Making vinyl crafts is so much fun! But you must first learn it!

I know that you will continue experimenting with various craft supplies to complete your desired vinyl project. But did you realize that mastering the basics of your craft materials could help you achieve perfection? When you utilize craft supplies properly, the process will go smoothly, and the project will turn out perfectly. In contrast, if you misuse craft supplies, it may cause you to make mistakes that cause the project to fail.

Now, we will highlight the two most popular oracal vinyl products, the oracal 651 and oracal 631, because they are pretty well known and have been used by many craftspeople.

Even though Oracal vinyl is comparable to other vinyl products, like Cricut vinyl, it cuts and weeds more efficiently and is more durable, which is why we adore it.

Let's first explore the Oracal 651 and 631's specifications and differences in more detail in this article. We will go into greater detail regarding its features, the applications for Oracal 631 and 651 vinyl, and what projects you can do before discussing where you can buy it online.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN 651 AND 631 VINYL?

Although vinyl is easy to work with, it can be intimidating if you have never worked with it. Crafters tend to mix up 651 Oracal and 631 Oracal vinyl. This blog post is here to stop that common mistake! The two most popular vinyls from Oracal are frequently confused; the truth is, they have entirely different uses.

So, what's the difference between 651 and 631 oracal vinyl?

Both types of vinyl mentioned in this post have an adhesive paper backing, indicating that they are stickers intended to be applied to complex objects rather than clothing. The adhesive and the finish would be the two main variations between 651 and 631. Except for Black and White, which are available in both glossy and matte finishes, the color palette of 651 has a polished finish. 631 has a matte finish in contrast. Only a limited number of colors are available in the Oracal 631Vinyl line. Additionally to its 89 colors, 631 Oracal is translucent. While 64 colors, including matte, glossy, clear translucent, and black and white, are offered in 651 Oracal.

Let's now talk about adhesive! The main factor that distinguishes these kinds of vinyl from others is the adhesive. For instance, the REMOVABLE adhesive on Oracal 631 vinyl is clear water-based. Typically, this would be utilized indoors. On the other hand, the clear solvent-based PERMANENT adhesive on Oracal 651 vinyl makes it ideal for outdoor use. Remember that you can remove Oracal 651 vinyl, but it won't be easy once the 24-hour curing period has passed. The back adhesive is made to harden like cement. You should apply a little heat to remove it when scraping it off the glass to make your job easier. Goo-Gone can do amazing things by removing this vinyl if you have an error to fix.

Here's a helpful table detailing the differences between 631 and 651 vinyl.

651 Oracal Vinyl	631 Oracal Vinyl
Outdoors	Indoors
Glossy, ex-Black and White Matte/Gloss	Matte
Available in 64 colours	Available in 89 colours
Permanent	Removable

Before this part comes to a close, we have two more pieces of advice. The first tip is for Oracal 631: Since "Low VOC" or "Zero VOC" paints may have lower adhesion levels, extra caution should be used when applying wall graphics.

The second tip pertains to Oracal 651, which is something to consider before applying it to a car or anything else that has been painted. The SPF factor of 651 vinyl is excellent, but the paint beneath the sticker will be shielded. The color will be darker and might not match the surrounding paint once this decal is removed. I would consider using another vinyl or avoiding applying it to painted surfaces. I would think of using another vinyl or avoid applying it to the paint and use the glass!

Do I answer the question?

That's great!

WHAT IS 631 VINYL USED FOR?

One of the most widely used types of vinyl is Oracal 631. It is a fabulous brand that offers vinyl that is super versatile to use. The vinyl from 631 is identical to that from the standard Cricut and Silhouette brands, but it is more reasonably priced, easier to cut and weed, and has a longer shelf life. Oracal vinyl 631 can be used with any vinyl die-cutting device (including the popular Cricut and Silhouette cutters).

The paper backing on the Oracal 631 vinyl protects the adhesive until it is peeled off. It has a matte finish and a peelable adhesive. All personal hobby and craft cutters are compatible with this craft vinyl, which has many uses, including temporary applications like scrapbooking, home décor, signs, and stencils. The best craft vinyl option for indoor services and interim to short-term outdoor graphics can be removed cleanly and simply for up to two years after application. However, it is not appropriate for projects requiring frequent cleaning, such as dishware or anything frequently exposed to water, because it is water-based.

