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January 10, 2019 by Sue Ellen

Getting to Know My New Cricut Maker

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Getting to know my new cricut make3
Getting to know my new cricut make3
Getting to know my new cricut make
Getting to know my new cricut make

Last Updated: December 18, 2019

after reverse canvas

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 New Cricut Maker Dream Comes True

my new cricut and tools

I took the plunge and bought a new Cricut Maker because I’d been drooling over them for years. I’m a total newbie! Taking a little time getting to know my new Cricut maker because it is like a foreign object to me! Intimidating! I’m pinning Cricut ideas and watching YouTube’s about the Cricut Maker and projects like a fiend! I feel another craft obsession coming on, oh my! Seems like a good idea to watch a few videos to familiarize yourself with the Cricut machine before using it. There is tons of information out there, it’s overwhelming! First thing to do is download the Design Space app for the patterns. It’s certainly time to take it out of the box and stop being afraid of it! On to learn more!

This post probably contains affiliated links. My full disclosure policy is boring, but you can find it HERE.

Where to Put it

Cricut on a messy desk

I’m going to put it on my sewing desk. The sewing machine will have to be moved every time I use the Cricut Maker because my space in the craft room is so limited. It’s what I have to do when cutting fabrics for projects already so no big deal. Does anyone have enough space for their hobbies?! Now I’m going to use it for the first time.
First cricut project
let it snow framd
The card project turned out great. The thrill of watching it in action certainly has made me a full-fledged addict to Cricut! Excitedly, I dove in and made several projects. Trial and error are the best teachers! I made a lot of mistakes but as a result, I’m not afraid of it any more!
I’m excited! Joined some groups on Facebook that have the most amazing members. They are always willing to help you out when you get stuck or have a question. I’ve learned so many invaluable things from them, therefore they are my go-to for answers.

See all the Free Projects in Cricut Design Space

Lots of Projects

let it snow frameGlass candle holder with snow flakes

I’ve learned you don’t mirror the images for stencils or transfers the hard way! I was able to save my second mistake by putting it in the inside of the glass and backing it with solid green making a mistake something beautiful! Plus I’m thinking that frame stuff might do better that way…hum? File that away for future reference.
Practice makes perfect and I’ll need a little more practice on rounded things like cups and mugs! For now I’m happy with flat projects. I’m becoming comfortable with design space. Having learned about Canva for my blog is going to be a double score because I can make patterns there also!* (Inkspace might be better after learning more about pattern making, but you can use the .png from Canva too) Check out my first attempts. Jim’s cup is my only original design shown below.
Peace love joy with deer and Christmas tree
Welcome Sign
cup and candlePersonalized bottom of the coffee cup
candle lantern with home sweet home on it
Baby It's Cold Outside sign in a greenery wagon

Pattern Making and More Projects

Pinterest and YouTube will definitely educate you on all the ins and outs of the machine. I would suggest subscribing and following some of the top Cricut people. I like Tanner Bell, Jennifer Maker and Melody Lane, but there are many good ones out there willing to teach you. This thing is so versatile, it’s amazing. I have so much more to learn, but after a good three week in, I feel great about my future with my new baby! After learning all the things you could do with fonts, I made my own pattern for my first reverse canvas. It turned out OK, but next time I will make the letters bigger to show more color. The urge to put vinyl on everything is real! Once bitten, there is no turning back! Just ask my neighbor, I put leftovers on her container that she shared food with me in!
before reverse canvas
after reverse canvas
neighbors bowl
Goodwill find, sled cricutized

YouTube Is Your Friend

So after about 6 weeks I’ve taught myself how to do many things with the help of trusty YouTube. I’ve learned the basics of applying vinyl to different surfaces, made some reverse canvases, etched glass and learned to make QR codes and sound waves. I didn’t even know these things existed!  It’s not been all fun and games though not too many fails to discourage me. Just learn from the mistakes and move on. I have enough confidence to offer a few things over at my Etsy shop.

QR code and Soundwave DemoI love you with all my heart QR code and Sound Wave Frame

deer in trees
small shovel with let it snow on it
So in conclusion, if you can afford a new Cricut maker, I highly recommend you get yourself one and enjoy it! I’m saving up for the easy press 2 next so I can do iron on transfers! What would you make? If you have, one feel free to share your projects.
Please a leave a comment below to inspire us.

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Valentine qr

Personalized QR Code and Sound Wave Frame

Clean creative space

Behind the Scene Glimpse at my Craft Areas

How to Make a Sun Catcher Tutorial

How to Add Sparkle to a Tree with Sun Catchers

 

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Comments

  1. Liss says

    May 28, 2020 at 4:12 AM

    Mmm I’m not sure whether to get one or a brother scan n cut ?

    Reply
    • Sue Ellen says

      May 28, 2020 at 7:41 AM

      All I can tell you is I love my Cricut Maker. I’ve been crafting and sewing for almost 50 years and this machine is a tremendous addition to my craft room. Good luck with your choice.

      Reply

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