Craftmanship is a fun activity that allows us to create the most amazing projects using simple materials.
For beginners, getting to develop their ideas may be tricky, but the whole experience gets easier and better over time if you use the right tools.
One of those essential tools is the best Cricut machine for beginners, which we’ll find through the next reviews.
The Cricut machines included here delivered exceptional results. With reliable hardware and state-of-the-art software, these devices will make your ideas a reality.
So, are you ready to find out what you can do with these machines? Then let’s not waste any time!
Our Top 3 Recommendations – Cricut Machine For Beginners
“Following are the top three recommended products based on personal experience and customer feedback”
- Cricut Explore Air 2 Machine Bundle – (Premium Pick)
- Cricut Champagne Maker – (Runners Up)
- Cricut Explore Air 2, Mint – (Editors’ Choice)
Top 10 Best Cricut Machine For Beginners Reviews
The following products proved to be the most reliable Cricut machines out there. Reliability, efficiency, and versatility are some of the benefits you can expect from these devices. Let’s see what else they have to offer!
1. Cricut Maker, Champagne
To understand the incredible performance, we have to take a closer look at the parts featured.
The Cricut Maker wouldn’t be as efficient as it is without its outstanding rotary blade, for starters. This particular piece is capable of cutting through almost every fabric. Not only that, but the cuts are quick and accurate, with no backing material needed.
The knife blade is another highlight. It operates like an X-ACTO once the machine is active, and its performance is far from dull. Whether you cut thin or thick materials, the result is pretty much what you expect it to be every time.
Other useful items included with the machine are the Fine Point Pen and two 12×12-inch cutting mats. You’ll have everything needed to complete your first project.
Besides giving you the tools for your success, this purchase helps with the creative process too. The machine comes with design apps for several devices like Windows or Mac, and iOS or Android phones. Additionally, you get 50 ready-to-make project designs and 25 sewing patterns.
With this Cricut machine and the accessories included, you’ll be ready to go. The process to use the device isn’t hard either, since you only have to choose the pattern, print, and sew afterward. Both beginners and professionals will be able to enjoy this device.
As two minor nitpicks, we have to mention the following issues. First, the fabric left behind after the cutting is difficult to clean. Secondly, if you want to use the woodcutter, you’d have to buy it separately.
Other than that, this product delivers in every front.
Pros:
- Easy to set up and use, with step-by-step tutorial
- Rotary blade plus drive housing
- Many accessories are included, such as two mats.
- Pre-made projects and sewing patterns included.
Cons:
- Woodcutter not included.
- After cutting, the fabric left behind is tough to clean.
2. Cricut Maker, Lilac
The Cricut Marker Lilac is a variation to the Champagne, which we reviewed previously. This model features a beautiful black and purple design that easily blends with the room’s decoration. Another difference is the price since the Lilac is slightly more affordable than the Champagne.
Like its predecessor, this Cricut Maker model handles fabric, leather, paper, and even balsa wood with high precision. With only a few clicks, you’ll be able to cut sewing patterns perfectly. If you were looking for a smart cutting machine, then this product may be it.
The performance put up by this machine is quite similar to the rest. Internally, the mechanism features perforation tools such as the knife blade, which is more than capable of cutting thin and thick materials.
However, customers have pointed out that the rotary blade, for some reason, didn’t come in their packages. This issue is not a regular problem, but make sure to clear any doubt with the manufacturer before purchasing it.
Thanks to the adaptive tool system, the machine offers outstanding technology that controls the blade’s direction, adding more force if needed. With 50 ready-to-make projects and a virtual sewing pattern library, you’ll have plenty of possibilities to complete each one of your projects.
The Design Space software also improves the experience. It’s quite easy to learn, and it offers users options to print, cut, and more. You can use this feature on devices like Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac.
In all honesty, there aren’t many differences between the Lilac and Champagne Cricut Makers. Other than some aesthetic changes and a lower price, everything else is the same.
Pros:
- Beautiful color design
- Available at a price lower than the alternatives
- Quality perforation tools for thin and thick materials
- Adaptive tool system
- Digital pattern library
- Compatible with iOS, Android, PC, and Mac
Cons:
- Customers have reported missing pieces.
3. Cricut Explore Air 2 Machine Bundle
As stated in the name, this purchase includes the Cricut Explore Air 2 Machine Bundle. Once you get the package, you will receive a remarkable cutting machine and many tools for your projects.
We’ll talk a little more in-depth about the Cricut machine later on, but for now, let’s discuss some of the accessories included in the package.