Here is a list of Oracal 631 vinyl uses. From simple things like nail decals to more expansive windows and signs.

Interior and Exterior Signs

• Wall Decals (especially great for themed holiday decals such as Easter or Christmas)
• Indoor Signs (think about parties or special events)
• Decorating (for indoor decor items)
• Tattoos
• Themed Signs
• Removable Logos (for trade shows and exhibitions)
• Themed Window Decals
• Balloon Stickers (the vinyl is thin, so easier to work with on things like balloons)
• Stencils (to create welcome door mats, tile stencils, etc.)
• Phone Case Decals (especially great on a clear case where you can place the decal on the inside to help protect it)
• Nail Stickers (with a clear nail polish over the top to protect it), etc.

Tip: It is not advised to use it to clean items that must completely submerge in water or for surfaces that frequently come into contact with water. Cleaning something with an Oracal 631 design is best accomplished by wiping it down with a damp cloth.

Let's add your learnings about oracal 631 by listing its unique features.

• Finish: Matte
• Adhesive: Water-Based, Removable
• Thickness: 3 mil
• Minimum Application Temperature: +50F
• Applied Temperature Resistance: -40F to + 176F
• Shelf Life: 2 years (at 68F/50% relative humidity)
• Indoor Durability: 3 years (based on vertical surface exposure) to 10 years
• Outdoor Durability: 1 year before fading and cracking begin to occur
• Not recommended for prolonged exposure to water
• Compatible with all craft cutters such as Cricut, Silhouette, Xyron, Craft ROBO, Graphtec, Quickutz, Inspirations, Pazzles, etc.
• Available in sheet sizes of 12"x24" and 12"x12"
• Also available in 12 "x5yd. rolls

Here are the proper cut settings if you decide to work with Oracal 631 vinyl.

Cricut	Silhouette Cameo
Speed: High Thickness: Medium Blade Setting: 3	Speed: 7 Thickness: 5 Blade Setting: 2

Now, if you got all the materials to start your project, follow these simple steps on how to apply your oracal 631 vinyl.

1. Clean and dry your surface first- This is an essential step in preparing the surface to which you will apply the vinyl. Although rougher surfaces like wood, textured walls, etc., will still function, transferring your vinyl onto them will be easier.

2. Cut your design — You can use a craft cutter or cut your design by hand. Once your design has been fully cut, trim any extra vinyl around your image or lettering (this is called weeding).

3. Apply your transfer tape—This is the step many vinyl beginners overlook, even though it's arguably one of the most important for avoiding a stress-related breakdown when sticking your vinyl to your surface! Simply lay the transfer tape over your vinyl and smooth out any air bubbles with a flat, hard object (such as a credit card, scraper, popsicle stick, etc.) to ensure that it firmly adheres to the vinyl. 4. Next, ensure that the vinyl has transferred to your tape before carefully removing the backing paper from it.

Let's proceed to the same format as we went through the features and the projects you can do with Oracal 651 vinyl.

WHAT IS 651 VINYL USED FOR?

Are you guys ready to know more about Oracal 651 vinyl?

So here it is...

Essentially, adhesive vinyl is a sticker. However, the sticker is quite sturdy and sticky! This explains why 651 is referred to as a permanent adhesive vinyl. It can be challenging to remove once it's on something, and it can withstand a reasonable amount of wear and tear. Outdoor vinyl, or 651, is more resilient than 631 and is frequently used to create outdoor signs.

You'll also learn that Oracal 651 is divided into two components when you purchase it:

1. The vinyl itself is one thing (which the design is cut into)

2. as well as the backing paper

You may use 651 on a variety of surfaces. It is excellent if the characters are spotless, dry, and non-porous. As a result, Your 651 vinyl will endure a long time!

So, what is 651 used for? Here's the list:

• mugs & cups
• drink bottles (looks especially good on stainless steel!)
• shadow boxes
• plant pots
• walls (if you want the decal to be permanent)
• cutting machine decorating (a popular project!)
• plaques
• kitchen storage containers
• car window decals
• adhesive vinyl can even be used to wrap and customize chainsaws!

