I bought the Maker when Costco had it at Christmas time last year. It was my first venture into Cricut and I am very happy with my choice. I am an occasional crafter but it lets me explore many projects. I have done paper projects, mugs with Infusible Ink, tee shirts with both iron on vinyl and infusible ink, and there are many more things for me to try. I really enjoy playing with it.
I wish the Joy Xtra was out when I bought my first Cricut machine. I definitely would have bought that first. I bought the Joy because it was less expensive and less intimidating. After using it a while I realized that I needed more. I was so jealous of all the things that I saw could be made on the larger machines! I bought the original Maker and really love it! It's perfect for everything I want to do.
Came here to find out which one could cut thin wood or foam for ttrpg terrain, I was worried I'd have to watch a bunch of videos to find the right info but it was all here and this was the first one i clicked
Last week I bought the Cricut maker second hand on the Dutch E-bay side. That way you can also save some money with buying the machine for the first time.
I’m going to give the Joy to my daughter. I’m thinking about getting the Joy Xtra. I have the Maker. Unfortunately, I had to buy the Silhouette Cameo 4 so I can do the Print then Cut feature. I use my Maker way more though.
Good morning! I have the Joy that I bought 2 years ago and I just bought the Explore 3 about 6 months ago. I love my Joy but haven’t used the Explorer to much because I’ve been ill.
Very detailed and exactly the explanation that I needed. I bought a cricut yeeeears ago. It can't use design space and that is what I wanted. I had the old cartridge one and it just become very boring to use the same cartridges over and over again. Thank you for your very detailed explanation on all the new products out there. I can not make a better decision for the one that I need most.
Going to try the joy! Thanks I bought the explore air in 2020, really just used it for simple smaller projects and now it won’t power on. So I’m going to back up to the joy series, probably all I need anyway Thanks for the review
I am looking to use this for everything for my wedding! I am thinking invitations, gifts for bridal party, signage, etc. I also knowwww I will be making hundreds of tshirts and ornaments once I get this. I am thinking about the explore air 2, but curious as to your thoughts!
Wanting one to put logos on backpacks clear transparent that’s all for my 6 yr old daughter she want Chanel logo what would you recommend thank you so much
Sorry for asking so many questions. I do major research on products I purchase, which is one of the things I sell. Are there any machines for 2024 or coming out later in 2024?
Great Video! I started with the Maker and I absolutely love it. I was excited when they came out with the Joy Xtra…. I now have the Joy Xtra too. Question???? Can the Smart material be cut in any width size to make a cut ? Or using this material for a project must always measure out the width of 8.5” when using my Joy Xtra ? And I would imagine I could purchase a normal size Smart material size and trim the width, without needing only to buy labeled “Cricut Joy Xtra” Thank you 😊
It will need to be the exact width to go in the Joy Xtra. I have tried trimming sheets before the issue is you can't get them exact and it can cause problems.
I am looking to buy my first Cricut. I was swaying between the Joy Xtra & Maker 3 mainly because of the longevity factor. I am predominantly a paper crafter but who knows what the future holds. The Joy Xtra sounded great until there was a a lack of score tool. Anyhoo. I do have a question I have loads of non Cricut paper or card stock which is as I am in the UK showing as gsm not lbs as in USA, can you tell me can I use my lovely paper 🤞🤞 & if so how, do I need a different cutting point? Thanks for your video it really clarified things too me 💞🫶🏼
You can use your paper on any machine. Just add to the mat. There are cardstock settings labeled "light", "medium" and "heavy". I would do some test cuts so you know what those do but one should work for any paper you have.
Hi Amanda, I bought a joy as an introduction into Cricut. I love it but I’m wondering if I should upgrade at Christmas. I’m not looking to cut wood, or material or engraving. Would the explorer 3 be a good upgrade? It’s so hard to work out what to upgrade too. I left a similar question for you about the heat press. I’m so confused. I really would appreciate your help. Thanks Juliet
Great information. I am totally new to Cricut. I am interested in being able to use if for t-shirts, sweatshirts and would like to be able to do that with glitter lettering. Which machine would be best for that?
Im I able to print some vinyl letters for a DIY wedding seating chart with the Joy xtra? I would want to use for signs and so, i don't think i would ever get into t-shirts or larger things.
Hi! Loved your video, thanks! I am not much into paper crafts but wanna give it a go as well. I like to work with fabric. Would a Sizzix Big Shot Plus be a good choice or should I really just go fot the Cricut Maker? I would also like to emboss...
@@AngieHolden thank you so much for replying! 💝 I can't have both right now, so I'll do as you said in the video: think of what I might do in the near future and them decide.
im thinking of purchasing one to create diy signs for my wedding and some fun crafts, im on the fence between joy extra or the explore. what do you think ?
