What do you need for the Cricut Explore Air 2? Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced craft enthusiast, having the right accessories and materials can greatly enhance your crafting experience with this versatile cutting machine. In this article, we’ll discuss the essential items you’ll need to get the most out of your Cricut Explore Air 2.
First and foremost, you’ll need the Cricut Explore Air 2 cutting machine itself. This compact and powerful device is designed to cut a wide variety of materials, including paper, cardstock, fabric, and more. Ensure that your machine is properly assembled and calibrated before you begin crafting.
Next, you’ll need a Cricut cutting mat. The mat is a crucial component that provides a stable surface for your materials to be cut. The Cricut Explore Air 2 comes with one mat, but it’s always a good idea to have a few extra on hand. Cricut offers different types of mats, such as the standard green mat, the blue light-grip mat, and the white mat, each designed for specific materials.
Additionally, you’ll need some basic crafting supplies, such as paper, cardstock, and other materials that you want to cut with your machine. It’s essential to choose high-quality materials that are compatible with your Cricut Explore Air 2. Cricut offers a wide range of materials, including specialty papers, iron-on vinyl, and heat transfer material, to suit various crafting projects.
Another important accessory is the Cricut knife blade. This blade is designed to cut through thick materials like leather, denim, and chipboard. It’s essential to have a sharp blade for clean cuts and to prevent damage to your machine. Replace the blade regularly to maintain optimal performance.
For scoring and embossing, the Cricut scoring tool is a must-have. This tool allows you to create perfect folds and embossed designs on your materials. The scoring tool is compatible with the Cricut Explore Air 2 and can be used with various materials, including cardstock, paper, and fabric.
Don’t forget about the Cricut Design Space software. This free software is essential for designing and creating your projects. With Cricut Design Space, you can access a vast library of images, fonts, and project ideas. You can also import your own designs or create custom projects from scratch.
Lastly, consider investing in some additional tools and materials to expand your crafting possibilities. This may include a weeding tool for removing excess material from your cuts, a scraper for smoothing out transfer paper, and a heat gun for applying iron-on vinyl or heat transfer material.
By having these essential items on hand, you’ll be well-prepared to create a wide range of crafting projects with your Cricut Explore Air 2. Happy crafting!
