What Side of Vinyl Goes Down on Cricut?

Vinyl is one of the most popular materials used with Cricut cutting machines. It’s easy to use, comes in a variety of colors and finishes, and is relatively inexpensive.

But if you’re new to using vinyl with your Cricut machine, you may be wondering: Which side of the vinyl goes down on the mat when cutting?

The answer is that it depends on the type of vinyl you’re using. If you’re using adhesive vinyl, which is often used for decals and window clings, then the shiny side should face down on the mat.

This is because the adhesive will stick better to the mat if this side faces down.

If you’re using heat transfer vinyl (often used to create custom T-shirts or other fabric items) then it should be placed shiny side up. The heat from your Cricut’s blade will help activate the adhesive on this type of vinyl so it will stick to fabric and other materials.

In conclusion, determining which side of the vinyl goes down when using a Cricut cutting machine depends on the type of material you are using. Adhesive vinyl should have its shiny side facing down while heat transfer vinyl should have its shiny side facing up. Knowing which way to place your material will help ensure successful cuts every time.