When I first started working with cutting machines, I remember being SO OVERWHELMED! B THE EXPLORE FAMILY: These used to be the most popular ones, and each version offers a few different features: UPDATE: Cricut has now released the CRICUT EXPLORE 3, this machine has all the same capabilities as the Cricut Explore Air 2, BUT now it's also compatible with Smart Materials (So they can cut without a mat), B THE CRICUT JOY MACHINE: The Cricut Joy is the smallest machine of the family, but thanks to its size it's also the most portable and light of them all. So when I say that I can confidently understand how frustrated some of you can be with your machines, its because Ive been there. On the next screen, select your material from the Material Settings list. Turn the mat upside down, and peel the mat away from the project. Sarah Stearns has helped thousands of makers find their next craft project with free patterns and step-by-step tutorials on her blog, sarahmaker.com. Cricut Design Space also offers a Print then Cut functionality, that allows you to use your regular printer for the color portion of your project, and then bring that paper in for the cutting machine to make its part of the project. Then, keep reading to learn all about the different types of paper and cardstock that your Cricut can cut. BUT with each project, you will be learning and building on your skills and confidence with the machine! If the blade isnt cutting all the way through the cardstock, it may mean that you need to adjust the settings or cut more than once. If you can cut simple designs without issue but have trouble with intricate designs, try cutting the more intricate image using the Custom setting for Cardstock Intricate Cuts. If youre using a different brand of cardstock, thats okay. I bought my very first cutting machine, about 6 years ago, to make banners and signs for my very first craft show. We also use different blades depending on the materials we want to cut. Share on Instagram or Facebook: When you make this project, share it on social media and tag me @sarahmaker. You may NOT use any of my projects to create items for sale without acommercial license. Here is the list: Cricut Design space is Cricut's software program as well as a companion app that allows you to create, upload, and manage files to operate the Cricut Maker and Cricut Explore machines. Cardstock comes in a variety of sizes. Why? First, make things easier on yourself and use the LightGrip cutting mat for almost all paper materials. And the purple mat has the strongest adhesive that works best with materials like poster board. For now, I want to start from the very beginning! D CRICUT CUTTLERBUG: This is how the original Cricut used to operate and look. This can help you save so much time and making it perfect for projects that require a lot of different cuts! Have questions? I am so excited to start sharing with you all the tutorials I have lined up to use the Cricut Machine! You can access their library of design by subscription, by paying per project OR (and this is what I like the most) you can upload your own files and artwork! It comes in a variety of colors and finishes. Joy Kelley here, I am a full-time lettering artist with a passion for teaching and sharing my love for Calligraphy, lettering, crafts and all things creative! That means that youll place your cardstock pretty side down so the Cricut can make the creases on the backside of the cardstock. Use the Cricut LightGrip Mat. This blog is reader-supported. This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Cricut. Solid core cardstock is the best choice for projects where youll see a lot of paper edges, like rolled paper flowers. But once you purchase them, they are forever in your library. The program the web-based version and the app that allows you to edit, upload and purchase files to craft are called Cricut Design Space, and they are entirely FREE to use, the only thing you would need to pay for is if you want to purchase projects or files.
Learn how to cut paper and cardstock on your Cricut machine with this step-by-step guide for beginners. When the cut is finished, unload the mat. If you come across a material that requires a different blade, Design Space will prompt you to switch out the blade after you select the Base Material on the Make screen. Cricut is a smart electronic cutting machine, check this helpful article on the Cricut website, A lady never discusses the size of her craft stash, EasyPress: All you need to know and how to use it, A premium fine-point blade and blade housing (pre-installed), Fabric (with a stabilizer or without depending on your Cricut model). Cricut Design Space also allows you to access a library of projects and files to download. And it's the reason why the Cricut Maker is 10 times STRONGER than the Cricut Explore Air 2. Its a smooth, solid core cardstock thats available in a rainbow of colors. Dont try to peel your project off of your mat by one corner that will cause curling or tearing. So, I could not pass the opportunity to share with you the unboxing of my machine, as well as the answers to some of the most common