The Cricut machine is a powerful crafting tool that lets you cut shapes from sheets of paper, plastic, cardboard, and many other materials. When your Cricut blade gets old, it usually becomes dull, stops cutting, and needs to be replaced. So, to change the blade, you need to replace it properly and put it in the right position in the machine. When you know how to change Cricut blade, you can cut a variety of things in your machine and will get clean and crisp cuts. Here, check the procedure to change the Cricut blade. Have a look at it.

How To Find The Replacement Blades?

Select A Fine-Point Replacement Blade If You Want To Cut Paper

There are several types of tips of blades you can choose from while replacing your current blade. The blade that comes with a Cricut machine is usually a fine point blade that is good for cutting paper and thin materials like vinyl or iron-on sheets. If any material gets broken by your fingers, cutting with a fine-point blade must be very thin.

Take A Deep Point Blade If You Want To Cut Thick Materials

You can purchase a deep blade point which is good for thick materials like felt or card stock. It’s a good option to use for necessary projects, just like a regular fine-point blade. If you aren’t sure you need a deep-point blade, you should try a fine-point blade. If it’s unable to cut through your material or the cut is uneven, you should try a deep-point blade.

Try having many different blades, which you can change depending on the material you want to cut.

Take A Rotary Or Knife Blade In Case Of A Cricut Maker

The latest Cricut machines have different types of replacement blades. For instance, the rotary blades are specified to cut fabric. While the knife blades are made to cut extra thick materials like balsa wood, which a deep-point blade can cut.

One thing to note here is that the knife blades are only for the Cricut Maker machines. So, you don’t need to buy a new machine if you have one.

How To Change Cricut Blade?

Prepare The New Blade

Remove the packaging of the new blade and all the covers. The blades come with changing caps. These are prepared to cover the blades all time. Also, it keeps crafters safe and protects your fingers.

Insert The New Blade

In this step, insert your new blade into the respective housing. In case you are installing a Fine-point, premium Fine-point, or deep-point blade, grip it strongly by the cutting end and then carefully insert it into the bottom slot of the blade housing. The magnet in the casing will hold the blade in place.

Install Knife Point Blades

When installing a knife point blade, insert your new blade into the slot at the bottom of the housing. Also, the indent on the blade must be aligned with the groove inside the housing. Then, replace the housing screw and twist the changing cap until it clicks. Then, you can remove and dispose of the changing cap.

Install Rotary Blades

You must insert the new blades into the slot at the bottom of the housing when replacing rotary blades. Thereafter, replace and tighten the housing screw which holds the black arm in place. Also, remember that all blades should be paired with appropriate housings. You can reuse your housing unless they are damaged. Avoid using a housing that doesn’t match your Cricut machine type.

Reinstall The Housing

After installing a new blade. You can reinstall the housing. For instance, you should slide the housing into clamp B on the Maker and Explore models. Ensure that the housing is perfectly sitting on the top of clamp B. Then you have to apply a little pressure. Once clamp B is closed properly, it perfectly aligns with clamp A.

In the previous Cricut models, you need to place the blade housing beneath the black tool arm and tighten the screw.

Purchase Replacement Blades

Many crafters want to work with a variety of blades. Every blade works with a particular list of materials. You can purchase the replacement blades and housing directly from the Cricut local stores and Amazon.

What Should You Not Do With Cricut Blades?

As we have discussed that it’s very easy to replace Cricut blades. However, there are a few common mistakes that you need to avoid while you are replacing the blade of your machine.

Don’t Unnecessarily Replace Your Blades

If your previous blades can be improved, you prefer to sharpen them instead of replacing them with new ones. Plus, you can extend your blade’s life with some easy tricks.

Don’t Leave Blades In The Open

Keep your spares and unused blades covered. If you keep them open, you may prick your finger many times. Purchase a tool and blade caddy, or you can make a personalized blade and housing holder.

