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!

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!

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!

This post is sponsored by Cricut and contains affiliate links. I receive a small percentage of your purchase (at no cost to you!) through these links which helps me continue to offer original tutorials and free printables!

About a month ago, Cricut reached out to ask if I was interested in helping them release a brand new product. Are you serious? Of course I was interested!

I was excited to eventually learn that they had created a super easy way to customize mugs with Infusible Ink…the Cricut Mug Press! Finally, no more shrink wrapping plastic around your design or having to turn on your oven. The new Cricut Mug Press makes it so easy to create the perfect personalized gifts!

This entire post will be a detailed introduction to the Cricut Mug Press. It’ll cover all the basics: price, accessories, set-up, instruction, and FAQ. I’ll also run you through a quick tutorial on how to make your first mug!

I love to gift mugs to friends, family, teachers, co-workers, and more. Being able to customize these mugs makes them an even more perfect gift! I’ve got so many mugs planned that are totally customized for the people I love in my life.

What is Infusible Ink?

Before we talk about the actual Mug Press, let’s go over really quickly what Infusible Ink is and why it’s so awesome on mugs!

When you use Infusible Ink products, the design is absorbed completely into the blank. Unlike vinyl, there’s no raised lip and the design will never crack or peel. As you can imagine, this makes the design extremely resilient and long lasting.

Because of the special process Infusible Ink uses, you have to use specifically designed blanks when using the transfer paper or markers.

Cricut Mug Press & Accessories Price

The Cricut Mug Press will be released to the public on March 11, 2021. You can visit the Cricut shop to see the products that will be available. The Mug Press will retail for $199.99 and the Cricut ceramic mug blanks range from $6.99-$8.99. There will also be bulk packages of the mug blanks as well.

Cricut will also be releasing Infusible Ink Transfer Sheets that are perfectly sized to use with the Mug Press. Those will cost $6.99 and will work with all the Cricut Maker, Explore, and Joy.

Setting up the Cricut Mug Press

When you receive your Cricut Mug Press, it’ll have everything you need to get the machine ready for your first mug. In addition to the actual press and power cord, there will also be a USB cord provided in the box. This is very important since you will have to activate the Mug Press by connecting to a computer.

This step ensures that your press is up-to-date with the latest firmware and will only be required once. After you’ve activated it, you won’t have to connect again when using the Mug Press.

How to use the Cricut Mug Press

Using the Cricut Mug Press really is so easy! The following tutorial will show you how to design, cut, set-up, and press your first mug. I went with a gorgeous flower design that I found in Design Space because it reminded me of traditional Mexican pottery that I love.

I promise that you’ll be able to find tons of designs that will help you customize a mug for any of your friends and family!

Print

Custom Mugs with Cricut Mug Press

Make customized mugs quickly and easily with the Cricut Mug Press!

Total Time 30 minutes

Servings 1 mug

Author Vanessa Brady

Cost $7

Equipment

• Cricut Mug Press
• Cricut Maker

Ingredients

• Cricut Mug Blank
• Cricut Infusible Ink Transfer Paper
• Heat Resistant Tape

Instructions

• First things first, you're going to have to create the mug design you want. There are tons of premade mug patterns in Design Space that are ready to go. If you want something more custom, just use the correctly sized layout to create your own design.
  
• You can use any of the Cricut digital cutting machines to cut out your design. Make sure to select "Infusible Ink Transfer Paper" as the material you're cutting.
  
• Remove the cut transfer paper and weed out all the excess pieces.
  
• Wrap the design around a lint-free mug, matching up the transfer tape end tabs inside of handle. You may need to reposition a few times until the pattern is perfectly lined up. If you want to really secure the transfer paper to the mug, use a few strips of the heat resistant tape along the top, side, and bottom.
  
• Pre-heat the Cricut Mug Press by pressing the power button and waiting until it beeps. Insert the mug into the opening. Make sure the design is completely covered inside of the press. You may need to readjust the handle as you're pressing down on the lever.
  
• Once the machine cycles through all the flashing lights above the power button, it'll beep to let you know your mug is done. Lift the lever to release the mug and carefully pull it out by touching only the handle. The body of the mug will be extremely hot so make sure you only touch the handle and it's placed on a heat-safe surface.
  
• Allow the mug to cool completely before removing the heat resistant tape and the Infusible Ink Transfer Paper design. Revealing the finished look is my absolute favorite part!
  
• Now you've got a awesome custom-made mug to enjoy for a really long time!
  

Frequently Asked Questions

Mug Press Conclusion

I am so beyond impressed with the quality that the Cricut Mug Press produces. Each mug I made was so easy to create in Design Space and then cut with my Maker. Seriously, the process couldn’t be any easier!