questions beginners, have about Cricut machines. You might need to change the line time to make it work. Its like a mix between a craft plotter and a laser cutter (but with a knife). Medium cardstock (80lb) feels like a premium greeting card, and is great for making decor projects like banners. Each machine that you purchase includes a blade, this is the models and blades: BUT it depends, there is definitely a learning curve, especially if you are not a very tech-savvy person. There are also a few other brands of pens that will fit in the same adapter that the Cricut pens have: I also purchased this set of pen adapters becauseI like the idea of using my regular sharpie pens is something I want to try. Then, you can test that the settings are correct by making a small test cut before you cut your whole project. Because the Cricut will do the rest, watching it work is one of my favorite parts of a project! Cricut offers 4 different sizes of EasyPress to accommodate all different uses and surfaces. But cut fabric and over 100 other materials. I love to see what you make! So what do you use to stabilize you are felt of fabric? Some of the most common ones are: To see a full list of materials depending on your machine, refer to this page on the Cricut website. The new technology that holds most of these blades is called QUICKSWAP and allows you to simply press the quick-release button at the top of this versatile housing, snap your desired tip into place, and get making. If your blade has dulled, you may need to replace it with a new blade. I would say its the most powerful of the family. weight, textured, solid-core cardstock. I know getting a cutting machine is a big investment, and many times, the things we want to make with the machine CAN be made by cutting by hand.But just the time this little machine can save for you, to me, is more than enough to start saving to get one. Along with my machine, there was a set of cards that explained super simple how-to connect to the power. There can be a few reasons why your blade is dragging or tearing your intricate designs. The first thing to try is to increase the cut pressure. You will need to load your physical mat with your material and into your Cricut machine. Or, you can select the More Pressure option on the Make Screen. What Blades to Use for Paper and Cardstock, Working with Insert Cards and the Card Mat, Tips for Cutting Intricate Cardstock Designs, Tips for Writing and Drawing on Cardstock, Tips and Tricks for Working with Cardstock. If we wanted to make a comparison, we could say that the force of each machine can be compared to the pressure you apply when cutting vegetables. How to Cut Paper or Cardstock with Cricut. A cardstocks weight is measured in lbs (pounds). You can choose from several types of paper and cardstock. 28 What are cutting files (SVG, DFX, etc)? If you want to save this post for later, feel free to save one of the images below =], Letters for wall: Create wall art tutorial and template, 27 of the best hand lettering quotes to inspire you. Deep-point blade: (BLACK) this blade has a steeper blade angle (60 degrees vs. the 45 degrees of the fine-point blade), and its made of harder and more durable steel.Recommended for intricate cuts using materials like chipboard, magnet, stamp material, stiffened felt, foam sheets, cardboard, and some fabrics. Guide to Cricut Mats: Different Types and Sizes, Ultimate Guide to Cricut Tools and Accessories. From there, you can either upload, access your library or make a design using the different tools in Design Space. Not necessarily, while Cricut Design Space is a computer-based software, and its compatible with Windows and Mac. That said, some of the thicker cardstock materials cut better on the green StandardGrip cutting mat or even the purple StrongGrip cutting mat. Cricut EasyPress 6 x 7 inches: This is the smaller size of the regular design EasyPress, at 3.3lb in weight is perfect for small flat projects like: Cricut EasyPress 9 x 9 inches: This is the medium size and weighing only 5.7lb its the perfect size for most projects and probably the most recommend if you are an EasyPress newbie. Each of the different types of paper and cardstock has a slightly different thickness and hardness. LightGrip machine mat: (BLUE) is perfect for lightweight materials and can be used with the Cricut Maker and Cricut Explore family, perfect for: StandardGrip machine mat: (GREEN) is perfect for a wide range of medium-weight materials, this mat can also be used with the Cricut Maker and the Cricut Explore family, perfect for: StrongGrip machine mat: (PURPLE) is perfect for heavyweight materials and can also be used for the Cricut Maker and Cricut Explore family, perfect for: FabricGrip machine mat: (PINK) this is a special mat that combines increased strength and density plus a light adhesive perfect for a wide variety of fabrics.
You can use pre-folded Cricut Joy Insert Cards, or fold your own cardstock to use with the Card Mat. This white core can be distracting, especially on projects with intricate cuts. What if the Fine-Point blade doesnt cut all the way through the cardstock?
