Do we need a printer or scissors to cut materials and other things? No, not anymore. Today, technology has reached such limits that we do not need them. A modular and powerful tool called the Cricut Maker can now cut various materials, from paper to cardstock, like vinyl, leather, basswood, and fabrics. It is not just a cutting machine; it has much more to offer: scoring, engraving, debossing, and writing.
It lets your creativity shine and allows you to design different projects, from cutting 300+ materials to creating 3D projects. Also, it can be wirelessly connected to computers and mobile devices via Bluetooth. Files can be transferred from PCs or smartphones to Cricut for the cutting process. It takes all the brainwork from you, like selecting the cutting pressure depth, etc. Instead, you have to select the material, and it will do its work.
What Comes in the Cricut Maker Box?
There are certain tools and supplies that you are provided with the machine, and here is a list of them:
- Cricut cutting machine
- Guide Book
- USB cable and power adapter
- Rotary blade
- Fine-point blade
- Foil transfer tool
- Test cut material
- LightGrip and FabricGrip mats
- Additional materials
8 Major Features of Cricut Maker
Before you start creating your projects with this machine, you should know its main features and what makes it more advanced and different from other cutting machines.
Cutting Materials
The machine can cut over 300+ materials, such as fabric, leather, mat board, paper, wood, and many more. It has different tools for various purposes.
Adaptive Tool System
Cricut Maker also comes with professional tools and a variety of tools for cutting, writing, scoring, debossing, etc.
- Rotary Blade: It comes with a sharp rotary blade to cut the thick fabric materials.
- Knife Blade: This comes with a sharp knife blade to cut the wood and thick leather.
- Scoring Wheel Tip: This is used to create sharp creases and folds.
- Sewing Pattern Library: Normally, you need to make a pattern and then cut the design, but this library goes one step ahead and cuts the design.
Speed and Cutting Force
It has 10x times the cutting force and is twice faster than the previous Maker machine.
Smart Cut Material
It is compatible with smart materials that can be cut up to 12 feet long.
Cricut Design Space Software
Cricut Maker is compatible with the Cricut Design Space app and can be used on Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows. This software is easy to use and includes a tutorial.
Wireless Technology
This cutting machine has Bluetooth wireless connectivity. You can easily work on your projects by taking your computer wherever you want.
Tool Storage
The machine is compatible with 13 different tools for writing, scoring, cutting, etc. It has a USB cable, a docking station for Android or iPhone devices, improved tool storage for blades, and a large storage bin for other supplies.
Print Then Cut Feature
It has a new feature that allows you to design in the Cricut app and then cut it with your machine. An in-built sensor enables the machine to scan and cut where needed. You can make stickers, cake toppers, decals, etc.
How to Use a Cricut Maker Machine?
Though the machine is easy to use, here are some steps which you can follow:
- First and foremost, you need to download Design Space because the crafting machine would not work without it.
- Now, you must design your project using software and connect your machine to your laptop or computer with USB or Bluetooth. The software does come with some built-in designs and projects, which you can also use.
- After that, you have to load the cutting material into the machine.
- Next, select and adjust settings according to your project
- Lastly, send the design to your machine for cutting, which should automatically cut your designs.
Wrapping up
This crafting machine is perfect for avid crafters who like to explore their craft. It is a jewel among the other cutting machines. Nothing is impossible with Cricut Maker. You can use it for various projects, and what makes it more diverse is its advanced cutting features that can cut through several materials, including vinyl, paper, metal, etc. The machine can also be used for designing cards, wooden signs, bookmarks, and more.
With this machine, you can create an endless number of designs and crafts. The flexibility of its tools and features also makes it a really worthy companion for crafters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Materials can Cricut Maker cut?
This machine can cut more than 300+ materials. It has a powerful and advanced motor. The thickest materials the device can cut is up to 2.4mm. It can cut various materials, from delicate paper to tougher ones like vinyl and cardstock. It can also cut basswood with a knife blade and thick fabric materials with a rotary blade.
What tools can I use with Cricut Maker?
You can use a variety of tools, including the ones that come with this machine, or it is also compatible with 13 different tools. It comes with its premium fine-pointed blade tools: knife blade, rotary blade, and foil transfer tools. Some other tools are XL scraper tools, weeding tools, pens, and a Bright Pad.
Do I need an internet connection to use Cricut Maker?
No, you do not need an internet connection if you created your design in the Design Space app and saved it offline on your computer or cloud. Then, you can send and cut your project without having an internet connection. But there are some features for which you will need an internet connection.
How to Connect Cricut Explore Air 2 to Phone Without USB?
If you don’t want to connect your machine to a phone with a USB cable, choose a Bluetooth connection. This connection is wireless and helps you use your machine even when it is located far away from your device.
What Is Cricut Explore Air 2 Bluetooth PIN?
When you connect your machine to a device via Bluetooth, you need to enter a PIN. If you don’t know the PIN, you can just enter “0000” as your PIN and finalize the connection. However, if you know the PIN, enter the specific PIN.
What are the features available in Cricut Design Space?
There are multiple features available in the Cricut Design Space for crafters. These features are great, and you can use them to work on various projects. You can create a design and edit or upload an SVG file. Plus, you can choose different kinds of fonts, or you can choose from their pre-made design and images.