I’m planning on mugs for my kids’ grandparents and teachers with their custom artwork on it. They’re going to love it!

Comment below if you’ve got any questions about the Mug Press and I’ll make sure to answer them!

Want more fun projects?

Why the Cricut Joy is the perfect holiday gift

Beginner’s Guide to Cricut Foil Transfer Kit

10 Back to School Cricut Projects

Cricut Projects for Kids At Home

5 Birthday Gifts made with Cricut Joy

Easy Projects made with Cricut Maker Tools

This post is sponsored by Cricut and contains affiliate links. I receive a small percentage of your purchase (at no cost to you!) through these links.

Finding the perfect holiday gift is difficult…especially this year when people are home more than ever! We use to default to gifting experiences (zoo memberships, performance tickets, etc) but that’s not really an option this year.

This crazy year has got me thinking…Why not gift the experience of creativity this year with the perfect little machine, the Cricut Joy!

Keep reading to find out who would love a Cricut Joy, why they would love it, and what other accessories could be combined for the perfect gift!

Who would love a Cricut Joy?

The short answer? Anyone!

But let’s go into more detail on why the Cricut Joy is such a versatile gift for practically anyone on your list.

In case you’re not familiar with the great little cutting machine. The Cricut Joy is the smallest of the Cricut line of digital cutting machines. It’s about 8″ wide and weighs less than 4 lbs. but don’t let its size fool you. There’s plenty of power behind this machine!

The Cricut Joy would be perfect for:

• teachers
• business professionals
• homemakers
• older adults
• parents
• students
• small business owners
• homeschoolers
• crafters
• child care providers
• restaurant owners
• hobbyist
• auto enthusiasts

and the list goes on and on!

Why will they love a Cricut Joy?

There are so many projects that can be done on a Cricut Joy that the options are almost limitless. Here are some of my favorite projects that can be made on the Joy and what gift recipient might appreciate it.

1. Vinyl Cutting – This is probably the most obvious of functions. The Cricut Joy can cut individual shapes up to 4′ long and repeated cuts up to 20′ long. This is more than enough space for the majority of my vinyl projects. Perfect for crafters, small business owners, hobbyists, and practically anyone that wants to add vinyl to a variety of surfaces.
2. Card Making – One of my favorite functions is the super quick and easy card making option. All you need is a Cricut Joy Card Mat and one of the Cricut Insert Card packs and you can make a beautiful greeting card in minutes. Perfect for homemakers, older adults, parents, and anyone that uses greeting cards often.
3. Label Maker – You can use the Cricut Joy app to make a wide variety of customizable labels, adding “Label Maker” to the long list of projects the Cricut Joy can complete. Perfect for teachers, business professionals, students, and anyone that values organization.

The perfect accessories for a gift!

If you really want to knock it out of the ballpark with a gift this year, consider adding a few extra Cricut materials and accessories! You’ll find a few different bundle ideas below based off of interests. Whether you buy one accessory or everything in the bundle, I promise they’ll love it!

Beginner Starter Bundle:

• Cricut Joy StandardGrip Mat
• Starter Tool Set
• Cricut Joy Transfer Tape
• Tote
• Cricut Joy Smart Vinyl – Permanent
• Cricut Joy Smart Iron-On

Card Making Bundle

• Cricut Joy Card Mat
• Cricut Joy Insert Cards, Princess Sampler
• Insert Cards, New Romantic Sampler
• Starter Tool Set
• Cricut Joy Fine Point Pens
• Cricut Joy Gel Pens, 1.0 mm

Organization Bundle

• Cricut Joy Smart Label Writable Paper
• Cricut Joy Smart Label Writable Vinyl
• Fine Point Pens, 0.4 mm
• Cricut Joy Extra Fine Point Pens, 0.3 mm

Don’t forget that an EasyPress is also a great companion to the Cricut Joy. Perfect for any projects that involve Cricut Joy Smart Iron-On or Infusible Ink!

I hope you found this article on why the Cricut Joy is the best holiday gift helpful! It may seem overwhelming to buy someone a machine that you may or may not have experience with but I promise you they’ll love getting this machine.

Feel free to comment below, email me, or contact me on social media if you have any other questions! Happy Holidays!

Don’t forget to pin for later!

Here are some other posts you may enjoy:

I’ve loved every new product that Cricut has ever released and the Foil Transfer Kit is no exception. I was sent an advance copy of the kit to play with so believe me when I tell you, it’s going to make adding foil to projects so fun and easy!

In this post, I’ll cover all the basics of the new Cricut Foil Transfer Kit. You can either scroll through the entire post or use the links below to go to specific information.

What is the Cricut Foil Transfer Kit?

