This completely honest Cricut Explore Air 2 review will tell you how it works, what it does best, and why this cutting machine might NOT be the right one for you.
If you’re looking for really thorough and honest Cricut Explore Air 2 machine reviews, or if you’re wondering if it’s worth your money, you’re in the right place!
Today I’m sharing my first impressions and my full experience with my own machine, and you’ll also find really valuable information from other Cricut reviews I found around the web.
A few weeks ago a tiny piece of my life changed.
I became a first-time owner of an electronic craft cutting machine. Not just any crafting cutting machine. I became the owner of a Cricut Explore Air 2, an amazingly fast and multi-featured cutting machine.
I also have more crafty cutting content! Do you need an introduction to cutting machines? Read: What is a Cricut machine and What Does it Do? If you’re looking at other machines, you can also read my Cricut Joy review to see if it could be your new DIY best friend.
Personally, I was entirely new to the world of smart cutting machines. I’ve learned so much by using this machine and reading up over the past few weeks. So this Cricut Explore Air 2 review has a ton of information in it.
Keep reading and I promise you’ll find everything you need to know to decide if you need one for yourself!
If you’re asking yourself any of these questions:
What are the key features? How does it perform? Do I really need one of my own?
I was asking myself all of the same questions. Now I have the answers for everyone!
Don’t miss out on low prices! The Black Friday deals are hot, and you can see the Cyber Monday deals, too! I also have a page for Cricut Maker deals!
Ready to shop? You can buy the machine by itself or save a bunch on various materials by buying a bundle!
Buy the same machine I have:
I received a custom bundle with my machine and I’m so happy I did. It would be a bit frustrating to get an exciting machine like this one, and then have to go out and buy all the materials separately.
Plus, the bundles are a bargain! The sets that they sell on their own website offer far more products, tools and accessories than you’d get if you spend that money on your own supplies.
Check out the these bundles to save a lot on the machine plus the materials you’ll definitely want after buying the machine.
Explore Air 2BUY NOWEverything BundleBUY NOWBasic BundleBUY NOWEssentials BundleBUY NOW
I’m being 100% honest when I say I’m new to devices like this one. I had certainly heard of the this brand and other cutting machines in the past.
But the only thing I really knew was that they were related to crafting, because I had seen them in advertisements for Michaels and Joann.
I honestly didn’t even know what it did until a reader asked me about Cricut Cricut deals and low prices.
When I did some research for her and finally got a good look at the brand. I was blown away over everything these machines could do!
A note on how the brand names their machines:
Before I get into the actual article, I know a lot of people are looking for the same information with various names, including:
Cricut Air Explore 2 reviews
Cricket Explore Air 2
Cricut Explore 2 reviews
Air 2 review
Cricut Air 2 reviews
Cricket Explore Air 2
I can assure you that all of these terms are referring to reviews for the same machine that I’m featuring in this article.
If you have questions about a specific model or if it just doesn’t seem like the same one you’re looking for, please leave a comment and I’ll do my best to get you the details you need.
Now, let’s move on to all the details and the actual review!
Cricut Explore Air 2 Review
I have to admit: I don’t know if I’m worthy of this amazing machine!
I have a lot of learning ahead of me, but thankfully, I also got hooked up with all the supplies I need for more than a few projects.
What Comes with the machine?
Believe me, I felt more than a little spoiled after I opened the package with the cutting machine in it, then opened the second box with everything else sent so I could start using it!
In addition to the machine itself, here’s a selection of other items I received:
- Basic Tools Set
- Cutting Mat Variety 3-Pack
- Portable Trimmer Tool
- Deep Cut Blade
- Explore Multi-Pen Set, Gold
- Explore Multi Point Pens, Black
- Scoring Stylus
- Premium German Carbide Replacement Blade
- Window Cling material
- Premium Outdoor Glossy Vinyl
- Brights Sampler, Vellum
- Printable Iron On, Blue Glitter
- Vinyl Sampler, Brights
- Dry Erase Vinyl
- Metallic Poster Board Sampler
- Faux Leather Pebbled Patina
- Washi Sheets in Anna’s Pretty Prints
- Chalkboard Vinyl
I was feeling a bit overwhelmed while I was taking all that in. Then I opened the box that the machine came in to see everything that was inside.