With this purchase, you receive plenty of tools such as the USB and the US standard power cord. There’s a beginner’s guide, pens and cardstock sample, and the Cricut tool kit, which features a spatula, scraper, scissors, tweezers, and sharp hook.
Users will also appreciate the exclusive vinyl designs, including project inspiration and a digital book to improve their technique. The four Glitter Heat Transfer sheets are pretty useful too, and their colors may vary.
At this point, you’re probably thinking to yourself, what a great deal. No doubt, all of these tools only improve the machine’s performance, but there are some disadvantages.
For instance, as a beginner, you may not need all of those accessories in the first place. If you were to buy them separately, you would find them at a more affordable price.
Those are only a few of the reasons why this package is more suitable for people that want to go all in. If you’re not sure that these crafting activities are what you want to do, perhaps considering another option would be a better idea.
Still, that doesn’t mean the machine and the accessories are useless. On the contrary, each item works great for each project.
Pros:
- A ton of accessories to help you get started
- Includes the powerful Cricut Explore Air 2 machine
- Guide books included
- Wireless cutting through Bluetooth
- Smart Set Dial for easy adjustments
Cons:
- Beginners may not need all of the accessories included.
- Buying the accessories may be less expensive if you do it separately.
4. Cricut Maker Machine Sewing Bundle
After reviewing the Cricut Maker machine, it’s quite clear why many people prefer it over other devices. It offers great performance, plenty of versatility to work with many materials, and user-friendly features for everyone to enjoy.
If you liked it as much as we, and many other people did, then you should definitely consider this option too.
Other than the Cricut Maker, this purchase includes a bundle featuring plenty of accessories. A couple of those items are the FabricGrip and LightGrip Mat, both measuring 12×12-inch equally. These mats are incredible because they allow you to do so many things with them.
Besides the mats and other useful accessories, the purchase includes a welcome book. The guide is quite convenient, as it provides an insightful tutorial for beginners. Every step and instructions are easy to follow, allowing you to familiarize yourself with how the machine works.
As for the bundle, the lack of weeding tools is a bit disappointing. You’d think that those tools would also come with purchasing the many items offered, but that’s not the case. If you want them, you’ll have to buy them separately.
Pros:
- Outstanding Cricut Maker machine and many accessories included.
- An efficient rotary blade offers precision.
- Includes two useful mats
- Fine point pen for your drawings
- Book for beginners
Cons:
- The package doesn’t include weeding tools for vinyl.
5. Cricut Maker Machine Bundle 4 Iron-on Permanent Vinyl
Here we have another bundle that includes a Cricut Maker machine and a variety of accessories. Just like the other similar packages we’ve seen so far, this one includes useful items that you can use in many ways to create the most thoughtful projects.
Some of the items included in this purchase are the Cricut Maker machine, fabric samplers, XL scraper, a washable fabric pen, and a couple of mats.
As mentioned above, the machine offered here is the Cricut Maker model. We reviewed it earlier, and we liked its cutting capacity, the blade’s precision, and the many projects and sewing patterns included.
This machine’s downsides are still the same as in the first review; a missing woodcutter and a particularly difficult-to-clean fabric after you finish the project.
Pros:
- Includes Cricut Maker machine
- Helpful bundle with many accessories for beginners
- Essential maker tools like a washable pen
- Design Space plus a tutorial of how to use it
Cons:
- The accessories included are less expensive if you buy them separately.
6. Cricut Explore Air 2 Mint
The Explore Air 2 model is a machine that could easily go unnoticed. It’s a simple device without a flamboyant design. However, after trying it, people can quickly tell why it could be the best Cricut machine to buy, depending on your budget and needs.
This machine is capable of cutting incredibly fast, surpassing some of its predecessors. Choosing the speed is up to you, as the device offers two modes: normal and fast. Both modalities are outstanding, allowing you to cut at the most convenient speed for more precision and accuracy.
Particularly, the fast mode is beneficial if you’re working on a tight schedule.
The Air 2 gives you access to more than 50,000 images to print, and 920 printable patterns are included. If necessary, you can upload your own designs for printing too. Once you upload your preferred design, the machine works on materials like vellum or thicker ones such as leather.
Undoubtedly, this machine does it all. You’ll have options to create snowflake designs, spider webs, 3D paper crafts, envelopes, and many more. By featuring more than 370 fonts, users have the opportunity to make their projects look just like how they imagined them.
Ideally, you’d want to use the Air 2 for light tasks. Since it measures 12×12 inches, wide and long, the machine won’t offer the largest cutting width.