The Cricut Foil Transfer Kit allows you to easily add foil to a wide variety of projects with their new 3-in-1 tool that includes tips for bold, medium, and fine lines. Their system is pressure based and is perfectly integrated into Design Space already.

All you have to do is pop the new tool in your Cricut machine and you’re good to go! No extreme heat that may harm your machine (and void your warranty!), no bulky cords, no extra adhesives…just beautiful foil that will add a layer of glam to any project.

The foil transfer tool will work in both the Cricut Maker and the Cricut Explore Machines. <Insert cheering crowd and confetti release!>

What is included in the kit?

When you buy the Foil Transfer Kit ($39.99), it includes everything you need to start right away:

• 1 Foil Transfer Tool Housing
• 3 Foil Transfer Tips – fine, medium, bold
• 12 Foil Transfer Sheets 4″ x 6″ (10.1 cm x 15.2 cm), colors vary
• Tape

Switching out the different tips is super easy! Just push on the back of the tool housing and slide your desired tip in. You can differentiate between the tips with the number of lines they have. The fine tip has one line, the medium has two lines, and the bold has three.

Once your tip is inserted into the housing (you’ll feel a little magnetic snap), just release the back of the tool and you’re ready!

What materials can I use?

There are tons of great materials you can add foil to:

• Light Cardstock – 60 lb. (163 gsm)
• Medium Cardstock – 80 lb. (216 gsm)
• Heavy Cardstock – 100 lb. (270 gsm)
• Deluxe Paper
• Watercolor Paper
• Pearl Paper
• Vellum
• Printable Vinyl
• Printable Sticker Paper
• Kraft Board
• Matboard
• Poster Board
• Copy Paper (Printing Paper)
• Photo Paper (Glossy, 200g)
• Photo Paper (Matte, 230g)
• Faux Leather

Some of foil line types won’t work with the Explore Machines. I suggest visiting the Cricut Foil Suggested Materials page for more details. You can also see all the suggested materials in Design Space under the Browse All Materials>Compatible section.

How do I start using it?

Now we get to the fun part! Design Space makes adding foil to your project an absolute breeze. For months now, Cricut has been secretly flooding their library with single line drawings so that you have tons of options to play with.

Once you’ve found a design you like, just use the Linetype pull-down menu to select the Foil option. When you hover over “Foil,” a secondary menu will pop up and you’ll be able to select your desired line weight (Fine, Medium, or Bold).

When you click “Make It,” Design Space will send the project to your machine. Depending on the complexity of your project, you may have a number of prompts and steps to follow on Design Space.

Using my Script Thank You Card as an example, these were the steps:

1. Insert (Clamp B) and used the score tool to make the fold line for the card
2. Mat was released just enough for me to apply the gold foil sheet with tape (included in the kit)
3. Swapped out Score Tool for Bold Foil Transfer Tool (Clamp B)
4. Pressed the Cricut C/Go button to foil “Thank You”
5. Mat was released just enough to remove gold foil sheet
6. Swapped out Foil Transfer Tool for Fine Point Blade (Clamp B)
7. Pressed the Cricut C/Go button to finish cutting out card

IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER!!!

• Move all of the spinning star wheels outside of the foiling area.
• Make sure foil sheet is taped down as tight as possible.
• Position design at least 1″ away from the mat edge to allow room for taping.
• Make sure the foil sheet is large enough that no part of the foil design is under the tape.
• If you run out of the provided tape, a low adhesive tape may be substituted (ie. washi). Make sure to test on your material first.

What are the foil color options?

Since this is a new product, the color options for foil transfer sheets are limited to 12″ x 12″ Gold and Silver Packs and a 4″ x 6″ Jewel Sampler (Aqua, Eggplant, Emerald). There were also (12) 4″ x 6″ sheets included in the Cricut Foil Transfer Kit.

Design Space has options for selecting Rose Gold, Red, and Fuchsia…
so good things are coming!

One thing to keep in mind, due to the unique pressure-based application, the Cricut Foil Transfer Tool only works with Cricut Foil Transfer Sheets. You can, however, use the transfer sheets with other foil applications though.

Are you ready to get your foil on?!

I hope this Beginner’s Guide to Cricut Foil Transfer Kit has been helpful. There are really so many ways you can put this new product to good use.

Over the next week, I’ll be sharing more tutorials
and free svg files to help you get started!

Let me know if you have any questions and I’ll try to find the answer for you!

Want more fun Cricut projects?

• Easy Projects for Cricut Maker Tools
• May the Fourth Star Wars Party Decorations
• Halloween Shoes with Cricut
• Personalized Face Masks
• Five Easy Birthday Gifts with Cricut Joy