I was so happy when the contents of the box were so simple and straightforward! Here’s what comes with the standard Cricut Explore Air 2:
- The machine
- German carbide premium blade
- USB cord and power cord
- Pen
- Cardstock sample
- 12×12 inch Standard Grip cutting mat
The blade, pen and card stock sample are exactly what you need to create your first project. I love that I could try it out without diving into any other materials!
Even though the it comes with a pen, card stock and blade, I still highly recommend a bundle like the Explore Air 2 Machine + Everything Bundle to ensure you have all the tools you need to start using your new device right away. It’s a great starter set!
Explore Air 2 Blue :: Everything Bundle
Explore Air 2 Rose :: Everything Starter Set
How it Looks
I received the mint green model – it’s gorgeous! It’s also shown below with the pale blue and pale pink designs.
Both are beautiful and I’d love to see these colors in person.
There are plenty of other different colors of this models, too. I’m a huge fan of the machine in Candy Apple Red. I think it’s super fun and would look great in a craft room!
Here’s a look at the machine from various angles:
It looks like the Cricut Explore Air 2 in Candy Apple Red is exclusively sold at Michaels. If it’s in stock at your local store you can order it and pick it up today! If you need to order it online, it should ship for free.
You can the price on the Candy Apple Red machine at Michaels.com.
You can also check out the same model in black (I love that matte finish!) and in sky blue below:
Explore Air 2, BlackExplore Air 2, Sky
It’s also been available in GOLD. I’m drooling…but I’m not feeling too envious.
First, the gold one is identical to the one I have (aside from color). Second, it’s not even available right now. There’s no need to care about something I can’t even have!
Here’s what my own machine looked like once it was out of the box and hooked up:
I really wanted to get to know my cutting machine before using it, so I pushed the buttons, turned the dial and lifted the levers to take in all the physical features.
The control panel is on the outer right side of the cutter. The control panel has a power button and Smart Set Dial, plus the Load, Go and Pause buttons.
The outer left side has a small tool cup, cartridge port and the Open button.
Take a look inside. It’s bright, shiny and surprisingly simple:
I love how clean and shiny all the mechanical components are in there!
If you take a closer look at the slider on the inside you can see it has two round compartments.
One of the clamps holds a blade that comes pre-installed. The one on the left is open and it doesn’t need to be used. It’s for optional accessories like pens and the scoring tool.
I had one little surprise when I was poking around and getting familiar with the buttons and dial. The front door lowers to open the machine, and it also doubles as a storage compartment!
It’s not huge, but the built-in storage is perfect for stashing the essential tools you’ll want to have right there when you’re using it.
How it Works
I know this is the big question, especially for a paper crafting newbie: how does the it work?
The answer: I’m pretty sure its MAGIC.
As someone who’s never been characterized as crafty or creative, I swear, my mouth was hanging open the first time I used it to create my first card.
My niece was with me, and we were practically squealing with delight as we watched it cut, write and score for the first time. Check out our Cricut Explore Air 2 video review below:
One thing I love about it is that it’s fast. Granted, I don’t have a different brand or model to compare it to, but I was really surprised that the blade and pen flew through the writing and cutting for the first card I made.
If that speed isn’t fast enough for your project, there’s actually a Fast Mode that can be used with the most popular materials.
You can get the same precise cuts at an even speedier rate on vinyl, iron-ons and card stock when you set the controls to Fast Mode!
Cutting and Using Different Materials
Something else that surprised me when I was learning all about the product is all the different materials that it can cut.
The Smart Set Dial lets you choose the material you’re working with , and it’s used to indicate the thickness of the material you’re going to be cutting.
Poster board is the thickest material you can select on the dial, but I couldn’t stop wondering What’s the thickest material a Cricut can cut?
