What Is Cricut Machine Used For? [A Beginner’s Guide]
Have you received a Cricut machine as a birthday or Christmas gift but don’t know what the Cricut machine is used for? Or maybe you’re already thinking about getting one but are confused about which Cricut model you should start with?
Even if you already have a Cricut machine. Maybe you’re still a little intimidated by the process and overwhelmed by the confusing instructions you got earlier. We will explain in depth, but in bite-sized portions, so it’s easy to understand and follow.
After reading this Cricut machine for beginners guide, you will know if the Cricut machine is right for you and which model will help you the most. So, you can be assured that you are getting the right Cricut machine for your needs.
What Is a Cricut Machine? And How Does it Work?
A Cricut machine is an electronic cutting machine that can cut and draw any size and shape on paper and other materials such as vinyl, fabric, leather, and even wood. It is basically a new-age paper guillotine, but with many exciting features like the ability to create your own designs on the machine.
This makes crafting more exciting and reduces the time it takes to work traditionally, which may require cutting each shape individually.
Different models of Cricut machines are available in the market, each machine with distinctive features. However, the main function of the Cricut machine remains the same for all models – shaping onto paper or any other material that fits into the machine.
How does it work? Each model consists of a blade (which can be fixed or retractable), a motor, and a cartridge. The blade is responsible for cutting through material, while the motor drives the blade down on your selected design.
Cartridges have different versions depending on the Cricut model. For example, it may have an e-cutter that you can use to cut out pre-created designs, which allows you to create your designs on the machine.
The Cricut machine works like a printer. You make a design as an image on your computer, then send that image to your machine via a USB cable or Bluetooth connection.
The Cricut machine contains a small computer that controls the cutting blade. Your Cricut machine works similarly for writing, scoring, engraving, or embossing. Your design is sent to the Cricut machine, and the computer inside tells the pen what to write. It can also control various other tools to create your creation.
Uses of Various Cricut Machines
Currently, there are 3 types of Cricut machines available in the market: the Cricut Explore Series, Cricut Maker, and Cricut Joy.
Cricut Explore Series
Cricut Explore Series has three versions: Cricut Explore One, Cricut Air, and Cricut Explore Air 2. Cricut Explore machines can cut various materials such as paper, vinyl, cardstock, heat transfer vinyl, light acetate, etc. Cricut Explore machines cut the material with a fine pointed blade in the housing mounted on the machine.
Cricut Explore (as well as Cricut Maker & Joy) machines have a place to insert the pen so that you can also “draw” with the Cricut machine.
With the Cricut Explore 3, Cricut introduces smart materials that allow you to cut without using a mat.
Cricut Maker
Cricut Maker uses the Cricut Explore by adding the ability to change cutting tools on the machine. This machine has changeable tools like a rotary blade, knife blade, and embossing blade. By changing tools on the machine, you can cut various materials such as paper, vinyl, cardstock, fabric, leather, and wood.
In 2021, Cricut released the Cricut Maker 3. Cricut Maker is a single model with 3 different colors: champagne, blue, and pink. Cricut Maker also has more “force” when it cuts than the Cricut Explore, cutting those materials more efficiently.
Cricut Joy
Cricut Joy is a small and portable machine. It cut material up to 6″ wide and without a mat. It’s great for “crafting on the go” or home organization projects.
Is a Cricut Machine Worth it?
If you love to create DIY craft projects, especially with paper, cardstock, and vinyl—a Cricut machine is a good buy. It makes your cut projects look crisp and professional, and once you’re confident using it, your craft projects will be much quicker to drive with a Cricut machine. You can make money from a Cricut machine by selling custom t-shirts, mugs, decals, tote bags, etc.
Conclusion
A Cricut machine delivers a smart solution to your DIY craft project needs by reducing the time and effort required to create custom projects. With a bit of research, before you purchase, you’ll be able to find a Cricut machine that meets all of your needs at a price you can afford. If you’re looking for a hobby that keeps your mind active or need something new to do with the kids during the school holidays, consider buying one of these Cricut machines.
Visit: Cricut.com/setup
Source: https://steps4cricut.com/what-is-cricut-machine-used-for/