Whether you’re new to crafting and designing or have years of experience under your belt, you may be wondering whether a Cricut machine is a worthy investment. While some crafters invest in a Cricut for their business, there are also plenty of ways that this handy tool can be used around the home for DIY projects. If you’re asking, ¡°what does a Cricut do?¡± you’re in the right place. Read on to learn more about the different ways you can beautify your home, keep your life organized, and craft thoughtful gifts for friends and family using a Cricut.
What is a Cricut machine?
Cricuts are electronic cutting machines. You may also hear them referred to as craft plotters or die-cutter machines. They are able to cut various patterns and designs with great speed and accuracy, making them very popular with DIYers and professionals alike. Cricut machines are able to cut designs into various types of materials including cardstock, vinyl, paper, foil, and fabric. Some of the best Cricut machines are even capable of cutting intricate designs into wood, leather, and other thick materials. Wannabe crafters can find Cricuts both online and at brick-and-mortar stores¡ªand even at places you may not expect, such as Lowe’s.
Our Recommendation: Cricut Maker Machine at Walmart for $229
This versatile Cricut is able to cut through hundreds of different materials, comes with a rotary blade and knife blade, and offers 12 different capabilities including cutting, writing, and scoring.
I’ve always been amazed by how precise these machines are¡ªimagine slicing through leather or wood like it’s butter! The technology behind Cricut’s precision comes from its computer-controlled blade system, which uses vector-based designs to ensure clean cuts every time. If you’re like me and love geeking out over tools, you’ll appreciate that the Cricut Maker, for example, can exert up to 4kg of force, which is why it tackles tougher materials so well. A little tip from my own trial and error: always double-check your material settings in the Design Space software to avoid wasting expensive supplies. If you’re on a budget, start with vinyl or cardstock projects, as these materials are generally cheaper¡ªthink $5-$10 for a decent roll of vinyl versus $20+ for specialty leather.
DIY Cricut Projects for the Home
There are tons of cool ways to use a Cricut maker around the home. Once you get one and start experimenting with it, you’re likely to think of numerous ways you can use it to simplify your life or make creative masterpieces. Below you’ll find 12 project ideas to help you get started.
One thing I’ve noticed from my own crafting adventures is how addictive it is to personalize everything! According to a 2023 survey by the Craft & Hobby Association, over 60% of DIY enthusiasts say tools like Cricut have made crafting more accessible, sparking creativity in households across the board. To keep costs down, I recommend checking out local craft stores for material sales or even upcycling old fabrics from thrift stores for your projects. The key is to start small and build confidence before tackling pricier materials like leather or wood.
1. Labels for Organization
If you’re tired of never being able to find anything in the pantry, long for a more organized laundry room, or are frustrated that your kids’ toys never make it into the correct bin, try creating custom labels with a Cricut. Attach these labels to the different containers in your pantry, bins, shelves, or any other areas of your home that are prone to clutter or messiness.
I can’t tell you how much custom labels have saved my sanity in the kitchen! Using vinyl for labels is super cost-effective¡ªexpect to spend about $1-2 per project if you’re just labeling a few jars. A pro tip: use transfer tape to apply vinyl labels smoothly, and if you’re labeling glass containers, clean them with rubbing alcohol first for better adhesion. For durability, I’ve found that permanent vinyl lasts way longer than removable vinyl, especially in high-traffic areas like a pantry.
2. Party Decorations
Party decorations can get expensive, especially when you need to purchase them multiple times a year for different friends or family members. What’s more, it can sometimes be difficult to find something premade that matches your vision for the occasion. With a Cricut, you can cut your expenses and turn the designs in your head into reality. Use the machine to craft personalized banners, cake toppers, table and food signs, photo booth props, and even party favors for guests.
I threw a birthday bash last month and used my Cricut to make custom banners and cupcake toppers¡ªit was a hit! Party supplies can cost $50 or more for a single event, but with a Cricut, I spent under $10 on cardstock and vinyl. If you’re new to this, start with simple banner designs in Design Space; they’re forgiving and quick. Also, consider reusable materials like cardstock for props you might use again¡ªit’s both eco-friendly and wallet-friendly.
3. Iron-On T-Shirts
Pair your Cricut maker with a heat press machine, and the number of potential projects you can pull off multiplies. Creating iron-on transfers for T-shirts is one popular way to use a Cricut. First, create an original T-shirt design, choose one of the premade design options in Cricut’s Design Space, or upload a pattern you found or purchased online. Next, size the design using the shirt template in the Cricut software. Prepare and cut the iron-on vinyl using your machine, weed the excess vinyl pieces out of the design, and use a heat press to transfer the design to a T-shirt. Follow this same process to create custom tote bags, or to transfer patterns to other fabrics using your Cricut.
Making T-shirts is where I first fell in love with my Cricut. A basic heat press costs around $100, but you can often find deals online. One trick I learned: always mirror your design before cutting iron-on vinyl, or you’ll end up with a backward image (yep, been there!). Iron-on vinyl typically costs $10-$15 for a roll, enough for multiple shirts. For best results, pre-wash your fabric to avoid shrinkage issues later. If you’re selling these, local markets love custom tees¡ªthink $20-$30 per shirt for a decent profit.
4Ê©4. Leather Jewelry
While all Cricut machines are not able to cut leather, the Cricut Maker and Cricut Explore machines can. With these models, you can design and craft leather earrings, bracelets, and other jewelry items. Wear the handcrafted jewelry pieces, give them to a friend, or even try selling them at local artisan craft shows.
Leather jewelry feels so fancy to make, and it’s surprisingly easy once you get the hang of it. Leather sheets can run $15-$25, but you can make dozens of earrings from one sheet, so it’s cost-effective for small businesses. I suggest practicing on faux leather first¡ªit’s cheaper and easier to cut. Also, use a strong needle and thread for assembly; leather’s tough, and weak tools will frustrate you. Handmade leather earrings can sell for $10-$20 a pair at craft fairs, making it a fun side hustle.
