This post is sponsored by Cricut. All opinions and comments are entirely my own.

What is a Cricut machine?

At their very basic, Cricut machines create designs on various materials, but once you start using them, you realize they do so much more! Cricut machines come in all shapes and sizes, but the most popular Cricut models are the Cricut Explore and Cricut Maker. Cricuts can be used to create various projects, ranging from personalized vinyl stickers to intricate paper crafts to festive decor.

You can find some of my favorite projects made with different Cricut materials in the round-up found at the end of this post. From holiday decor to customized shoes, there’s something for everyone!

As you can see, when paired with a Cricut machine, Cricut materials are the perfect way to bring your creative ideas to life! So, let’s look at the materials Cricuts can work with and how to use them.

Why Use Cricut Materials?

Cricut machines are compatible with various materials, including vinyl, cardstock, and fabric. Cricut offers an extensive collection of Cricut-branded materials that have been tested and pre-calibrated to work perfectly with their machines.

Due to their rigorous stress testing process, you can depend on Cricut-brand materials to provide consistent, reliable, and long-lasting results! Plus, they come in a wide variety of colors and types. Perfect for any project you have planned!

Overall, Cricut materials provide the best results for Cricut machines and should be your first choice when creating Cricut projects.

Types Of Cricut Materials

Cricuts are compatible with a variety of materials, from cardstock to fabric! Let’s look at some of the most popular Cricut-brand materials and how best to use them for your next project.

Permanent Vinyl

Permanent vinyl is a popular Cricut material for creating custom stickers and decals. Permanent vinyl has a strong adhesive designed to stick and stay stuck! This Cricut material is ideal for making wall art, decorating glass surfaces, or personalizing almost any hard surface.

Cricut Permanent Vinyl is weather and fade-resistant, making it perfect for indoor and outdoor projects. It is available in various colors, styles, and finishes – including glitter!

Removable Vinyl

Removable vinyl is similar to permanent vinyl but has a slightly weaker adhesive. This Cricut material is perfect for creating labels, stickers, and decals that you can easily remove without leaving any residue.

Cricut Removeable Vinyl is also fade-resistant, so your designs won’t fade or crack over time. It’s perfect for decorating walls, lockers, laptops, and more!

Iron-On

Also known as HTV (heat transfer vinyl), crafters can use Cricut Iron-On to personalize almost any fabric. It can be applied with Cricut Heat Press (the Cricut Auto Press is my favorite!) or a regular iron and comes in various colors, styles, and finishes, such as glitter, holographic, metallic, and more!

The Everyday Iron-On works excellently with various materials, including wood and paper! With their StrongBond Guarantee, you can rest assured knowing that if you use this iron-on material as directed, you will love the results. And if you don’t, they’ll send you a replacement for free.

Smart Materials

The Cricut materials mentioned are also available as Smart Materials which is an excellent option if you have the Cricut Maker 3 or Cricut Explore 3 because it allows you to cut the material without a mat! Perfect for when you don’t have much time or space to work.

Cardstock

Cricut cardstock is an excellent Cricut material for paper projects. Cardstock is available in various colors, textures, and thicknesses, making it a versatile Cricut material that can create cards, scrapbook pages, banners, gift tags, and more!

Cricut cardstock comes in various colors, including metallic and licensed art. There are also cardstock stickers that make it easy to create quick and easy Cricut projects!

Infusible Ink

Infusible Ink is one of my favorite materials that Cricut makes because it can customize compatible blanks, including t-shirts, phone cases, mugs, and more! Cricut Infusible Ink transfers will last wash after wash without fading or cracking.

Due to the nature of Infusible Ink, you’ll need to use a Cricut heat press or another heating option that can heat up to 400 degrees. Cricut’s heat presses work great for Infusible Ink, including a Hat Press and Mug Press!

Specialty

Cricut offers other unique materials as well! If stickers are your thing, Cricut has a great selection of Cricut Printable Vinyl, Cricut Printable Sticker Paper, Printable Clear Sticker Paper, and Smart Paper.

If you want to get crafty with Cricut, there are also Felt Sheets, Aluminum Sheets, Faux Leather, Metallic Leather, Foil Acetate, and so much more! Cricut is constantly creating new Cricut materials, so check their website for the latest in Cricut materials and craft supplies.

Now that you know all about Cricut materials, let’s get crafting! With so many Cricut materials available, it’s easy to find something perfect for your next Cricut project!

The best ways to use Cricut materials

The best way to figure out what materials you like is to explore and experiment with different Cricut materials. With Cricut’s easy-to-use tools, you can create unique projects that reflect your style. Check out this round-up of my favorite ways to use various Cricut materials.

Make Your Own DIY Classroom Decor with Cricut

Make your own DIY Classroom Decor with these easy projects made with Cricut. Can be customized to fit any style or theme!

Get it here!

Easy Custom Graduation Tumbler with Cricut Joy

An easy Custom Graduation Tumbler is the perfect gift for a recent grad! Fill with small treats and/or a gift card for even more fun!

Get it here!

Super Easy Customizable Pantry Labels for Cricut & Printer

Organize your home with these super easy Customizable Pantry Labels that can be used for Cricut or printer. Pretty and function too!

Get it here!

Gingerbread Cookies in a Jar Holiday Gift

Make this Gingerbread Cookies in a Jar holiday gift for your neighbors or family friends. Cookie jar can be used long after mix is done!

Get it here!

Recycled Self Watering Planter DIY

Follow this easy Self Watering Planter DIY to make keeping plants alive even easier! Tutorial only requires a few supplies and glass bottle.

Get it here!

Top 7 Cricut Maker Projects

Whether you’re just beginning or using Cricut for years, these top 7 Cricut Maker Projects will have something to inspire everyone!

Get it here!

Personalized Letter to Santa Wood Sign with Cricut Explore Air 2

Make this easy Personalized Letter to Santa Wood Sign for the perfect Christmas gift! You can even customize the family name in the corner!

Get it here!

The Cricut Heat Press Guide – Why You Need One and How To Use It!

Use this Cricut Heat Press Guide to figure out which of their heat presses you should buy! Also includes prices and links to projects.

Get it here!

Introduction to the Cricut Mug Press!

Make your own custom mugs with the Cricut Mug Press. Post has all the details on how to use this fun machine.

Get it here!

You can use Cricut materials to create beautiful and unique projects. Whether you’re looking for vinyl, cardstock, or specialty materials, Cricut has something perfect for your next project.

So why are you waiting? Start exploring all the different materials you can use with your Cricut machine! With such a wide range of options, there’s something for everyone. And if you need some help getting started, don’t forget to check out our free SVG files. We can’t wait to see what unique creations you create. Comment below and let us know which material is your favorite to use with your Cricut!

This post is sponsored by Cricut. All opinions give are completely my own.

Cricut Background

Cricut machines are electronic cutting machines that can cut various materials, including paper. Paper crafting is the art of creating decorative items using, you guessed it…paper. Cricut machines make it easy to create intricate designs and shapes out of paper. Whereas before, you may have spent hours cutting a design, you can now just send the cut file to your Cricut!

My favorite machine is the Cricut Maker 3, but any of their machines will do a great job with the paper. The main difference will be the surface area. The Cricut Joy will work great for you if you want to do smaller projects. If you’d like to work with a larger work area, you’ll want to get the Cricut Maker 3, Cricut Maker, Cricut Explore 3, or Cricut Explore Air.