Don’t Jam The Blades

Always prefer to use the correct blade type and housing pairing. The Cricut machine is designed to be handled in precise pairings. Also, a wrong combination of blades can damage your machine, mat, or even your blade housing.

Conclusion

The blade is the main part of your Cricut machine. Hence, you should keep it sharp and in good condition always. We suggest you always sharpen your blades before replacing them. Replacements are often expensive. We hope the tips and tricks mentioned above helped you learn how to change Cricut blade.

SOURCE: How To Change Cricut Blade? [Learn Here]

If you’re a creative person who likes to build stuff by cutting various materials, then you must get your hands on the brand-new Cricut Explore Air 2.

The Cricut Air 2 is a cutting machine capable of cutting a range of materials. Not only that, it comes packed with a number of features, making it suitable for both DIY users and professionals. It can cut and write 2 times faster than the previous machine model. The Cricut Explore Air 2 can cut more than 100 different types of materials. It cuts everything from vinyl, cardstock, and iron-on to thicker materials like wood and leather.

Don’t know what a Cricut machine is? Don’t worry before going into the Cricut Explore Air 2. We shall briefly explain the Cricut machine itself.

What Is a Cricut Machine?

Cricut Machine is a machine that creates DIY crafts with ease. What kinds of crafts must you be wondering about? Crafts that involve cutting materials precisely.

Well, what kind of material does it cut? With the Cricut Machine, you can cut paper, felt, vinyl, fabric, leather, and even basil wood. There are so many other things it can cut that we can’t even list them all. 

It’s so versatile that you can even use the machine to print intricate designs on your projects.

On top of that, the Cricut Machine is compatible with multiple software programs so that you can experience customizability and efficiency like never before.

Whether you are an experienced crafter or someone who builds causally, the Cricut Machine will indeed have something for you.

What Is Cricut Explore Air 2?

The Cricut Explore Air 2 is a powerful craft-cutting machine that can bring your ideas to life, whether you’re working on a scrapbook, crafting a gift, or designing something unique. It will get the most out of your crafting experience by providing you with top-notch cutting experience and professional cutouts.

The Cricut Air 2 comes with a range of features to make your cutting journey feel effortless. This includes cutting materials like vinyl, paper, felt, and much more. You can also use the machine to write and draw, giving you plenty of options for customizing projects.

Plus, a variety of design software (like the Cricut Design Space) is included to complement the workflow. So you can rest assured that your design journey will be more fun.

Pros:

User-Friendly Design: The Cricut Machine is user-friendly, so you don’t have to worry about searching for tutorials to do the simplest things. The machine’s intuitive design ensures you can use it on your own, even for the first time.

Diverse user case: The machine provides a diverse use case. You can cut, print, and score all with the same machine.

Variety of materials: With this machine, you can cut up to 100+ different types of materials. So you will not find yourself coming across an everyday material this machine can’t cut.

Bluetooth: You don’t have to take the machine around your home whenever you want to export something to cut. The machine is Bluetooth enabled, meaning you don’t need to worry about purchasing and managing the extra cables.

Tools: The machine can add to it several tools to cut, write, score, fold, and other two.

Cons:

Design Space: The Design Space is not that intuitive to use, especially for those who are professional graphic designers and have worked on professional software like Adobe Creative cloud. It makes the features as simple as different grouping elements difficult and lengthy.

Noise: The Cricut Machines are loud when cutting. So, if you are sensitive to loud noises, you might have trouble tolerating these machines.

Features

Some of the salient features of Explore Air 2 machine are as follows:

• It cuts 100+ different types of materials without a hitch.
• Easy to use: The machine is specifically designed, keeping simplicity in mind.
• Wireless Connectivity: The Explore Air 2 comes equipped with Bluetooth, making exporting designs directly to the machine from the computer easy.
• The machine features built-in storage for hosting tools to be used with the machine.
• It comes with a scoring stylus, making folding lines for the envelope and cards easy and convenient. 
• The designer application lets you design from anywhere on the go. Want to design on a mobile device while sitting in a restaurant? No problem.

