Print then Cut is a handy feature in Cricut Design Space that lets you make custom stickers, cards, and labels with your Cricut machine. The Print then Cut process involves printing your design on a home printer and then using your Cricut to cut it out precisely.
This method opens up many options for crafters. You can create complex designs with multiple colors and intricate details. The Cricut cuts around the printed image with great accuracy. This gives your projects a clean, professional look.
Print then Cut works with various materials. You can use it on printable vinyl, cardstock, or sticker paper. This makes it great for making unique decals, gift tags, or even temporary tattoos.
Creating with Precision: Mastering Print Then Cut on Your Cricut
Cricut’s Print Then Cut feature opens up a world of creative possibilities, allowing you to combine printed designs with precise cuts for stunning projects. If you’re new to this feature, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Preparing Your Design
- Choose or Create an Image: Select a design from Cricut Design Space’s library or upload your own image. Make sure it’s in a compatible format like PNG or JPG.
- Set the Operation Type: Select your image and change the operation type to “Print Then Cut” in the Edit bar.
- Flatten Multi-Layer Designs: If your design has multiple layers, use the “Flatten” tool to combine them into a single printable layer. The Cricut will cut around the outer edge of the flattened image.
- Size and Position: Adjust the size and placement of your design on the canvas. Remember the maximum Print Then Cut area is 9.25″ x 6.75″.
- Add a Bleed (Optional): If you want to ensure no white edges appear after cutting, add a slight bleed by extending the design slightly beyond the cut line.
Printing Your Design
- Load Printable Material: Place your chosen printable material (e.g., sticker paper, cardstock) in your printer.
- Select “Make It”: Click the “Make It” button in Design Space.
- Follow the Prompts: Design Space will guide you through the printing process. Ensure your printer settings match the material you’re using.
Cutting Your Design
- Place Printed Material on Mat: Carefully adhere your printed design to a Cricut mat, ensuring it’s smooth and wrinkle-free.
- Load Mat into Cricut: Insert the mat into your Cricut machine.
- Select Material and Blade: Choose the appropriate material setting and blade type for your chosen material.
- Press “Go”: Let your Cricut work its magic! It will scan the registration marks on your printed material and precisely cut around your design.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Registration Mark Issues: If your Cricut has trouble reading the registration marks, ensure they are printed clearly and are not obscured by the design.
- Inaccurate Cuts: Double-check your material settings and blade condition. A dull blade can cause uneven cuts.
- Material Shifting: Make sure your material is securely adhered to the mat to prevent shifting during the cutting process.
Additional Tips
- Experiment with Different Materials: Print Then Cut works with a variety of materials, including sticker paper, vinyl, and cardstock.
- Use Design Space’s Library: Explore the vast collection of Print Then Cut-ready designs in Design Space for inspiration.
- Layer for Dimension: Combine Print Then Cut elements with other cut elements for added depth and dimension in your projects.
With a little practice, you’ll be creating beautiful Print Then Cut projects in no time!
Key Takeaways
- Print then Cut combines printing and precise cutting for custom designs
- The feature works with different materials like vinyl, cardstock, and sticker paper
- Design Space offers tools to prepare and execute Print then Cut projects easily
Preparing Your Design for Print Then Cut
Getting your design ready for Print Then Cut is key. This process involves setting up in Cricut Design Space, picking the right materials, and choosing the best images.
Setting Up in Cricut Design Space
Open Cricut Design Space to start your project. Click “New Project” to begin. Add images or text to your canvas. Use the Offset tool to create a border around your design if needed.
The Flatten tool is important for Print Then Cut. Select all elements and click “Flatten” in the Layers panel. This turns your design into a single printable image.
Make sure your design fits within the Print Then Cut size limits. For most Cricut machines, the max size is 6.75 x 9.25 inches.
Check that your image looks good. Zoom in to spot any issues. Fix problems before moving on.
Choosing the Right Materials
Pick materials that work well with both printing and cutting. Printable vinyl is great for stickers and decals. Sticker paper is perfect for making labels and gift tags.
For iron-on designs, use printable iron-on material. It’s good for custom t-shirts and tote bags.
Cardstock works well for cards and invitations. Choose a weight that your printer can handle.
Test your materials before starting a big project. This helps avoid wasting supplies.