Paper crafting is a great way to add personalization to your projects. You can use Cricut machines to cut out letters, numbers, and shapes to create unique embellishments for your scrapbook pages, cards, and other papercraft projects. You can also use Cricut machines to cut heat transfer vinyl (iron-on vinyl), Cricut vinyl, stickers, Cricut Infusible Ink, and more. Still, for this article, I’ll stick with talking about paper. You’re sure to see that Cricut machines are a must-have for any paper crafter or DIYer!

Supplies needed for paper crafting with a Cricut

You’ll need a few things to start with Cricut paper crafting projects:

• You’ll, of course, need a Cricut cutting machine. You can choose from various devices, depending on your needs and budget. Check out this article if you need help deciding which machine suits you.
• You’ll need some good-quality paper. Various papers are available at Cricut, including cardstock, patterned paper, and even Insert Card packs. Choose something that will work well for the project you have in mind.
• You’ll need basic crafting supplies like pens, markers, scissors, adhesives, and embellishments like ribbon or sequins.
• The desired item you’d like to cut out. I’m a massive fan of all the images in Design Space and highly suggest subscribing to their Cricut Access Plan!

With these supplies, you can start creating beautiful paper Cricut crafts!

Another helpful tool on hand is any one of the Cricut Maker tools. The Cricut Scoring Tool is a great tool to have on hand when working on paper projects. It allows you to score fold lines into your paper so that your folds are nice and crisp. Perfect for making paper flowers! I’m also a massive fan of the Debossing Tool to create a pleasant and professional look for invitations or greeting cards.

Regarding paper projects, the Cricut Foil Transfer Kit is another great item to have on hand. This easy-to-use tool can add a touch of glamour to any paper project with its foil accents. Follow the instructions to apply a unique and stylish touch to any paper project. You can get more details about the Cricut Foil tool here.

Other tools besides the Cricut would come in handy for beginners’ paper projects. A cutting mat is always helpful to have on hand, as it provides a stable surface and can help protect your furniture or countertops. A straight edge or ruler can help measure and cut straight lines. And if you’re looking to add some embellishments to your paper projects, a hole punch or stapler can come in handy. With these tools, you’ll be able to tackle any paper tutorial you can dream up!

How to create projects in Cricut Design Space

Doing projects with your Cricut machine is easy and fun! Here’s how to get started:

1. You’ll need to create a new project in Cricut Design Space. To do this, click on the “New Project” button in the top right corner of the Design Space homepage.
2. A new canvas will pop up.
3. Now it’s time to start adding some content to your project! To do this, click on “Images” in the left-hand menu.
4. Find an image you want to use and click on it to select it.
5. Depending on the type of paper project you’ll be making and the tools you’re using, you may need to adjust the cut tools. You can do this in the “Operation” pull-down menu.
6. When ready, click the green “Make It” button in the top right corner to send it to your machine.
7. Follow the prompts, and your project will be cut perfectly!

Tips for choosing the right paper for your project

When crafting with a Cricut machine, one of the most important things to consider is what type of paper you will use for your project. Many styles and weights of paper are available in the Cricut store, each with its advantages and disadvantages. These are my tips for choosing the right paper for your next Cricut project:

• The first thing to consider is what kind of project you are making. You can use lighter-weight paper if you are making a simple card or something that doesn’t need to be very sturdy. But if you are making something that will be handled a lot or needs to be durable, like a sign or banner, you will want to use heavier-weight paper.

• Next, think about the color and design of your project. If you’re unsure what color or design you want for your project, think about your project’s overall theme or mood. For example, if you’re making a scrapbook about your summer vacation, you might want to use bright colors that reflect the sunny days spent at the beach. If you’re working on a project for a friend’s wedding, softer colors might be more appropriate.

• Start creating! Once you know the colors of paper you want, browse through the design options on Cricut’s website or app to see what speaks to you. There are thousands of designs to choose from, so take your time to find something perfect for your project.

How to cut and assemble your paper project

Assuming you have a cutting machine and the required tools (scissors, weeding hook, etc.), paper crafting is a breeze! I’ll use a Halloween Haunted House Invitation to show how easy it is to foil, cut, and assemble beginner Cricut projects.

1. Begin by selecting the design you want to cut from your Cricut library. For this project, we will be cutting a Halloween Haunted House Invitation which you can find on my Design Space profile.
2. Next, load your paper into the cutting mat. Make sure it is lined up correctly and inserted into the machine.
3. Follow the prompts in Design Space to set up your paper to foil and cut. Don’t forget to move all of the rollers off to the side.
4. Press the “Cut” button on your Cricut machine and watch as it does all the work!
5. Once the cutting is complete, remove your paper from the mat and begin assembly.
6. To assemble, adhere elements together using glue or double-sided tape and fold over the fronts of the card to finish.

Your Halloween Haunted House Invitation is ready to pass out to all young and old kids!

In conclusion, the Cricut machine is an excellent tool for anyone who loves crafting. With the Cricut, you can do paper projects that are both fun and easy. Cricut tutorials are perfect for gifts, birthday parties, baby showers, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Easter, and more!

So why are you waiting? Get yourself a Cricut and start doing some fantastic paper projects today!

More Cricut project ideas

• 40+ Best Projects Made with Cricut Heat Presses
• Craft Room Organization with Cricut Maker
• Make Your Own DIY Classroom Decor with Cricut
• Easy Custom Graduation Tumbler with Cricut Joy

This post is sponsored by Cricut. All opinions are my own.

What is a heat press, and what are its uses

A Cricut heat press is a machine that uses heat and pressure to apply designs or images to materials like fabric, wood, metal, or glass. Cricut heat presses come in various sizes and shapes, each designed for a specific purpose. For example, some presses apply transfers to t-shirts and totes, while others create custom mugs or hats.

Now that you know what a heat press is and what it’s used for, let’s take a quick look at the different types available.

Want a more detailed look at each type of Cricut heat press? Check out the Cricut Heat Press Guide!

The different types of Cricut heat presses

Cricut offers several types of presses, each with pros and cons. Each is made of quality materials, has an auto-off feature, works on various materials (iron-on vinyl and sublimation), and has an insulated safety base. Here’s a quick overview of each type:

Cricut EasyPress 2/Cricut EasyPress 3/Cricut EasyPress Mini

The Cricut EasyPress 2, Cricut EasyPress 3, and the Cricut EasyPress Mini are small, compact heat presses perfect for beginners or those short on space. It’s lightweight and easy to use and comes in various sizes (9×9, 12×10, Mini). The EasyPress is ideal for pressing small items like t-shirts, baby clothes, or hats. The EasyPress Mini is the perfect complement to pretty much any of the larger presses.

The main difference between the EasyPress 2 and EasyPress 3 is the Bluetooth connectivity of the latter. This function allows the press to connect to the new Cricut Heat app where specific temperature settings and instructions are sent directly to your machine.

Cricut AutoPress

The Cricut AutoPress is a newer addition to the Cricut heat press family and truly lives up to the “auto” in its name. It’s a large, industrial-sized heat press designed for high-volume production. The AutoPress can apply transfers to items up to 15″ x 12″, making it the perfect press for large orders or mass production.

The AutoPress is a heavy-duty machine built to last. It has various advanced features, including an automatic release system and pressure gauge. Plus, it has a large digital display that makes setting the correct temperature and time easy.