Pricing

This Explore series, the Cricut’s mid-range device, is not that expensive. And comes with a reasonable price of around $170. This is a bit expensive compared to the Joy series, a low-end price range machine. But when you compare it with the Cricut’s Maker series, it looks inexpensive.

Conclusion

Now that you know the ins and outs of the Cricut Explore Air 2, it is time for you to decide whether this machine is a perfect fit for your needs. It has good features, and the pros it comes up with are also decent. If you ask us, we would say this is a good machine overall.

Keeping all the features, advantages, and disadvantages in mind, we can confidently say that this machine won’t disappoint you for the price it comes up in.

We hope you liked this blog and learned something new, as usual. This will be the best time for you to check out our other blogs in case you are still curious. 

FAQs

Can I Use The Cricut Design Space Without A Subscription?

Yes, you can use the Cricut Design Space even if you don’t have a subscription. However, the functionality will be limited.

What Material Or Tools Are Included In The Explore Air 2 Box?

Here are the materials and tools that are included in the Explore Air 2 box:

• Cricut Explore Air 2 machine
• Premium Fine-Point Blade + Housing
• Fine Point Pen
• LightGrip Mat, 12″ x 12″ (30.5 cm x 30.5 cm)
• 50 ready-to-make projects
• A USB cable & power adapter
• Materials for a practice project

Which Machine To Choose, Cricut Explore Or Maker?

It depends on what you want to create and your budget. The Maker is a premium high-end series that is not targeted toward casual users.

It depends on what you want to create and your budget. The Maker is a premium high-end series that is not targeted toward casual users.

SOURCE: Cricut Explore Air 2: An Ultimate Craft Cutting Machine

Therefore, keep reading this article to the end to accumulate vital pieces of information about the Cricut Joy machine and its features, specifications, and setup process.

What Is Cricut Joy?

Cricut Joy is a small crafting machine and comes in a very compact size. It is lightweight and easily portable. This is a premium die-cutting device that allows you to cut up to 50 different types of materials. Additionally, it can cut up to 4 feet long paper in one go. Plus, it allows you to cut designs without using any mat.

Furthermore, this device is suitable for writing, cutting, and drawing. The compact size of the machine allows you to store it in tiny places. It is best for making numerous small art projects. Also, it can make completing designs using the free Cricut Design Space application/software.

How to Set Up the Joy Machine?

Follow the below steps to connect your Joy machine to your Windows device.

1. First, you have to switch on your Joy machine and place it within the range of 10-15 feet of your computer.
2. Almost every Windows computer device has Bluetooth connectivity. To check Bluetooth connectivity on your computer device, right-click on the Start menu and click on the Device Manager.
3. If your computer does not have Bluetooth compatibility, then you can purchase a USB cable which is called Bluetooth Dongle. This Dongle will enable your computer to pair with other devices.
4. Now, you can close the Device Manager tab.
5. Furthermore, open the Start menu and select the Settings option.
6. In Settings, choose the Bluetooth and other devices option.
7. Make sure Bluetooth is ON and click on Add Bluetooth and other devices.
8. Now, select the Bluetooth option and let it search for your Joy machine.
9. Now, select the Bluetooth option and let it search for your Joy machine.
10. Lastly, when your device is paired, you are good to go.

What’s Included In The Cricut Joy Box?

Here are some of the things that will come with the Cricut Joy if you make your purchase:

• Cricut Joy
• Power Adapter
• Blade
• Materials for your first craft project
• Welcome Card
• StandardGrip cutting mat
• Free Trial for Cricut Access for new members
• Black Fine Point Pen
• 50 pre-designed projects online

What are the specifications of Cricut Joy?

Below are the key features of the Cricut Joy machine.

1. This is compatible with the Cricut Joy Infusible Ink Marker and Pens to draw and write.
2. It supports Bluetooth wireless technology.
3. It uses the Cricut Design Space app to make various stunning designs.
4. The Cricut Joy has a very compact size and weighs only 1.75 KG.
5. This machine can easily cut more than 50 materials, including card stock, iron-on, smart materials, paper, and vinyl.

