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Cricut Infusible Ink Pens vs Markers: A Quick Comparison

Written by Robert S. Brown / Fact checked by Helen B. Harris

cricut infusible ink pens vs markers

If you have been a fan of Cricut machines and accessories, the next items on your shopping list would probably be their infusible ink pens and markers. Perhaps, you already have yours and still can’t decide which to use.

What is the difference between the two, then?

The tip size is the only thing that sets infusible ink pens and markers apart. Pens work great on intricate details whereas infusible ink markers are ideal for thicker strokes and solid applications.

There is a lot more to know about these Cricut Infusible Ink Pens vs Markers. Read on and learn how to showcase your craft with these innovative tools.

A Quick Overview

FEATURES Cricut Infusible Ink Pens Cricut Infusible Ink Markers
Tip Size and Line Weights Fine tips for refined strokes and outlines Broad tips for solid and broad art lines
Variation Infusible Ink Pens for Cricut machines Infusible Ink Freehand Markers and Infusible Ink Markers for Cricut machines
Color Selection and Color Quality Long-lasting vivid and solid colors; Available in Basics, Ultimate, Neons, and Watercolor Splash Long-lasting vivid and solid colors; Available in Basics, Ultimate, Neons, Watercolor Splash
Cricut Machine Compatibility Cricut Maker and Cricut Explore Machines Cricut Maker and Cricut Explore Machines
Price Reasonably priced Reasonably priced; have cheaper options during seasonal sales

What Are Cricut Infusible Ink Pens and Markers and Their Differences?

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First of all, how do infusible ink pens work?

Basically, these pens utilize infusible ink or premium quality sublimation ink that allows everyone to curate their own designs and heat transfer crafts like a pro. You need not be an experienced crafter!

These tools can be used freehand, but specific variants are innovatively designed to work with Cricut Maker or Cricut Explore machines for the best results. Simply load the pen or marker into the accessory clamp of your Cricut machine, and you are all set to create custom infusible ink marker projects and permanent color transfers.

The gap between Cricut infusible ink markers and pens is just a hair, with the tip size as the only significant difference. The markers have broad tips for thick strokes, while the pens have fine point tips for delicate lines.

Breakdown of Features/Differences

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1. Tip Size and Line Weights

Cricut Infusible Ink Markers come in two line weights: 1.0 mm and 2.0 mm. These tips create medium to broad strokes, ideal for thick applications or filling in large areas with solid and vibrant colors.

Meanwhile, the pens feature fine tips measuring 0.4 mm that render intricate details to showcase exquisite artwork.

When you use Infusible Ink Pens on shirts or on fabric surfaces, you can amplify the designs with outlines or refined strokes and use these pens with the markers to fill the areas with rich hues.

2. Variation

Most Cricut Infusible Ink Markers are intended for hand use and Cricut cutting machines. However, take note that Infusible Ink Freehand Markers are designed to be used by hand only.

Cricut innovatively designed these Freehand Markers with ergonomic barrels to ensure comfort when drawing or coloring by hand. One should not attempt loading the marker into the cutting machine as it will not fit.

These markers are used for creating hand-drawn designs and will transfer on any compatible Infusible Ink blank the same way as other Infusible Ink pen and marker variants.

Dual-tip options are also available for Infusible Ink Markers, rendering lines and brush strokes in precise and bold applications. The tips come in 1.0 mm and 2.5 to 3.2 mm brush sizes.

Infusible Ink Pens do not have any other available variations at the moment, apart from the ones suitable for Cricut cutting machines and for use by hand.

3. Color Selection and Quality

Infusible Ink Markers are available in Neons, Ultimate (vivid tones), Basics (red, blue, green, yellow, brown, black) and Watercolor Splash (soft or pastel tones). Infusible Ink Pens are also available in Neons, Basics, Watercolor Splash, and Ultimate packs.

Both types produce rich and vibrant colors that transfer permanently on any compatible Infusible Ink blank or items, ensuring exceptional quality that does not flake, wash off, or peel over time.

4. Cricut Machine Compatibility

Both infusible ink pens and markers are compatible with Cricut Maker and Cricut Explore Machines.

5. Price

The prices of infusible ink pens and markers typically fall under a similar range. For instance, both infusible ink pens and markers in Ultimate (15 count) cost around $30.

However, the prices vary during seasonal sales where some marker variants become much cheaper than pens.

