Did you know that you can add glitter to your sublimation t-shirts for a little extra sparkle? I’m excited to share how to combine sublimation with glitter heat transfer vinyl (HTV) to create beautiful, eye-catching designs. This technique is perfect for adding a touch of glam to your projects, and it’s a great way to make your t-shirts stand out. Let’s get started!
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How to Add Glitter to Your Sublimation T-Shirts Using Glitter HTV
Materials Needed:
- Sublimation printer (I’m using the Epson F170)
- Sublimation paper (I’m using A-SUB 125g paper)
- Glitter HTV (I’m using HTVRONT white glitter HTV)
- Polyester t-shirt (for the best results, use 100% polyester)
- Heat press or Cricut Auto Press
- Cricut cutting machine (I’m using the Cricut Explore 3)
- Butcher paper or parchment paper
- Lint roller
- Heat-resistant tape
- Cricut Design Space software
I created a step by step video tutorial for you, check it out below:
Step 1: Prepare Your Design in Cricut Design Space
To begin, open Cricut Design Space and start a new project on a blank canvas. You’ll want to upload your desired image. For this project, I’m using a cute pumpkin design I found on Creative Fabrica. Make sure to use a PNG file with a transparent background to avoid any need for editing.
Once the image is uploaded, select “Flat Graphic” to keep it simple. The image might be large, so you’ll want to resize it to fit your project. If Cricut Design Space gives you a warning about the image being too large for the print area, simply click on the auto resize button. This will adjust the image to the maximum size allowed for the Print then Cut feature.
Step 2: Create an Offset for the Glitter HTV
Now that your image is sized correctly, it’s time to create an offset. Duplicating the image first, go to the operation menu, select the image, and change it to “Basic” to prepare it for contouring. Next, click the Contour button and select “Hide All Contours” to isolate the main element of your image (in this case, the pumpkin).
After you’ve isolated the element, go to the Offset menu to create an outline around the design. Adjust the distance until you’re happy with the outline and then click “Apply.” I like to change the color of this offset to white, as I’ll be using white glitter HTV. This makes it easy to visualize the final product.
Once you have your offset, switch the original element back to “Print then Cut.” Repeat this process for any other elements in your design that you want to keep separate.
Step 3: Mirror Your Designs
Before you proceed to cutting and printing, make sure to mirror all your designs. This is important for both sublimation and HTV applications. To mirror your design, click on the “Make It” button, which will take you to the project preview screen. Select your paper size (I’m using 8.5” x 11” paper) and toggle the “Mirror” button for all three designs.
Step 4: Print Your Design
Once your design is mirrored, click “Continue” and send it to your printer. For sublimation, I’m using my Epson F170 printer with A-SUB 125g sublimation paper. I prefer to use the printer dialogue menu to set my parameters manually, turning off the bleed option and adjusting the print quality to “High” for vibrant colors.
Remember, since we already mirrored the design in Cricut Design Space, you’ll want to turn off the mirror option in your printer settings.
Step 5: Cut the Glitter HTV and Sublimation Prints
Now that your prints are ready, cut the registration marks off the first print using a pair of scissors. We don’t need these for the t-shirt application. For the pumpkin design, apply your sublimation paper onto a light grip mat and insert it into your Cricut machine. Select “Medium Cardstock” as your material setting, and let the Cricut cut out the design.
Next, switch to your glitter HTV. Use a standard grip mat, placing the shiny side down. Ensure there are no air bubbles or wrinkles on the vinyl before cutting. Select “Glitter HTV” or “Glitter Iron-On” from the material menu, and let the Cricut cut out your offset design.
Step 6: Prepare the T-Shirt
Before applying any vinyl or sublimation prints, make sure to prep your t-shirt properly. Use a lint roller to remove any dust or debris from the fabric. Then, preheat your t-shirt using your heat press at 400°F for 10 seconds to eliminate any moisture and wrinkles. This step is crucial for a smooth sublimation transfer.
To prevent ink bleed through, place a sheet of butcher paper inside the shirt. You’ll also want to use a t-shirt guide to center your design on the shirt. If you don’t have a t-shirt guide, you can make one yourself—check out my tutorial!
Step 7: Sublimate and Apply the Glitter HTV
Center the design in the center of your shirt. Press at 400F for 60s. Don’t forget to cover it with butcher paper.
Next, position your glitter HTV offset design onto the t-shirt and secure it with heat-resistant tape. Cover it with a piece of butcher paper to protect your heat press. Lower the heat press temperature to 330°F and press for 15 seconds. This HTV is a cool peel, so let it cool completely before removing the carrier sheet.
Step 8: Sublimate Over the Glitter HTV
With your glitter HTV in place, it’s time to sublimate! Center your printed sublimation design over the glitter HTV and secure it with heat-resistant tape. Increase the heat press temperature back to 400°F and press for 60 seconds. The glitter HTV can withstand the high temperature, allowing the sublimation ink to transfer directly onto it.
Once the time is up, carefully remove the sublimation paper and butcher paper to reveal your design. You’ll notice how vibrant the colors are and how the glitter adds an extra dimension to the t-shirt.
Step 9: Final Touches
Remove the butcher paper from inside the t-shirt, and you’re all done! This technique is a fantastic way to add a unique flair to your sublimation t-shirts, and you can use it with any design you like. The glitter HTV adds a pop of sparkle and makes the colors truly shine.
Tips & Tricks:
- Use a high-polyester content t-shirt for the best results.
- Ensure your glitter HTV has a high heat tolerance to avoid melting during sublimation.
- Always preheat your garment to remove moisture and wrinkles before applying HTV or sublimation.
That’s it! You’ve now learned how to add glitter to your sublimation t-shirts using glitter HTV. If you enjoyed this tutorial, be sure to leave a comment below, and don’t forget to check out my channel at Michelle’s Party Plan-It for more creative ideas.
Happy crafting! ✨
Need more sublimation ideas? Check these out..
How to Make a Custom Felt Ruler Cover Using Sublimation
How to Create a Stunning Full-Wrap Sublimation Tumbler
DIY Mug Gift Boxes with Sublimation
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