DIY Pressing Board for Cricut EasyPress

Originally posted 2020-03-22 10:26:10.

How to Make a DIY Heat Press Mat for the Cricut EasyPress or Household Iron

I have owned a vinyl cutter for years and love using it (see this privacy window project!). I recently bought a Cricut EasyPress to use with heat transfer vinyl but was really disappointed with the pressing mat that is supposed to go with it (purchased separately). Making my own DIY heat press mat alternative would be a lot less expensive and much bigger than the largest pressing mat offered for sale. The tutorial below shows how to make a DIY pressing board for the Cricut EasyPress or any household iron that measures approximately 20″ x 24″ with a handle on top!

Materials:

• 1 – 24″ x 24″ piece of 3/4″ plywood ***
• Nail-on Teflon furniture feet (<– affiliate link)
• 2/3 yd. of Insul-Bright * (<– affiliate link)
• 2/3 yd. of plain canvas fabric
• Hot glue gun
• Decorative upholstery tacks and a hammer
• Lightweight door handle and a drill

*** If purchased at a home improvement store, the plywood can be cut to size in store usually for a small fee!

* Insul-Bright is a thin, insulated batting used when making hot pads and potholders. It reflects the heat while lightly padding the plywood board.

Step One

Cut the piece of plywood to size, and mark the position for the nail-on feet. Secure the feet to the plywood using a hammer. The feet will provide stability and will keep the board from marring the tabletop or countertop surface where it is being used.

Step Two

Flip the board over and place the Insul-Bright on top. Secure the Insul-Bright to the edges of the plywood using a hot glue gun, then trim away the extra with scissors or a craft knife. Make sure the Insul-Bright is smooth and snug!

Step Three

Place the canvas on top and smooth it out. Secure the canvas to the edges of the board using upholstery tacks and a hammer, folding the raw edges of the canvas under. The canvas should also be smooth and snug!

Step Four

Position the door handle along one long edge and secure in place with screws and a drill. The screws should come with the handle. The handle makes it easy to carry and store!

Also, this pressing board can be used with any household iron, plus it is easy to store and can be hung by the handle on a wall or door!

Have questions about how to make a DIY pressing board for the Cricut EasyPress or any household iron? Leave a comment below!