Wondering which Cricut should I buy? Here’s an overview of Cricut cutting machines so you can choose the best Cricut machine for you and your craft projects!
What is a Cricut?
A Cricut machine is a cutting machine that you can use for crafting and DIY projects and they have many features and benefits to make crafting fun for the whole family! After I read many Cricut reviews, I knew I had to get one too.
These clever machines can cut a wide variety of materials such as paper (hello, stickers!), cardstock, vinyl, fabric, and more and they feature a cutting blade that precisely cuts out shapes and designs based on digital designs that are created in the accompanying design software, Cricut Design Space.
In recent years, they’ve become super popular with crafters, makers, DIYer, hobbyists and craft shop owners as they have so many great features that are easy to learn for all levers of crafter.
Ready to buy your own Cricut? Click here to check out the Amazon Cricut machine selection.
Who are Cricut machines for?
Cricuts are loved by those who enjoy paper crafts, card making, scrapbooking, home decor, accessory-making and other DIY crafts. Additionally, Cricut cutting machines can also be used for other creative projects such as stickers (my fave!), vinyl decals, custom t-shirts and more.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or a seasoned crafting pro, Cricut machines are ideal for anyone who wants to create professional-looking craft projects at home.
Everyday peeps like you and I are not the only Cricut fans as celebrities such as Tori Spelling have also been said to use a Cricut machine for their projects too!
Here are some common Cricut myths!
1. They’re only for Pros
Most people think that Cricut machines are only for professional crafters and not suitable for beginners – this is so untrue! Any good Cricut review will show you that Cricut machines are very user-friendly and easy to use, even for those who are new to crafting.
Now, don’t get me wrong, there are plenty of times I want to throw my cutting machines out of the window! But with some patience, most tech mishaps can be solved. It’s why I created my Cricut courses and eBooks.
Cricut machines come with detailed instructions, as well as a wide range of pre-made designs in Cricut Design Space, it’s it’s quite easy for beginners to get started with their first crafting projects.
2. They’re only for paper crafting
Cricut machines are not just for paper crafts! They’re also suitable for a wide range of materials and projects from paper to cardstock to fabric, vinyl, and even metal – wow. This kind of versatility makes them a great choice for crafters who want to experiment with different projects and techniques.
3. It’s too expensive to make crafts
So yes, a Cricut machine isn’t in everyone’s budget BUT you could get started with a preloved machine, as long as it works.
Creating your own crafts with the best Cricut machine for beginners like you can actually be cost-effective too as it’s often more affordable than buying the things you can make yourself.
4. They’re only for physical crafts/designs
Not true either! I make digital designs with Cricut Design Space, such as stickers and planner stickers.
You could also design social media graphics, website headers, logos and even digital scrapbooking designs.
5. They’re only for very tech-savvy people
Again, not true. Yes, there IS a learning curve for a lot of people – but my 5000+ students range hugely in tech abilities, backgrounds, ages and more.
With the right instructions or guides, using your Cricut can be simple, fun and easy. Find out more about my courses and eBooks here.
What are some unexpected uses for Cricuts?
Aside from everyday crafting, Cricut can be used in this fun and unique way!
1. Planner stickers!
Ok this has to be my fave – because I’m quite obsessed with decorating and organizing my planner with stickers. I love nothing more than spending time in Cricut Design Space, designing stickers to print and cut.
Find out more about the Cricut print and cut feature here.
2. Making signs and banners:
Cricut machines can cut large pieces of vinyl or cardstock and this can make them perfect for creating custom signs and banners for events, parties, or business promotions.
3. Customized clothing or accessories
Use your Cricut to cut fabric and iron-on – this is perfect for creating custom clothing and accessories like t-shirts, hats, and bags!
4. Stencils and masks
Cricut machines can cut stencils and masks out of paper, plastic, or even metal, making them perfect for creating custom stencils for painting or masks for Halloween or other costume parties.
5. Customized home decor
Cricut cutting machines can cut a variety of materials, including wood and metal, making them great for creating custom home decor items like wall art, picture frames, and coasters.