Here, I'll go over all of Oracal 651's features.

Adhesive: Permanent

A clear, solvent-based, permanent adhesive is used with Oracal 651 vinyl. It works best when you won't need to remove the vinyl decal quickly. Although it isn't permanent, you'll need to scrape it off or use an adhesive remover like Goo Gone to get it off.

Finish: Glossy

This vinyl has a glossy finish that is highly reflective and shiny.

Waterproof: YES

Since 651 is entirely waterproof and can withstand rain and washing, it is the best option for items like coffee mugs and your car. Even on boats, it functions!

Usage: Outside

The adhesive in Oracal 651 is strong enough to resist weather outside. However, 651 is still excellent for decorating anything indoors. Since it is the material of choice for outdoor signs, it is frequently referred to as "outdoor vinyl" or "sign vinyl."

Durability: Six Years

When properly applied, almost all Oracal 651 vinyl colors have an outdoor life expectancy of at least six years. The brilliant blue color lasts for at least three years, while the metallic finishes have a lifespan of four years. It will last a little bit longer if you use it inside.

I know you're too excited to start your vinyl project, so let's begin your project!

Of course, to use Oracal 651 vinyl, you will need to have a cutting machine. You can use Cricut machine or Silhouette Cutting machine. Here are the other tools and accessories you might need:

• A burnishing tool for adhering vinyl to the surface of your product after applying transfer tape to vinyl.
• weeding tools which are used to remove excess vinyl after you have cut out your design
• transfer tape to apply 651 vinyl

Step 1: Choose your cut file

Before we cut our vinyl out, we need to first select our cut file

Step 2: Sizing your image

When you select an image from this point on, you will see its measurements and may drag it in and out or specify its precise width and height to make it the correct size. Once the image(s) is the required size, proceed to get your vinyl ready for cutting.

Step 3: Applying vinyl to the cutting mat

By aligning the edge of the adhesive vinyl with the top of the grid on the cutting mat and applying it color-side up, you may use it to the sticky mat. Then, ensure no air bubbles could clog your blade by smoothing down the entire vinyl piece. Now that you are prepared, load it to your machine.

Step 4: Loading and Unloading cutting mat into the machine

To load the mat, line up the left-hand side with the grey arrows/line. While holding it up to the rollers, select the load option. This may appear different depending upon the machine you are working with, but this one is for Silhouette Cameo 4.

Step 5: Cut Settings and Send

When it comes to cutting our Oracal 651 Adhesive Vinyl, these is the recommended settings:

Blade: 2 Force:7 Speed: 5

(TIP: For more minor intricate cuts, slow your speed down)

Step 6: Removing your vinyl from the mat

Taking the vinyl off the sticky mat when your image has been successfully cut out would be best. Flip the mat over and remove it away from the vinyl to do it safely without rippling or curling your vinyl.

Step 7: Weeding

This step is probably the funniest part. You will now weed away the excess vinyl you do not need.

Step 8: Positioning the Transfer Tape to your Vinyl

You will apply your transfer tape after removing all the extra pieces. Start by cutting a piece of vinyl to the size of your image, and begin with one side of the vinyl

(TIP: Transfer Tape is only needed for Adhesive Vinyl projects)

Step 9: Burnishing (Rub) the Transfer Tape to the Vinyl

Once your Transfer Tape is positioned, rub the tape with firm pressure, making sure to avoid bubbles or ripples. Once you have a smooth finish, you can trim the excess tape from around the edges.

Step 10: Removing the Vinyl from the paper carrier sheet

Now that the vinyl has been burnished, slowly peel up the transfer tape to lift. Then, expose the adhesive on the backside of the vinyl.

(TIP: If your Transfer Tape does not want to lift the vinyl, rub it some more, and try flipping the vinyl over and removing the paper backing)

Step 11: Applying the vinyl to your surface

Start by lining up the middle of the vinyl with the center of your surface medium as best you can.

(TIP: Before applying adhesive vinyl, clean the surface of your medium with soapy water and or rubbing alcohol)

Step 12: Burnishing your vinyl to medium

Similar to Step 8, when you burnished your tape to the vinyl, you are not doing the same step, only smoothing the vinyl to the medium, giving it some good pressure.

