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When it comes to what we have in our craft room, without a doubt, my favourite piece of equipment, is my Cricut setup. You’ve probably seen me mention this a bunch of times already. I admit, there’s a good chance that I am completely obsessed with this machine. Also, This post is completely from me and is my thoughts and opinions and not officially associated with Cricut in any way.
I have been a Cricut user since 2019 when I received the Explore Air 2. Since then the Cricut setup has grown massively, from the explore to the maker. Various Cricut heat presses. And the Joy which is a lot of fun to play around on.
I have been asked so many questions time and time again about what a Cricut is and for advice before purchasing a machine. So I am going to include everything I possibly can in this post! I’m creating this post as a 2 part series, as I will be posting again soon, on what to know once you’ve brought your machine. And I’m sure there will be many more in the future.
What even Is A Cricut?
Well other than one of the best crafting tools ever… Ok Jokes aside, the chances are if you are already considering making a purchase and buying a Cricut machine, then you already know a bit about what everything is… Don’t worry if you don’t I am going to tell you anyway!
The Cricut is essentially a cutting machine, with the ability to cut a large variety of materials (some depending on the type of machine that you have). The machine can cut images by using the design space which is the compatible software.
Cricut crafts tend to fall under the category of digital crafting. Which is exactly what it says. Using digital software to be able to create.
Is The Cricut Worth It?
Honestly! my answer to this question is always going to be yes! because the Cricut machines give you the ability to expand on what it is you are making.
One of the main reasons I love the Cricut family so much is the freedom it has given me in creating. When I finally managed to get my hands on this machine, the volume and freedom of what I was able to create grew massively.
You are either considering buying as a Hobbyist, or a business investment. There are now thousands of people making the most out of their machine, including myself, in using this to create for profit!
What Machine Is Best?
There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to what the best machine is. It is all down to your user needs and what would be the best machine for what you want to be able to create.
The question is less about which machine is best and more about which machine is going to suit my user needs best.
Cricut Maker
The Maker 3 is the machine that I use! and I love it. The Cricut maker can cut the most materials, such as wood leather, fabric, and much more. As well as able to be adapted with other blades, and an engraving tool that our completely badass! I have a few blades in my kit that I’m eager to experiment with and use with the maker, such as the foiling adaptation.
Cricut Explore Air 2
The Explore Air 2 was my very first machine on the crafty journey. oh my goodness, I love this machine! To be honest, I would say that the Explore is the middle-sized machine of them all.
The Explore Air is perfect for anyone working with Paper/card stock, or the various types of vinyl. With the same 12-inch wide printable design space as the Maker. The only major difference between this and the maker is if you want to cut thicker materials the maker would be the preferred option.
Cricut Joy / Joy Xtra
The Cricut Joy is the baby-cutting machine of the family! and honestly, it is such a cute little device! perfect for small and fiddly projects or anyone who wants to make labels etc.
The Joy machine cuts the same kind of materials as the Explore, however, the particular difference of this machine is smaller in size. The mat size for this machine is 6×12 inches. Or with the newest Cricut joy xtra the mat space is now the size of A4 paper. Therefore, if you’re looking to cut bigger projects, I would say you need to at least look at getting the Explore Air 2.
Cricut Venture
The newest machine to be released in 2023. This machine looks dreamy. Although it is more costly. This machine has been created and targeted for use by small commercial businesses. With a much bigger mat space, the Venture raises the bar massively for very large creations and projects.
Is Buying A Cricut Worth The Expense? And How Expensive Is It In The Long Run?
So let’s be real about the cost of the Cricut, and what comes after. Let’s not forget that Cricut is of course a brand.
Depending on what machine it is you are thinking and what your purpose is for wanting to invest in this beauty, the expense is always something you. No, it is not a cheap machine to buy at first, however, I would always say that the decision to purchase should be based on your personal passion and user requirements.
Once you have brought your machine, there is an optional subscription cost that allows you access to the wide variety of images in their library as well as a few other perks.
The only other cost is your materials, to be able to create, and any upkeep of the machine, such as replacing mats and blades, however, if you are not using your machine every day, then this will not affect you too much.
Where Can I Buy The Cricut Machines?
The Cricut may have originated in the US, however, it is becoming increasingly easier to purchase here in the UK. I would always suggest that you search for deals and bundle options, as these change constantly.
I purchased my Cricut through Hobbycraft, however, since then, I have bought most of my supplies from Amazon and there are now many alternative places to purchase your machine. I’ve even noticed Cricut in Costco recently.
What Is This Cricut Subscription Stuff About?
There is one more expense you should consider before you purchase your machine.
Cricut has a subscription for their design studio, which costs £7.49 (converted from dollars) called Cricut Access.