Cricut offers a wide variety of pens that you can purchase and that fit in the tool holder. You can find the Cricut machine at Cricut.com but you can also purchase them from all major retailers. If that doesnt work, take the blade out of the blade housing and check it for debris or nicks. I think all of them are amazing, but the extra cutting power that the Cricut Maker allows WINS when it comes to the possibility of materials that it can cut. Poster Board: a thicker material with more rigidity than cardstock that you can use to make bulletin board decorations, school projects, party decor, and more. Kraft Board: very sturdy, versatile material that you can use to make home decor, mini books, boxes, box cards, tags, banners, and more. They also have a washable fabric marker that can be used to mark the fabric before cutting. After reading this Cricut for beginner guide, you will know if a Cricut is right for you and what model will help you the most! The Cricut Explore machine offers the ability to cut a shape and use the pen at the same time thanks to the dual tool holder. Yes, according to the Cricut website, the only machine that has full embossing capabilities is the Cuttlebug Machine. It means that with that kind of power, you can cut WAY thicker materials, not just paper and cardstock, but wood, leather, some acrylics, and more! Cricut Design Space (iOS) allows you to design and cut projects without an internet connection. The files that contain the .svg file extension store two-dimensional graphics. Technically, the Cricut Machine can NOT print, but you can use the pen holder to use a Cricut pen instead of the cutting blade (or use both at the same time depending on your Cricut Model). But, if youre new to Cricut, getting started cutting cardstock with your machine can be a bit overwhelming. A Cricut machine allows us to create projects with crazy precision since it replaces what we would regularly cut with either scissors or an x-acto. It works perfectly for projects like: Cricut EasyPress 10 x 12 inches: This is the biggest size of the EasyPress and its perfect for bigger projects where you need a larger area to transfer like: Cricut EasyPress Mini: This is the latest release from Cricut and its the perfect shape for small projects in awkward places or surfaces, like: The Cricut BrightPad is basically Cricut's version of a light pad, created to illuminate projects for easier crafting and reduced eye strain. Once your material is loaded, and your file is set up and ready to use, you will send the file to the machine, there is where the magic happens! 9 What are Cricut mats, and why are there so many? The Cricut Machine is such an awesome cutting tool! I know theres a lot to cover, but hopefully, this post will answer all the questions you have and help you understand what a Cricut Machine is and how everything works a little better. You can use a brayer tool to make sure the paper is well-adhered. They also released a version for Android, and depending on the machine you have, you could connect wirelessly via Bluetooth and cut from your device. But you probably dont need to switch to the Deep Point blade or Knife Blade. For example, if you select Glitter Cardstock as your material setting, Cricut will cut with a similar pressure as Medium Cardstock, but it will make the cutting pass twice instead of once. Instead, flip your mat inside down on a clean work surface and peel the mat up from the cardstock. The level of complexity of cuts that you can make, not to mention the different materials make every crafter's dream come true. Download your content onto your device to use offline. Cricut isnt cutting all the way through the cardstock. If you have plans to cut thicker materials like chipboard, leather, or fabrics without stabilizers, the Cricut Maker would be the best machine for the job. The folks at Cricut are also revolutionizing the industry by bringing sublimation printing to crafters fingertips with one of their latest releases, Infusible Ink! But now that I finally understand how cutting machines work, and that I have my own shop with hand-lettered cut files. BUT my excitement quickly turned into frustration because my machine ended up not being calibrated. So to summarize, a Cricut machine is your dreamed right hand when it comes to creating!
Pin this post: Save this tutorial to your Pinterest boards so that you can come back to it later. You can choose from several types of paper and cardstock. My number one tip for writing with Cricut pens on cardstock is doing a small test run before starting a larger, more involved project. Because the Cricut Maker allows you to use a special blade that was designed to handle stretch and a mat that is specially designed to hold the fabric. 5 What comes in the Cricut explore air 2 box? For more help about how to work offline, please refer to this help section on the Cricut website. Check this helpful video about cutting mats here: Cricut blades are the workforce in the machine, they are the ones actually doing the cutting. Wondering what a Cricut cutting machine is and what does it do? Plus, there are so many different types of paper and cardstock how do you know where to start? Solid Core cardstock is dyed the same color all the way through. Youll want to use smooth cardstock for Print Then Cut projects, invitations, or stamping projects. You can see the whole process in the video below: Yes, you can cut fabric and felt with your Cricut, but the way you cut and blade used is different depending on the machine you have. If you are using another sticker paper brand, you might need to use less pressure to produce a kiss cut. Try changing the pressure setting to less or choosing a different material setting like sticky note or washi.. With the Cricut machines, you can create not only papercrafts or customizing apparel with vinyl, etching, or stenciling. This mat was designed to be used with the Rotary blade or the Bonded-fabric blade. The opinions and text are all mines. Read more. Your Cricut can also score cardstock to create crisp creases and sharp folding lines. In this post, you will find the ultimate guide to getting started with a Cricut cutting machine. I hope this article was useful for you! The new Debossing tip for the Cricut Maker can help you create a stunning effect that even though it is not the same, its pretty close. Textured cardstock has a slight surface texture that often resembles a weave or a grid. Everything is explained along with 34+ questions and answers, so you can be confident that you are getting the right Cricut machine for your needs! At this moment, 3 different Cricut models encompass the Cricut family. UPDATE: Cricut has now released the CRICUT MAKER 3, this machine has all the same capabilities as the old Maker model, BUT it's now not only twice as fast, it's also compatible with Smart Materials (So they can cut without a mat). A backing material or stabilizer is used to hold fabrics and other woven materials that have a percentage of stretch. So I not only wasted SO MUCH TIME, perfectly good card stock and AND LOTS of expensive vinyl, trying to make my project work. So don't worry because you are in good hands! It has a smooth texture and a solid core.
