A Beginner’s Guide To Different Types Of Craft Vinyl

The world of vinyl crafting is overwhelmingly huge and can be very perplexing at times. There are so many options available that a rookie can very easily get distracted by the sheer variety. On top of that, vinyl crafting is very diverse so even getting a general idea of each of its diverse branches can make your head spin.

But don’t be afraid of stepping into this world as this diversity is also very addictive and once you know that you have unlimited options when it comes to vinyl crafting, your desire to learn more will grow ten folds. If you are a beginner wanting to learn about the different types of vinyl you first need to understand its basic lingo.

There are some very essential and basic vinyl tools like cutters that have vinyl blades to cut the design of your choice. Although only specific to heat transfer vinyl ( i will get there in a moment) you need heat transfer vinyl sheets to get your design to go on your project.

Then there is weeding which refines your designs and trims off the access material and so many other things to learn and remember. So if you want to master the art and crafts of vinyl, you need to not only know about all the tools used for it but also learn about the types of vinyl to enjoy it fully.

Types of Craft Vinyl

Vinyl crafting is very exciting, fun, challenging and rewarding, if you nail the art of vinyl crafting you will not only earn a lot but also have the room to grow and excel. In today’s world where customizations, bespoke marketing and personalization is everything, vinyl crafting is very important. Generally there are only 2 main categories of vinyl but these 2 main types have other sub-types and I will be discussing each one of them with you.

1.Adhesive Vinyl

The adhesive vinyl, as the name suggests has adhesive on one side of it and plain on the other side. You can use this type of vinyl just like a sticker and with enough pressure any design can be transferred from it. For all the projects like coffee mug printing, wall decals, water bottles, wall signs, banners, special decor, customized stickers are all done with adhesive vinyl.

2.Permanent Vinyl

Permanent vinyl is water-resistant and is generally used for outdoor projects so that it can withstand the harsh climatic conditions. This type of crafting vinyl is perfect for projects like car decals, glassware, key chains, outer banners, water bottles and so many other things. Although the permanent vinyl is somewhat removable it may cause some damage to the surface underneath it like scratches. 

3.Removable Vinyl

Removable vinyl has a water-based formula that allows its easy removal from all surfaces. The difference between this type of vinyl and the permanent one is simple and pretty clear- it doesn’t leave any cast behind after its removal and there is no damage done to the surface below.

After removing this type of vinyl, you can resume that surface for any other project or just use it as is. This type of vinyl is great for short term customizing like doing a hashtag for weddings, writing a catching phrase for your room walls or making someone feel special in their special moment.

4.Speciality Adhesive Vinyl

When the word special comes with adhesive, magic is bound to be created. The speciality adhesive vinyls are the cooler ones like glow-in-the-dark, static cling, fluorescent, chalkboard and other cool stuff like that.

5.Heat Transfer Vinyl

Probably the most heard and known type of crafting vinyl is heat transfer vinyl. This kind of vinyl is plain and smooth on both sides and is attached on special heat transfer vinyl sheets once the design is ready.

This one is particularly perfect for fabric and flowy materials, or in simpler words any material that can withstand the immense pressure and heat. You can use it for campaigning with special logo shirts, you can customize your merchandise with this type of vinyl and so much more. With heat transfer vinyl crafting sky's the limit.

With heat transfer vinyl you only have to be mindful of 2 very important vinyl tools- heat and pressure. You must know the exact amount of pressure and heat you want to execute on it so that the surface gets a beautiful printer without ruining it.

Takeaway Points

When it comes to vinyl crafting you can’t use any type of vinyl and think it would work. Choosing the right type of vinyl for the right project will result in its longevity and better results. If you are a beginner looking to step into the world of vinyl then these types of vinyls should be on your finger tips!