot of burnishing 🤨 x

[@AngieHolden]

smart vinyl is tough! the liner is thicker and doesn’t want to release. did you see I did video on using other brands matless?

[@Arielcmr]

@@AngieHolden I didn't but will search for it now. Thank you 😊

[@millylopez6913]

Great tutorial

[@AngieHolden]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@heatherfazekas469]

I can't get the oratape to lift the vinyl at all. Had 1 piece of cricut transfer tape left and it worked great.

[@coastalstarz]

my transfer tape wasn't sticky enough for the my adhesive foil design. So, I used my strong grip 12x12 mat and that worked. I know that's not the purpose of the cutting mat, but it worked in a pinch🤷‍♂️

[@AngieHolden]

Interesting!

[@questionswithconnie]

Hi Angie - thank you for all your comparison videos! Can you please do a video on heat transfer masks? Frisco craft has one but reviews are hit or miss about it melting or peeling away printable transfer papers but I can’t seem to find any videos of anyone comparing what’s out there and how to use them - appreciate you!

[@AngieHolden]

I just used Siser Easy Mask yesterday and two thumbs up!

[@janwebster3749]

Very helpful 👍

[@AngieHolden]

Glad it was helpful!

[@HOL28]

THANK YOU!!!!!!!!

[@AngieHolden]

Any time!

[@plpno]

@Angie Holden I’m a newbie to the Cricut game...This video definitely helped me! I didn’t know vinyl needed to be transferred on to a transfer tape until I came across this video! My question is...Can the transfer tape be reused...say if you have a labeling project that you will be doing several of? While watching you peel off the transfer tape it made me wonder. Thanks in advance!

[@AngieHolden]

Yes! I reuse it all the time!

[@plpno]

Angie Holden Great! Thank you for confirming.

[@savagetwin52]

Excellent video. Very informative. I went from here to the update video back to here to make a comment🤣.

[@AngieHolden]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@amyhamilton9477]

I have the cricut transfer tape but it’s strong grip and I can’t get it to release anything 😂 it was gifted to me, I’m super new to cricut and got a fantastic “starter kit” from someone that just didn’t have time for it. I guess I will have to go but a lighter grip transfer paper... I was tearing up my vinyl, trying to get it to stick to it’s intended object

[@AngieHolden]

Strong grip is ONLY for glitter and specialty materials. For regular, it will never work!

[@shawnainthekitchen8011]

To get the Cricut Strong Grip to not be so sticky buy a microfiber cloth or mop head from Dollar Tree, put it on there, then take it off 10 times. It won't be as sticky.

[@AM-ob5ki]

Thanks!!!

[@AngieHolden]

No problem!

[@JRAMOSK20]

I love frisco

[@jonathanchavez4007]

circut i found is good for instant transfer if i left it on for a few days it would rip the vinyl once id go to transfer

[@dipaolav]

Awesome video...what works best with vinyl? and which glitter vinyl would you recommend?

[@AngieHolden]

With regular vinyl, the transfer tapes I used here are for that. Glitter vinyl would require a strong grip transfer tape and I use Cricut right now for it.

[@lucymcmmck]

amazing ty

[@FlutePlayer777]

I would have loved to try out Dollar tree transfer tape. I hear mixed reviews. It works for me but is a bit too sticky.

[@katef6611]

So were these strong grip or other grip? I ask because I’ve tried many brands and I don’t think I ever lightly ran my toll over once on each side with such ease. I feel like I have to do this tons before I get anything to grip on.

[@AngieHolden]

They were all just regular grip. And I only ran over the amount of times shown in the video for each one.

[@TheAssaultcraft]

What settings did you use on your cricuit machine? I’ve used premium outdoor, premium vinyl, and matte? I have the VVIVID transfer tape. It peels right off without the decal. I’ve also used transfer tape from YRYMHT. With no luck. Burnished front and back .. no luck

[@AngieHolden]

I use whatever setting works with the vinyl I am cutting.

[@SmittenKitten.]

The scientific method on a video about transfer tape and vinyl??? YES, PLEASE!!!

[@AngieHolden]

HA! I have an engineering degree if you can't tell.....

[@SmittenKitten.]

@@AngieHolden Oh, awesome!! My husband is an engineer! No wonder I liked this so much! ;)

[@alexiss.d2757]

My first thought too 😂 I love it!

