Cricut Print then Cut

The Cricut Print then Cut feature is a powerful tool that allows you to print designs from your printer and then have your Cricut machine cut them out. This feature expands the creative possibilities, enabling the production of detailed, colourful projects such as custom stickers, labels, decals, and even photo projects, with precision cutting around your printed designs. Here’s an overview of how it works and some tips for getting the best results.

How Print then Cut Works

1. Design Creation: Begin by designing your project in Cricut Design Space. You can use images, text, and shapes to create your design. For Print then Cut, ensure your design fits within the Print then Cut dimensions, which are typically 6.75″ x 9.25″ for Cricut Explore and Maker machines, and 4.5″ x 6.5″ for the Cricut Joy.
2. Adding a Print Layer: In Design Space, any image or design can be set to Print then Cut by changing its layer attribute to “Print” and adding a cut line around the design. This tells your Cricut machine exactly where to cut around your printed image.
3. Printing Your Design: Once your design is ready, click on “Make It” in Design Space. This will send your design to your printer. Be sure to select “Use System Dialog” to adjust your printer settings as necessary for your material. Print your design on your choice of material—usually sticker paper, cardstock, or photo paper.
4. Applying the Material to a Cutting Mat: After printing, apply your printed material onto a Cricut cutting mat, aligning it according to the guidelines.
5. Cutting Your Design: Load the mat into your Cricut machine. Design Space will prompt you to select the material type and ensure the correct blade is installed. The machine will then scan the printed registration marks to understand the design’s layout and proceed to cut around the printed images.

Tips for Successful Print then Cut Projects

• Use High-Quality Materials: For best results, use high-quality printing materials compatible with your printer and suitable for your project.
• Calibrate Your Machine: Ensure your Cricut machine is calibrated for Print then Cut. Calibration helps the machine accurately read the registration marks.
• Check Printer Settings: Use the best quality settings on your printer for the material you’re printing on. This ensures crisp images and accurate colours.
• Consider the Lighting: Good lighting is crucial for your Cricut machine to accurately read the registration marks. Avoid direct sunlight or overly dim environments during the cutting process.
• Test First: If you’re trying a new material or it’s your first time using the Print then Cut feature, do a test print and cut first to ensure everything works as expected.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Machine Not Reading Registration Marks: Ensure there is adequate lighting and that the registration marks are not smudged or cut off. Calibrate your machine if the issue persists.
• Print Quality Issues: Check your printer’s ink levels and cleaning settings. Sometimes, aligning the print heads or cleaning them can improve print quality.
• Cutting Accuracy: If cuts are not aligned with your design, recalibrate your machine for Print then Cut. Also, ensure the material is placed correctly on the mat and that it hasn’t shifted before cutting.

The Print then Cut feature significantly enhances the capabilities of your Cricut machine, allowing for the creation of intricate and colourful projects with ease. With practice and by following these tips, you can achieve professional-looking results at home.