Cricut Mug Press

The Cricut Mug Press is a specialized heat press specifically designed for pressing mugs. It makes perfect mugs when paired with Cricut Mug Blanks and Infusible Ink!

Cricut Hat Press

The Cricut Hat Press is a specialized heat press designed explicitly for pressing hats. The Hat Press is also compatible with various hat sizes and shapes and comes with a hat pressing form. Hat blanks are available on Cricut as well.

Not all Cricut machines are created equal. Each is designed for a specific purpose, and each has its pros and cons. Keep reading for more info on picking the right one for you!

The pros and cons of each

Now that you know the different types of heat press available, let’s break down the pros and cons of each one.

Cricut EasyPress 2/Cricut EasyPress 3/Cricut EasyPress Mini

Pros:

Lightweight and portable

Easy to use

Comes in a variety of sizes

Ideal for large and small projects

Cons:

Requires full attention and possibly force

Cricut AutoPress

Pros:

Sturdy construction

Large size options

Ease of use

Self-adjusting

Cons:

More expensive than some other types of heat presses

Heavy

Cricut Mug Press/Cricut Hat Press

Pros:

Makes great mugs and hats

Cons:

Limited to mugs and hats

How to choose the right heat press

So, which Cricut press is right for you?

The Cricut EasyPress 2 or EasyPress 3 will be a good choice if you’re starting. They’re small, compact, and easy to use. EasyPress is also a good option if you’re short on space or need an affordable option for those on a budget. It’s a great heat press machine if you want the convenience of an iron but still want effortless results.

If you need a larger press for bulk high-volume production, the Cricut AutoPress is the best option. It’s big enough to handle large orders and has various features that make it easy to use. It’s an excellent investment in your small business!

If you’re looking for a specialized press for mugs or hats, the Cricut Mug Press or Hat Press is your best bet. These presses are designed specifically for pressing mugs and caps and come with the necessary tools to get the job done right.

Of course, no one is stopping you from ordering multiple machines! You can start with either EasyPress or AutoPress and add a Mug Press or Hat Press later. Either way, you’ll want to add an EasyPress Mini for all those small projects!

The bottom line is that there’s no wrong choice regarding Cricut heat presses. It all depends on your needs and preferences. No matter which you choose, you can be sure you’re getting a quality product. Cricut is a trusted name in the crafting world and provides some of the best machines on the market. So whatever your needs, there’s a Cricut heat press that’s perfect for you!

What is a Cricut heat press?

A Cricut heat press is a machine that uses heat and pressure to transfer a design onto a piece of fabric. You can use heat transfer vinyl (Cricut’s Everyday Iron-On) or sublimation transfers (Cricut’s Infusible Ink). A heat press can personalize clothing, home decor, or anything else. Heat presses are easy to use and give you the ability to create professional-looking designs.

There are various types of heat presses, and they vary in price. My favorites are from Cricut, but there are other presses on the market. I’ve collected tons of fun tutorials below made from various types of Cricut heat presses. You can find what you’re looking for because they’re all categorized by type of heat press.

Many of these projects are made with files from Cricut’s Design Space, and some are made with files available on other platforms or free SVGs. Don’t forget you can purchase SVG files on sites like Creative Fabrica or Etsy.

Want to know more about each type of Cricut heat press? Check out my handy Cricut Heat Press Guide! We cover everything from the Cricut EasyPress Mini to the Cricut AutoPress and everything in between!

Cricut EasyPress Projects

The Cricut EasyPress 2 and Cricut’s new EasyPress 3 is a small, portable heat press great for beginners. It’s affordable and easy to use, an excellent option for those just getting started with heat pressing. I’ve collected some of my favorite EasyPress projects below. You’ll find tutorials for everything from T-shirts to tote bags to baby onesies.

How To Make a Día de Los Muertos Calavera Tote

Make this gorgeous Día de Los Muertos Calavera Tote Bag that is sure to withstand years and years of use thanks to Infusible Ink by Cricut!

Get it here!

April Showers Bring May Flowers Wood Sign With Iron On Vinyl

Make this bright and fun spring sign in minutes with iron on vinyl and the new Cricut Iron On Designs. Doesn’t it drive you crazy that as soon as you wash your car it seems

Get it here!

Zombie Onesies & Coasters with Cricut Infusible Ink

Make these fun Zombie Onesies & Coasters with Cricut Infusible Ink. Perfect for any Halloween baby shower or housewarming gift!

Get it here!

How to Make an Infusible Ink Blanket

Learn how to make an Infusible Ink blanket with your Cricut machine. Pick any 100% polyester blanket to customize for an amazing gift idea! #cricut #cricutcreated #infusibleink #blanket #custom

Get it here!

Make Your Own DIY Classroom Decor with Cricut

Make your own DIY Classroom Decor with these easy projects made with Cricut. Can be customized to fit any style or theme!

Get it here!

DIY Personalized Popsicle Holders

Kick off some summer fun with colorful DIY personalized popsicle holders made with the Cricut Maker and Cricut EasyPress.

Get it here!

Back To School Personalized Masks with Cricut Infusible Ink

Make these back to school face masks for your kids! Using Infusible Ink means maximum breathability and durability at the same time.

Get it here!

Cricut Shirt Making for Beginners: Learn How to Make Shirts with Cricut!

Cricut shirt making is one of the best ways to use an electronic cutting machine. Learn how to make shirts with a Cricut from beginning to end!

Get it here!

Personalized Letter to Santa Wood Sign with Cricut Explore Air 2

Make this easy Personalized Letter to Santa Wood Sign for the perfect Christmas gift! You can even customize the family name in the corner!

Get it here!

How to Make a Gift Bag for Christmas with Cricut EasyPress 2

Make your own beautiful, reusable Christmas gift bag with the Cricut EasyPress 2 and some iron-on vinyl.

Get it here!

Fabric Scissors Holder

Super easy way to use your Cricut products to make a pouch to store your fabric scissors!

Get it here!

Burlap Tic Tac Toe Bean Bags with the Cricut EasyPress

Burlap Tic Tac Toe Bean Bags made with the Cricut EasyPress

Get it here!

Mother’s Day Song Scarf

Make this Mother’s Day Song Scarf customized with the lyrics to any song that’s special to you and your mother. Includes A You’re Adorable project lyrics.

Get it here!

“BOTTOMS UP” DIY NEON IRON-ON KOOZIES

Instead of settling for that koozie with a random grocery store’s logo on it, make your own! Learn how to make your own DIY neon iron-on koozies for summer!

Get it here!

Fourth of July Pillow Cover

Add a touch of patriotic fun with this easy Fourth of July Pillow Cover! Tutorial includes free svg file to download and easy tassel tutorial.

Get it here!

Cricut Iron On Onesie, Leggings, and Hair Bow DIY for Baby

Easy and cute Cricut iron on onesie, leggings, and baby hair bow tutorials using a Cricut machine and Cricut iron on! So simple and makes a great baby gift!

Get it here!

Cricut EasyPress Mini Projects

If you’re looking for an even smaller heat press, the Cricut EasyPress Mini is a great option. It’s perfect for small projects like patches and iron-on decals. I’ve collected some of my favorite EasyPress Mini projects below. We’ve got tutorials for everything from patches to hairclips to magnets.

Make Halloween Shoes with Cricut and EasyPress Mini!