I’m fairly certain the thickest material it can cut is wood in the form of chipboard or birch wood. That’s right. This cutting machine can cut wood!
I learned about this and over 100 other materials the Cricut Explore Air 2 can cut on this official page. Other surprising items that can be cut include:
- Tissue paper
- Silk
- Cotton
- Corkboard
- Clay
- Aluminium
- Foil
- Leather
- Burlap
Knowing that all of those things and more can be cut with my very own cutting machine opens up even more possibilities for potential projects!
Creating Designs
Part of setting up my new machine included installing the Design Space software so I could connect it to my computer.
I installed Design Space it on my Macbook, and there’s the same program for Windows.
The software cost is free. There’s no charge to use it on your computer or on either of the apps.
If you live a mobile life you can also use one of the Design Space apps, which are available for Apple (iOS) and Android devices. The apps are compatible with both phones and tablets, so there are plenty of options for getting the program in front of you.
Once Design Space is installed you have everything you need to create anything you need for your most crafty projects.
I’ve found Design Space very easy to use. It’s sort of like a user-friendly Photoshop (people take classes to learn Photoshop!). Design Space allows you to search through thousands of designs and load the one you’d like to make.
While the software itself is free, most of the Design Space projects cost money (starting at $0.99). There are two ways figure out how you should pay for these projects:
- If you think you’ll only pay for designs once or twice a month and you have great fonts on your computer, then you can pay for your designs as you need them.
- If you find yourself making more than 2 or 3 projects in a month Cricut Access will be well worth the monthly cost of $7.99. This membership lets you use over 370 fonts and 30,000 images, including exclusive images.
How to Use Your Machine Without Paying for Cricut Access
Before I tell you how to use your machine without paying for Access I have to say one thing:
Access is super awesome. It’s extra user-friendly. It also makes using your cutting machine as easy as possible.
That being said, if you consider yourself a quick learner and you’re open to learning new technology, then you’ll love learning how to use your new piece of technology without paying for the subscription.
First, Design Space offers lots of free cuts straight from the brand. They can change at any time, but you just need to look for Free in the drop down categories within Design Space to find them.
You can use all the fonts that are already on your computer (and you can install beautiful free fonts from Creative Market and Pixel Buddha. The selections change every week, so check back weekly!).
In addition to fonts, you’ll also need images to use in Design Space. You need to use SVG images (not jpg or png).
There are plenty of places online that offer free SVG downloads and Creative Market also offers free SVG graphics that change every week – just like their fonts!
The Negatives
It’s hard for me to not rave about the Cricut Explore Air 2. I said it before – it actually seems magical when I’m watching it work!
But I’ve identified a few downsides as I’ve been using it. Here’s what I’d like to see changed:
- The Design Space App for Android needs improvement. To their credit, the app is in beta. On the other hand, the iOS app has been available since 2015. They needs to get the Android app perfected and released as a solid piece of software.
- I didn’t know the rollers would feed the cutting mat out the back of the machine as it was working. Duh. I foolishly set it up against a wall. The crunching and crinkling freaked me out a bit, but I can’t complain; nothing was broken or ruined when it happened.
- Bluetooth: I was only prompted to connect my machine to my computer via USB, but I wish I would have been prompted to connect via Bluetooth. Now, I haven’t figured out how to do it manually. It’s not necessary, but I also can’t review the Bluetooth connection process.
Update: I’ve since been able to connect without issues. The connection takes about a minute, but it works flawlessly once it’s ready to go. - Access: It simply bothers me that, after spending $250, users still need to pay for a monthly membership. I do appreciate the free designs, but I don’t love that there’s an ongoing cost to use most of the brand’s own library.
Why you might not want the Cricut Explore Air 2
Right now, there are a few different Cricut machines to choose from: The Explore Air 2, the Joy and the Maker.
Make no mistake, the Explore Air 2 is fantastic – it’s no secret that I love it, and I want to tell everyone how amazing it is. But there are definitely reasons to choose one of the other two machines over the Explore Air 2.
Here are some questions to ask yourself if you’re asking, Which Cricut Should I Buy?
