Making T-shirts should be fun and profitable – not stressful. Whether you’re creating custom shirts for your Etsy Shop or making T-shirts for your family reunion, having the right tools can make your life a whole lot easier. With the right Cricut heat press setup and accessories, you’ll get professional results faster, save time, and avoid costly mistakes.
So let’s jump in! Here are the top Cricut heat press machines and accessories to help you press perfect T-shirts every time.
1. Cricut Heat Press Machines: The Stars of the Show
If you’re serious about making T-shirts, investing in a Cricut EasyPress or Cricut AutoPress is a no-brainer.
Here’s a clear and concise table comparing the Cricut EasyPress, Cricut AutoPress, and Cricut EasyPress Mini to help your audience decide which one fits their needs:
Cricut Heat Press Comparison Table
| Heat Press | What It’s For | Size | Key Features | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cricut EasyPress | – DIY T-shirts and small-medium projects – Perfect for hobbyists and crafters |
9” x 9” or 12” x 10” | – Lightweight and portable – Precise temperature control – Works with HTV, Infusible Ink, and sublimation |
$$ (Mid-range) |
| Cricut AutoPress | – High-volume production for small businesses – Large T-shirt and bulk projects |
15” x 12” | – Fully automatic (auto pressure and release) – Works hands-free – Professional, consistent results |
$$$$ (High-end) |
| Cricut EasyPress Mini | – Small designs (pockets, hats, shoes) – Hard-to-reach or curved areas |
3.4” x 2.1” | – Ultra-portable – Works on curved/irregular surfaces – Great for small HTV projects |
$ (Affordable) |
2. Heat Press Mats: Even Heat for Flawless Results
A heat press mat might seem basic, but it’s a must-have for perfect transfers. It absorbs moisture, reflects heat back into the fabric, and ensures even pressure.
- Top Pick: The Cricut EasyPress Mat works perfectly with the EasyPress.
- Why it’s essential: Towels can be uneven or absorb too much heat – mats are faster and more reliable.
3. Teflon Sheets: Save Your Shirts from Sticky Situations
Protect your T-shirts (and your heat press!) with Teflon sheets. These reusable sheets sit between your heat press and design to prevent vinyl from sticking or scorching.
- Benefits: Reusable, easy to clean, and they protect your investment.
- Pro Tip: Keep a couple on hand – they’ll save you time fixing mistakes.
4. Heat-Resistant Tape: No More Crooked Designs
If you’ve ever pressed a design only to realize it shifted at the last second, heat-resistant tape is your new best friend.
- What it does: Holds your vinyl or transfer paper in place while pressing.
- Best Option: Cricut Heat-Resistant Tape – it’s clean, reliable, and easy to remove.
- Why you’ll love it: No more wasted materials or redoing shirts.
5. Weeding Tools: Make Removing Vinyl Faster
Weeding (removing excess vinyl) can be the most time-consuming part of T-shirt making. The right tools make it quick and painless.
- Top Recommendation: The Cricut Weeding Tool Set – it’s sharp, precise, and easy to use.
- Why it matters: Clean, quick weeding means less time fiddling and more time pressing!
6. Heat Transfer Pillows: Even Pressure on Tricky Areas
Ever struggle with seams, buttons, or zippers? Heat transfer pillows help you press designs evenly, no matter the shirt’s surface.
- Why you need them: Without even pressure, your transfers can come out wrinkled or incomplete.
- Perfect for: Hoodies, onesies, and T-shirts with zippers or pockets.
7. Alignment Tools: Perfect Placement Every Time
Crooked designs can ruin a T-shirt and make it look unprofessional. Alignment tools make centering your design quick and easy.
- Best Tools:
- Cricut T-Shirt Ruler Guide – simple and foolproof.
- Laser alignment tools – perfect for precision lovers.
- Time-Saving Tip: “Taking a few extra seconds to align your design saves hours of fixing mistakes later.”
Get More Done, Faster
With the Cricut EasyPress, AutoPress, and the right accessories, T-shirt making becomes smoother, faster, and a whole lot more fun. Whether you’re pressing for fun or profit, these tools will save you time, reduce mistakes, and help you create shirts you’re proud of.
Ready to upgrade your setup? Grab these must-have accessories and start pressing like a pro today!