What Are The Main Features Of Cricut Joy?

For beginners, this cutting machine can produce matless die cuts. It’s handy when it comes to craft projects. It can only do cutting work with some specific materials. It accommodates material up to 20 feet long.

Also, it has its own range of specialty pens used for any number of craft projects. Whether you’re looking to make something stylish, you’re cutting or creating labels for things you have around the house. This machine can do all. It does not use much power like other DIY cutting machines. This makes it easy to complete small craft projects quickly.

It measures and straightens whatever material you put inside it. This machine is great because we sometimes forget to check the material or we will misjudge how much material you need. This compact machine even checks how much you have before the first cut.

The blade that it has is specially created for Cricut Joy. Meaning there’s only one type of blade this small machine can use. The cuts its blade makes are precise. As a result, they make your projects look attractive and premium in quality.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it worth buying a Cricut Joy machine?

Cricut Joy is the most simple and easy-to-use machine offered by Cricut. It is best to perform all the basic tasks, making it a suitable option for beginners. Additionally, its compact size makes it more worthwhile and does not give much hassle in shifting it from one place to another. Besides, keep in mind that this is also one of the most pocket-friendly Cricut devices.

Can the Cricut Joy use any vinyl?

Yes, Cricut Joy is compatible with infusible ink, iron-on materials, vinyl, and some others. However, to use those materials, it is necessary to use the mat. A mat comes with a pack of Cricut Joy when you buy it. Additionally, the purchase includes various other accessories essential for this device.

What can a Cricut Joy not do?

The Cricut Joy is a pretty basic machine that has decent working capabilities and comes with limitations. It is ideal to use this for cutting various soft materials but not for the materials like chipboard, wood, and plastic. Additionally, it cannot cut big designs as it is quite small. But it still can cut the perfect designs for small objects such as coasters, mugs, and other similarly small objects.

How often do you need to change the blade on a Cricut Joy?

If you are a thing, how often do you need to change the blade of Cricut Joy? Well, honestly, it depends on how much you are using the machine and the materials you are using to cut. So, if the use of this machine is average, then you need to change the blades every two to get a flawless result in cutting the designs.

SOURCE: Cricut Joy Review: Best Crafting Machine For Beginners

Many of you might know how designs are made on T-shirts, bags, jackets, shoes, and other everyday items and accessories. Usually, these designs are made in big factories using heavy pieces of machinery. But do you know that you can create customized designs of your choice at your home? There are many crafting machines available in the market that gives you top brand-like results in design making.

When we talk about crafting machines, Cricut machines are one of the most renowned brands for making cutting-edge crafting machines. These machines come with a wide range of features that allow you to finish the design printing task in simple steps with minimal effort. Henceforth, this blog aims to provide A to Z information about the Cricut machine and how you can use them.

Visit: design.cricut.com

What is a Cricut Machine?

A Cricut machine is a digital crafting device that is beneficial to making compelling designs. It allows you to make and cut all kinds of designs printed on a variety of materials, such as iron-on transfer, paper, card stock, and vinyl. Also, some of its machines are able to cut materials like wood and leather.

How to Set Up a Cricut Machine?

Below is the process you can use to set up the Cricut machine on your computer operating systems and mobile devices.

For Mac and Windows devices

1. Visit the cricut.com/setup website on any web browser of your computer device.
2. Then, from the website, download the Cricut Design Space and install it on your PC.
3. After that, do as the on-screen prompt says and use your Cricut ID to sign in. (If you do not have an account or want to make a new one, then you can do it on the website.)
4. Next, on the next page, select the Cricut machine you want to set up.
5. Now, attach the cord of the Cricut device to the power outlet and press the power button to turn it on.
6. You can use either a USB cable or Bluetooth pairing to connect the machine to your computer.
7. A pop-up of Design Space will open to tell you to wait for a while as it is updating the machine.
8. After that, it will tell you to register your Cricut machine and ask you if you will try the free Cricut Access subscription.
9. Finally, perform the remaining steps to create your first craft project on this machine.

