Reverse Weeding Vinyl Explained
First off, if you’re not sure what weeding is- then you need to read our beginner glossary here. If you’re familiar with weeding, then keep reading for this nifty trick!
What is Reverse Weeding?
A few years back, Joe showed how Reverse Weeding is a technique that can be used on Print and Cut materials, but did you know it will also work with EasyPatterns® and EasyPSV®?! Reverse Weeding is the process of applying an application tape or transfer mask on top of cut vinyl with a squeegee so you can separate the vinyl from it’s backing and weed off of the sticky tape or mask.
When should I use Reverse Weeding?
As mentioned above, Reverse Weeding is a technique that’s good for print and cut HTV, EasyPatterns, and EasyPSV. Especially if the design includes heavy color saturation, small fonts, or fine detail. Watch how we use this trick to simplify the EasyPSV Glow project on Clued into Crafting:
Why should I use Reverse Weeding?
Reverse Weeding makes it easier to work with products that come on a static liner. Weeding off of something sticky keeps fine detail intact. But even if you accidentally weed something you weren’t supposed to, it’s simple to stick it back in place! Essentially, you’re creating the EasyWeed® experience with other products!
How do I troubleshoot Reverse Weeding?
A good cut is vital to a breezy reverse weeding experience. The most common issue we run in to is when the vinyl is cut too deep which results in a very small amount being pinched in the cut lines between the liner. It may not be noticeable at first, but when you place the application tape or transfer mask on top, the vinyl will either resist being lifted or peel up the paper liner with it.
When the paper liner separates, you know the EasyPSV® was cut too deep.
Performing a test cut and ensuring the cut lines are barely noticeable (if at all) while still being able to weed successfully is a sign of a good cut. Check out these posts for test cutting information on specific craft cutters:
How to Cut Siser HTV with the Cricut Explore One, Air, or Air 2
How to cut Siser HTV with the Cricut Maker
How to Cut Siser HTV with the Silhouette Cameo
How to Cut Siser HTV with the Brother ScanNCut CM650W
How to Cut Siser HTV with the Brother ScanNCut SDX125
Are you ready to give reverse weeding a try? Pin the image below to Pinterest so you never forget this useful trick!
Reverse weeding has been a game changer for me. thank you so much for sharing the post.
So glad I found Siser North America, I am new to sublimation and have so much to learn and so little time because I am old (78).
I wonder how old the oldest of us is?