Have you ever tried using regular eron-on vinyl on stretchy fabric? It usually doesn’t work very well, because standard vinyl doesn’t stretch. When you’re working with stretchy materials, you need a product that stretches with the fabric! In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to use SportFlex Iron-On when working with stretchy fabrics like Lycra and nylon.
If you’ve ever added vinyl to fabric, you probably know it performs better on some materials than others. Stretchy fabrics, in particular, can be tricky when using standard iron-on vinyl. That’s where Cricut SportFlex Iron-On comes in.
If this sounds like a challenge you’ve run into before, I have some good news! Today I’m highlighting SportFlex Iron-On and showing you how it compares to everyday iron-on vinyl, and I'll walk you through exactly how to use it. And to make things even more fun, I’m creating a shirt with this product so you can see it in action!
Note: If you’re looking for more vinyl crafting inspiration, be sure to check out our How to Use Heat Transfer Vinyl (or Iron-on Vinyl) guide and DIY Funny Maternity Shirts and DIY Baby Booties projects!
What is SportFlex?
SportFlex is a stretchy vinyl product from Cricut. It's a flexible, stretchable iron-on sheet that is ideal for adhering to stretchy fabrics such as polyester and nylon.
Think about using this product on dry-fit shirts, workout gear, swimsuits, leotards, maternity clothes, and more. Use it wherever you need extra stretch in your iron-on design.
Video Tutorial
Enough talk! Let's see it up close and personal! I made a short video to explain the product and demonstrate the stretch.
How To Use SportFlex Iron On To Make A Toddler Football Shirt
Isn't this product fabulous? I appreciate the stretch it offers and the creative possibilities it provides!
I promised you a project using this material to accompany the demonstration. This fun shirt is perfect for toddlers and comes together in just minutes.
Supplies Needed
Here's what you'll need to make this project. I have included a few handy links to make it faster to find certain products.
- Dry-fit shirt
- Sportflex Iron-on
- Cricut machine (click here to see which is my favorite)
- Cricut EasyPress (click here to see why I recommend this machine)
- EasyPress mat
- Weeding tools (optional)
- Football shirt cut file
Free HTV Cheat Sheet
Get your FREE Printable HTV Cheat Sheet now! This guide has sizing and position recommendations for infant through adult shirts as well as a handy HTV use guide. Print this double sided guide and put it by any heat press you own!
Instructions
This project is literally as easy as 1…2…3! Follow along to see for yourself.
Step 1
Start by using the cut file to cut the SportFlex Iron-on vinyl. As with any iron-on product, mirror the image before cutting and place the material's shiny side down on your mat.
Step 2
After cutting, remove any excess material from around the outside as well as in the center of the letters. Weeding tools are optional and make this step faster and easier.
Step 3
Use your iron or EasyPress to add the iron-on vinyl to any shirt where you need some extra stretch.
Voila! Your project is done!
You will love how this product gives and stretches once it's ironed onto the shirt. This is essential for stretchier fabrics. If you didn't think you could embellish those materials, think again!
FAQs
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions I receive about using SportFlex Iron-On. If your question isn’t listed, feel free to drop it in the comments, and I’ll be happy to help!
Where can I buy SportFlex Iron-On vinyl?
Look for Sportflex Iron-on at a craft store near you, or order it on Amazon.
Can I use SportFlex iron-on on cotton?
No. First, SportFlex is intended for fabrics that are much more stretchy than cotton. More importantly, this specialized vinyl product is ideal for technical fabrics and won't adhere to natural fabrics such as cotton.
What temperature should you set the EasyPress to when working with SportFlex iron-on vinyl?
I highly recommend using the Cricut Heat Guide. You can enter the type of vinyl you're using and the material you're adhering it to. The guide will then tell you which heat setting to use on your EasyPress.
Does this product last?
Can you count on this product to actually stay on your projects? First, follow these care instructions:
- Allow 24 hours after application before washing.
- Wash and tumble dry the garment inside-out.
- Do not bleach.
- If you need to iron, only iron on the backside of the garment.
If you have applied correctly, Cricut offers a StrongBond™ Guarantee confirming that this product is built to last. Make all your shirts, stretch pants, and more with your SportFlex Iron-on, and rest assured it will last a long time!
More Cricut Vinyl Crafting Inspiration
If you love this SportFlex Iron-On guide and want to make more iron-on projects, try these ideas!