The lack of an Android app for Design Space is another issue. Yes, there’s an iOS app, but it doesn’t make much sense that there isn’t one Android device. Fortunately, the addition of Bluetooth technology does provide more compatibility with different devices.
Pros:
- Available in different colors
- Different cutting speeds
- Test project included for beginners
- High-quality mat included
- Bluetooth compatibility
Cons:
- Not a large cutting width
- Lacks an Android app for Design Space
7. Cricut Explore Air Wireless Cutting Machine
The following machine features modern technology to back you up as you fulfill your projects. For instance, the system includes embedded Bluetooth, allowing you to perform wireless cutting if needed. There’s no need to be nearby the machine to follow through with your designs.
Like most other Cricut machines, this model has a dual carriage design too. You get to do either cutting and writing or cutting and scoring in one step.
Another benefit is uploading your own images, supporting the most popular formats like .jpg or .png, and the less popular such as .dxf and .bmp. Use those images to cut more than 60 materials, varying from vellum to leather, and more.
Regardless of the material, the machine’s cutting is precise. The software used is the Smart Set Dial, which is a traditional feature in most Cricut. There’s no denying how efficient this system is, as it cuts through the materials with no issues.
Other standard features offered by this machine are the Cricut Design Space and the app for your phone. These are two simple yet satisfactory elements that let your creativity run free.
Nonetheless, previous customers have complained about the Cricut Design Space only working if you have an internet connection. The fact that you can’t use it otherwise is a little disappointing. It’s even worse if you have WiFi, but the connection drops regularly.
Had the manufacturer included the option to work with the Design Space offline, there’s no doubt that using this machine would’ve been a flawless experience.
Pros:
- Embedded Bluetooth allows wireless cutting.
- Dual carriage design
- It supports a lot of image formats
- Smart Set Dial for more versatility
- Includes storage compartments
Cons:
- Design Space requires an internet connection, limiting your work freedom.
8. Cricut Explore Air 2, Persimmon
As long as it works, there’s no need to change it. That seems to be the premise of this machine. It’s slightly different from the rest in terms of design, but this model also shares plenty of similarities we’ve seen in previous devices.
For instance, we have the Smart Set Dial. It’s an intuitive dial that allows you to choose the material of your preference, which then the machine cuts once set. The right cutting depth and speed adjust after choosing the material, providing great accuracy for better results.
You can also adjust the machine’s working speed to a fast mode. In this particular setting, the device can cut thin materials such as vinyl and paper faster than normal. As you can see, the machine is effective and efficient in saving you a lot of time.
Although the machine cuts thin materials easily, you may have trouble with thicker items. Keep an eye out for any issues if you decide to work with fabric.
The accessories included in the purchase are yet another reason to consider buying this product. Some of those items are the colorful Cricut pens, which you can use to write or draw your customized projects. There’s the scoring stylus too, which helps you create 3D paper art, among other tasks.
Very much like most other Cricut machines, this model uses web-based software. It’s beneficial for beginners, but the need for an internet connection to access the software makes it rather unpleasant for many people.
Pros:
- Gorgeous design
- Different cutting speed and Smart Set Dial
- Double tool holder for more convenience
- Wireless performance through Bluetooth technology
- High precision while working on vinyl or cardstock
Cons:
- Not the most suitable machine for thick materials
- Web-based software requires an internet connection.
9. Cricut Expression 2 Electric Cutting Machine
This machine is as fun as it’s convenient. By ditching the use of a computer, you’ll have the freedom to move it between rooms or take the device with you wherever you go without issues. Although it isn’t the most powerful, it still has enough power to cut materials from 3/4” to 23.5”.
Just because it doesn’t require a computer, it doesn’t mean the machine isn’t interactive. In fact, the LCD touchscreen is surprisingly colorful, allowing you to move and manipulate images easily.
Once you connect it online to the Circuit Craft Room Software, you’ll have many images to use for your projects.
As mentioned above, this device can cut 3/4” to 23 1/2 images, with the option to print them too. Additionally, there’s a mat that you can acquire that measures 12×24-inch, though you must buy it separately.
While the machine is compatible with every Cricut cartridge, it’ll only cut them, not print them. Due to the Cricut Sync software, users will have the option to make free updates to their Expression 2 models.
Using Expression 2 isn’t difficult at all. It may take some time to learn, but the controls are quite user-friendly once you get there. You can choose the designs after plugging the cartridge into the machine, and then you can adjust those designs by moving them around or resizing them.
When compared to other models, Expression 2 does have some flaws that you can’t ignore. One of the most noticeable is the working speed. Using the fifth speed setting on this machine resembles only the original expression models’ third speed setting.