It’s super easy to make custom Halloween Shoes with Cricut Explore Air 2 and EasyPress Mini! All you have to do is cut and iron before the big day!

Get it here!

DIY FUNNY SAYING SOCKS FOR KIDS

These DIY Funny Saying Socks for Kids will have your kids laughing! I’ve sharing 3 designs — Stranger Things, Gaming and YouTube themed. Easy to make with your Cricut and EasyPress!

Get it here!

Mini Bunny Easter Baskets

These Mini Bunny Easter Baskets are easy to make with the free pattern and instructions. Perfect favor for any Easter get-together!

Get it here!

Narwhal Gifts: Using the New Cricut EasyPress Mini!

Looking for some narwhal gifts? Learn how to make a custom narwhal hat and personalized narwhal plush animal with the new Cricut EasyPress Mini.

Get it here!

Easy Party Cup Holder with Marker

Make this easy Party Cup Holder with a permanent marker holder so your guests won’t lose their cups! No woodworking skill necessary!

Get it here!

How to Put HTV on Canvas Shoes

Wondering how to put HTV on canvas shoes? Our tutorial will walk you through each step with photos. Whip up some funky cactus themed shoes today!

Get it here!

Super Easy Customizable Eyeglass Case

Make this super easy Customizable Eyeglass Case in no time! Step by step tutorial with a little help from Cricut Explore Air 2.

Get it here!

DIY Leather Cord Organizer | DIY Gift Idea With Cricut

Make your own DIY leather cord organizers for organizing headphones and chargers. This is an easy Cricut EasyPress project and an awesome DIY gift idea!

Get it here!

Dia de Muertos Stuffed Calaveras Wreath

Celebrate with this Día de Muertos Stuffed Calaveras Wreath! Easy to make and customize and totally fun to make with kids! Includes free SVG.

Get it here!

Custom Chalkboard Back To School Gift

Use the free files found in this post to make this Custom Chalkboard Back To School Gift! It’s the perfect gift for any physical and virtual classroom.

Get it here!

DIY Inspirational Black Canvas Art

This Inspirational Black Canvas Art is super easy with just a few easy hints. Use the free “Reach for Stars” template or your own customized message!

Get it here!

Cricut Mug Press Projects

For all of your coffee and tea lovers, the Cricut Mug Press is a great way to personalize your mugs. I’ve collected some of my favorite mug press projects below. These tutorials will show you how to make everything from mugs to travel cups to tumblers.

Introduction to the Cricut Mug Press!

Make your own custom mugs with the Cricut Mug Press. Post has all the details on how to use this fun machine.

Get it here!

How to Use Infusible Ink Pens with the Cricut Mug Press – Frog Prince Paperie

The new Cricut Mug Press has given us a whole new canvas to work on with its Infusible Ink pens and markers, but as with …

Get it here!

Pumpkin Spice Mug with the Cricut Mug Press

How to make a buffalo check pumpkin spice mug using the Cricut mug press. Step by step tutorial on how to use the Cricut mug press machine.

Get it here!

“Crafte Diem” Crafter’s Mug Free File

This “Crafte Diem” Crafter’s Mug is perfect for the person who starts their day dreaming of what new craft project to make! Includes free file

Get it here!

DIY Photo Mugs with Sublimation and Cricut Mug Press

Learn how to make DIY photo mugs with a sublimation printer and a Cricut Mug Press! So easy and a great gift idea! #cricut #cricutmugpress #sublimation

Get it here!

DIY Split Monogram Mugs with Cricut Mug Press

Learn how to make these awesome Split Monogram Mugs with Cricut Mug Press and Infusible Ink Transfer Sheets

Get it here!

How to create a simple project with Cricut Mug Press – Craftara Creates

For a simple project you can do at home, learn how to personalize a mug with a name using the Cricut Mug Press and Infusible Ink.

Get it here!

Cricut Hat Press

The Cricut Hat Press does precisely what the name suggests; it makes fantastic hats! You’ll find tons of inspiration for your next great cap in the projects listed below!

DIY Camp Hat with the Cricut Hat Press {tutorial}

crafts, recipes, DIY, tutorials, kid activities, family activities, Cricut, Silhouette, Cricut Maker, Cricut Explore Air, vinyl, gift ideas, tips

Get it here!

Can you apply patches with Cricut Hat Press?

I’m testing 3 different types of patches to see if they work with the Cricut Hat Press. Keep reading to find out how they turned out!
#cricuthatpress #hatpress #patches

Get it here!

Using the Cricut Hat Press on Blanks that aren’t Hats!

Finding Cricut Hat Press blanks that are not hats can be a challenge. Keep reading to learn all about the blanks I found that worked! #cricuthatpress #cricut #cricutmade #HTV #sublimation

Get it here!

Cricut heat presses are a great way to personalize your projects. Whether you’re looking to create custom designs on clothing, home decor, or just about anything else, a heat press can help you get the job done. This roundup has collected 40+ of the best Cricut heat press projects. From T-shirts to baby onesies to aprons and more, there’s something for everyone in this collection! What is your favorite Cricut heat presses project? Let us know in the comments below!

This post is sponsored by Cricut. All opinions and projects are entirely my own.

What is a heat press, and what can you make with it?

First, you might be wondering what exactly is a heat press. A heat press is a device that uses heat and pressure to fuse two materials when crafting to create professional-looking projects after cutting Iron-on vinyl or Infusible InkInfusible Ink with a Cricut cutting machine. It can maintain an equal temperature across the entire plate in a way that a regular household iron cannot. You can use a heat press to create all sorts of things, including t-shirts, tote bags, hats, and more.

When buying a heat press, you have many options on the market, but Cricut makes my all-time favorites. Their machines are perfect for crafters of all levels and are easy to use straight out of the box. They come in various types and sizes, so you’re sure to find one perfect for your needs.

What are the different Cricut heat press options?

There are many different Cricut heat press machines on the market, each with unique features. So which one is right for you? Here’s a breakdown of the different Cricut heat press options:

Cricut EasyPress Mini

Reg. Price: $69.99

Don’t underestimate the smallest of the EasyPress heat presses! Even if you have another larger press, the Mini is perfect for all of those small, hard-to-reach areas of a project. The Cricut EasyPress Mini comes in two colors: Zen Blue and Raspberry. Great for iron-on vinyl projects, glitter iron-on, Infusible Ink, and so much more!

Cricut EasyPress 2

Reg. Price: $189.99 – $239.99

The Cricut EasyPress 2 machine is an excellent option for crafters. This machine is easy to use and comes in two sizes (12″ x 10″, 9″ x 9″), so you can find one that’s perfect for your needs. It can reach temperatures up to 400? (205°C), making it compatible with most heat transfer vinyl, Infusible Ink, and sublimation projects. It’s also lightweight, so you can take it wherever you go.

Cricut EasyPress 3

Reg. Price: $199.99 – $249.99

The Cricut EasyPress 3 is their latest heat press line update. This machine is even easier to use than the Cricut EasyPress 2, thanks to the corresponding Cricut Heat app and Bluetooth connection that takes all the guesswork out of crafting. The app sends the perfect time and temperature settings to the machine and gives you step-by-step instructions on completing your project. It comes in the exact sizes as the Cricut EasyPress 2 (12″ x 10″, 9″ x 9″) and can reach the same high temps.

