Difficulty: Intermediate
This project uses multiple Combine tools (Subtract, Slice, Split), contour editing, and precise alignment, along with multi‑layer pressing. The cutting itself is simple, but the design manipulation and placement steps require confidence with IdeaStudio’s tools. It’s ideal for crafters comfortable with basic HTV projects who want to build more advanced design skills.
Materials Used:
- HTVRONT Pure HTV (white and splatter colors)
- Canvas zippered pouch
- Cutting machine and mat
- Weeding tool
- Teflon sheet
- Heat press (285°F)
- Sharpie (for marking carrier sheets)
- Chalk (for marking pouch alignment)
Process
To create this design, I started by ungrouping an element from the IdeaStudio library so I could use only the paint‑splatter shape. I typed out the phrase using a system font, placed the text over the splatter, selected both, and used Combine > Subtract to cut the text out of the splatter.
Next, to isolate the highlights and text, I placed a square shape behind the entire design and used Combine > Slice. This produced a square with the splatter removed but left the text and highlight pieces. I selected that sliced layer and used Combine > Split to separate everything. In the View panel, I turned on Contour to see all outlines, then deleted the extra bubble shapes around the highlights, leaving only the text and highlight elements.
All pieces were cut using the HTVRONT Pure HTV material setting with default settings. Everything cut cleanly and weeded easily.
To align, I marked the halfway points on the top, bottom, and sides of both the vinyl (Sharpie on the carrier sheet) and the pouch (chalk). This ensured the text and splatter lined up correctly.
I pressed the white text and highlight layer first at 285°F for 10 seconds, then cold‑peeled. After that, I aligned the splatter layer using my marks, covered it with a Teflon sheet, and pressed again at the same temperature and time. Waited 1 minute, cold-peeled.