[@pgdolphins9218]

I reuse the Cricut transfer tape a number of times before throwing it away. I wonder if the other cheaper brands are also reusable as that would make a difference in the price in the long run.

[@AngieHolden]

totally! I do the same! I think any of these would be reusable as there was stick left in all of them.

[@dipaolav]

I use the vinyl ease multiple times as well....works great

[@TedMattos]

Thanks for this, Angie! :) Now that it's almost a year later, I'm wondering what transfer tape/paper you're still using?

[@AngieHolden]

I use Cricut a ton but I did a follow up video and I use the shelf liner from that one a bunch: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eH7RqH2Ces-cZrM

[@tonycarrington4426]

hi Angie......great video.... if i am wanting to apply vinyl to a painted or plastered wall do i have to use a low tack transfer tape im worried about pulling the paint or plaster off wall with the tape? regards tony

[@AngieHolden]

Usually it words just fine with regular. You may stick the regular to your shirt a few times if you are worried about it. That should pick up enough lint for it not to stick to paint.

[@tonycarrington4426]

Thanks angie👍

[@VSL4754]

The transfer tape I have (Cricut} isn't working with my Premium Vinyl Shimmer...Permanent Glitter. It will not transfer to the tape. Is there a reason for this? It worked with the Permanent Smart Vinyl. I am very new to all this and could use a little help :) Thank you so very much for any advice!

[@AngieHolden]

Glitter vinyl often needs strong grip transfer tape. There is usually a piece wrapped up inside the roll of glitter vinyl.

[@ckeith1274]

My problem is the transfer tape sticks to the permanent vinyl way too much even holographic which a lot of people say they can't get the tape to stick well enough. I have ruined several stickers this way and I am afraid to market any of them. I cannot GET the tape off the vinyl no matter how I try. You did not say medium tack specifically but I can only find Vinyl Ease in medium to high tack. Wish someone offered a variety pack so you could test for yourself and see what works best. I don't want 100 feet or more of something that doesn't work for me. Thanks for your video!

[@AngieHolden]

You don't want high tack except for things like glitter. Try a lower tack.

[@frankenerie]

I do vinyl for my wife for her store. After I apply the transfer tape, she sometimes waits days before applying it to her project. Will that matter in how it transfers?

[@AngieHolden]

Some of the cheaper ones can leave a residue on the vinyl after you leave for many days. So I would test any that you are going to switch to in that case.

[@trvlswitrv]

I bought the dollar store clear shelf liner and have been using it as a transfer tape. I’m new to Cricut and have no supplies in stock at home. I want to buy supplies but not sure what to buy. Have you compared that brand with the well known brands?

[@AngieHolden]

I am thinking of doing another video with non traditional options for transferring.

[@lokomenduco632]

Those this transfer tapes can be use with a heat press? will they melt bcuz of the heat? Thank you.

[@AngieHolden]

These will melt with the heat. I only have one that I have tested with HTV and it is shown in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q5uxoIKgorasoNE

[@DUCKSJO]

thank you for doing the comparisons; i will try one. the type i purchased may be too sticky and giving me trouble.

[@AngieHolden]

Hope you like it!

[@DUCKSJO]

@@AngieHolden so I purchased the VINYL EASE and having same issues. I cannot get the vinyl to stick to the transfer tape so I can apply to a project. Am I doing something wrong? I burnish it over and over and it is frustrating me.

[@Its_aceee]

@@DUCKSJO we’re you able to figure out the problem? This is the same problem I have

[@melody4you98]

Thank you. Which ones of thoses are reusable more than once

[@AngieHolden]

You can reuse them all.

[@amandataylor1604]

Could you please do some samples of transfer tape with the Cricut Permanent Glitter Vinyl.. MANY of us are struggling! Some are not, but I prefer a more feasible transfer tape!

[@AngieHolden]

You need strong grip for that. A sheet comes in your package of vinyl though.

[@t_rain2578]

The CRICUT is the WORST for me. I don't know how u got it in one fell swoop. I've had to pick little pieces one by one with Crucut. But this is an informative video. Thanx I've been wondering about other options

[@AngieHolden]

Sorry to hear that!

[@mcosby85]

Any chance you could compare transfer tape using Oracal vinyl? I found a great sale on Oracal vinyl, so I bought a lot, but the Cricut transfer tape sticks to it way too much and it's super hard to remove it from the tape.

[@AngieHolden]

I would try their brand of transfer tape as well.