Get the Cricut Explore Air 2 instead of the Maker or Joy if:
- You work mostly with vinyl, cardstock and other common craft materials.
- You’re a hobby crafter who wants to make more, different or better creations.
- You’re a beginning crafter but you know most of your projects will require a full-width cutting mat.
- You have an older Cricut machine and you’re ready for a mid-range upgrade.
- You have Cricut cartridges you want to use in a newer Cricut.
- You want to show your personality by choosing your machine in the widest variety of colors.
Get the Cricut Maker instead of the Explore Air 2 if:
- You’re a professional crafter OR you’re already selling a good amount of your crafts.
- You need to cut thick materials like leather and wood.
- You’re looking to cut fabric for sewing projects.
- You need additional design capabilities, like engraving, debossing and decorative effects.
- You want the newest Cricut machine with the most cutting capabilities.
- You’re up for spending $400 on your cutting machine.
Get the Cricut Joy instead of the Explore Air 2 if:
- You’re new to crafting and DIY projects OR you’re dipping your toe into the world of vinyl and papercrafting.
- You live in a smaller space with limited available tabletop and/or storage areas.
- Portability is important and you want to create on-the-go.
- You’re a last-minute maker, looking to combine the creativity of homemade projects with a speedy little machine and ready-to-make projects.
- You’re not ready to spend $200+ on a crafting cutting machine.
Other Cricut Explore Air 2 Reviews
If you’re seriously considering buying one (and you should!) you probably want to read more than just my opinion. So I found more for you!
I checked out the customer reviews at Joann.com and they’re overwhelmingly positive! Here’s the summary:
As you can see, there are NO negative Cricut Explore Air 2 reviews on that site. Here are highlights from some of the most descriptive reviews:
I bought this 3 days ago and am obsessed! I am going to buy more supplies right now to keep going because there is literally NOTHING you can’t do with this! It’s totally worth every penny! The list of people who want to come over and check it out is crazy!
–Misty
I had previously used the Expression and let me just say… This has been a major upgrade. I am challenged when it comes to crafting and this breaks things down for me in great detail. Also, I don’t get much free time to do projects so the fact that this machine is SPEEDY gives it five stars.
–Critter Casey
I had never used a one before and now that I have I can’t figure out what took me so long! It functions beautifully right out of the box, the app has so many great designs and is so easy to use that I spent hours making all kinds of things, from iron ons (my favorite) to cards and banners.
I have been impressed with the quality of the materials and the device itself. I have access to a laser cutter but I would honestly prefer to use this because it is so user friendly.
–Nicolle, First Time User
That’s just a sample of the Cricut Explore Air 2 machine reviews from one craft supply site. After all that, you also have my personal opinion to go on.
Final Thoughts
While I really do wish the negatives I listed would be changed, it’s pretty obvious that the three things I don’t love aren’t deal-breakers at all.
I no longer have to wonder what can a cutting machine do…Now I can’t wait to make projects like all of those in that picture!
I never thought I would be capable of doing crafts like that. Now I’m able to do so much more than I ever thought possible!
In summary, if you’re wondering, Is the Cricut Explore Air 2 worth it? or Should I buy one? My answer is Yes. Definitely yes!
Want to start crafting with me? Buy an Explore Air 2 and show me what you’re going to make!
This review was written with thanks to the brand, who sent me the products to facilitate this post.
If you’re waiting for a deal on a cutting machine, accessories or other products, you’ll want to pay attention during the Christmas season, including Black Friday (and pre-Black Friday), Cyber Monday and Cyber Week!
robin Rue says
I have been wondering about this. I have an older, much bigger, cricut and totally want this one!
Marybeth Hamilton says
I’m totally new to the world of Cricuts so I didn’t realize they had changed so much. I just saw a picture of an older one on Cricut. It was a beast! The Explore Air 2 is super sleek.
Brandi @ Creative Cutting Classroom says
I’ve had all of their machines and I’m amazed at how far they have come. The Explore is leaps and bounds better then the previous models. You should try it!
Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle says
I need to show this to one of my good friends. She is super crafty, and she’s all about the toys.
Marybeth Hamilton says
Well, I’m NOT super crafty and I’m in love with it! I can’t even imagine what a crafty person with talent could do!
Pam Wattenbarger says
You can do so many cool things with a Cricut machine. I have always wanted one!
Marcie W. says
I owned an original model Cricut and absolutely loved it. I can’t believe it can cut things like tissue paper and foil now!
Ann Bacciaglia says
I have been wanting to try a Cricut machine. There are so many projects I want to do with it. I love the gold one.
Marybeth Hamilton says
I absolutely LOVE the look of the gold Cricut Explore Air 2, but I’m totally happy with the mint green 🙂
Annemarie LeBlanc says
I would want to have my own Cricut! I am not crafty too, maybe because I don’t have the right tools. But with a little imagination, I think I can work my way and create beautiful crafts!
Jocelyn @ Hip Mama's Place says
Looks like a fantastic product! I definitely need to get one. I love making crafts.
Kristi says
I feel like I am the only one in the world that does not own a Cricut, look like now is the time to finally go for it and just get one. Love the color options.
Marybeth Hamilton says
The color options are amazing. I love seeing them all lined up in the picture!
Toni | Boulder Locavore says
Oh wow! Why I haven’t heard about this earlier! Sounds like a great tool for crafts addict like me! 😀
Seattle Travel Blogger says
This looks like a creative tool.
I like the way it works/what you can do with it.
Melissa says
I am not crafty but my kids love to make crafts and are very into tech gadgets so I know they would love The Cricut for all their school and crafty projects that need special cutting skills.
Marybeth Hamilton says
I’m not crafty but I’m totally into tech gadgets. The Cricut bridges the gap between the two!
Candy O says
Oh MaryBeth this is so COOL!! I’ve been wanting one of these machines but couldn’t decide which brand. Great post!!!
Our Family World says
looks like i have to get this cricut machine! i have heard about this a lot! thanks for the review!
Marybeth Hamilton says
I had only JUST started paying attention to what the machine was and what it could do. I’m amazed at its capabilities!
Cassie says
I have been thinking about getting a Cricut. Thanks for the awesome and honest review!
Marybeth Hamilton says
You’re welcome! Let me know if you have any questions.
Kate says
Can you design your own items on the app to print/cut?
Marybeth Hamilton says
Yes. I’ve done this a lot!
Ana says
Hi. I have one of this and cricut gave me a couple links wich contacined a list of free images and projects avialable with the purchase of the machine. I was using them really ofeten and had them saved on Chrome. Unfortunaley my husband lost this links when he changed or PC. Do you know what links am I reffering to? Would you please share them with me if you have them? It was two diferent links with the picture of the image of project along with its code to find it on the design space.
Karrie Truman says
These look very useful and intuitive. I will have to do some additional research on the. Great post.
Marybeth Hamilton says
The software and the machine itself are both very intuitive. I don’t think Cricut owners would be so passionate about them if the machines were difficult to use!
Kita Bryant says
I have actually been looking for a circuit machine. I am really excited that I stumble by this one.
Marybeth Hamilton says
It’s absolutely one to look at. There are so many features – it can do amazing things!
Zena says
Hi there I’m interested in buying this machine I specialize in decorating chocolates and bombonieres I would like to know if I can personalise chocolate wrappers and also can I use it for foil invites
Marybeth Hamilton says
Hi Zena! You can do both with the Cricut Explore Air 2.
Dawn McAlexander says
What an amazing machine this is! I could definitely find some use for it in my home. It sounds so remarkable. I would like to try one.
Marybeth Hamilton says
I’m amazed at all the uses for it! I can’t wait to share more about what I’ve been using my Cricut Explore Air 2 for!
Crystal says
I have an older Cricut that I have used time and time again. I do love it, but I’m eyeing your new machine with envy.