I would not recommend Joy Xtra for real leather. The Maker would be the one I would recommend. However, if you want to engrave on the leather for the labels, I would say you would need a laser and not a Cricut machine.
Angie, thank you for responding. I don't want to engrave on real leather, I currently buy all my tags from someone who has a cricut and she cuts them from thin fake or vegan leather and then uses foil to add my name to them. I would also want to cut some thicker materials as well so I would need the deep blade I think. I noticed at my local craft store that the Joy Extra cost more that the Explore Air 2, does that mean the Joy Extra is a better machine?
Hi, and thanks for the great info in your video. I am interested in making kid/adult t-shirt iron-on transfers, stickers, and vinyl stickers for water bottles. I really do not see myself getting much more creative at this time. I'd love to get your opinion on what machine I should purchase.
I am trying to fight my impulse to buy the xtra or joy. Have a gift card! Ha ha I already have the maker and was going to just get the joy since I thought it would be cheaper and I really only want to whip it out for the occasional card rather than the maker card mat. Do you think that I should go for the xtra or the joy, save money and have extra to buy joy accessories?
I have the Cricut maker 3 and am upgrading my joy with the J Xtra. I want to give my Joy to my boyfriend. Is it possible for 2 design space accounts to share a machine? I would like him to be able to use my maker if he can connect to it. If not, do I need to do anything before I pass my machine to him? Thank you for whatever advice you can give me. 😊
Hey Angie , Thanks for all you - I must be losing my mind I HTV in my cart and I can't find it now on 1 of your sites . ?? did you get to delete the site of selling it I just don't know .. :)
I have an older cricut machine that uses the cartages, without the keyboards. (I have so many and invested alot of money.) Can the maker 3 use cartages? If not which machine is the lastest that can. Thanks.
You can use cartridges with any machine. You just need to contact Cricut and they will sync them with your online account and you use them right in Design Space.
Hello, im looking to buy my sister one. She has experience using the cricut but her current one isn’t working. Which is the newest one you’d recommend ?
I have engraved with the Explore Air 2 but Cricut does not make the tool. The tool is an off brand. th-cam.com/video/7Lez_Dcke7k/w-d-xo.html&lc=Ugx51srdvGYLEn2rMMt4AaABAg
Thank you for explaining the differences in machines. I have the joy, but it abruptly started making a grinding noise when loading mat and then a red light, and will not work . I contacted Cricut Support. They are sending me oil and a new blade. I don’t think that either of these options are going to fix it, so I am debating on whether I should upgrade. Mostly, I only make cards and a few vinyl projects. I am concerned about spending money on another machine that will quit working after a few months. Your opinion would be appreciated.
I bought the Maker when Costco had it at Christmas time last year. It was my first venture into Cricut and I am very happy with my choice. I am an occasional crafter but it lets me explore many projects. I have done paper projects, mugs with Infusible Ink, tee shirts with both iron on vinyl and infusible ink, and there are many more things for me to try. I really enjoy playing with it.
Yes! It can get overwhelming for some people but it is a great choice!
I wish the Joy Xtra was out when I bought my first Cricut machine. I definitely would have bought that first. I bought the Joy because it was less expensive and less intimidating. After using it a while I realized that I needed more. I was so jealous of all the things that I saw could be made on the larger machines! I bought the original Maker and really love it! It's perfect for everything I want to do.
I totally agree with this!
Yes my sentiments exactly.
Thank you!
I bought the Maker 18 months ago and I do not regret my choice at all. Only wish cricut could scan and cut like their Brother competitor.
I do love the original Maker!
Came here to find out which one could cut thin wood or foam for ttrpg terrain, I was worried I'd have to watch a bunch of videos to find the right info but it was all here and this was the first one i clicked
YAY! Happy to help!
Love my Cricut Maker!
Last week I bought the Cricut maker second hand on the Dutch E-bay side. That way you can also save some money with buying the machine for the first time.
I’m going to give the Joy to my daughter. I’m thinking about getting the Joy Xtra. I have the Maker. Unfortunately, I had to buy the Silhouette Cameo 4 so I can do the Print then Cut feature. I use my Maker way more though.
Good morning! I have the Joy that I bought 2 years ago and I just bought the Explore 3 about 6 months ago. I love my Joy but haven’t used the Explorer to much because I’ve been ill.
Both of those are great machines!
Very detailed and exactly the explanation that I needed. I bought a cricut yeeeears ago. It can't use design space and that is what I wanted. I had the old cartridge one and it just become very boring to use the same cartridges over and over again. Thank you for your very detailed explanation on all the new products out there. I can not make a better decision for the one that I need most.
Happy to help!
great video I have the joy and the air2 I want to get the maker3 lol but waiting till they go on sale
I made this video because Black Friday is coming soon! Hoping for some deals!
Thank you.
