Skeleton Rib Cage SVG T-shirt | Free Cutting Template

Welcome to a new spooky project: A Skeleton Rib Cage SVG T-shirt!! 

This Halloween project will be so fun and easy to make that I bet you’ll be making more than one.

In this post, I will show you how to make this super fun and simple (yet super stylish) t-shirt for Halloween or really any other day you feel like making a statement.

I am going to provide you with a free cutting template you can use in any cutting machine, such as Cricut or Silhouette. 

But worry not! If you don’t have a cutting machine, I will also tell you how to make this design with a stencil and some fabric paint.

So grab your broomstick and materials, and let’s fly into the frightful crafty fun that awaits!

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I’ve been itching to use my Cricut machine ever since I bought it earlier this year. Can you believe I haven’t even opened it since setting it up? Well, that changes today! I’m so excited to share my very first complete project with you—a super cool skeleton rib cage t-shirt.

I am using the Cricut Maker 3 for this project, and it has been so fun to learn how to use it.

This design isn’t just for Halloween; you can totally rock it any day for a bold statement look. Pair it with your favorite jeans and a chic hairdo, and you’re all set to turn heads! 

The best thing is that you can use this cutting template for more than just t-shirts! From creepy decorations to thrilling costume ideas, this project is sure to get you in the spirit of Halloween and leave you feeling your most creative self.

Let’s dive into this fun and easy tutorial.

Project Overview

Let’s talk about this awesome design—a skeleton rib cage template! It’s super straightforward and measures 12″ by 12″. The best part? The SVG file is absolutely free! You can download it by filling out the form at the end of this tutorial.

For my t-shirt, I used glittery HTV (heat transfer vinyl) because, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a bit of sparkle? However, I had a little hiccup. The only glitter vinyl I had measured 12″ by 10″, so I had to get creative and add the missing pieces by hand. To avoid this, I recommend using a 12″ by 12″ HTV sheet to make things easier.

No Cutting Machine? No problem!

But wait! If you don’t have a cutting machine, no worries at all. You can still create this design by making a homemade stencil. I have two tutorials that can help you with this. 

One covers my favorite stencil method: the transparency film DIY stencil. The other one explores different types of homemade stencils you can try. For this technique, you’ll need fabric paint in your favorite color. 

Step-by-Step Skeleton Rib Cage SVG T-shirt Tutorial

Materials Needed

• Blank T-shirt (preferably plain)
• Free SVG skeleton rib cage template by My Golden Thimble
• Cricut machine or any cutting machine
• Glitter Iron-on vinyl or fabric paint
• Iron or heat press (if using vinyl)
• Handmade stencil (if not using a cutting machine)
• Cutting mat, craft knife, or scissors (for handmade stencils)
• Self-healing cutting mat (for support when cutting)

1. Downloading and Preparing the SVG Template

To get the free Skeleton Rib Cage SVG and PNG template, please fill out the form at the end of this post, and we will send it to your email! 

Load your design to the Cricut Design Space and resize it if needed. The design of 12” by 12” is perfect for an adult t-shirt, but you might want to make a kid’s t-shirt to match with the kiddos.

2. Cutting the Design

Okay, so here’s what you do with the cutting machine: load the iron-on vinyl onto the cutting mat with the shiny side facing down. 

Then, pop the mat into the cutting machine and start the cutting process. 

Once that’s done, carefully weed out the extra vinyl from the design. It’s like peeling a sticker but way more satisfying!

3. Transferring the Design to the T-Shirt

Alright, friend, here’s the fun part! Take your weeded design and place it on your t-shirt with the vinyl side facing down, making sure it’s exactly where you want it. Then, cover it with parchment paper or a pressing cloth—this helps protect the vinyl from direct heat.

Now, grab your iron or heat press and apply some heat and pressure to stick the design onto the fabric. Just make sure to follow the vinyl manufacturer’s recommended temperature and time settings for the best results. You’re going to love how it turns out!

4. Remove the liner sheet.

Alright, now let the design cool completely before you carefully peel off the carrier sheet. This is the moment of truth when you get to see your amazing design on the t-shirt!

If you see any piece that didn’t stick completely, put the liner back in its position and press it for a few more seconds.

To make sure the vinyl is completely secure, give the entire design one more press. And there you have it—your fabulous new t-shirt is ready to wear!

Final Thoughts

Thanks so much for reading me, friends! I hope you had as much fun making this skeleton rib cage t-shirt as I did. If you give this project a try, I’d love to see your finished creations—share them on social media and tag me!

Also, please write a comment below to let me know what you think about these crafty tutorials. 

You can find all the latest updates and connect with me in my newsletter, which you will get after subscribing to any of our freebies. 

See you next time, and happy crafting!

Download Link and Additional Resources

Fill out this form to get the free Skeleton Rib Cage SVG and PNG files right in your inbox. 

You should get an email with the download in a few minutes. If you don’t find it, please check your spam or promo folders because sometimes it goes there. 

If that happens, move our email to your main inbox folder! I’ve got some exciting projects coming up that you won’t want to miss!