For Android and iOS mobile devices

1. Same as computer devices, you have to download the Design Space on your mobile phone.
2. Open the Play Store or App Store based on the smartphone you are using and download the Design Space application from there.
3. After downloading the app, open it and sign in or create a new account on the cricut.com/setup website.
4. Next, click on the Menu bar and then select the machine setup option.
5. Now, choose the Cricut machine you want to set up.
6. For further process, connect the machine to a power outlet, turn it on, and follow the on-screen instructions.
7. Then, you need to use Bluetooth wireless connectivity to connect the printer to your iOS/Android mobile.
8. When the setup process is complete, it will ask you to do a print test.
9. Lastly, you will be able to make unique designs with the help of the Cricut machine.

What are the Best Cricut Machines?

Below is the list of the prominent Cricut machines that are worthwhile options to have.

1. Cricut Maker
2. Cricut Maker 3
3. Cricut Joy
4. Cricut EasyPress Mini
5. Cricut EasyPress 3
6. Cricut MugPress
7. Cricut Auto press
8. Cricut Hat Press
9. Cricut Explore Air 2

What are the Pros and Cons of the Cricut Machine?

Pros

1. Cricut-cutting machines can cut a large number of materials without any hassle.
2. It allows you to make high-quality customized designs very fast.
3. It makes the sticker-making process very easy and straightforward.
4. They come with Cricut Design Space that helps in creating designs.
5. These devices come with Bluetooth connectivity.

Cons

1. The price of the Cricut devices can be the key drawback as they are pretty expensive.
2. The setup process of some Cricut machines is a bit complicated.
3. These devices cannot cut large designs.

Summary

No matter whether you are a beginner or a pro crafter, Cricut machines are the best equipment you can get your hands on. These machines have sharp cutting blades that cut with amazing precision. Plus, with the help of Cricut devices, you can print customized designs on various daily-use products. So, if you want to explore your creativity and have a passion for doing art projects, then having these machines can be a worthwhile choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is owning a Cricut worth it?

Cricut offers a variety of digital crafting machines. So, you can have a machine of your choice, even if you are a beginner or a professional. Additionally, these machines are considered the best devices for crafting.

Which Cricut is best for beginners?

Getting a simple machine is the best option if you are a beginner. Spending a large sum of money is also not a good idea. So, getting Cricut EasyPress Mini and Cricut Joy is the best option to start your crafting passion.

Do you need a laptop to use a Cricut?

No, it is not necessary to have a laptop to operate a Cricut machine. You can connect your machine to your smartphone and create eye-catchy designs by logging in to the Cricut Design App.'

SOURCE: What is a Cricut Machine, And What Does It Do?

Read More: Cricut.com setup Mac

What is a Cricut Machine used for?

Artists, Craft-Enthusiast, and manufacturers use Cricut machines extensively to craft many products. Are you an artist? Do you love making homemade greeting cards or leather purses? Well, the Cricut machine can help. Or you are probably a professional that makes custom T-shirts. Over here as well, Cricut machines come in handy.

The Cricut machines can cut many materials: paper, Vinyl, cardstock, leather, balsa wood, fabrics, and cork. Virtually anything a hardened knife can cut. The only thing that sets a knife cut and the Cricut machine cut aside is the precision and effort. Working with this machine requires way less effort.

How does a Cricut Machine work?

The machine is smart, meaning it receives its input from an intelligent device, i.e., A computer or a mobile. One can create a design or download it from the internet. And after doing that, the machine receives the cutout layout via a wired connection or wireless. After ensuring the proper structure, you fasten the fabric onto the device. Then you choose the appropriate settings, such as material, and the blades do their job upon clicking the start button. And there you go; your professionally made design piece is ready to be worked upon.