Cricut AutoPress

Reg. Price: $999.99

The Cricut AutoPress is perfect for crafters who want to take their crafting to the next level. This machine offers various features that make it super easy to use, including a wide heat plate opening, stand-alone digital display (with programmable one-touch buttons), and practically zero effort to close. The Cricut AutoPress self adjusts the pressure for items up to 2 inches thick, so you can count on it to produce flawless results every time. It even auto-releases when your project completes!

Cricut Hat Press

Reg. Price: $149.99

The Cricut Hat Press machine is one of the newest additions to the Cricut heat press family and possibly, one of the most fun! Whether you’re using iron on vinyl or Infusible Ink, the curved nature of the press makes hat crafting a breeze. The Cricut Hat Press also connects to the Cricut Heat app via Bluetooth, so you’ll get detailed instructions on making your next favorite ball cap!

Cricut Mug Press

Reg. Price: $199.99

The Cricut Mug Press creates precisely what the name suggests…mugs! It works perfectly with Infusible Ink to create custom mugs that can withstand time. Whether creating one-of-a-kind masterpieces from your kids’ art or adding business logos, the Cricut Mug Press is essential for any crafter!

How much does a Cricut heat press cost?

Cricut heat presses range in cost from $49.99 to $999.99, depending on the model and features you choose. The exact prices can be seen in the paragraphs above. Before choosing your machine, you should evaluate what kind of projects you’ll be making most of the time.

Do you own a business and use your machine daily? The AutoPress might be the perfect investment in your business! Are you interested in making occasional t-shirts or bags? An EasyPress 3 will probably fill your needs, and the EasyPress Mini is so reasonable that you can’t go wrong!

The only caveat I will mention is when choosing between EasyPress 2 and EasyPress 3. I think having a machine connecting to the Heat App via Bluetooth is worth the additional $50. It’s super handy if you want it to produce flawless results. Trust me. It’s worth the investment!

Also, remember that Cricut has great sales from time to time, so you’ll want to sign up for their newsletter to be notified!

How to use a Cricut heat press?

Now that you know all about Cricut heat presses let’s discuss how to use one. Using a Cricut heat press is easy, but there are a few things you need to know before getting started. For this Cricut Heat Press Guide, I’ll make a “Totally Rad” t-shirt with my EasyPress 3 and Cricut Iron-on. You can also use AutoPress and EasyPress 2 for this project.

Here’s an overview of how to use a Cricut heat press:

1. Choose your project – First, you need to decide what you want to make. You can find many different projects over on Cricut Design Space, so take some time to browse the options and choose one that interests you. I’m using my “Totally Rad” design available over Design Space. Follow me over on Design Space!
2. Select your type of material – Once you’ve decided on a project, it’s time to select your materials. You’ll need HTV (heat transfer vinyl) or Infusible Ink for most heat press projects. I’ll use black and white Cricut Everyday Iron-On vinyl in this project. Cricut also has great blanks for base materials if you’re working with Infusible Ink!
3. Cut your design – Once you have your materials, it’s time to cut your design. Load your HTV onto a cutting mat (shiny side down) and feed it into your Cricut machine. Cricut Maker 3 is my favorite, but the Cricut Explore line or Cricut Joy will also work.
4. Weed your design – Once your design is cut, it’s time to weed it. In case you’re unfamiliar with it, weeding is the process of removing the excess vinyl from your design. 
5. Preheat your garment – Before you apply your design, you need to preheat your garment (preferably with a Cricut EasyPress Mat). Preheating will help the vinyl or HTV adhere to the fabric better. If you’re using an EasyPress 3, it’ll instruct you to complete this step via the Heat App. If not, you can use the handy Cricut Heat Guide page to help direct you.
6. Apply your design – Once your garment is preheated, it’s time to apply your design. Place your cut design on your garment, apply pressure to the design with your Cricut heat press machine, and hold for the recommended time.
7. Remove your design – Once the recommended time has elapsed, remove your design from the garment. You can cool peel back the protective liner when it’s cool to the touch.
8. Enjoy your new project! – That’s it! You’ve now completed your Cricut heat press project. All that’s left to do is marvel at your latest creation.

What projects can you make with a Cricut Heat Press?

You can use a Cricut heat press to create various projects, including t-shirts, hats, and tote bags. Here are some examples of Cricut heat press projects I’ve made in the past:

• T-shirts & Sweatshirts (Make a Super Cute and Easy Easter Bunny Hoodie!
• Tote bag (How To Make a Día de Los Muertos Calavera Tote)
• Holiday Decor (Mini Bunny Easter Baskets)
• Porch Decor (Reversible Halloween & Thanksgiving Cricut Vinyl Sign)
• Pencil Case (Back To School Collapsible Pencil Case with Cricut)
• Gift Bags (Back To School Teacher Gift with Free SVG File)
• Pillowcase Canvas (Fourth of July Pillow Cover)
• Wall art (Personalized Letter to Santa Wood Sign with Cricut Explore Air 2)
• Coaster (Zombie Onesies & Coasters with Cricut Infusible Ink)
• Mug (Introduction to the Cricut Mug Press!)
• Classroom Decor (Make Your Own DIY Classroom Decor with Cricut)
• Even Custom Shoes! (Make Halloween Shoes with Cricut and EasyPress Mini!)

If you’re looking for an easy way to create professional-looking projects, a Cricut heat press is the machine for you. In this Cricut Heat Press Guide, we’ve discussed all you need to know about Cricut heat presses, from what they are to how to use them. We’ve also shared a few project ideas so you can start immediately. So what are you waiting for? Get creative and start crafting today!

This post on Cricut Design Space is sponsored by Cricut and contains affiliate links.

I’m often asked what is my favorite craft tool and, hands down, my immediate answer is Cricut. Your Cricut can create amazing projects when paired with Cricut Design Space. If you’re asking “What is Design Space and what does it do?” then this is the perfect article for you!

We’ll go through the fundamentals of Cricut Design Space in this post, including what it is, why you need it, how to get it, an introduction to using Design Space, and some helpful hints and tricks.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or brand new novice, I promise you’ll learn something new, so let’s get started!

What Is Cricut Design Space?

Cricut Design Space is a free web-based program for all Cricut users. The Cricut Design Space offers an array of tools to make your Cricut dreams come true from powerful layout and design capabilities to built-in templates, fonts, images, and more.

You’ll be able to access both complete projects as well as the individual elements to create your own ideas. For example, you can select one of the Ready-To-Make Projects that will show you how to create that project from start to finish. Or, if you want more control over your project, start from scratch and pull in images or fonts you like.

Regardless of your level of expertise, Cricut Design Space is easy to use and offers many user-friendly features.

Why Do You Need Cricut Design Space?

If you own a Cricut machine, then you need Cricut design space. The Cricut machine can only create projects that have been sent to the machine via Design Space. So, if you want to make an original creation with your Cricut machine, you’ll need Cricut Design Space.

There are many reasons why you need to use Cricut Design Space as part of your crafting process – so let’s explore a few:

1. You can create personalized projects with text and fonts. Want to add the name of a bride and groom to a banner, or the birthday boy’s age on a party hat? You can do that.

2. Use pre-made scrapbook images, Cricut images, or upload your own artwork to use in projects. It’s up to you!

3. Work on the go with Cricut Design Space mobile apps for iOS and Android devices.

4. It’s the only program that allows you to save your Cricut projects, so you’ll get more use out of your Cricut Machine!