I just bought the Venture and the Stand here in the UK and got it set up today and love it! I have been using the Cricut Maker 3 since it came out.
Wonderful!
Great morning Angie! Congratulations on your new baby. Absolutely adorable❤❤❤
Glad to see you back!love 💕
You may have me mixed up with Alex of DIY Alex! No baby here!
Going to try the joy! Thanks
I bought the explore air in 2020, really just used it for simple smaller projects and now it won’t power on. So I’m going to back up to the joy series, probably all I need anyway
Thanks for the review
Hope you enjoy it!
I have Cricut explore air2. ❤it but ready to get a maker'
I am looking to use this for everything for my wedding! I am thinking invitations, gifts for bridal party, signage, etc. I also knowwww I will be making hundreds of tshirts and ornaments once I get this. I am thinking about the explore air 2, but curious as to your thoughts!
All of those are easily made with the Explore Air 2!
❤❤❤
I would love any of those machines. I live in an assisted living but I can’t even afford the Joy machine! That’s sad!
You might try your local library. Often times they have one for public use!
Thank you very helpful
Glad it helped!
Wanting one to put logos on backpacks clear transparent that’s all for my 6 yr old daughter she want Chanel logo what would you recommend thank you so much
Try this: th-cam.com/video/YwqZY0WaKhU/w-d-xo.html
Sorry for asking so many questions. I do major research on products I purchase, which is one of the things I sell. Are there any machines for 2024 or coming out later in 2024?
Sorry I have no idea.
Great Video! I started with the Maker and I absolutely love it. I was excited when they came out with the Joy Xtra…. I now have the Joy Xtra too. Question???? Can the Smart material be cut in any width size to make a cut ? Or using this material for a project must always measure out the width of 8.5” when using my Joy Xtra ? And I would imagine I could purchase a normal size Smart material size and trim the width, without needing only to buy labeled “Cricut Joy Xtra”
Thank you 😊
It will need to be the exact width to go in the Joy Xtra. I have tried trimming sheets before the issue is you can't get them exact and it can cause problems.
😊
I am looking to buy my first Cricut. I was swaying between the Joy Xtra & Maker 3 mainly because of the longevity factor. I am predominantly a paper crafter but who knows what the future holds. The Joy Xtra sounded great until there was a a lack of score tool. Anyhoo. I do have a question I have loads of non Cricut paper or card stock which is as I am in the UK showing as gsm not lbs as in USA, can you tell me can I use my lovely paper 🤞🤞 & if so how, do I need a different cutting point? Thanks for your video it really clarified things too me 💞🫶🏼
You can use your paper on any machine. Just add to the mat. There are cardstock settings labeled "light", "medium" and "heavy". I would do some test cuts so you know what those do but one should work for any paper you have.
Hi Amanda, I bought a joy as an introduction into Cricut. I love it but I’m wondering if I should upgrade at Christmas. I’m not looking to cut wood, or material or engraving. Would the explorer 3 be a good upgrade? It’s so hard to work out what to upgrade too. I left a similar question for you about the heat press. I’m so confused. I really would appreciate your help. Thanks Juliet
If you don't like the size restrictions, then yes an upgrade to an Explore series would be best.
Thanks so much Amanda.
Great information. I am totally new to Cricut. I am interested in being able to use if for t-shirts, sweatshirts and would like to be able to do that with glitter lettering. Which machine would be best for that?
Joy Xtra or Explore machine.
When people ask about Cricut, I point to you.
Thank you!
Im I able to print some vinyl letters for a DIY wedding seating chart with the Joy xtra? I would want to use for signs and so, i don't think i would ever get into t-shirts or larger things.
Yes this would work for that.
Can cricut explore 3 cut acetate? What is the maximum thickness for this machine?
Yes it can cut acetate. It would be paper thin though.
Hi! Loved your video, thanks! I am not much into paper crafts but wanna give it a go as well. I like to work with fabric.
Would a Sizzix Big Shot Plus be a good choice or should I really just go fot the Cricut Maker?
I would also like to emboss...
Cricut maker is great for fabric but embossing is definitely something that the Sizzix is amazing for!
@@AngieHolden thank you so much for replying! 💝 I can't have both right now, so I'll do as you said in the video: think of what I might do in the near future and them decide.
im thinking of purchasing one to create diy signs for my wedding and some fun crafts, im on the fence between joy extra or the explore. what do you think ?
Joy Xtra would probably work for that!
So if I want to cut felt eyes for crocheted stuffed animals, I would have to go to maker 3? Is that correct?
I like cutting felt better on a Maker. Maker or Maker 3 with the rotary blade.
Would I be able to make small labels out of vegan leather for my crochet pieces using the cricut joy extra
I would not recommend Joy Xtra for real leather. The Maker would be the one I would recommend. However, if you want to engrave on the leather for the labels, I would say you would need a laser and not a Cricut machine.