Types of Cricut Machines

Circuit Machines come in many sizes. Not only do they have different form factors, but the functionalities they bring are also diverse. And all of the machines are specifically made keeping different users in mind. One has to make a conscious decision when it comes to choosing one. We are discussing a few in brief on this occasion.

The Cricut Joy

The Cricut Joy is a compact machine built keeping portability and accessibility in mind. It cuts materials up to 5.5 inches wide. But when it comes to accessibility, it shines, cutting nearly 40 different materials. The intended users of these machines are casual artists and those who like to develop DIYs (Do it yourselves) from scratch. As a beginner, one is tight on budget, so we recommend this machine to newbies—who are just starting.

Read More…www.cricut.com/setup

Features of Cricut Joy

●     Highly portable: It only weighs 1.75 Kg. Along with that, packing and setting up are fast and effortless.

●     Compact design: The form factor it comes up with is slim and compact. This means it can be easily stored as well.

●     Inexpensive: In comparison with other machines, it is cheap. Certainly, the most affordable among others.

●     Easy connectivity: It connects easily via Bluetooth.

The Cricut Explore 3

Cricut Explore 3 is a machine that comes without the limitations of the device we discussed earlier, i.e., Cricut Joy. It is a full-fledged work machine that has the ability to cut through most materials. And does not require a Cricut mat to cut through, thanks to its ability to use smart materials.

Features of Cricut Explore 3

●     Quality: The output, i.e., the cutout it generates, is of high-quality thanks to the precision cut technology.

●     Relatively Cheaper: The Cricut Explore 3 is cheaper than the Cricut Maker 3.

●     Effective: The machine is competent enough to be used in diverse scenarios, as it can cut over 40 types of materials.

●     Smart Materials: It uses smart materials, which do not require a Cricut mat, and setting up with this can be as fast as 2x.

●     Easy connectivity: It connects easily via Bluetooth.

The Cricut Explore Air 2

This machine equips you with more freedom, and you can delightfully cut more than 100 materials; you will hardly find anything which it can't cut through. Similar to others, this one also lets you import custom-made designs from your computer or portable devices. Even if you don't get any, you can always access the huge library on the internet.

Features of Cricut Explore Air 2

●     Precision: This machine is extremely precise; you won't be compromising on quality, indeed.

●     Fast: It cuts and writes nearly two times faster.

●     Diverse use case: The use case this machine brings with itself is diverse since you can cut through 100+ materials.

●     Easy connectivity: It connects easily via Bluetooth.

Conclusion

This article has been relatively short yet insightful about the Cricut machine family. We first started with understanding Cricut machines. Then we moved on to discussing the use case. And finally, we moved on to discussing different types of these.

FAQs

Do I need a Cricut Machine?

It depends upon who you are and what you want the Cricut machine to do. If your work involves constant cutting and writing on various materials and you want to maintain quality. Then you might need one.

Which one is better, the Cricut Joy or the Cricut Explore 3?

You might prefer Cricut Joy if your workflow is casual and you prefer portability. On the other hand, The Cricut Explore 3 delivers a premium-quality finish. You might choose it if you are a professional.

SOURCE: What Is A Cricut Machine, And How Does It Work?

Maker was always one of the most popular products among crafters. It was launched in 2018 at an initial price of $399. At that time, it was easily the most powerful and fastest Cricut cutting machine for creating DIY projects. It was designed to cut 300+ materials, from anything as soft as paper to stuff as tough as wood.

But, after three years, in 2021, Cricut came up with an even faster and more powerful cutting machine. They named it Cricut Maker 3 Setup.

Now, in this blog, our main motive is to throw light on the Cricut Maker vs Cricut Maker 3 comparison. So, without further ado, let’s discuss the major differences between the two Cricut specials.

Cricut Maker

Cricut specially designed Maker to create anything that was possible. The thing that gave this machine an edge over others was its power. It literally could cut over 300 materials, from soft paper to tough wood. Moreover, it has a large number of tools for creativity, ease of use, and professional-level cutting performance.