Marybeth Hamilton says
I’m wishing I would have had this a few years ago. I’m imagining all the projects I did by hand!
makeba says
I’ve have been wanting one of these machines forever. Now I feel like it’s an absolute must to have! I’m going to check this latest version out!
Marybeth Hamilton says
It really is if you have any crafty needs or intentions. I’ve been using it every day!
Rita says
HI! Can this cricut explore air 2 be used for cutting edible products such as gumpaste, fondant and sugar paper? Thank you!
Marybeth Hamilton says
According to Cricut’s help page it’s not designed for food safety.
However, there are some hacks if you google How to cut fondant with a Cricut 🙂 Just note that you’d likely void the warranty if you used the Cricut Explore Air 2 to cut a material that’s not on the approved list.
Brandi @Creative Cutting Classroom says
Back in the day there was a Cricut machine just for cutting for cakes. I doubt there is that big of a difference. I bet it would work but would probably void the warranty. I would research the Cricut cake machine and see if you can tell what the difference is. Maybe a different angle on the blade and a mat without adhesive? You could make it work I’m sure.
Kiwi says
I have always wanted a Cricut since I am a scrapbooker and now planner. I didnt know this Explore Air 2 was on the market it looks beautiful. Cant wait to see some of your creations.
Marybeth Hamilton says
I’ve been having a blast with it! I have a ton of ideas for posts with my newest Cricut projects!
Maureen says
I am new to Cricut as well. I’ve crafted but cut by hand and thought this would be perfect. After a month, I’m stuck and can’t find anything on my problem. My print and cut does not work. I print the project out but when I send it through the Explore Air 2, the cut is WAY off, by over an inch. When I tried the calibration, when Cricut Design sent it to my printer, the calibration sensor marks are off the top of the page. I can’t figure out why the alignment between the Design Center, my printer, and the cricut itself, is so far off. So that’s where I’m stuck, I see information on running calibration but not when the sensor marks are not even in the right place on the page. 🙁 Disappointed and hoping I didn’t spend all this money and can’t get it to work.
Marybeth Hamilton says
Maureen,
I’m so sorry you’re having trouble. I have no experience with the Print then Cut feature but I’d be so disappointed if it wasn’t working! I would call Cricut customer support ASAP at 1-(877)-7CRICUT or chat with them online here. I’m sure you and Cricut can figure it out together. Good luck!
Robin J says
I bought the Cricut Air 2. I previously had a Cricut Expression. I absolutely love the Air2. I do a project on my iPhone and the Cricut cuts it out! So simple! So user friendly! Love this machine!!! I bought it at JoAnn Fabrics.
Marybeth Hamilton says
I still haven’t gotten used to the phone apps but I just love the Cricut Design Space on my computer. I’m so happy with it!
Stephanie Paul says
I am interested in doing the vinyl to print sayings on boards would this be the machine that I am looking for? So many people have told me about the Cricut and the Silouette that I’m confused on which machine to actually purchase!
Sam Forrester says
I love this machine too! Those pastel colors make me want to have the machine in each color! I mostly use mine for scrapbooking but found it to be great value!
Deanna Snyder says
The Cricut Explore Air 2 is awesome – however, The Cricut Maker blows it away. The price difference is significant – but so are the possibilities. The Maker is in the $400 range vs. $200+ for Air 2. I would highly recommend the Maker for anyone that wants to cut fabric as you don’t have to back it and there are now patterns on Cricut Access. So, if you love to sew, but no so fond of cutting all those pieces…. the Maker is for you! Otherwise, you would have to back the fabric with fusible stabilizer to cut on Explore Air or Air 2. The Maker has an expandable platform – so all the possibilities haven’t even been realized! The blade for fabric is a rotary blade!
You can cut a huge realm of things – from tissue paper to balsa wood, deep cuts, detail cuts, etc. The speed is in the ballpark of the Air 2. I have the Explore Air and the speed is ZZzzzzzz. But that is a minor complaint.
If you are not looking to go much further than vinyl and paper cutting, the bundles for Explore Air 2 are the way to go and the prices are awesome.
Happy Cricutting!
Stacey says
Which cricut bundle did you purchase?
