Follow this easy tutorial to make custom hats with Cricut using iron-on and a hat press. We have alternate instructions for using a regular iron or mini heat press as well.
Cricut Machine Maker 3, Maker, Explore Air, Explore Air 2, or Joy
StandardGrip Mat
Basic Tool Set
Hat Press optional, you can also use an Easypress Mini or a household iron
Supplies
Everyday Iron-On
Plain Hat
Instructions
Open Cricut Design Space on your computer, tablet, or phone. Create a design you like or choose from one of the many designs in Design Space.
Gather materials needed, and click the green 'Make it' button in Design Space.
Follow the prompts asking what size mat you have and what materials you are using, then turn 'mirror on.' (When cutting iron-on you always want to mirror the design.)
Put iron-on onto a StandardGrip mat, shiny side down. Follow the prompts in design space to load the mat and cut the iron on.
Weed iron-on design, removing anything around the edges or inside that you don't want to be transferred to the hat.
Put the hat snugly on the form.
Place an iron-on design onto the hat, then use purple heat-resistant tape to secure the design on your hat.
How to Use the Cricut Hat Press
First, download the Cricut Heat app to a smartphone or tablet. This app allows you to choose the right heat settings based on the material of your hat and the type of iron-on you're using.
Turn the hat press on and open the Cricut Heat app. Connect the heat press using Bluetooth and follow the steps to choose the iron-on material and the material of your hat.
Press the hat press onto the hat for the amount of time indicated in the heat app.
To finish, peel the clear iron-on backing off of the hat when it is cool to the touch.
Notes
Make sure to check the material of your hat, don't assume it is all cotton, some hats are a blend of cotton and polyester. Polyester can melt if too much heat is put on it.