Cricut

Cricut Maker 3

Overview

The Cricut Maker 3 is a precision digital cutting machine used for crafting, textiles, vinyl work, paper projects, and light fabrication tasks. At the space it is primarily used to support textiles, embroidery, signage, decals, stencils, and small creative projects that benefit from accurate, repeatable cutting.

The machine is suitable for both beginners and experienced makers, and complements the embroidery and textiles setup well.

Acquisition

• Purchased: October 2025
• Owner: The space
• Location: Textiles / embroidery area

Associated Computer & Software

• Control software: Cricut Design Space
• Installation location: Installed on the same laptop as the embroidery machine
• Connection: USB or Bluetooth (USB preferred for reliability)

Members should use the dedicated embroidery laptop when operating the Cricut Maker 3. Do not install Cricut Design Space on other machines without trustee approval, as login and firmware management are centralised.

Capabilities

The Cricut Maker 3 can cut, score, write, and mark a wide range of materials, including:

• Vinyl (adhesive and heat-transfer)
• Card, paper, and cardstock
• Fabric and felt
• Thin leather and faux leather
• Stencil materials
• Iron-on (HTV) for textiles
• Light craft plastics (within Cricut specifications)

It supports both standard Cricut mats and Smart Materials (matless cutting for supported materials).

Typical Use Cases at the Space

• Heat-transfer vinyl designs for clothing and textiles
• Stencils for paint, screen printing, or etching
• Labels, signage, and decals
• Fabric cutting to support embroidery projects
• Paper crafts, cards, and workshop activities

Induction & Access

• Induction is required before first use
• Members must be shown:
  • Safe loading and unloading of materials
  • Correct blade and tool selection
  • Software workflow in Cricut Design Space
  • Cleaning and basic maintenance

If you are already inducted on the embroidery machine, the Cricut induction is usually short, as the workflows are complementary.

Consumables

Members are expected to provide their own consumables unless otherwise stated:

• Vinyl and heat-transfer vinyl
• Fabric and backing materials
• Cricut-compatible blades (where consumable wear applies)
• Transfer tape

Shared tools (rollers, scrapers, weeding tools) should be cleaned and returned after use.

Good Practice

• Always perform a test cut before committing expensive material
• Check blade type and condition before cutting
• Keep hands clear during operation
• Do not leave the machine unattended while cutting
• Clean debris from the machine and surrounding area after use

Faults & Issues

If you encounter:

• Cutting errors
• Software issues
• Physical damage or unusual noises

Stop using the machine and report the issue via the usual space reporting process or to a trustee. Do not attempt repairs or firmware changes yourself.

Related Equipment

• Embroidery machine (shared laptop and workspace)
• Heat press (for HTV applications)
• Sewing and textiles tools