The Cricut access subscription gives you access to thousands of cut & print and cut images to use from their library!
from what I have personally seen and read through the online committees about this subscription the Cricut community are completely divided on whether this is worth it.
my suggestion would to be use the free trial and get to grips with what is included as much as you can during this period. I feel this is a user-based decision that only the user can judge whether they need this.
Personally, I am happy with paying for this. And use Cricut access perks regularly.
What Is Design Space And Do I Need It?
The Design Space is the software that you will be using to create your projects. So basically yes, you do need it! and it is something you will learn to love to be able to create with your Cricut machine.
But no fear! Cricut design space itself is completely free to use.
This is what Design Space looks like…
Design space pretty much looks the same whether you are on a Mac/Windows, a Phone or a Tablet.
What Is Included When Buying A Cricut?
So this is what to expect when you open your box. I am basing this on opening the Cricut Maker 3. However, having opened the Cricut explore and joy as well. The actual content of what comes included with these machines is very similar. The box includes your machine, Design Space software (app and details), German carbide premium blade, USB cord, and power cord, an accessory adapter, 100+ free images, 50+ free project ideas, a guide to getting started, a pen and material sample packs and a 12 x 12 inch Light Grip cutting mat.
there will be a starter project to test out with the sample materials that you receive, to help you get started and get to grips with your machine.
What Else Do I Need To Be Able To Use My Cricut?
There are a variety of things you may, or may not need when it comes to creating projects. So when you are buying your machine there are a few other things you may want to have a look at as well. Again it does depend on the type of crafting that you are planning to do, I mean If you are a paper crafter already! the chances are you have a ton of card stock and paper stock that you can dive in with, but if you are planning on expanding what you can create with vinyl projects, you will need to consider a few little buys.
The Cricut can draw with pens for you as well, some pens are compatible with your machine like these.
If you are planning to use Vinyl or HTV (heat transfer vinyl) you will need some weeding tools. (tools for removing the excess vinyl from your project). I highly recommend using the basic toolset. Or a toolset similar to this. You will also need some transfer tape, to be able to apply your adhesive vinyl to your canvas, (you won’t need this for HTV projects) Unless you have a lot of patience for attempting to apply without this! Not having transfer tape isn’t something that I would recommend.
Another accessory I 100% recommend having if you don’t already own one is a craft cutting mat. I use mine to weed my projects on as I tend to use a craft knife and tweezers a lot to take away the excess vinyl, this protects my desk from taking a beating too!
Speaking of Craft knives, I thought I would mention that the knife particularly this one, has been my favourite craft knife that I have owned throughout the years. Cuts so nicely and smoothly. and the blades seem to be extremely durable.
What Can I Make With A Cricut?
The question is, what can’t you do? And I’m not joking here. The freedom to create is exceptional. Since owning the Cricut machine I have expanded my crafting capabilities majorly! I use my Cricut Maker 3 to cut various card stock, stick paper, and a mixture of Vinyl projects.
From making labels to decorating scrapbook pages, creating with paper and cardstock! Designing your own T-shirts etc. The possibilities are seriously endless. I have even used my machine to incorporate vinyl designs into using with resin craft! which has been so much fun in the past!
When buying a Cricut machine there are a few bits that come with the machine to help you get started. This is a small project to test your machine out on.
What Does The Cricut Cut?
There are so many things that you can create using a large variety of different materials. From paper and card stock to vinyl, foam… All sorts, honestly!
The Cricut Maker can cut materials up to 2.4mm thick. So definitely a tougher machine if you are planning to be doing a lot of cutting with thicker materials!
Can The Cricut Machine Print?
The Cricut machine is not a machine that can be used to physically print. However, if you own a printer, you can create things with the print-and-cut option. This would involve printing your image with a printer and then placing it on your Cricut mat to be cut out.
Do I Need A Computer or Can I Use A Tablet?
You do not have to have a computer system to be able to run a Cricut machine. You can use your Cricut machine with any phone or tablet device. I tend to use both my laptop and my iPad to create with Cricut. However, it is mainly down to user preference.
There are some features I find easier to use from a laptop, but it isn’t the end of the world if you do not have a computer system.
Any Money-Saving Tips?
Firstly, it is always good to make sure you do some research and shop around before making any kind of purchase, but when it comes to Cricut, I would always suggest, ensuring you are purchasing your machine from official Cricut stockists.
Some brands provide Cricut-compatible tools, such as mats, pens, blades, etc. One brand particularly that I have noticed being used with Cricut is Nicapa, Their resources are very reasonable and work perfectly!
Taking some time to learn some ‘Cricut hacks’ as well will also help you along your Cricutting journey. I often see videos on TikTok and YouTube showing cool hacks on how to keep mats clean, so they last longer, and how to sharpen your Cricut blades! Have a search.
Still, Have Questions?
If you are thinking of starting your journey but still have a few I am always happy to help! Leave a comment below, or send an email to me.
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