Valentine's Day Conversation Hearts Sweatshirt Using Cricut

This project is all about giving a basic grey sweatshirt a fun and playful upgrade using a technique called reverse applique. You’ve probably heard of traditional applique, where you sew a decorative piece of fabric onto the front of a garment. Reverse applique flips that idea around - literally! Instead of attaching the design on top, you place it behind the fabric, on the inside of the sweatshirt. Then, by carefully cutting away the top layer, you reveal the colorful design underneath. For this one, we’re using classic conversation heart shapes to add a sweet, whimsical touch that really pops against the grey background.

Materials:

• Fleece in assorted conversation heart colors
• Sewing machine and machine sewing supplies
• Cricut FabricGrip Cutting Mat
• Rotary Blade (for Cricut Maker)
• Cricut Iron-on, red
• Cricut Tool Kit
• Cricut Heat Press Machine

Directions:

To get started, you can either create your own custom cut design in Cricut Design Space or, if you want to keep things simple, just head straight to the ready-made project I’m using. For this project, I’m working with a heart shape and some super cute candy heart designs - specifically design set #M456F7ECF, which is available as part of Cricut Access. These pre-made designs make it really easy to add a fun, playful vibe to your sweatshirt without having to start from scratch.

Once your design is ready, it’s time to start cutting out the hearts. If you have a Cricut Maker, you’re in luck - it makes this part super easy. Just place your fleece fabric onto a Cricut FabricGrip Mat, load it into the machine, and use the Rotary Blade to cut out the shapes cleanly and precisely.

But don’t worry if you don’t have a Maker - there’s still a simple workaround. You can print or draw a heart shape onto paper to create a pattern, then pin it to your fleece and cut around it using a good pair of fabric scissors. It takes a bit more time, but it works just as well and still gives you great results.

Now it's time to attach the hearts to your sweatshirt. Flip the front panel of the sweatshirt inside out so you’re looking at the back side of the fabric. Then, using a sewing machine, stitch each heart in place from the inside. You’re basically sewing the fleece hearts to the wrong side of the sweatshirt front, so they’ll peek through later when you cut away the top layer. 

Turn the sweatshirt right side out again so you’re looking at the front. Using a small pair of sharp fabric scissors, carefully snip into just the sweatshirt fabric directly over one of the sewn hearts. Be super careful not to cut into the fleece heart underneath - you only want to cut the top layer. Once you’ve made a small opening, continue trimming away the sweatshirt fabric, staying close to the stitching line. As you cut, the colorful fleece heart will start to peek through, giving that cool reverse applique look.

Next, head back into Cricut Design Space to cut out the text that will go on each heart. I’m using red Cricut Iron-on for that classic candy heart look. Once the machine finishes cutting, grab your favorite weeding tools and carefully remove the excess vinyl, leaving just the letters behind.

Now it's time to add the text to each heart. Position the iron-on right in the center of each fleece heart, then use your Cricut Heat Press to apply it. For the best results, be sure to check the Cricut Heat Guide or use the Cricut Heat App - these tools will give you the exact time, temperature, and pressure settings based on the materials you're using and the type of press you have. Following those steps will help make sure your design sticks perfectly and stays looking great!

Ta Da! Your cozy, custom conversation heart sweatshirt is ready to wear! It’s such a fun way to add a pop of personality to a plain piece, and the reverse appliqué technique gives it a really cool, handmade feel. Whether you’re making it for Valentine’s Day, a Galentine’s get-together, or just because you love cute, crafty fashion, this project is a total win. 

Do More with Conversation Hearts!

Loved making this sweatshirt? Keep the crafty vibes going with more fun and festive conversation heart projects! Here are a few more ideas to try. These projects are perfect for Valentine’s Day or anytime you’re in the mood for something sweet and handmade. Happy crafting!

Felt Conversation Hearts Valentine’s Day Wreath

Use your Cricut to create a charming felt wreath full of sweet messages—perfect for your front door or mantel.

Conversation Hearts Paper Rosette Banner

Add some cheer to your space with this colorful banner made from layered paper rosettes and heart designs. It’s great for parties or just for fun!

Heart-Shaped Magnets

Whip up some adorable heart magnets for your fridge or office. They’re quick, easy, and make great little gifts or decorations.