Read More...Cricut Mini Setup

Cricut Maker 3

With the new advanced technologies, Cricut took Maker 3 a step ahead of its predecessor. It is two times faster and ten times more powerful than Maker, which simply makes it the supreme Cricut machine. In simple terms, this ultimate smart cutting machine is everything Maker was but faster, more precise, and more powerful.

Cricut Maker 3 Vs. Cricut Maker: Key Differences

Though these two machines have a lot of similarities, there are a few differences as well. This comparison table will clear everything up for you.

As you might have noticed by now, the two machines are almost identical. The only major differences are visible in the smart materials, cut length, and cutting speed sections.

So, we can say that the basic outcome of this table is that Cricut Maker 3 can do everything its predecessor can but a lot faster, mainly because of its cutting speed and material cut length.

Cricut Maker Vs Cricut Maker 3: Price Comparison

Though the two machines were launched with a gap of three years, their starting price difference wasn’t much. Maker and Maker 3’s starting prices were $399.99 and $429.99, respectively.

The current price of Maker is $249.99, while Maker 3 will cost $379.99.

However, simply buying a machine will not make you all set for getting started with a project. You’ll also need a few other supplies, like blades, vinyl, pens, markers, etc. Therefore, please check out their prices as well for your preferred choice of machine before making a purchase.

Cricut Maker Vs Maker 3 Bundles Pricing Comparison

Here’s a table to guide you through the prices of different Maker 3 and Maker bundles available right now on the official Cricut website.

Conclusion

After going through all the similarities and differences between these two machines in this Cricut Maker vs Cricut Maker 3 comparison guide, there’s a very straightforward conclusion that comes out.

If you’re looking to finish your projects as soon as possible or run a business that depends on it, Maker 3 is the one to go with. Without a doubt, it’s the fastest and the most powerful Cricut machine.

However, if you’re someone who just wants to enjoy making crafts for personal experience and money matters to you, then Maker should be the clear choice because of its low cost.

FAQs

What is so special about the Cricut Maker 3?

Cricut Maker 3 has all the features that its predecessor had. But the things that make it special include its cutting speed, its smart cutting system, and smart materials support.

What can the Cricut Maker 3 do that the other machines can’t?

It can handle smart materials, which is unique in itself compared to all the other Cricut machines. It means that other models can only cut materials up to a length of 12 inches, while Maker 3 can go 12 feet (144 inches) long per cut.

Is Cricut Maker discontinued?

After the launch of the new Cricut machine Maker 3, there have been rumors that the previous version has been discontinued. However, it’s just fake news. Cricut is still going strong with the Cricut Maker machines and doesn’t seem to stop manufacturing anytime soon.

SOURCE: Cricut Maker Vs Cricut Maker 3

Cricut machines are great for crafters. They use it to create various creative projects, from attractive gifts to extraordinary homemade objects for friends and family. But with so many uses, the Cricut machines’ mat can wear and tear. With a bit of cleaning effort, you can clean your mat and make it sticky again too. All thanks to the cleaning that can help, you save a little money by avoiding a trip to the shop. In this blog post, we will talk about simple procedures on how to clean Cricut mats.

Visit: Cricut.com/setup

Supplies & Tools Required For Cleaning:

• Dish brush
• Dawn dish soap
• Alcohol-free baby wipes
• Plastic scraper tool (Plastic)
• Lint roller

Different Methods for Cleaning Cricut Mats

Cleaning is a way through which you can extend the life of your Cricut mat. Below we are going to discuss various methods to clean Cricut mats effortlessly. There are three methods of cleaning Cricut mats. They are light-duty, medium-duty, and heavy-duty cleaning.

Method 1: Light-Duty Cleaning

Here are some light-duty cleaning methods you can employ to maintain your mat after every project.

Using Scraper Tool

Use the plastic Cricut scraper tool to scrape off large pieces of leftover material or debris. Just pull the scrapper’s edge tool over your Cricut mat surface. Remember, the device should dislodge an excess amount of material, such as stray hair/fizz.

