First Impressions

Have you ever wondered if it’s worth diving into the world of crafting with a Cricut machine? If you're like most crafters, you’ve probably heard about the Cricut Explore 3 Smart Cutting Machine and wondered, “Is it worth the investment?” Well, I’m here to tell you that it’s not just worth it—it’s a game-changer. The Cricut Explore 3 is a premium machine that comes with everything you need to start crafting, plus a bunch of cool features that make it stand out from the crowd.

Who is it For?

If you’re looking to take your crafting to the next level, the Cricut Explore 3 is the perfect choice. It’s designed for hobbyists and professionals alike, making it accessible to beginners while still offering advanced features that will keep seasoned crafters engaged. Whether you’re just starting out or have been cutting with Cricut machines for years, the Explore 3 has something to offer. Its versatile capabilities mean you can create anything from DIY home decor to intricate clothing designs.

What Makes it Stand Out?

The Cricut Explore 3 is not just another cutting machine. It’s a complete package that includes everything you need to get started. The machine itself is robust and durable, with a sleek, modern design that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Its automatic operation mode makes it incredibly easy to use, and the substantial active surface area ensures you have plenty of space to work on your projects.

Look and Feel

The Cricut Explore 3 is a premium machine, and it shows. When you first unbox it, you’ll be greeted by a sleek, black and white design. The machine is made of high-quality plastic, ensuring it feels sturdy and well-built. The dimensions of 13.5 inches in diameter by 25 inches in width by 11 inches in height make it a bit larger than some other machines, but this extra space gives you more room to work on larger projects. The machine itself weighs a hefty 21.4 pounds, which means it’s built to last. The included tool kit, including permanent vinyl, transfer tape, and machine mats, is a thoughtful addition that makes your setup a breeze.

What's Inside

Key Features

• BUNDLE INCLUDES: The Cricut Explore 3 comes with a bundle that includes 30 images of digital content, a Permanent Vinyl Roll (1ft x 15ft, Black), 1 roll of Transfer Tape (1ft x 12ft), 3 StandardGrip Machine Mats (12in x 12in), and a 5-Piece Tool Kit. This bundle is a significant investment in your crafting journey right from the start.
• DIGITAL CONTENT BUNDLE: With the Cricut Explore 3, you get access to a digital library of 30 images. Setting up the machine guides you through registration, and once you do, you’ll have immediate access to these images. This is a fantastic starting point for beginners and a valuable resource for more experienced crafters.
• DIY DREAM MACHINE: The Explore 3 works with over 100 materials, including popular options like vinyl, iron-on heat transfer vinyl (HTV), and cardstock. You can write, draw, foil, score, and more, making it incredibly versatile. The machine is designed to handle a wide range of materials, so you’re not limited to just one type of crafting.
• ACCESS TO BEGINNER'S GUIDES, EXPERT-LED COURSES, AND WORKSHOPS: One of the best things about the Cricut Explore 3 is the Learning Plan built into Design Space. This plan includes beginner’s guides and expert-led courses and workshops that help you build the skills you need to create projects with confidence. You can start using the machine right away and feel supported every step of the way.

How It Performs

In real-world use, the Cricut Explore 3 doesn’t disappoint. Its automatic operation mode makes it incredibly easy to use, even for beginners. You simply upload a design, select the material, and press a button. The machine handles the rest, cutting your project with precision and accuracy. The active surface area is substantial, which is great for larger projects, but it can also handle smaller pieces with ease. The tool kit includes everything you need to get started, from machine mats to transfer tape, making setup a breeze.

The Good and The Bad

Why We Like It:

• Versatility: The Cricut Explore 3 can handle a wide range of materials, from vinyl to cardstock, making it incredibly versatile.
• Ease of Use: The automatic operation mode makes it incredibly easy to use, even for beginners. The included tool kit and digital content bundle make setup straightforward.
• Durable Design: The machine is well-built and feels sturdy, which means it should last for years of use.
• Support and Resources: The Learning Plan in Design Space provides beginner’s guides and expert-led courses, ensuring you have the support you need to create projects with confidence.

Thumbs Down:

• Size: While the machine is incredibly powerful, its size can be a downside if you have limited workspace.
• Initial Setup: The initial setup process can be a bit overwhelming for beginners, as there are many components to understand and set up.

Wrapping Up

The Cricut Explore 3 Smart Cutting Machine is a top-tier investment for anyone looking to expand their crafting skills. With its versatile capabilities, robust design, and comprehensive resources, it’s a fantastic choice for both beginners and experienced crafters. While it may have a steeper initial cost compared to other machines, the value it provides is undeniable. If you’re ready to take your crafting to the next level, the Cricut Explore 3 is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared for a bit of a learning curve, but the support and resources provided by Cricut make it manageable. So, if you’re ready to dive into the world of crafting with confidence, the Cricut Explore 3 is your go-to machine.