Pros:
- Option to customize the size and number of cuts
- Option to plug the cartridges directly into the machine
- Intuitive LCD touchscreen
- Pre-loaded cartridge content
Cons:
- Not as powerful as the original Expression models
- Performs noticeably louder than other Cricut Machines
10. Cricut Explore Air 2 Mint (Renewed)
Many times, when brands renovate old products, people are wary of their capabilities. It isn’t very often that a company can pull it off, but in this case, the renewed Cricut Explore Air 2 Mint does provide plenty of new features to your advantage.
The machine looks, feels, and operates as if it was new. After a thorough inspection, testing, and repackaging, what you get is a competent device for your crafting. However, some of the accessories advertised may not be included, like the booklet or the mats.
While working on your projects, you’ll be able to upload your preferred images out of Cricut’s library, which includes pre-made designs. For more convenience, the machine features a double tool holder that you can use to cut and write or to cut and score in one step.
Cricut doesn’t only allow you to access its design software, but the brand also gives you plenty of freedom. Depending on your projects, you can create and design your personal devices such as a computer or tablet,s and smartphones using the app.
After designing your project, making the cutting is easy and simple. Thanks to the Smart Set Dial, the machine delivers cuts with proper depth and pressure to be as precise as possible. If the material is a little tough, the internal mechanism adjusts the pressure to pierce through it properly.
For a renewed Cricut machine, this device meets most of the expectations. The missing accessories could be a deal-breaker, so keep that issue in mind and contact the seller before purchasing. It’ll help you clear any doubts.
Pros:
- A renewed machine that works like new
- Capable of creating vinyl, stickers, home décor, apparel, and more
- Option to upload images from Cricut’s library
- Apps available
- Smart Set Dial for accurate cuts
Cons:
- In some cases, the package is missing a few accessories.
FAQs About Cricut machine
Are You Looking For Cricut Machine for Beginners? Here’s What You Need to Consider
If you’re wondering what is the ideal Cricut machine for beginners, there are a few considerations that’ll help you sort out the many options. Keep the next information in mind before purchasing anything.
Machine Model
Every Cricut machine seems to be better than the previous one, but that’s not really the case. Each model may offer a unique power capacity, which is why you must be aware of whether your preferred machine is powerful enough for your tasks. Otherwise, you’ll end up frustrated and disappointed.
Cutting Capacity
The width cutting capacity is essential for some tasks. Make the wrong measurement, and that incredible idea on your head will turn out to be awful once you print it. Most Cricut machines have different width cutting capacities, so make sure to pick the one that matches your projects properly.
Ease of Use
If you’re a beginner, the last thing you want to have is a complicated machine. Fortunately, the devices reviewed here are very much user-friendly for beginners, amateurs, and professionals.
Features like the Smart Set Dial make everything easier for you, as it allows making the right adjustments without a hassle.
Versatility
Doing any crafting project encourages us to create new and more exciting ideas. A versatile Cricut machine can turn those ideas into a reality, as it makes it possible to work with various materials. Not only will the machine cut through thin materials, but it also works well for thick items.
However, not every machine is capable of doing that without issues. So, consider the options and pick the most suitable for your line of work.
Technology
As you’ve seen during our reviews, the Cricut machines are compatible with other devices. You can use them with smartphones, tablets, and even computers. After establishing a connection between the two devices, be it through an app or Bluetooth, you can do the cutting from far away.
Now, some Cricut machines won’t connect with the devices mentioned above. In some cases, the machines do have iOS compatibility, but not Android. If you plan to use your phone to control the Cricut, make sure they’re both compatible first.
Accessories
For a successful operation, you’ll need some accessories like mats and more. Luckily, every Cricut machine comes with these items included, which makes the whole learning process easier.
In some cases, the accessories included are too many, especially if you decide to go for a Cricut Maker Bundle. Although each of those items serves a purpose, you may not even need them in the first place.
Even if you need them later on, buying the accessories may be the better choice if you do it separately.
Design
The Cricut machine’s design is essential, but we all love our tools to look great. Fortunately, there’s a lot of variety when it comes to these machines, meaning you’ll have many options to pick the model you like the most.
Price
Even if you feel like going all-in and investing a lot of money to get an expensive machine, perhaps going for a cheap Cricut will be the best. As a beginner, you may end up not liking it, which would mean that you’d have to get rid of the machine afterward.
Final Words
The best Cricut machine for beginners offers features easy to understand and versatility to create many projects. If you were looking for the right tools to make your ideas a reality, then you’ve come to the right place. Try one of the products reviewed here, and let your creativity flow.