Krystal says
Thank you for your wonderful detailed review. How did you get to be the lucky recipient of a free cricut to review?
Marybeth Hamilton says
You’re welcome! I received the Cricut Explore Air 2 because I write honest, detailed reviews of products I want to try and publish them here on this site.
Kelly says
thanks so much for your informative post. I just ordered mine and I’m very excited to receive it. I was wondering if you’ve ever attempted to make invitations. I am getting married in october and am curious if this is a practical option or would it take forever? I tried googling and pinteresting and it seems as if it is possible but yet no one is doing it and I don’t see many examples. Sorry I’m new to this
Marybeth Hamilton says
It’s definitely possible to make your invitations but it will also take a good amount of time. If you’re definitely set on an original and unique design, the Cricut is a good way to go. If you don’t have lots of time to spare then it might not be your best option.
I DO know that you’d make STUNNING invitations with the right Cricut design and materials. If you do go that route I’d love to see the finished product!
Francoise Cain says
I am considering purchasing one of these, I most want to create writing on tee shirts and onesies. Is this the right machine for me? I would also love to write on wood, chalkboard and glass….
Any information is appreciated!
Marybeth Hamilton says
This is definitely the machine for you, Francoise!
Darlonda Benjamin says
Would this be ideal if you were to use it for t-shirts, hats, and cups?
Marybeth Hamilton says
Yes! This is perfect for shirts, hats and cups, plus glass, wood and so many other materials.
JoAnn says
Can this be use with any computer?
Marybeth Hamilton says
Yes, it can. It can also be used with tablets and smart phones!
Ana says
Hi. I have one of this and cricut gave me a couple links wich contacined a list of free images and projects avialable with the purchase of the machine. I was using them really ofeten and had them saved on Chrome. Unfortunaley my husband lost this links when he changed or PC. Do you know what links am I reffering to? Would you please share them with me if you have them? It was two diferent links with the picture of the image of project along with its code to find it on the design space.
Tammy Adams says
Hi! I did a lot of research on vinyl cutting machines before purchasing my Cricut Explore Air 2, I was doing a lot of hand painted wooden signs and wanted to make it a little easier for lettering. But then I found the many wonderful things this little fella can do! Wow! In just a few weeks, it has paid for itself with just doing vinyl decals!
Alicia says
Have you tried the Silhouette CAMEO? If so what are the differences?
Sheri says
I just picked up my machine in a beautiful Wisteria color. It was bundled so I will have all sorts of things to play with this weekend. I also got it at almost $100 off at Joann’s. Can’t wait to play!
Amber says
Thank you for all the wonderful information. I am excited to start working with my Air 2.
Tracy says
question , in the bundle rolls is it a full roll of product or is it a partial roll?
Marybeth Hamilton says
They are full rolls.
Carmen says
Question: I do not currently have a functioning laptop. Am I able to create, download fonts and do everything I need to on an iPad? Any down side to just creating on an ipad?
Loved your review. I’ve been reading, researching and pouring over info for this and I’m finally ready to take the plunge I believe.
Marybeth Hamilton says
Hi Carmen,
Yes, you can do EVERYTHING you need to do with your Cricut on an iPad! You can even do it on an iPhone or an Android phone, but most people prefer using the tablet.
Karen says
Hi, just wondering if you can download your own designs/images to be printed and cut? I do a lot of digital drawings and would like to create my own stickers, iron-ons etc.
Marybeth Hamilton says
Hi Karen! You can absolutely upload your own designs to cut or print and cut.
RJ says
I am setting up the device for my wife. I am not happy with the setup process and it took me over an hour to get the unit to be recognized by the computer using the USB cable or the Bluetooth. now I am not a novice with computers and I am the one everyone comes to to add devices printers ect to a computer.
Once connected we printed a very basic 15 letters ….. it took 10-12 min to cut …… for me I would send it back but my wife says I am doing something wrong …… hope she has better luck since she is not a tech person ……. I give it 2 out of 5 stars …….