There are tons of free images, fonts, and files that you get access to immediately after signing up for Design Space but I highly recommend getting a subscription to Cricut Access! There are two different levels with different benefits but both of them come with unlimited use of 200,000+ images, 500+ fonts, and thousands of projects. The images I’m using in the project below are available to Cricut Access members.

How To Get Cricut Design Space?

Cricut Design Space is free and easy to use. Once you have your Cricut machine , all you need to do is:

1. If you have the Getting Started flyer included in your Cricut cutting machine box, just follow the instructions to start downloading Cricut Design Space.
2. If not, open a browser on your computer and go to design.cricut.com. From here you’ll be able to download Design Space for either Windows or Mac.
3. Click on the Design Space file after it has been downloaded to install.   
4. When prompted, enter your Cricut ID and password.
5. (Optional) Download the Design Space app to your phone or tablet for mobile ease of use.
6. Ready to create? Keep reading for a super easy first project that will introduce all the basics of Design Space!

How To Use Design Space?

Cricut Design Space is extremely easy to use for beginners and Cricut veterans alike. As mentioned before, you can create personalized projects with text and fonts or download pre-made scrapbook images or even upload your own artwork.

Since it’s cloud-based software, you can share your files across multiple devices including your laptop, phone, and tablets.

When you first open it up, you’ll be greeted by the Home page. Here you’ll see a section for your projects, video tutorials, and a few different rows of ready-to-make projects in different categories.

You can, of course, start with any project you’d like, but for the purposes of this tutorial, we’re going to select “New Project” in either the “My Projects” section or by tapping the green button in the top right-hand corner. Either one works!

This is what the blank canvas looks like in Design Space. Along the left-hand side is a menu that will insert different items onto the canvas. This is where you’ll add images and fonts to start creating your project. (You’ll notice that you can also add templates or one of those ready-to-make projects we talked about earlier.)

From here on out, it’s easier for me to just create a project in Design Space for you to understand what each of the Design Space features does. So, let’s create an inspirational pennant flag with Cricut Design Space!

How To Use Features

Let’s start with an almost blank canvas in Design Space. You’ll see in the image below that I have already added a pennant flag shape. This is the exact size of the pennant flag I’ll be adding the vinyl to. Having it in Design Space will help with the layout and sizing of the vinyl cutouts.

Next, I’m going to select “Images” in the bar on the left-hand side and search for “create” to find the perfect inspirational file. This “Dream, Create, Inspire” one is exactly what I was looking for! You can find the link to this exact project here.

Once you’ve clicked on the green “Add to Canvas” button on the lower right-hand side, you’ll see the image show up on your canvas. Notice how on the right-hand side of the screen, there are now two items in the “Layers” section. Each layer represents a different element on your screen and can be toggled off and on by clicking on the little eye button next to it.

If you click on the “Dream, Create, Inspire” image, you’ll see it surrounded by a box with symbols in each corner. When clicked on, each of these buttons will either delete, rotate, lock, and resize.

Most of those are self-explanatory with the exception of the lock tool maybe. Locking an image will maintain the original dimensions when resizing. Play around with it a bit and you’ll see what I mean.

Continuing with our tutorial, I’m going to click on the resize corner and pull to fit the size of my pennant flag.

I love how the design is looking but I want to add a few of the stars in some of the blank spaces of the flag. Just click on the stars layer (found under the c layer) and hit the “Duplicate” button in the menu above (right next to the Delete button.)

Now that I’ve got a second star layer, I’m going to click on that layer and move it to the empty space at the top of the pennant flag. I like how that group of three stars looks around the last E in “Create” but don’t need the rest of the stars in that layer. That’s where “Contour” comes in handy!

Make sure the correct star layer is selected and then tap on the “Contour” button in the bottom right-hand section of Design Space. From there, you’ll be able to tap on individual elements of a design to delete them from view.

Don’t worry, you can always go back and add those designs back in if you want!

I’m going to continue duplicating and contouring different stars to place in all the empty space of my inspirational pennant flag. That’s looking much better!

Now that the layout is exactly what I want, let’s work on the colors a bit. Since the original “Dream, Create, Inspire” file was only one layer, I’m going to have to isolate all the different elements with the Contour tool again.

With all of the elements isolated, I can change their colors by tapping on the color box in the “Operation” section on the left-hand side of the main menu running along the top of Design Space.

Don’t forget to periodically save your file. Design Space doesn’t have autosave and I’d hate for you to lose all your hard work!

When I’m happy with the final layout and color choice, I’ll toggle off the pennant flag layer (tap on the little eye) and click the green “Make It” button in the top right-hand corner.

From there, Design Space will tell me exactly what color of vinyl needs to be inserted into the machine at what time. I’m using a Cricut Maker for this project so I’ll be able to skip the mats and just insert Cricut Smart Vinyl straight into the machine. I absolutely love this feature in the new Cricut Maker 3 and Cricut Explore 3.

The Joy even has a Smart Vinyl option for smaller projects!

Tips And Tricks

• Simplify things by using contour to hide individual elements instead of deleting them. They can always be brought back with the undo buttons in the top left-hand corner of Design Space.
• Do you like a shape but not its color? You can customize any shape, just change their colors in the color box!
• Layer above or below images by holding down on them and dragging them up or down in Design Space.
• Use the “Attach” function if you want the item to be cut exactly the same way it’s shown in Design Space.
• If you don’t “Attach” an image together, Design Space will layout the items in your project in the best way to conserve material but they’ll be all mixed up.

Cricut Design Space is a simple and efficient way to create vinyl projects. You can use this tool to design your own Cricut project or download one from the Cricut Access library of graphics.

If you liked this post and are ready to get started crafting, then you’ll definitely want to check out these project tutorials of mine: Make Your Own DIY Classroom Decor with Cricut, Easy Custom Graduation Tumbler with Cricut Joy, Cricut Maker Vs. Cricut Explore: Everything You Need To Know!

If you liked our tutorial on how to make an inspirational pennant flag with Cricut design space, let us know! We would love to hear about how it went for you in the comments below. Have any tips or tricks that we missed? Let us know those as well so we can help more people get started making their first Cricut project with Design Space!

First, let’s start by talking about what each machine is. The Cricut Maker 3 and the Cricut Explore 3 are digital crafting machines that allow you to cut different materials with a blade to create whatever your imagination desires! That means no more scissors or X-Acto knives!

Before we detail each, I want to say that the Cricut Maker and the Cricut Explore are great machines. I’ve worked with the Cricut Maker and Cricut Explore Air for years before getting the latest versions and I’m totally blown away by what they can do! They have their own pros and cons, so it’s important to know about them before you buy one.

I know that sounds like a lot to process but don’t worry, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the best choice in this article. From physical measurements to available accessories to the final costs, you’ll feel much more informed at the end of this post!

What is the difference between the Cricut Maker and Explore?

There are quite a few differences between the Cricut Maker and the Cricut Explore family. Each machine has its own perks and limitations, from differences in sizes to which materials they can cut.

Being fully informed on these differences will help you in your decision-making process. If at any point you get overwhelmed with your choices, take a break and come back to this article when you’re ready.

I’ve included a handy flow chart at the bottom of this post that really simplifies your choices. We’ll cover each section of the flow chart and everything in between, but it’s a nice visual representation.

I suggest reading through this entire article first and come up with an idea of which machine would be better for you. Then go through the simplified flow chart to really solidify that you made the right choice.