Design Tips and Image Selection
Use high-quality images for the best results. PNG files work well because they can have transparent backgrounds.
SVG files are great for designs with crisp lines and shapes. They scale without losing quality.
JPG files can work too, but make sure they’re high resolution.
Keep designs simple at first. Avoid tiny details that might be hard to cut.
Use bold colors and clear fonts. This makes your prints look better and easier to read.
Try the Offset tool to add a border around text or images. This can make stickers and decals easier to peel.
Executing the Print Then Cut Process
The Print Then Cut process involves three main steps: printing, calibrating, and cutting. This method lets you create custom designs on your home printer and cut them precisely with your Cricut machine.
Printing with a Home Printer
Start by opening your design in Cricut Design Space. Click “Make It” to begin the printing process. Select your material type and size. The software will add a black border around your design. This border helps the Cricut machine read and cut accurately.
Print your design on the chosen material using your home printer. Use high-quality paper or printable vinyl for best results. Make sure your printer settings match your material. For example, select “photo paper” for glossy sticker sheets.
Let the ink dry completely before moving to the next step. This prevents smudging and ensures clean cuts.
Calibrating Your Cricut Machine
Calibration is key for precise cuts. Open the calibration tool in Cricut Design Space. Print the calibration sheet on plain white paper. Place it on a standard grip mat.
Load the mat into your Cricut machine. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the calibration process. The machine will make small cuts on the sheet. Check these cuts and adjust as needed in the software.
Calibrate your machine regularly, especially when changing printers or materials. This step ensures your Cricut cuts exactly where it should on your printed designs.
Cutting and Applying the Print
Place your printed design on a Cricut mat. The mat type depends on your material. Use a light grip mat for thin papers and a standard grip for thicker materials.
Load the mat into your Cricut machine. In Design Space, select “Continue” to start the cutting process. The machine will scan for the black border and then cut your design.
Once cutting is done, unload the mat. Carefully remove your cut design from the mat. Use tools like a scraper or weeding tool for delicate pieces.
Apply your cut design to your project. For stickers, peel and stick. For iron-on designs, use a heat press or iron. Always follow the care instructions for your specific material.
Frequently Asked Questions
Print then cut is a useful Cricut feature. It lets you make custom stickers, labels, and transfers. Here are some common questions about using print then cut with Cricut machines.
How can I set up print then cut feature on Cricut Explore Air 2?
To set up print then cut on a Cricut Explore Air 2:
- Open Cricut Design Space
- Create or upload a design
- Select the image and click “Make It”
- Choose “Print Then Cut” when prompted
- Send the design to your printer
- Load the printed sheet on a Cricut mat
- Insert the mat into your Cricut and press the flashing button to cut
What is the maximum size for the print then cut feature on Cricut?
The maximum print then cut size on Cricut machines is 9.25 inches by 6.75 inches. This fits on a standard 8.5 x 11 inch sheet of paper or printable material.
What are the steps to print and cut vinyl on a Cricut machine?
To print and cut vinyl on a Cricut:
- Design your project in Cricut Design Space
- Choose printable vinyl as your material
- Print the design on vinyl using your home printer
- Place the printed vinyl on a Cricut mat
- Load the mat into your Cricut machine
- Select “Print Then Cut” in Design Space
- Let the Cricut cut around your printed design
How do I use the print then cut function for iron-on transfers with a Cricut?
For iron-on transfers with print then cut:
- Create your design in Cricut Design Space
- Mirror the image
- Print on printable iron-on material
- Place the printed sheet on a Cricut mat
- Load the mat and select “Print Then Cut”
- Let the Cricut cut around your design
- Weed excess material and apply to fabric with heat
Can you explain how to print and cut designs for shirts using a Cricut?
To make shirt designs with print then cut:
- Design your image in Cricut Design Space
- Choose printable iron-on vinyl
- Mirror the design
- Print on the vinyl using an inkjet printer
- Load the printed vinyl on a Cricut mat
- Have the Cricut cut around your design
- Weed excess vinyl and iron onto your shirt
What is the process to add a printer to Cricut Design Space for print then cut projects?
Adding a printer in Cricut Design Space:
- Open Cricut Design Space
- Click on your name in the top right
- Select “Machine Setup & App Settings”
- Choose “Print Setup”
- Click “Add Printer”
- Select your printer from the list
- Follow any extra steps to finish setup
