DIY Faux Acrylic Name Keychains with Cricut: The Ultimate Guide

Updated at: 05/06/2025

Looking for a unique and personalized accessory that's also surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This ultimate guide will walk you through the process of creating stunning DIY faux acrylic name keychains using your Cricut machine. Forget expensive, mass-produced trinkets – you'll be crafting custom keychains perfect for gifting, personal use, or even selling at craft fairs. We'll explore the materials you need, from readily available craft supplies to the essential Cricut tools, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable crafting experience. The possibilities are endless: choose from a vibrant array of colors, add sparkling embellishments, and design keychains that truly reflect your personality or that special someone's.

This comprehensive guide covers everything from designing your name in your chosen font to applying the vinyl perfectly and sealing your masterpiece for lasting durability. Get ready to unleash your creativity and impress everyone with your handmade talents, because soon you'll be crafting personalized keychains like a pro. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the step-by-step process!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Cricut Machine
  • Shrink Plastic (clear, frosted, or colored)
  • Adhesive Vinyl (metallic recommended)
  • Transfer Tape
  • Fine Point Blade
  • 320 Grit Sandpaper
  • Oven
  • Chopsticks
  • Caliper
  • Jump rings
  • Keychain hardware
  • Sealer Spray (optional)
  • Resin (optional)
  • Makeup sponge (optional)
  • VersaMagic Stamp Ink Pad (optional)
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise children when using crafting tools like the Cricut and avoid contact with eyes or skin. Wash hands thoroughly after handling materials.
  • Ensure proper ventilation when working with any epoxy resin. Epoxy fumes can be harmful if inhaled. Work in a well-ventilated area or wear a respirator.
  • Use heat-resistant surfaces and tools when curing epoxy resin. Improper handling can lead to burns or damage to your work surface.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Design the Keychain

    • Create text, merge connected letters using 'Weld', create outline using 'Offset' tool (0.25 inches recommended), and design a loop.
    Design in Cricut Design Space: Create text, merge connected letters using 'Weld', create outline using 'Offset' tool (0.25 inches recommended), and design a loop.
    Design the Keychain

  2. Prepare for Cutting Shrink Plastic

    • Duplicate the keychain shape and stack it to ensure a clean cut through shrink plastic.
    Duplicate and Stack Shapes: Duplicate the keychain shape and stack it to ensure a clean cut through shrink plastic.
    Prepare for Cutting Shrink Plastic

  3. Cut the Shrink Plastic

    • Use the 'Acetate' setting, increase pressure, and use a fine point blade for a clean cut. Sand both sides of shrink plastic for better adhesion (optional).
    Cut Shrink Plastic: Use the 'Acetate' setting, increase pressure, and use a fine point blade for a clean cut. Sand both sides of shrink plastic for better adhesion (optional).
    Cut the Shrink Plastic

  4. Shrink and Flatten the Plastic

    • Use an oven and chopsticks to carefully shrink the plastic, preventing curling.
    Shrink the Plastic: Use an oven and chopsticks to carefully shrink the plastic, preventing curling.
    Shrink and Flatten the Plastic

  5. Prepare and Resize Vinyl

    • Use a caliper to accurately measure the shrunk plastic and resize the vinyl design in Cricut Design Space to match.
    Measure and Resize Vinyl: Use a caliper to accurately measure the shrunk plastic and resize the vinyl design in Cricut Design Space to match.
    Prepare and Resize Vinyl

  6. Cut and Apply the Vinyl

    • Cut the vinyl using appropriate settings, remove the protective film, and apply to the plastic using transfer tape.
    Cut and Apply Vinyl: Cut the vinyl using appropriate settings, remove the protective film, and apply to the plastic using transfer tape.
    Cut and Apply the Vinyl

  7. Optional Finishing Touches

    • Apply a sealer spray before applying resin (if using resin) for better adhesion. Alternatively, use only sealer spray or glittery resin.
    Optional Sealer and Resin Coating: Apply a sealer spray before applying resin (if using resin) for better adhesion. Alternatively, use only sealer spray or glittery resin.
    Optional Finishing Touches

  8. Assemble the Keychain

    • Add a jump ring and keychain hardware.
    Assemble Keychain: Add a jump ring and keychain hardware.
    Assemble the Keychain

Read more: DIY Dollar Store Ghost Candy Holder: Spooky Cute Halloween Decor!

Tips

  • Use the offset tool to create a border for your design.
  • Make a ruler from your shrink plastic to accurately determine the shrinkage rate.
  • Using chopsticks during the shrinking process will help prevent the plastic from sticking together.
  • Apply sealer spray before resin to ensure better adhesion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect Weeding

Reason: Leaving small pieces of vinyl attached to the design can lead to a messy, unprofessional-looking keychain.
Solution: Use a weeding tool and good lighting to carefully remove all excess vinyl before applying transfer tape.

2. Applying Too Much Pressure

Reason: Excessive pressure when applying the vinyl to the keychain blank can cause bubbling or stretching of the vinyl.
Solution: Apply firm but gentle pressure using a scraper or credit card, working from the center outward.

3. Improper Sealing (Epoxy)

Reason: Uneven epoxy application or using too much/little epoxy can lead to an uneven finish, air bubbles, or a sticky surface.
Solution: Apply thin, even coats of epoxy, allowing sufficient drying time between coats and minimizing air bubbles.

FAQs

What kind of vinyl should I use for faux acrylic keychains?
Permanent vinyl is best for this project as it needs to adhere strongly and last. Choose a vinyl with a strong adhesive and consider a glossy finish to mimic the acrylic look.
Can I use any font for my name on the keychain?
Yes, but consider fonts that are bold and easy to read at a small size. Avoid overly thin or intricate fonts as they might be difficult to weed and could look blurry when shrunk down.
How do I ensure my keychains are durable and waterproof?
After applying the vinyl, sealing it with a high-quality sealant or resin is crucial for durability and water resistance. This protects the vinyl from scratching and peeling, extending the life of your keychain.