Join the group to share pictures, ask questions, and help each other out. You can even try patting a clean t-shirt all over your mat to add a little bit of fabric fuzz, and thus reduce the mats stickiness. After that, if youre still getting tears, try using the Less Pressure. Its small and portable, but unlike the big siblings, this one does not electronic, so no access to Design Space or automatic operating. There is also a sewing kit that is next on my shopping list because I cannot wait to make fabric projects with my Cricut. Each mat has a different grip (or level of stickiness) and color to help you identify them. For help to install and uninstalling Design Space, check this helpful article on the Cricut website. Yes! As a general rule, the heavier a paper is, the thicker it is. Youll also learn tips for cutting intricate designs, and how to remove the paper from the cutting mat without tearing or curling. Or maybe you are already thinking about getting one but are a little confused as to what model you should get? In Design Space, you are also allowed to upload your own files and use the editor to create files as well as edit them. Scrapbooking size sheets (12 by 12) will cover the entire standard cutting mat. I am a self-taught English speaker and I started this blog as a way to improve in my language journey. There seems to be confusion between Cricut Design Space and the Cricut subscription service called Cricut Access. The most popular cut file format is .SVG. The texture gives the cardstock a sturdier feel, so its great for layering or 3D projects. Because the Cricut Maker uses a new cutting system, the adaptive tool system, that allows the machine to be 10 times stronger! When your design is finished, click Make it. And just like we use different knives for different uses in our Kitchen. If you choose to use Cricut brand Deluxe Paper and Cardstock, youll find the exact settings in the Materials list in Cricut Design Space. Cricut has released a new type of Smart Material cardstock that you can use with the Cricut Maker 3, Explore 3, or Cricut Joy. 10 What is a Cricut blade, and how to pick one? It may feel awkward at first, but flip the mat upside down and peel the mat off the paper not the other way around. SVG stands for Scalable Vector Graphic. Start a new project, and create your design. DIFFERENCE 3 The Adaptive tool system. If you love Cricut crafts, dont miss these related posts. You can access the app wirelessly on some machines, via your computer, tablet, and even mobile device. Then, most importantly, dont try to peel up your cardstock from your mat by the corner. Cricut Explore machines use the Cricut Scoring Stylus, which you can buy as part of the Basic Tool Set. For more details about infusible ink, check this help section here. Removing paper and cardstock from the mat without curling or tearing might be the trickiest part of the whole project but Ill give you a few tips to make it easier. Yes, you can cut thick materials like balsa wood and leather but only using the Cricut Maker. Turn the mat upside down, and peel the mat away from the project. Cardstock can be smooth or have a slight texture. If you rip or tear the cardstock, you will most likely see the white core showing through on the edges. The two exceptions that come to mind are crepe paper and tissue paper, which you can cut with the rotary blade or wavy blade. They last as long as the project itself.
It's light, thin, and durable for comfort and portability. Want to know what exactly is inside the box? Learn how to cut paper and cardstock on your Cricut machine with this step-by-step guide for beginners. You can select a premade image from the Design Space library or create your own design. Youve heard the buzz and wondered what a Cricut machine is? They have them (at the moment) in two different colors, Mint and Purple. I get it! It was introduced along with a new set of blades that is only compatible with this model, and that allows the cutting of thicker materials like leather and even wood. Use the Cardstock for Intricate Cuts setting. American Crafts Cardstock: AC brand cardstock is another favorite brand with crafters. Bazzill Cardstock: Bazzill paper is a high-quality cardstock with a canvas texture and solid core. White Core cardstock has, as you would expect, a white inner layer. Here are a few tricks to solve some of the most common problems crafters have when cutting paper and cardstock with Cricut. The Cricut Explore family would be more than enough for you.
You can cut using the Cricut Explore family using the Bonded fabric blade as long as your fabric has a stabilizer. So don't get discouraged when the inevitable hiccups happen, EMBRACE them instead! Cricut Brand: Most Cricut cardstock is 80 lb. Lastly, if youre still having trouble getting the paper to release from the mat, try using an older mat, or a mat with a little bit of fuzz on it. I will make an update once I've experimented with the adapters and other brands of pens. But the people from Cricut make it as easy as possible to get you unboxed and making right out of the box! 2 Are there other machines that can do the same thing? In fact, paper and cardstock are some of the most popular materials to cut on Cricut cutting machines. For more information about the Smart Dial, check this video by Cricut below: The Cricut Maker no longer has the Smart set dial, since it offers a different technology that we will cover later on.
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