5. Greeting Cards
Rather than purchasing a generic (and expensive!) greeting card from the store, take the time to craft a custom card that will convey exactly how special the recipient is to you. With a little practice, you’ll be able to design and make stunning 3-D cards to share birthday greetings, express your love, say thank you, or convey condolences to a friend or loved one.
Homemade cards always get a bigger smile than store-bought ones. Cardstock is dirt cheap¡ªthink $5 for a pack that’ll make 20+ cards. For 3-D effects, I love using foam adhesive dots for a pop-up look without much effort. If you’re new, stick to simple designs and build up to intricate ones. It’s a great way to save $4-$6 per card and make someone’s day.
6. Custom Signs
With a Cricut, crafters can make custom signs for hanging around your home or at weddings or other events. Use your machine to design and prepare vinyl lettering or images for your sign, adhere the vinyl with heat, and add greenery or other embellishments, if desired. Consider all the different ways you can add a personal touch to your home¡ªwhy not create a sign to welcome guests, or display your favorite quote?
I made a ¡°Welcome Home¡± sign for my porch, and it’s still a conversation starter. Vinyl for signs costs about $5-$10 per project, and wooden sign bases are often under $10 at craft stores. A heat gun works better than a hairdryer for adhering vinyl¡ªtrust me, it’s worth the $20 investment. For outdoor signs, use weather-resistant vinyl to keep them looking sharp for years.
7. Gift Tags
Make Cricut gift tags using your Cricut cutter to add a more personalized touch to a birthday or holiday gift. The brand’s Design Studio offers several gift tag templates to help you get started. You can personalize these templates by adding your own text and modifying the font and color. Once you’re done designing, print the tags and attach them to your gifts.
Gift tags are my go-to for making presents feel extra special. A pack of cardstock for tags costs around $3 and can make dozens. I like to add a bit of twine or ribbon¡ª50 cents a yard at most¡ªfor a polished look. Try experimenting with metallic or glitter cardstock for a festive vibe; it’s a small touch that makes a big difference.
8. Personalized Mugs and Tumblers
If you’re searching for Cricut for beginners projects, personalizing mugs and tumblers is a good place to begin. After choosing the perfect font for your text and designing your project, print the design onto vinyl. Then, just use some transfer tape to place the image on the mug or tumbler. Enjoy your creativity as you sip your morning coffee or share it as a gift of custom art for a loved one.
I’ve gifted personalized tumblers for Christmas, and they’re always a hit. Blank tumblers cost $5-$15, and vinyl’s cheap, so you’re looking at $10 max per gift. My tip: use a weeding tool for intricate designs¡ªit’s a lifesaver and only costs a few bucks. Seal with a clear coat for dishwasher-safe results, and you’ve got a gift that’ll last.
9. Car Decals
DIY car window decals (and decals for the auto’s body!) are another of the numerous projects you can make with a Cricut. Whether you want to advertise a personal business, support your favorite sports team, or write something witty to catch the attention of other drivers, the design possibilities are nearly endless.
I slapped a quirky decal on my car, and it’s sparked so many laughs. Outdoor vinyl costs about $10 for a roll, enough for multiple decals. Make sure to clean the surface with alcohol before applying for a bubble-free finish. If you’re selling these, small business decals can fetch $5-$15 each, depending on size and complexity.
10. Upcycled Furniture
Give an old piece of furniture a new life with an upgraded, updated look. There are a couple of ways that a Cricut can transform your decor on the cheap: The first is to use your machine to cut a vinyl stencil, and then paint over the design to transfer it to the piece. Another option is to create vinyl decals to decorate the furniture, which can be a good project for a child’s room or nursery.
I revamped an old dresser with vinyl stencils, and it looks brand new. Paint for stenciling costs $5-$10, and vinyl’s about the same. My advice: sand the furniture lightly before painting for a smoother finish. This project can save you hundreds compared to buying new furniture¡ªthink $20 versus $200 for a fresh look.
11. Closet Dividers
If your closet is out of control and you want to be able to find things in it again, try using your Cricut to make closet dividers. Separate clothing by season, type, or size¡ªthese are especially useful for a child’s closet that may hold several sizes of clothing to grow into. Keep your dividers simple, or make them more elaborate with fancy fonts and images. The design is up to you.
Closet dividers changed my life when organizing my kid’s clothes. Foam board or thick cardstock costs $5-$10 for enough to make 20+ dividers. I found that bold fonts are easier to read in dim closets. This project’s a one-time $15 investment that’ll keep your closet sane for years.
12. Vinyl Kitchen Backsplash
Beautify your kitchen with a vinyl backsplash. A Cricut machine can help you create a variety of designs, including subway tiles, herringbone tiles, hexagonal tiles, and geometric shapes. The best thing about a vinyl backsplash? It is removable. If your tastes change in a few months or you simply decide you’re ready for a change, you can use your Cricut to whip up a new design.
My vinyl backsplash turned my dated kitchen into a showstopper. A roll of specialty vinyl for this costs $15-$25 and covers a decent-sized backsplash. Use a level to keep tiles straight¡ªit’s a small step that makes a huge difference. Since it’s removable, it’s renter-friendly and way cheaper than a $500+ tile job.
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A kitchen reno is a big commitment, but even small updates like a Cricut-made backsplash can boost your home’s value. Studies show a kitchen remodel can yield a 70% return on investment when selling. My advice: focus on high-impact, low-cost projects like vinyl designs or new cabinet decals to stretch your budget. Always get multiple quotes for bigger jobs to keep costs in check.