Where to get started with a Cricut in the classroom...

Hi friends!  

​I have a pretty full Facebook group/community called Cricut for Teachers!  Where other teachers share ideas and inspiration for using their Cricut machines to in the classroom.  Feel free to join if you're a beginner, expert, Silhouette User or even if you're just thinking about joining.  Everyone is welcome!

Thinking about purchasing a Circut Machine for your classroom or personal use? 

Get started can be the hardest step. I have owned three machines over the past ten years and they are all high quality machines. I have owned the Expression, Air 2 and then I was gifted the Maker or I would have kept my Air 2 for YEARS.  I used it for my small business, classroom, and made signs and items to sell. It is a well loved machine that I still use. 

I thought I would make a post to answer some questions that seem to come up the most.  Let me know if you think of anything I didn't cover! 

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Do I have to Pay to use the software?

Cricut has a software called Design Space (DS) that you can use for free.  They have a paid membership option (that usually you get a free 30 day trial of when you get started) that gives you access to their fonts and images).   

At this time you do have to have internet access to use DS and use your Cricut.

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What Machine Should I get?

This depends on what you want to use your Cricut for!  I'll share a few options below. ​As an Amazon Associate I earn a small amount if you use the link to purchase.

 
Explore Air 2
This is the machine I personally use. It can cut paper, cardstock, leather, vinyl and heat transfer vinyl (HTV). I don't recommend the Air 1 because it does not have wireless capabilities unless you purchase an adapter. Admittedly I am on a budget and I haven't be frustrated with this decision once!
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Just the machine:

The Bundle

The Maker

The Maker has the functionalities of the Air 2 plus sewing projects, leather crafts, and balsa wood  models. Personally I don't do any crafting that needs the extras YET, but you just might!   If you can afford it, it is highly recommended.

Click to set custom HTML

​Just the machine:

The Bundle

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Cricut JOY

This little bundle of Joy is perfect on-the-go crafters traveling between school and home!  It isn't as wide as the other cutting machines, but it stores more conveniently, doesn't require a mat and would be perfect for bulletin boards. 

How do I use it?

Step 1: Take it out of the box!  Sure, it can be intimidating at first because there are so many possibilities, but you're not going to figure it out without step 1.  In fact, Cricut does a great job of having test projects set up for you to do right away! 

MAINTENANCE 

The blades do have to be replaced with time, but I will share I have had my machine for over a year and I haven't needed a new blade yet.  I have used it mostly for vinyl so I suspect that I would need to replace it sooner if I cut more paper.

The mats lose their sticky with time, but you can wash them.  I have used warm soapy water and heard of others that tried baby wipes.  Worst case scenario if it doesn't work you can buy a new one. I have about four mats that I use and I only need to replace them about once a year if that. 

The one splurge I recommend is an oversized mat!   I will post soon about heat presses and accessories.  Let me know if you have quesitons or suggestions.  

Using it at School

Personally I keep my machine at home, so this idea came from our awesome group.  If you plan to take your machine between home and school this carrying case came highly recommended.