Lint Roller

Move ahead by rollover the Lint roller over the Cricut mat’s surface. The Lint roller removes small pieces of leftover material stuck to the mat. It will remove small amounts of excess material attached to the Cricut mat. This tool can pick up paper pieces that are smaller in size and glitter or fuzzies.

Using Baby Wipes

Baby wipes are not only the most convenient but also the cheap ones to clean Cricut mats. Apply gentle pressure while ensuring that the adhesive is not scratched off. Once done with the cleaning, let your Cricut mat completely dry. Make sure to wipe the mat in a circular motion.

Method 2: Medium-Duty Cleaning

If none of the above methods worked successfully, then go for the medium-duty cleaning method.

• Use dish soap to wash the mat first.
• Ensure to remove excess material from the Cricut mat via a scraper tool.
• The next step is to lay the mat on a flat waterproof surface.
• At last, ensure the mat is completely dry before making use of them for your purpose.

Method 3: Heavy-Duty Cleaning Methods

For dirty or greasy Cricut mats, you need robust cleaning methods. All you need is LA’s totally awesome spray. First, bring it and then use it to clean the mat. Here are the steps you need to follow.

• First of all, spray your Cricut mat.
• Allow your mat to sit for some time, say 4 to 10 minutes.
• Scrape the residue off using a scrapper tool.
• Then rinse your Cricut mat with warm water.
• At last, let your mat dry.

Methods to Clean Pink Cricut Fabric Mat

Pink Cricut mat actually includes a special type of adhesive that differs from the adhesive on the other mats. The adhesive applied on this mat is delicate; therefore, you need another cleaning method instead of the three mentioned above. To clean this mat, use a tweezer tool. Use it gently while removing more extensive pieces of leftover materials from the mat. Also, remember not to use Awesome spray or harsh cleaning sprays on pink Cricut fabric mats.

Why and How Often Cricut Mat Cleaning is Needed?

Cleaning of mats is required to extend their life. How often it is needed depends on the machine’s type of materials and uses. In case you use a device for materials like leather, denim, or glitter vinyl, it is recommended to clean your Cricut mats more often. Also, try to go for cleaning when the materials start not sticking the way it was done earlier. When you cut wood with the knife blade, clean it properly.

And if you are using it for cutting smooth materials such as vinyl or cardstock, fewer cleanings can work perfectly fine.

Overall, cleaning is directly proportional to using the Cricut Mat and the materials used. But generally, go for Cricut mat cleaning at least once a week if you use it regularly. Cricut mats tend to last for about 40-45 uses; after this, they start wearing out. You can see them losing their stickiness after some time. One of the ways to extend its life is by cleaning and understanding the procedures to make it sticky again.

How to make a Cricut Mat Sticky Again

Most often, cleaning can make your Cricut mat sticky again. Below we have provided simple instructions to make your old Cricut mat sticky again.

• Use baby wipes, soap, and water to clean your mat first. Make sure the dirt has been removed properly.
• Once cleaning is done, tape off your Cricut mat’s edges and prepare it for new adhesive.
• In the next step, apply the new adhesive and let it dry. You can wait 10-15 minutes to use it for your project.

When you find that your Cricut mat is losing its stickiness, implement the steps in this blog. It is suggested to start with the gentlest methods and then move to the complex techniques if required. Furthermore, go through the most commonly asked questions below if you have any queries or concerns. This will help you clear your thoughts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Off-brand Mats Work for The Cricut?

In case you use an off brand cutting mat in your Cricut machine, you need to note that

How to Differentiate a green and blue Cricut mat?

You can differentiate them based on color. The standard grip mat is green in color, whereas the light grip mat is blue colored.

How Many Times Can I Use a Cricut Mat?

In general, a Cricut cutting mat tends to last for 40-45 uses. But you can use it more or less as per how it behaves. There are different types of Cricut mats, each with a different level of adhesive. Thus, their uses can vary too.

SOURCE: How To Clean The Cricut Mat? [3 Methods Explained]