Step 13: Removing the Transfer Tape

Once you have the vinyl burnished, slowly peel away the Transfer Tape from the vinyl. Sometimes it might need a little coaxing to burnish a little longer and try again.

The possibilities for using Oracal 651 are genuinely limitless. Make anything attractive with intricate designs by using your imagination!

IS 651 OR 631 PERMANENT AND WATERPROOF VINYL?

I frequently get inquiries regarding different vinyl types, particularly the differences between Oracle 651 and 631. Now that you know some of the critical distinctions between these two types of vinyl, let's discuss the adhesiveness of each.

Is vinyl 651 or 631 permanent and waterproof?

In contrast to 631 oracal vinyl, which is removable and employs a water-based adhesive, 651 oracal vinyl is permanent and waterproof. To avoid making a costly error with your craft, it can be helpful to be aware of these distinctions when planning your job. I'll give you a few examples of some of their better uses.

Crafters have traditionally regarded Oracal 651 as a permanent vinyl type, meaning that the adhesive is intended to remain in place and not be removed. The durability is rated for up to 6 years. But to be honest, it may stay much longer than this if appropriately sealed. Therefore I do believe it to be permanent.

Let's talk about it further.

Oracal 651 Vinyl

Permanent

However, the word "permanent" can be a little misleading. You can remove it, depending on the surface. I wouldn't suggest it, though, since it will probably leave behind a sizable amount of solvent-based adhesive residue, which will only worsen after it has dried.

Curing

It is necessary to cure Oracal 651 and some other kinds of vinyl that are regarded as permanent. This means that you must give the adhesive 24 to 72 hours to reach its full bonding strength after applying it to the surface of your blank. I always advise giving 72 hours in certain situations to be safe. If you intend to use your product outside or elsewhere where it might come into touch with water, this curing period is a necessity.

Water-resistant

651 vinyl is also water-resistant, so you can use it for outdoor projects. It's the only vinyl I use for every one of my outdoor-friendly wood signs. It's important to note that it is not considered fully waterproof, which is vastly different from its resistant counterpart. Many people do, however, classify 651 to be fully waterproof, but if you submerge it in water for an extended period, it will most likely peel off of your blank. It can, however, withstand the elements of the outdoors, including rain, cold, and heat. Of course, if your blank cannot resist the outdoor weather, neither will the vinyl!

Ok, now let me discuss with you the 631 vinyl.

Oracal 631 Vinyl

Removable

A removable vinyl with a three-year durability rating is Oracal 631. Once more, I believe that with the proper application procedure, it may go much longer than this.

What lends it to removal? 631 vinyl uses a water-based adhesive in place of 651's solvent-based adhesive, making removal significantly simpler.

Curing

Although most people don't cure 631, it is advised to leave your decal on the blank for 6–24 hours while the transfer tape is still on.

Water-resistant

This removable vinyl is water-resistant, considerably less than 651, because of the water-based adhesive. It is categorically prohibited from being used on mugs, cups, or other items that must be cleaned frequently. However, it can withstand the odd wipe-down with a very gently wet cloth.

To design a project that will last the test of time, it is essential to understand the differences between the various types of vinyl. No matter which one you choose to utilize for your upcoming project, Oracal 651 and 631 both have excellent quality. You may create a limitless variety of crafts because of their wide range of colors, which you can affordably buy in larger roll sizes, which saves you time and money. Just keep in mind that no vinyl is suitable for use in food preparation, so use it solely on your blanks.

Did you learn a lot today? I'd be interested in seeing some of your efforts! Which one do you use most frequently?

Keep on Crafting and don't forget to share these ideas with your family and friends. Also, share your crafting adventure with us on our pages.

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For your vinyl crafting needs, please check our website at xvinyl.com. We offer different Adhesive and Heat Transfer Vinyl, perfect for your next project.

Other Vinyl Crafting Articles

Please click the links below for more blogs that you may find helpful in your crafting journeys:

LEARNING TO ADHERE VINYL ON DOORMAT

VINYL ON CARDSTOCK