What is a Cricut Machine and what can you do with it, we’ve walked you through the basics to help you decide if a Cricut Cutter is something you should add to your crafting stash!
Here in Part 1 of our Cricut Beginners Guide, we’re going to go over the basics. Add a comment with your questions as we are going to build an archive of videos showing you how to get the most out of your Cricut software and Design Space software and we would love to know what aspects of your Cricut machines you would like help with!
What is a Cricut machine?
A Cricut is a digital cutting machine capable of cutting out many different materials that you can use in a plethora of craft projects. You can cut materials such as paper, vinyl and with the right cutting blades some Cricut machines can cut balsa wood, fabrics, leather and cork as well.
You can find all of our Cricut help in our store by clicking here – Cricut Tips & Advice
These nifty digital machines also have an “accessory holder”. You can get pens and scoring tools to use in your crafts, for writing feelings, drawing intricate designs, and creating scoring lines on 3D projects or just perfect card blanks.
How does a Cricut machine work?
The machine connects to your computer or smartphone via Bluetooth or with a cable if necessary. You can then create your own designs or upload designs. Cricut has software called “Design Space” where you can edit and adapt designs before having Cricut cut them out.
You can also upload your own designs! Find out how to upload images to Cricut Design Space in this hands-on video tutorial.
When your design is ready, all you need to do is press a button and the Cricut has a small blade that moves around the material you cut following the lines of the design you created or uploaded.
The material is secured via a “sticky” mat so that it does not move as the blade moves, resulting in a perfectly clean cut.
Find out how to clean your cricut sticky mats so they last longer and can be used over and over again in this awesome tutorial from Emma Jewell.
There are lots and lots of wonderful YouTubers who have created some awesome step by step videos that you can use! We asked Christy Cain, a Cricut expert from the United States, to tell us why she uses Cricut machines. Also take a look at his awesome intro video. My Cricut machine opened up a world of crafting that I didn’t know about and really allowed me to turn my hobby into a career. It saves me time doing things by hand and it’s so much fun to use!
Can I upload my own images with Cricut?
Absolutely yes! The beauty of a Cricut is that you can create your own unique designs! However, there are also thousands of files that you can purchase as a digital download or often download for free.
Check out our expert tutorials for crafting with a cutting machine!
Which Cricut machine should I buy?
- Creator of Cricut
- Cricut Explorer Air 2
- Cricut Joy
There are currently 3 different types of Cricut machines and attachments available for purchase you can find them all available on our shop page they offer different features, the more expensive Cricut Maker can cut more material than the Cricut. Explore Air 2 and offer more flexibility (hence the higher price) The new Cricut Joy is a great option for small projects, especially if you have limited space. Don’t underestimate the little Cricut Joy, it still offers some fantastic features!
Older machines may not be compatible with the current version of Design Space, so do your homework if you buy used.
What tools and accessories do I need to use a Cricut?
There are a number of consumables that you will need to replace when using your Cricut, namely the blades and sticky mats.
You will also find many additional accessories that do not come with your machine, but not all of them are essential and the accessories that come in the box include everything you need to get started. When choosing which Cricut machine you want to purchase, keep in mind that there are some “bundle” offers that can save you money down the line. There is a fabulous article from PracticallyFunctional that goes over each cricut accessory in incredible detail!
