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Looking for a fun and easy Cricut project? Learn how to create custom motel-style keychains using Cricut’s Print Then Cut feature, clear sticker paper, and self-adhesive laminate sheets. Follow this step-by-step tutorial to craft waterproof and adorable keychains for gifts, personal use, or even to sell. Let’s get started!
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links, at no additional cost to you!
DIY Motel Keychains with Cricut Print Then Cut
DIY Motel Keychains aren’t anything new. You can decorate them with vinyl or DTF, but did you know you can create color stickers too? I’m excited to share how you can do it easily with Cricut and the print then cut feature in Cricut Design Space. Let’s get into it!
Supplies Needed
- Cricut machine (e.g., Cricut Explore 3)
- Clear sticker paper (e.g., Koala brand)
- Self-adhesive laminating sheets (e.g., Koala brand)
- Keychain blanks
- LightGrip cutting mat
- Inkjet printer
- Felt-covered ruler or squeegee
- Pliers
- Keyring hardware (e.g., tassels, pom-poms, or findings)
I created a quick video showing you each step, check it out below:
Step 1: Setting Up in Cricut Design Space
- Open a new project: Open Cricut Design Space and start with a clean canvas. This ensures you have a blank workspace to create your keychain designs.
- Insert a template: Insert the motel keychain template in Cricut Design Space. Adjust the size to fit your keychain blanks if needed—it’s important to match the dimensions so your design fits perfectly.
- Add a print area template: From the Shapes menu, add a rectangle measuring 8.5” x 11”. This represents your printable area. Change the rectangle to a “Print Then Cut” image. If prompted, let Cricut auto-size it.
- Layer your template: Send the rectangle to the back layer. This serves as a guide for arranging multiple keychains on one sheet without wasting material.
Step 2: Customizing Your Design
- Upload your graphic: Add a graphic or create your own design in Cricut Design Space. This could be anything from simple patterns to detailed illustrations.
- Resize and align: Resize your graphic to fit the motel keychain template. Ensure it’s centered and aligned for a polished look.
- Flatten the design: Change the keychain template to a “Print Then Cut” image. Flatten it with your graphic to create one single printable image.
- Duplicate for efficiency: Duplicate the design multiple times to maximize the use of your 8.5” x 11” sheet. You can typically fit about 12 keychains per sheet. Use the alignment tools in Cricut Design Space to ensure even spacing.
- Attach designs: Once all designs are arranged, attach them together. This groups the designs into one large image, ensuring they stay aligned when printed.
- Hide the rectangle template: Before proceeding, hide the 8.5” x 11” rectangle template. It was only used as a placeholder and doesn’t need to be printed or cut.
Step 3: Printing and Laminating
- Preview your design: Click “Make It” to preview the print layout. Ensure the designs are centered and aligned for the best results.
- Print on clear sticker paper: Send the design to your inkjet printer. Use clear sticker paper for a professional finish. Adjust your printer settings for high-quality output by enabling the system dialog.
- Apply a laminate layer: To make your keychains waterproof, use self-adhesive laminating sheets. Peel back a small portion of the laminate backing and align it with the top edge of the sticker sheet.
- Smooth the laminate: Use a felt-covered ruler or squeegee to press the laminate onto the sticker sheet. Gradually peel back the backing while smoothing out air bubbles.
Step 4: Cutting with Cricut
- Prepare the mat: Place the laminated sticker sheet on a LightGrip cutting mat. Align the sheet’s corner with the mat’s top-left corner.
- Select material settings: Choose the appropriate material setting in Cricut Design Space. For kiss-cut stickers (stickers that remain on the backing), select “Printable Transparent Vinyl.” For die-cut stickers (stickers cut completely through), select “Heavy Cardstock” with more pressure.
- Cut your designs: Load the mat into your Cricut machine. The machine will read the registration marks printed during the Print Then Cut process and precisely cut each keychain design.
Step 5: Assembling the Keychains
- Peel and stick: Remove each sticker from the backing and carefully apply it to a blank keychain. Smooth out any bubbles with your fingers or a squeegee.
- Do both sides: Repeat the process for the back of the keychain to create a double-sided design.
- Add embellishments: Enhance your keychains with decorative tassels, pom-poms, or charms. Use keyring hardware and pliers to attach these embellishments securely.
Tips for Success
- Design versatility: Experiment with different themes, such as seasonal designs, book-themed keychains, or personalized names. This project is incredibly versatile!
- Material options: Try holographic self laminating sheets for a fancier finish.
- Batch production: For craft fairs or small businesses, produce keychains in batches to save time and material.
Creative Ideas and Applications
- Holiday gifts: Create festive designs for Christmas, Easter, or Halloween.
- Business promotions: Add your logo or branding for unique promotional giveaways.
- Craft fair items: Sell themed keychains at local markets or online stores.
- Party favors: Personalize keychains for weddings, birthdays, or other celebrations.
With just a few supplies and your Cricut machine, you can create beautiful, custom motel-style keychains that are both functional and stylish. Whether for personal use, gifts, or selling, these keychains are sure to impress. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media, tag me @michellespartyplanit —I’d love to see what you make!
Happy Crafting!
PIN FOR LATER!
Title:
DIY Motel Keychains with Cricut Print Then Cut
Authors:
Categories:
Mentions:
cricut, keychains, Print Then Cut
Keywords:
motel keychains
Last Updated:
February 13, 2025
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