10 Cricut Tips & Tricks for the Beginner Crafter (ultimate cricut cheat sheet inside)

Are you a beginner crafter looking to make the most of your Cricut projects? If so, you've come to the right place! This blog post is the ultimate guide for Cricut tips and tricks for the beginner crafter. Whether you're looking to make money with your Cricut or simply want to take your craft projects to the next level, this guide has all the information you need to get started. So grab your Cricut machine and let's get crafting! ( pssst ultimate Cricut cheat sheets inside)

Cricut Hack #1 : use a straight edge to trim vinyl to avoid uneven edges
Vinyl cutting with a Cricut machine is a breeze, but getting clean, even edges can be a challenge. That's where this first hack comes in. Grab a straight edge, like a ruler or a T-square, and place it alongside your vinyl design. Then, use a craft knife or a blade to trim the excess vinyl, following the straight edge as a guide. This simple trick ensures a precise, professional finish and eliminates any unsightly jagged edges. This will ensure a more even roll of vinyl to work with on your next project AND can make it easier to align your design on your blank for "straightness". Now you can confidently create flawless vinyl projects with your Cricut machine.

Cricut Hack #2: Iron on Vinyl with Cricut Mini Press
If you're looking to personalize shirts, tote bags, shoes, or even wood projects with iron-on vinyl, the Cricut Easy Mini-Press is your new best friend. This compact and portable heat press is perfect for smaller projects like pocket tee designs, small wood projects, project for children, shoes, and more. Simply cut out your design using the Cricut machine, place it on your blank, and use the Easy Mini-Press to adhere the vinyl. Its precise temperature control ensures a strong and long-lasting bond. With this Cricut hack, you can create beautifully customized shirts or other iron-on compatible fabrics and blanks with ease and confidence. Say goodbye to peeling and lifting vinyl and hello to professional-looking designs. Sometimes I even take mine on the go because it's so portable! 

Cricut Hack #3: Download Free Fonts Online
If you're looking to expand your font options for your Cricut machine, you're in luck! There are plenty of websites out there that offer free fonts specifically for cutting machines like Cricut. Simply search for "free fonts for Cricut" online, and you'll find a plethora of options to choose from. Once you've found a font you like, download it onto your computer and install it into your Cricut Design Space. Now you can take your designs to the next level with unique and eye-catching fonts, all without breaking the bank. If you'd like access to more fonts within Cricut Design Space, I highly recommend checking out Cricut Access. It's got endless font options right there within Cricut Design Space for a low monthly fee! 

Cricut Hack #4 : Embossing with your Cricut
Did you know that you can achieve a faux embossed look with your Cricut machine? If you're using a Cricut Explore, simply insert the scoring stylus and tell Cricut Design Space to score the desired design. While it won't be a true emboss, it will give you a similar textured effect. To get the best results, try placing something with a little give, like a mouse pad, under the material to allow for more depth. If you have a Cricut Maker, you can use the debossing tool for even more intricate and professional-looking designs.

Cricut Hack #5: Reuse Your Transfer Tape
Did you know that you can reuse your transfer tape when working with your Cricut machine? It's true! Instead of throwing away your transfer tape after one use, carefully peel it off your project and store it on its backing sheet for future use. This hack not only saves you money but also reduces waste. Just make sure the transfer tape is clean and free from any debris before using it again. Now you can stretch your crafting budget even further with this simple trick.

Cricut Hack #6: Transfer Tape Hack
If you're working on a project that requires applying vinyl to curved surfaces, Cricut Hack #6 is a game-changer. Instead of struggling to get the vinyl to adhere smoothly without any wrinkles or bubbles, try cutting slits in the transfer tape. This allows the vinyl to mold to the curves without any issues. Simply place the transfer tape over the vinyl design, then use a craft knife to make small, strategic slits. This hack makes it easier to apply the vinyl smoothly and achieve professional-looking results on curved surfaces.

Cricut Hack #7: Cut Matting Mat Hack
Extend the life of your Cricut cutting mat with this simple hack! If you notice that your mat has started to lose its stickiness, don't worry. You can repair it using duct tape or Gorilla tape. Simply place the tape over the worn areas, making sure to smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles. This quick fix won't last forever, but it will give your mat some extra life before needing to invest in a new one. Keep crafting without worry and save some money in the process with this Cricut hack! And if your mat is JUST starting to lose stickiness, always try washing it with dish soap and a scrub brush first! Sometimes, this can give you just the fresh start you've been looking for. 

Cricut Hack #8: Design Space
One of the most useful hacks in Cricut Design Space is the ability to change the color of the mat. This is especially helpful when working with a white design, as it can be difficult to see on a white mat. To change the color, simply click on the rectangle near the bottom of the Layers Panel. Then, go to the top menu and select the square that says Color. A dropdown menu will open up, allowing you to choose the color you want. This simple trick makes it easier to visualize and design your projects in Design Space.

Cricut Hack #9: Weeding Hack
One of the most beloved weeding hacks among Cricut crafters is weeding on the mat. It's like having a third hand to hold down the vinyl while you carefully remove the excess. This hack not only makes the process easier but also helps prevent the vinyl from lifting or shifting. Remember to burnish well before you start weeding to ensure a strong bond. Weeding on the mat is a game-changer for any beginner crafter looking to create clean and precise vinyl projects with their Cricut machine.

Cricut Hack #10 | Use Cricut Cheat Sheets

So, you've made it to the grand finale of our Cricut tips and tricks! Drumroll, please...It's time to introduce you to the one and only, the Ultimate Cricut Cheat Sheet!  This handy guide is your secret weapon in the world of Cricut crafting. It's packed with tips, tricks, and all the inside information you need to master your Cricut machine like a boss. From how to use the machine to troubleshooting advice and a list of materials that work best, this cheat sheet has got your back. So grab a pen and get ready to level up your crafting game with this ultimate Cricut resource!

Click here to access the ultimate cricut cheat sheet guide 

Happy Crafting :)