That way, you’ll know without a doubt that you made the right decision! The last thing I want is for you to regret your purchase because you chose the wrong machine.

By the end of this article, you’ll know everything about these machines and which is best for you! Let’s get started!

Physical differences of the Cricut Maker and Cricut Explore

Let’s start with the physical features! The Cricut Maker 3 is 22.1 inches wide by 7.1 inches deep by 6.2 inches tall, and weighs 15.4 pounds. It’s a bit bulkier than the Explore 3, which is 22.2 inches wide by 7 inches deep by 5.9 inches tall and weighs 11 pounds.

If weight is an issue, the smaller Explore 3 may be your better option. It’s still a solid machine, but it’s slightly easier to lift and carry around. If you have any physical conditions that might make lifting a bit difficult, the Explore 3 is more manageable.

If you plan to leave your Cricut machine out on a shelf or countertop, this won’t be an issue. I rarely move mine, so this isn’t a huge deal for me.

Both the Cricut Maker and Explore have built-in handle cutouts for easy carrying. Super helpful when trying to lift the machines from a solid flat surface!

As for the actual dimensions of each machine, they’re very close. One inch taller or shorter doesn’t make that much difference! 

Other characteristics that both machines share? Both have a built-in mobile device holder, can cut Smart Materials up to 13 inches wide and 75 feet long, cut the same Print Than Cut size, and connect via Bluetooth or USB.

The Maker 3 has an additional charging port on the side so you can charge your mobile device while cutting. Now you can charge your phone or tablet while working on a project. Handy if you’re planning on marathon crafting sessions! 

Another physical difference between the machines is color. The Maker 3 comes in a light blue tone, while the Explore 3 comes in classic mint green.

This one is totally a preference thing. I really like the mint green Explore 3, but I’ve seen several people loving their blue Maker 3s!

If you’re super particular about colors, there are third-party vinyl skins available for purchase. They let you add your own design to the machine without having to buy new ones.

Both have a matte finish to keep your machine looking nice and clean!

Accessories available for each machine

Cricut is well known for the wide variety of accessories available for their machines, and they didn’t disappoint for the new Cricut Maker 3 and Explore 3. While they have several different accessories available, we’re going to focus on the most popular ones.

It’s worth mentioning that Cricut offers bundles with their machines. These are great because you can get everything you need for less than buying things separately! I’ll talk a bit more about the bundles in the price section below.

All of the older accessories work with both the new Cricut Maker 3 and Cricut Explore 3. These include the Foil Transfer Kit, pens and markers, machine mats, and Tool Sets.

Cricut has released a new Roll Holder that works with both machines and is essential when working with large projects! It’ll hold rolls of Cricut Smart Materials from 4–75 ft, allowing you to utilize the power of both machines fully.

The main difference in accessories available for the Cricut Maker Vs. Cricut Explore is the wide variety of tools exclusive to the Maker 3. These allow the Maker 3 to cut over 300 different materials, whereas the Explore 3 cuts around 100 different materials. You can find a full listing of all the different materials each machine can cut on this handy chart over on the Cricut site.

We’ll go into more detail on the Maker’s tools in the next paragraph!

Materials that can be cut by Cricut Maker Vs. Cricut Explore

I’ve used the Maker and Explore for years and the variety of materials they can each cut is the biggest difference between the two machines. When people ask me which of the two they should buy, my first question is, “What materials are you planning on cutting?”

If their answer is “paper and vinyl,” I usually recommend the Explore 3. It’ll be able to do everything they need and so much more!

If, however, their answer includes wood, fabric, or that they would like their options to be open, the Cricut Maker 3 is my go-to recommendation.

Cricut Maker 3, with ten times the cutting power of Cricut Explore family machines, is a dream come true for crafters who love trying new materials! This feature allows it to cut a huge variety of materials. From super-thin chiffon to thick chipboard, the sky is almost the limit with possible projects with the Maker 3!

Here are the tools available for Explore 3:

• Fine-Point Blade
• Deep-Point Blade
• Pens & Markers
• Scoring Stylus
• Foil Transfer Tool
• Bonded-Fabric Tool

Compare those to the tools available for the Maker 3:

• Fine-Point Blade
• Deep-Point Blade
• Pens & Markers
• Scoring Stylus
• Foil Transfer Tool
• Bonded-Fabric Tool
• Rotary Blade
• Knife Blade
• Scoring Wheels (Single & Double)
• Engraving Tool
• Debossing Tool
• Wavy Blade
• Perforation Blade

Based on those two lists, you can now see why I ask a new Cricut user what materials they plan on cutting. If they want to cut a few iron-on pieces of vinyl or Infusible Ink projects and have no plans to extend beyond that, the Explore 3 will do the job nicely. If they want to cut wood or fabric and have an open mind about trying different materials in the future, I would recommend going for the Maker 3.

The Maker 3 is definitely the choice if you’re a bit more adventurous with your material choices. If you’re uncertain about what options you might need in the future, I highly suggest purchasing the Maker 3 to cover all of your bases.

Check out this blog post of mine if you want to go into more detail on Cricut tools for the Maker!

Pricing for each machine

Of course, materials and accessories aren’t the only factors you should consider when deciding which Cricut machine to buy. You also want to consider how much you can afford in your budget.

The Cricut Maker cost is regularly priced at $399.99 compared to the Explore 3 at $299.99. Both of those are a steal when you consider just how much you can create with either machine!

Keep in mind that Cricut often has promotions and deals, so you may be able to find a better price at any given time. Also, their bundle deals are absolutely amazing if you’re in the market for more than a machine.

The Cricut Maker 3 Everything Bundle contains the machine, as well as a large selection of Smart Vinyl, Smart Iron-On, and other supplies to get you started right away for only $499.99. That’s a savings of over $150! The Cricut Explore 3 Bundle is a similar bundle that goes for $399.

You can check out all of the Cricut Bundle Deals over in their shop. From vinyl bundles to EasyPress bundles, there’s something for everyone! Just a tip, though, make sure to snatch up those Cricut deals quickly. They’re known for selling out!

Which one should you buy based on your needs and budget

I hope this article has helped you understand the key differences between Cricut Maker Vs. Cricut Explore. Only you will know which of the machines is truly the best for your situation.

The two main factors to consider when buying a Cricut machine are the type of projects you want to create and your budget. If you need to quickly cut a few pieces of vinyl for your latest project, the Explore 3 will do that nicely. If, however, you want to create projects involving wood, fabric, or multiple types of materials in one go, the Cricut Maker 3 is an excellent choice! 

I’ve created a handy Decision Making Flow-Chart to help you decide. After you’ve read through this entire article and gone through the chart, you should have a pretty good idea of if the Cricut Maker 3 or Cricut Explore 3 is the machine for you!

Conclusion

The two devices are quite comparable, but there are a few details you should be aware of before making a decision about Cricut Maker Vs. Cricut Explore.

The machine’s cutting capabilities are the first and most important factor to consider. As previously said, the Cricut Maker can cut more materials than the Cricut Explore family of devices, so if you want to do any woodwork or fabric work, this is the one to choose!

Also, consider how much these will cost you. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price of the Maker 3 is $399, while an Explore 3 costs around $299. If your budget is limited, I recommend choosing an Explore 3 since it has most of the capabilities of the Maker 3. However, if you want to do more than just vinyl cutting, the Maker 3 is definitely the way to go.