6. Personalized gifts
Use your machine to create personalized gifts like custom-made cards, ornaments, and keychains!
Remember, these are only a few ideas – but the list of ways you can use your Cricut machine is endless. Want more ideas? Join my next Planner Craft Pro summit to learn more!
Let’s explore the different types of Cricut machines and compare their features and benefits:
Looking for the best Cricut to buy? Click here to check out the best Cricut deals.
Which Cricut is right for me?
Cricut Maker
Let’s begin the Cricut Maker – I personally have this little beauty and do think it’s the best Cricut for beginners to advanced users. the Cricut Maker is the flagship model of the Cricut cutting machine line and it’s a great one for crafters who want to cut a variety of materials.
The Cricut Maker can cut over 300 different materials such as sticker paper, cardstock, and from delicate fabrics to thick chipboard. The machine has a dual carriage that allows you to work on multiple projects at once, and it has the ability to score, engrave, and deboss materials. Super clever!
The Cricut Maker also has an advanced adaptive tool system that lets you to use different blades and tools to achieve various effects on your projects such as cutting, engraving, scoring and drawing.
I personally think it’s the best Cricut for stickers too :)
Cricut Explore Air 2
The Cricut Explore Air 2 is a great easy-to-use option for crafters and can cut over 100 different materials.
It can also be used to work on multiple projects at once and is a fast and reliable cutting machine.
Cricut Joy
Cricut Joys are a small and popular member of the Cricut family! They’re both compact and portable cutting machines so perfect for smaller crafts and craft rooms.
The Cricut Joy can cut a lot of materials too but it doesn’t have the print and cut feature so isn’t a great option for sticker-making.
However, it does have the ability to cut materials up to four feet long so it’s perfect for longer projects like long banners and signs!
Here are some common Cricut mistakes to avoid:
- Make sure to properly adjust the blade depth to avoid the blade not cutting through the material properly, or cutting too deep and damaging the material or the machine. When making stickers with your Cricut, test out different Material options to find the right cutting depth for your paper.
- Use the correct cutting mat. Every material requires a different cutting mat with a specific level of grip. Not using the correct mat can cause the material to shift while cutting, resulting in inaccurate cuts. I use the light blue mat for sticker-making.
- Clean the blade and mat regularly as over time, debris can build up on the blade and mat, which can cause the machine to malfunction or produce poor quality cuts. Mats also wear out over time and should be replaced when this happens.
- Align the material, such as the paper you place on the mat. Before you started cutting, ensure that the material is properly aligned on the mat, otherwise, it may not cut correctly or may not cut at all.
- Check the design before cutting. Make sure to check your design is properly aligned and scaled to the correct size to avoid errors and wasted materials.
- Use the correct material for your project to avoid malfunctioning or poor-quality cuts.
- Update the Cricut firmware to ensure your machine is running at optimal performance.
- Follow your Cricut machine instructions and Cricut manual.
Make stickers with Cricut!
Learning how to make stickers with a Cricut machine is a super fun process, even for beginners! You can design stickers from scratch and customize them with easy to fit your planner, life, home and more – perfectly!
Here’s an overview:
- Set up your Cricut machine, such as the Maker, grab some white, matte sticker paper and a color printer.
- Design your stickers in Cricut Design Space using your own, or pre-made images. I share my done-for-you sticker templates here!
- Print your stickers on a color inkjet or laser printer
- Cut your stickers, following the “Make It” instructions in Cricut Design Space.
- Use your stickers in your planner, to organize or decorate your home, as gift tags and more!
I adore my Cricut Maker for making stickers. Want a fast and fun way to make stickers with your Cricut?
Check out my eBook here to learn how to make planner stickers with Cricut!
Do you already have a Cricut? Comment below and share how you use yours!
Read next:
- Complete Guide to Cricut Print and Cut for Planner Stickers + FREE Guide
- How to Make Planner Stickers with Cricut Maker FREE Guide
- 51 Planner Sticker Ideas to Make at Home!
