Cricut Maker Unboxing, Set UP & First Project
It doesn’t seem like it’s been that long since I reviewed the LAST “new” Cricut Machine- heck, the Explore Air 2 just came out last fall. But here we are, just under a year later with a NEW new machine, the Cricut Maker.
This one has some striking changes, and I felt like it was worth my time and money to buy this machine and review it for you.
Note: this machine was purchased with my own money and is not sponsored in any way but Cricut/Provocraft.
This post may contain affiliate links. That means at no extra cost to you, if you purchase something through one of those links, I will receive a small commission that helps pay for things like this machine!
So let’s dig in! First, I did an unboxing video. This video shows you what is in the box and how it’s packaged. For some, this is an important part of the buying experience. This was edited down from a Facebook Live video, by the way. You can join me at Facebook for more videos that are “live.”
What sets the Cricut Maker apart from the other machines is as much as what it doesn’t have as what it does!
The most notable new addition is the rotary blade:
image from Cricut.com
From what I understand, they basically had to reingineer this machine from the ground up to get that little rotary blade working right.
Also in the “new addition” category, there is also a USB charging port and long slot on the top for placing your tablet or smartphone.
USB port to keep your tablet or smartphone juiced up!
Space for your tablet or smartphone so you can design whereever you are. the Cricut Maker connects via BlueTooth.
But the big deal to me is what the Cricut Maker is MISSING:
- No cartridge port- this machine is internet/software dependent
- No dial- all of your decisions about cutting (blade depth, pressure, speed) ar also done digitally through the software
The Cricut Maker has officially become a clone of the Silhouette!
I made a video of the set-up required for this all-new digital version of the Cricut, and also show you the first cutting and drawing in real-time so you can see and hear how it works! I also cover rotary cutting fabric with the new rotary blade, drawing, and paper cutting with the fine blade tip.
Have a look:
So far, so good. I’m interested using the Cricut Maker to delve into more fabric cutting, foam, wood and trying out the new craft blade when it becomes available.
Stay Tuned for a video showing you cutting samples!
What are your thoughts on the new machine? I’d love to hear from you so leave me a comment!
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Thank you for your info . I so enjoy your product reviews.
Well, I have purchased the Maker……I cut a lot of material for quilt re-habs. So this whole rotary craze on the maker was what I have been looking for. It made sense for the appliques I cut. It works wonderfully, however I agree the dial for cutting I do miss. If you go into to the design space it allows you to select…but I also use vinyl, foil & glitter iron on The selection for iron on vinyl etc. will not cut it. I have to up the game and select metal or heavy chipboard. I was wondering if anyone else is having this problem? But, I would highly recommend for anyone who cuts appliques, like butter!
I’ll check mine- but in the meanwhile, after you select your material, make sure you look at the drop-down window that says “default” and select “more” instead. That should give you more pressure.