Angie, thank you for responding. I don't want to engrave on real leather, I currently buy all my tags from someone who has a cricut and she cuts them from thin fake or vegan leather and then uses foil to add my name to them. I would also want to cut some thicker materials as well so I would need the deep blade I think. I noticed at my local craft store that the Joy Extra cost more that the Explore Air 2, does that mean the Joy Extra is a better machine?
Hi, and thanks for the great info in your video. I am interested in making kid/adult t-shirt iron-on transfers, stickers, and vinyl stickers for water bottles. I really do not see myself getting much more creative at this time. I'd love to get your opinion on what machine I should purchase.
I would go with the Joy Xtra on one of the Explore machines.
Thanks!!
@@AngieHolden
Could this machine be set up to cut .003” - .010” copper , stainless steel film or shim stock?
Thank You !
Any can cut very thin metal similar to aluminum foil.
Hey, could you try to cut bonded fabric with the cricut venture ? I cannot find videos to show how it does
I did it here: th-cam.com/video/q4eA4WIASOc/w-d-xo.html
What is comparison between with Silhouette Portrait 3 vs Cricut Joy Xtra
I don't use a Silhouette so I am not sure.
I am trying to fight my impulse to buy the xtra or joy. Have a gift card! Ha ha I already have the maker and was going to just get the joy since I thought it would be cheaper and I really only want to whip it out for the occasional card rather than the maker card mat. Do you think that I should go for the xtra or the joy, save money and have extra to buy joy accessories?
I would go for the Joy Xtra frankly. I like it way more than my Joy.
Thank you....I understand much better now how the different machines work🌹
I'm so glad!
I have the explore air 2. Can I use it to cut unbonded fabric squares for quilting?
No. That is Maker or Maker 3 only.
I have the Cricut maker 3 and am upgrading my joy with the J Xtra. I want to give my Joy to my boyfriend. Is it possible for 2 design space accounts to share a machine? I would like him to be able to use my maker if he can connect to it. If not, do I need to do anything before I pass my machine to him? Thank you for whatever advice you can give me. 😊
Yep you can both use the same machine. I have done it several times at events!
Thank you!@@AngieHolden
Which one is best to cut plastic stencils.
Any of them really! Depends on the size stencil you want to create.
I want to make vinyl stencils for pottery, what machine would work for me?
Any of them would work for this.
Can you help me I can't find an answer anywhere, can you put an acrylic tumbler with a glitter htv wrap in a tumbler press please
I have not tried that.
Can Someone tell me which one I should get for making t-shirts and stickers?
Joy Xtra or one of the Explore machines.
Hey Angie , Thanks for all you - I must be losing my mind I HTV in my cart and I can't find it now on 1 of your sites . ?? did you get to delete the site of selling it I just don't know .. :)
I have never personally sold HTV. I usually link to websites that do.
@@AngieHolden oh ok I thought you were cleaning out your stash back in the summer..thx
Not me! If I clean out my stash, I donate it locally!
I have an older cricut machine that uses the cartages, without the keyboards. (I have so many and invested alot of money.) Can the maker 3 use cartages?
If not which machine is the lastest that can. Thanks.
You can use cartridges with any machine. You just need to contact Cricut and they will sync them with your online account and you use them right in Design Space.
@@AngieHolden oh that's fantastic. Thanks for the info. 😊
I want to buy a machine to cut out felt eyes and layer vinyl on top. Can the joy extra cut felt?
It can however it will be stiff felt only. I would recommend a Maker for cutting regular felt.
@@AngieHolden thank you
Hello, im looking to buy my sister one. She has experience using the cricut but her current one isn’t working. Which is the newest one you’d recommend ?
If she just wants to cut thin things, Explore 3. If she wanted thicker cuts, Maker 3.
Do you have to have a maker to engrave or is there a way to do it with explorer air 2?
You can only do it with the Maker. The machine isn’t going to read the attachment for it.
I have engraved with the Explore Air 2 but Cricut does not make the tool. The tool is an off brand. th-cam.com/video/7Lez_Dcke7k/w-d-xo.html&lc=Ugx51srdvGYLEn2rMMt4AaABAg
Thank you Angie
Cricut has messed up software.
Thank you for explaining the differences in machines. I have the joy, but it abruptly started making a grinding noise when loading mat and then a red light, and will not work . I contacted Cricut Support. They are sending me oil and a new blade. I don’t think that either of these options are going to fix it, so I am debating on whether I should upgrade. Mostly, I only make cards and a few vinyl projects. I am concerned about spending money on another machine that will quit working after a few months. Your opinion would be appreciated.
For cards and vinyl, I would probably do a Joy Xtra. I like it better than the Joy.