[@RobertDickens2002]

I'd much rather have a hard time getting it on the transfer tape than getting it to stay on project especially if you're selling

[@sofiamendez6142]

Does it matter what brand vinyl you use how the transfer tape works, because I have cricut trsnsfer tape and a few other and have issues with all of them

[@AngieHolden]

It definitely can be vinyl dependent. You might find one that works with a certain brand and have issues with other brands.

[@jessicastoutmeyer9133]

Have you tried or compared the Press and Seal wrap and contact paper? How well do those compare against traditional transfer paper. Great videos, I enjoy them

[@AngieHolden]

Not yet! but I am thinking of doing a video on non traditional options.

[@mrsroz03]

Jessica... have you used press and seal? I have seen great reviews on the glad press and seal 😁 I might buy one and explore. Worse can scenario... I can always use in kitchen lol.

[@brendaleblanc7047]

Thank you for this. Is it common for the transfer tape adhesive to stick to the front of the vinyl? I’ve noticed it a few times and it’s the. Recut transfer tape...I’m new to all of this and appreciate your videos!

[@AngieHolden]

like some of the adhesive from the transfer tape is left as residue? I have never had that happen that I know of.

[@brendaleblanc7047]

@@AngieHolden Yes, the first project that I made had residue left from the Cricut transfer tape. I'll have to play and experiment with it more until I get the knack. Thank you

[@heidivanbuskirk224]

I had that happen too! I was using the strong Cricut on removable vinyl because it is what I had. I think maybe my burnishing was too intense?

[@V1MiamiTheBritosFloridaKeys]

@@heidivanbuskirk224 yes me too with the strong cricut one lol I think I also over brushed but I have such a hard time weeding the small thin letters omg lol I am new too I’ve only done 2 small vinyls! Thanks Angie and everyone for sharing tips it’s so helpful!

[@alohablondie]

What do you think would work best with the wet method?

[@AngieHolden]

I am not sure! I have it on my list to experiment with that method so I can say!

[@FrostyTee23]

Can I used decal transfer tape if I ordered by accident or no it will get stuck to shirt

[@AngieHolden]

That would be fine for adhesive vinyl but not for HTV which you would put on a shirt.

[@christinagoggin9531]

I never get the Cricut to pick up taht well. I have to burnish all kinds

[@onelifetolive05]

Do you suggest clear transfer tape for rhinestones decals

[@AngieHolden]

For rhinestones you are pressing with a heat press, you would use a clear heat mask. This would be if you have self-adhesive rhinestones of some type?

[@lbchristensen8732]

question, which one would you get the strong grip transfer tape or reg transfer tape? these are both cricut. thank you.

[@AngieHolden]

Strong grip is ONLY for glitter. Regular grip should be used for everything else.

[@lbchristensen8732]

@@AngieHolden thank you.

[@sarahmiller3846]

What transfer tape would you recommend for oracle 651?

[@AngieHolden]

I have had a few requests for this so I may do another video.

[@kpaigebrown9101]

How did you figure out how much per square foot on the Vinyl Ease and how accurate is this?

[@AngieHolden]

All of the information I have is in this video. Not sure about accuracy since this video is older at this point.

[@bellapento3712]

what’s the best one to buy for crucit designs?

[@AngieHolden]

All of these will work for Cricut designs. I like the Cricut brand and the Vinyl Ease.

[@teresarivard1999]

I am using Cricut vinyl and I am having one heck of a time getting it to stick to transfer tape. I have tried 2 different brands now and either one of them work. I actually had to throw the vinyl out. what am I doing wrong?

[@AngieHolden]

Have you tried the Cricut brand? And what vinyl are you using? If it is the smart vinyl, you might try heating the backing with a hair dryer after you have the transfer tape on then try peeling back. If it is glitter or a special vinyl, remember you need strong grip transfer tape for that.

[@APR717]

What transfer tape do you suggest for holographic vinyl?

[@AngieHolden]

I generally have luck out of the same for regular vinyl for holographic.

[@ambervaldivia5178]

Do you think the first one you showed with maybe a parchment paper backing or something be cost effective to send out as like decals for cars or other things?

[@ambervaldivia5178]

Or do you just leave the vinyl backing for sale

[@AngieHolden]

I think the vinyl backing left on looks best!

[@ambervaldivia5178]

Thank you for replying. I'm just starting out and trying not to overwhelm myself

[@AngieHolden]

You can do it!