When you’re ready to make a purchase, don’t forget that Cricut often has deals and bundles available for both machines. You may be able to get an even better deal at the time of purchase! Good luck making your decision. If you love it as much as I do, let me know which machine is your new best friend in the comments!

I hope this post clarified everything you wanted to know about these two machines. If there is anything else that I can answer for you, please don’t hesitate to reach out! You can find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. You can also email me if you have any questions I can answer. 

In the end, I’m sure that whatever choice you make, you’re going to love your new Cricut machine. These are awesome tools that bring the joy of creating into your own home. I’m so glad that Cricut has made these available to everyone and they’re constantly making them better and more affordable!

Please remember to leave a comment below. I’d love to hear what you think about Cricut Maker Vs. Cricut Explore!

What is a Cricut Digital Cutting Machine?

Creating DIY Classroom Decor

The Perfect Welcome Sign

Custom Hall Pass Holder

Teacher Tote Bag

Cricut Loves Teachers

It’s no secret that Cricut has been dominating the crafting market for years. These machines have always been synonymous with versatility, but now Cricut is taking it to a whole new level!

The Cricut Maker 3 was released last month and promises to be the most versatile Cricut yet. This review will cover everything from what sets this machine apart from others, how it compares in price, and some quick tips on getting started with your project.

I don’t know about you all but the easiest way for me to learn about a new product or machine is to actually make a project with it. I put together a super easy beginner’s project to bring you a full, well-rounded review of the new Cricut Maker 3.

Whether for a kid, classmate, or family member, cake toppers are a fun way to add a personalized festive touch to even store-bought pastries. Unfortunately, I’m usually in quite a rush before a birthday party so being able to make these toppers easily and quickly is necessary. 

Let’s see if the Cricut Maker 3 is up for the challenge!

Cricut Maker 3 Specs

Some of the specifications released by manufacturers include:

• Increased precision, speed, and power
• 2x faster than the original Maker when cutting Smart Materials
• 10x more force while it cuts 300 different materials
• Cuts Smart Materials up to 75 feet
• Has an additional USB port that can be used to charge tablets while in use!

Before you purchase the Cricut Maker 3, take a moment to consider if it is the right product for your needs:

1) What type of material do you plan on cutting? If you would like to cut all types of materials (including fabric, balsa wood, leather, chipboard, and more!), the Cricut Maker 3 is the machine for you!

2) Will you want to use the entire Cricut Tools line? The Cricut Maker 3 has access to a wide variety of tools. This includes:

• Fine-Point Blade
• Deep-Point Blade
• Pens & Markers
• Scoring Stylus
• Foil Transfer tool
• Bonded-Fabric Tool
• Rotary Blade
• Knife Blade
• Scoring Wheels (Single & Double)
• Engraving Tool
• Debossing Tool
• Wavy Blade
• Perforation Blade

The Cricut Maker 3 retails at $399.99 and can now be purchased HERE!

New Accessories and Materials

They have always been at the forefront of crafting, so it should come as no surprise that Cricut has released some new tools and materials for this machine.

• Cricut Smart Iron-On – Tons of colors available and no mat necessary!
• Cricut Smart Vinyl – Large variety of colors and comes in permanent or removable. Again, it can be cut without a mat!
• Cricut Smart Paper Sticker Cardstock – Everything you love about cardstock but now with an added adhesive backing for easy use.
• Cricut Roll Holder – Keeps vinyl organized and aligned. Super helpful for large projects!

Quick & Easy Beginner’s Project

Like I mentioned above, the easiest way for me to fully review the Cricut Maker 3 is to take it for a test run with this easy project, Birthday Cake & Cupcake Toppers. Cricut’s Smart Paper is a game-changer because there’s no need to pull out adhesive or glue. It makes creating these toppers a breeze!

To make these cute toppers all you have to do is:

1. Start by downloading Cricut Design Space and open your favorite template or design! I love this “Happy Birthday” file that can be found HERE.
2. Use the Offset tool to create the background. Duplicate and reverse the background shape. Select Cricut Maker from your Cricut machine menu and load Smart Paper (without a mat!)
3. Cut out shapes, peel from backing, and assemble with a wood skewer in-between. No additional glue necessary!
4. Repeat steps for smaller cupcake toppers.

Attach toppers to either store-bought or homemade cake and cupcakes. And that’s it! Super simple, right? Now you can show off your Cricut skills and wow the kids at party time!

Summary

The Cricut Maker 3 is the latest and greatest in home crafting machines, making it easier than ever for beginners to get started. With its ability to cut through materials of all thicknesses, this machine can handle anything from delicate fabrics to thicker items like leather or vinyl.

I wasn’t sure how much I was going to like using Smart Materials but honestly, not having to use a mat is my favorite feature! No worries if you don’t want to purchase all new supplies, you can still use previously bought materials with a mat on the Maker 3. The amount of time and money saved on Smart Materials makes the Cricut Maker 3 a worthy purchase!

So, what party are you planning on making your next cake topper for? Comment below to let us know. We love seeing and sharing your amazing creations!

Whether it’s graduating from elementary, high school, or college, this year’s graduates definitely deserve a round of applause! If you’re planning on making gifts for any recent grads, this Custom Graduation Tumbler is the perfect way to celebrate their accomplishments.

It can be gifted just by itself (and who couldn’t use a new tumbler!) or you can fill it with additional gifts like in the picture above. Most of the items were inexpensively bought at dollar and big box stores. You could even add a gift card if you’re feeling fancy!

Making a Custom Graduation Tumbler

Making one of these cute tumblers is super easy with the help of your handy Cricut Joy and Smart Vinyl! Using fonts and images that were included with Cricut Access made designing this projects so super easy.

Since I wanted to use different types of Smart Vinyl (Shimmer & Permanent), I sliced the two layers together. This created a cut-out section in the black “GRAD” image for the silver name to lay flat on the tumbler.

This made designing and layering a little more complicated but the finished look was so worth it!

HINT: Don’t forget to use StrongGrip Transfer Tape when using Shimmer Smart Vinyl!

Graduation Card & Chocolates

Of course, no graduate gift would be complete without a greeting card and some tasty goodies. No worries…Cricut has got you covered with those too!

I wanted to keep with the whole “GRAD” theme so I found a “ConGRADulations” design and used it to make a Cricut Joy Insert Card.

Since it wasn’t specifically made for insert cards, I had to adjust the size a bit to cut correctly. Super easy to do if you open an insert card file in Design Space and just copy the dimensions.

Making the mini candy wrappers is just as easy as the card! I used Cricut Joy Smart Label Writable Vinyl and the machine wrote and cut the stickers for me. All I had to do was peel the stickers from the backing and apply to the chocolates!

Making Multiple Graduation Gifts

The best thing about this project is that, whether you’re making one gift or twenty gifts, the Cricut Joy makes it so easy to accomplish! I thought it would be fun to randomly select three followers on IG with Graduation Tumblers for their kids so I had my work cut out for me.

I created three different color schemes in Design Space to match the colors of each of their different schools. All I had to do was send all the cut files over to my Joy and it told me which colors to load. Making all three customized graduation tumblers was totally a breeze!

Hope you enjoy making these Easy Custom Graduation Tumblers for the amazing graduates in your life! Leave me a comment if you’ve got any questions!

Don’t forget to pin for later!

Want more fun projects?