Cricut Infusible Ink Pens

how-do-infusible-ink-pens-work

Pros
  • Fine tips for precise applications and exquisite art designs
  • Renders rich and vibrant colors that transfer permanently on Infusible Ink-compatible blanks
  • Compatible with Cricut Maker and Cricut Explore machines
  • Easy to use
  • Reasonable price
Cons
  • Requires more effort to fill large areas

Cricut Infusible Ink Markers

paper-do-you-use-for-infusible-ink-markers

Pros
  • Broad tips for thick strokes and solid color fills
  • Renders rich and vibrant colors that transfer permanently on Infusible Ink-compatible blanks
  • Compatible with Cricut Maker and Cricut Explore machines
  • Freehand marker type also available
  • Some variants are cheaper than pens
  • Reasonable price
Cons
  • Not ideal for outlines and complex line art designs

How to Draw on T-shirt With Cricut Infusible Ink Pens and Markers

Draw Your Design

infusible-ink-marker-projects

  1. Prepare your Cricut cutting machine and the LightGrip machine mat.
  2. Place laser copy paper on top of the mat and load it into the machine.
  3. Open the Design Space app on your gadget to choose your preferred design and size. This free Cricut program allows you to create and customize your drawings.
  4. Open the Maker dropdown menu to choose the Cricut machine. Before using Infusible Ink markers, always check the labels for the machine compatibility.
  5. Select the Linetype from the Edit bar to check the available options for your machine. This setting allows you to assign the tools (marker or pen) for your artwork. Then, Design Space will prompt you to load the selected tool to your machine at specific times.
    • For this project, choose Draw. Do not forget to Mirror your design to ensure the correct position when laying it down on the shirt.
  6. Open Browse and choose Copy Paper.
  7. Load the pen or marker to Clamp A. When the Go button flashes, press it to start the process.
    • If you use Cricut infusible ink pens and markers interchangeably, wait for Design Space to tell you when to insert a specific tool.
  8. Unload the paper and mat after the process.
  9. You may use the art as is or add colors using your Infusible Ink markers or pens by hand.

Transfer Your Design

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  1. Before applying the design on a shirt, always refer to the Cricut Heat Guide or app for the recommended time, pressure, and heat settings.
  2. Place the shirt on the Cricut EasyPress Mat. Then insert a cardstock sheet inside the shirt so that the apparel and the mat are less likely to be ruined.
  3. Eliminate any dirt or particles using a lint roller. This will keep the surface pristine before the transfer.
  4. Make sure that the butcher paper is larger than the Easypress. Use it to cover the shirt so that your tools are protected from high heat and excess moisture. Use your Cricut EasyPress machine to preheat the area and eliminate wrinkles and imperfections.
  5. Take the butcher paper out and allow the area to cool before proceeding with the design transfer.
  6. Tape the design against the shirt (the ink side should face down) using any heat-resistant tape to keep the drawing intact.
  7. Position the butcher paper over the design and press it down using your Cricut EasyPress machine.
    • While pressing the design, keep your hands still. Avoid moving or sliding the machine to prevent any creases.
  8. As soon as the machine beeps, gently lift the press. Allow the shirt to cool completely.
  9. Remove the tape and other items from the shirt. That’s it!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are infusible ink pens worth it?

If you are using Cricut machines and want to ensure the quality of your designs, these pens are surely worth it. Whether it is for a hobby or business, you can use infusible ink pens and markers to elevate your craft with a professional caliber of personalized heat transfer designs.

When should I use infusible ink pens and markers?

You may use infusible ink pens and markers to customize DIY heat transfer projects on Infusible Ink compatible blanks or surfaces such as shirts, totes, mugs, and coasters.

If compatible with your Cricut cutting machine, you may integrate your Infusible Ink Pens or Markers into the machine and load it to a specific port to draw your designs. Use them by hand to amplify your drawings with vibrant colors.

What paper do you use for Infusible Ink Markers?

Cricut recommends using laser copy paper for its heat-resistant characteristics and special coating that are suitable for Infusible Ink drawings. It accommodates Infusible Ink heat transfer projects, providing smooth and effective transfers.

Conclusion

Our Cricut Infusible Ink Pens vs Markers review unravels amazing design tools that you can use to present your craft and creativity. Although their tip sizes differ from each other, you can utilize these features to create unique and exquisite drawings on various heat-transfer projects.

When used correctly according to Cricut’s recommended application guide, your drawings will exhibit precision and a beautiful and vibrant color spectrum on your preferred Infusible Ink compatible blanks.

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