I wish I was creative enough to use the new Cricut cutting machines
The new Cricut Maker 4 and Cricut Explore 4 promise faster cutting speeds and a pack of materials in the box to get your creations happening sooner.
Like a nosey neighbour, I have been looking over the creative fence for a few years at the Cricut lineup of smart cutting machines. They look cool, giving you the ability to create really awesome things like bespoke cards and invitations, and even customised clothing.
But I just don't know if I'm creative enough to really take advantage of these gadgets. But the launch of the new Cricut Maker 4 and Cricut Explore 4 have me wondering if I shouldn't at least have a go.
Available to pre-order now and hitting stores on 14 March, both new machines now ship with a starter pack of materials to help new users get started. The starter pack includes a whole bunch of samples, including:
- Smart Vinyl (3) 13 x 6-inch samples
- Cardstock (2) 11 x 4.25-inch samples
- Smart Iron-On (1) 4 x 6-inch sample
- Transfer Tape (2) 12 x 6-inch sheets
- LightGrip Machine Mat
- 0.4 Fine Point Pen Black
- Mini Weeder
According to Cricut, the new machines promise to cut materials like cardstock and vinyl on a machine mat twice as quickly as previous models.
Cricut has also updated its Design Space app to help make it easier for newcomers like myself to get started.
“Cricut Maker 4 and Cricut Explore 4 are designed to give our creative community more of what they’ve been asking for.
We’ve added even greater value to each machine by including tools and materials to help creatives get started right out of the box.
Our new machines coupled with improvements in our Design Space platform will empower everyone to make projects easily for their loved ones.”
– Ashish Arora, CEO of Cricut
Explore 4 vs Maker 4
So what's the difference between the two models?
When it comes down to it, the Cricut Maker 4 is compatible with more materials and can do a few extra things.
While both models can make vinyl decals, written labels, cards, gift tags, custom mugs, full-colour stickers, personalised apparel, banners, gift boxes, signs and jewellery, only the Maker 4 can tackle wood decor, quilts and engraved metal tags.
Some of those functions require additional accessories which are sold separately, and the Maker 4 can do more because it supports accessories like scoring wheels; rotary, wavy, perforation and knife blades; plus engraving and embossing tips.
Pricing and availability
As I mentioned before, both are available for pre-order now, with stock hitting shelves on 14 March.
Both are available from either Harvey Norman or Spotlight in Australia, with the Cricut Explore 4 costing $499 RRP and Cricut Maker 4 costing $699 RRP.
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