Marybeth Hamilton says
Hi RJ,
That doesn’t seem right at all! I advise you to contact Cricut support at 1-877-7CRICUT to get their technical help.
Anne-Marie says
Hi,
Thank you for this review. First I want to say that I am French. I add to your negative points the Cricut customer’care when you are outside their « preferred « ‘countries I.e USA, Canada and UK. I bought my Air 2 from Amazon France. On the 3rd days the machine did not load the mat anymore and while attempting to to load it was making a terrible noise. I sent 2 videos at the request of a person on the chat website of Cricut. After one week, no news of any kind to sort my issue. I contacted Amazon and I will get an exchange of machine soon. Meanwhile I found that mat loading issues are quite often.
Fully with you regarding the library particularly that when you are out of the 3 countries mentionned before you cannot subscribe at all. The system does not accept your foreign credit card. Considering the price of the machine it would be nice to have reel’free designs and not designs that will become payable after a while.
A more responsive customer care would also be nice.
Now the very little I used the machine, I found it tremendously good. The cut was clean, sharp and precise so look forward to get my exchanged machine, hoping no more technical issues, and explore it.
Angie Rodriguez says
Omg!!!! I don’t know why i am waiting for… i have to get me one!!
Mary says
A very good thing! And I really like the color and design.
Katy says
Very nice thing, I have such vinyl cutter and I am very satisfied with it. But yours looks really great in the interior.
Sandy says
Is this machine good for cutting patterns to use for making T-shirt’s with rhinestones? What are the advantages ?
Sandra Takenaka says
Thank you for this! You answered many of my questions!
One more question, I see people make things with NBA logos or Professional football teams… how do I find stuff like that? Is if files i need to purchase?
Peter says
Hi. I would like to print t shirts that I design. Is it possible to create a design and get the machine to cut it out. Most of my designs are stencils I’ve found and copied to paper.
Marybeth Hamilton says
Yes, it is. You would need to scan your images (or digitally recreate them) in PNG, SVT or an image format that can be used in Cricut Design Space. When you have that you can easily cut it out of vinyl and transfer it with an iron or heat press.
Helen says
Hi, I’m interested in purchasing a Cricut Explore Air 2 machine, as I have just recently become a Grandmother and I’m
wanting to be able to do some applique work.
My question is does this machine cut out fabric?
Marybeth Hamilton says
Yes it does, but you need to stabilize it with a fabric stabilizer first. If you’re looking to cut out fabric on a regular basis for sewing, you should consider a Cricut Maker instead.
Nancy says
My question is how do you know what kind of vinyl to buy for what projects? If I want to put it on glass or a t-shirt? Can’t find much info on that.
Marybeth Hamilton says
You use heat transfer vinyl for fabrics. It’s iron on vinyl, so you use it on things you could normally iron.
You use adhesive vinyl for putting designs on hard surfaces.
Theresa says
I want to make campaign T-shirts’ and logos on caps will this machine do what I need
Marybeth says
It will absolutely do what you need!
P Fradenburg says
I want to cut templets to be able to spray paint wooden signs. Is this the right machine for me? I would like to make 8″ X 12″ signs but I’m horrible at cutting out the letters. Which machine can cut through plastic to make the templets I want for my signs?
Lillie says
I really appreciate your review, as I have asks my 4 adult kids to give me one as a Mother’s day gift, now I know wish picture to put up know. Thanks so much.
ron says
I’m a crafter that I free hand most of everything, but I want to get this for the professional look or the high end look. Your review helps me a lot. Thank you.
Kirtika Saha says
Written, Thank you for the introduction of a range of information that is very interesting to see in this article.
Alex Jhon says
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Tracey says
I’ve been wanting a Cricut machine for the past couple years. My wonderful spouse just ordered one for me as a late Christmas gift. I’m getting the Cricut Explore Air 2 (mint) + everything bundle. I have no idea how to use it, but I am super excited to get my hands on it.
VU LE JOHN says
Interesting
Kimberly Ann Bentley says
The bundles are definitely not a bargain. I did some research before I purchased mine.