If you love crafting and are looking for a reliable crafting cutting machine, then you should check our in-depth review of Cricut Explore Air 2.
This machine is a life-saver for those who love to craft a lot. This machine is designed with simplicity to give you the best crafting experience on different materials.
May 10, 2020 Best laptop for Cricut Explore Air and Air 2 in 2020. It's not solely a girly gismo however area unit about to be used for interior arising with still (includes ornamentation of cell phones, table matte covers, decorating walls, offices, homes, etc.).
- Dec 29, 2020 The Acer Predator Helios 300 laptop is the best laptop you can have for Cricut Explore Air 2 and therefore takes the gaming experience to another level. It has unique features while its operating speed is unmatched with a standard laptop. It comes with 9th Generation Intel Core i7 and up to 4.5 GHz as well as Windows 10 Home 64 Bit.
- It's compatible with Scoring, Deep-Point Blade, and other tools. The Cricut Air comes with wireless connectivity along with a Double tool holder, can deliver professional-quality results. Lastly, Air 2 comes with the best features in the Cricut Explore series; it can work up to 2X faster than the Air model.
Cricut is a well-known manufacturer of different types of cutting equipment, and their Explore Air 2 is currently the best-selling one in the market.
Contents
- 1 Cricut Explore Air 2 Review: Everything You Need to Know
- 1.7 How does it work?
For the new generation crafters, the company has brought the all-new Cricut Explore Air 2.
Best Computer For Cricut Explore Air 2
Being an advanced cutting machine, Explore Air 2 comes with a lot of functions for its consumers which are there to make your life much simpler.
The machine is designed to cut over 100 types of materials precisely which is good for the professional crafters.
If you are planning to buy a new Cutting Machine from the market, then the following in-depth review of this popular Explore Air 2 Machine will help you to make the decision.
Cricut Explore Air 2
Cricut launched its new generation cutting machine named Explore Air 2 in February 2015.
Fortunately, the machine has a total of three different color options to choose the most suitable one as per your requirements.
The available color options are baby blue, peach pink, and mint green. All these colors are suitable for almost all types of desktops.
About the Cricut Explore Air 2 Machine
Cricut Explore Air 2 is a new generation cutting machine weighs around 16 pounds. The machine is designed to fit well on your desktop with its minimal design.
The machine comes with an easy to use interface which lets you put the right cut on the right material.
With smart functions, the machine enables you to cut and finish the project in the given timeline.
You can save a lot of time and money as you will not waste any materials while working on this machine for a project.
Fortunately, the manufacturer also offers a dedicated mobile app to run this machine through your mobile phone.
The mobile app of this machine has predesigned projects which you can use to create a new project on the desired material.
If you are curious to know more about this amazing cutting machine, then you should check what's there inside the box first.
What's in the box?
- Cricut Explore Air 2 Machine
- Getting Started Guide
- The Machine Software and App
- German Carbide Blade
- Adapter
- USB Cord
- Power Cord
- Free Images
- Built-in Projects
- Cardstock Sample with a Pen
- Cutting Mat with Standard Grip
- Cricut Explore Air 2 Key Specifications
- Works with over 100 types of materials
- Maximum cutting size is enough
- Comes with Cricut Design Software for macOS and Windows
- Supports Mobile Phones and Tablets
- Built-in Bluetooth Connectivity
- Easy to use functions
- Small Compartment for holding pens and small things
- Works twice faster than the predecessor
- Light in weight
- Available in three different color options: Cheery Blossom, Matte Black, Mint Green, Persimmon.
Supported Materials
You might be wondering what's materials can it work with? Well, the machine is designed to work with almost all types of materials. It works fine with over 100 different types of materials precisely.
The machine is fully versatile and can work with Vinyl, Cardstock, fabric, paper and many other materials which are available in the market in the crafting business.
To select the material and its type, there is a dedicated Smart Set Dial Settings menu available.
With this menu, you can select the type of material you are using, and the machine will set up things accordingly.
Also see: Best Sewing Machine for Quilting
The machine also works well on other materials such as leather, foam, and metal. For thicker materials, you need to buy an additional blade which can cut thick materials easily.
The new generation Explore Air 2 machine runs twice the speed of its older model which makes the cutting task even faster.
Surprisingly, the machine comes with an embedded Bluetooth function. You can connect this machine via Bluetooth to your smartphone and it works wirelessly.
You can select the project and can put the right cut on the material without any connection through Bluetooth Connectivity.
The Design Space Software of the Machine comes with presets of different programs.
There are over 80 different types of automatic setting programs available which can recognize the material itself and start the cutting process hassle-free.
However, with a proper understanding of the settings functions, you can select the material and the whole process manually.
Cricut Explore 2: How it looks?
As mentioned above, the new generation Cricut Explore 2 Machine has three different colors.
You can pick the suitable color from the available options which surely adds up more charm to your working period.
The machine looks absolutely stunning with its compact design. The machine's control panel is located at the outer right side.
If we talk about the available buttons, there are Power Button, Smart Set Dial, Load, Go and Pause buttons available which you can see on the machine itself.
Interestingly, the outer left side has a smallholder where you can put the pens and other small tools which are still a good option for the users.
Besides this, there is a Cricut Cartridge port and the Open button to open up the machine for removing the Cartridge.
Most of the components on this machine are fixed well and you don't need to do anything to get started with it.
You will get used to this machine once you start using it for your projects.
Cricut Explore Air 2 Features:
How does it work?
Once you bought the Cricut Explore Air 2 Smart Cutting Machine, the next thing you need to learn is its functionality and how it works in real life. Let's check out how this machine actually works!
Being a new generation cutting machine equipped with smart features and functionals, the Cricut Explore Air 2 Machine works like a Magic.
If you have never been into the crafting or cutting industry and using this machine for the first time, you will be amazed to see how this machine works and creates your projects.
The machine works even faster compared to its predecessor which means, you can finish your project very quickly in just a few minutes of time.
The machine writes and cuts the card precisely and faster. You will never have any complaints regarding its speed.
Moreover, there is a Fast button also available on the machine itself. This button enhances the performance of the machine and it will work even faster compared to the existing speed.
So you can also make use of this button while working on a big project.
The Smart Set Dial
The new Cricut Explore Air 2 Machine comes with a very useful function called the Smart Set Dial.
This is a rounded shape button which lets you select the material type.
The same is used to determine the thickness of the material you are about to use on the machine. In the Smart Set Dial, Poster Board is the thickest material.
If you are using a different material than the listed ones, then you can select its settings manually from the available options.
Here, we have listed down some of the materials which can be used on this machine.
- Leather
- Burlap
- Foam
- Cardboard
- Foil
- Aluminum
- Tissue Paper
- Clay
- Cotton
- Silk
You can put the right cuts on the above-listed materials through this machine easily. Now, let's see how you can get started with this machine.
First of all, you need to be familiar with the software to run this machine. The Cricut Explore Air 2 Machine comes with Cricut Design Space Software.
This software works for both, macOS and Windows PCs. You can install this software to the desired PC system to get started with it.
This software is for free and you will receive it inside the box when you purchase this Explore Air 2 Smart Cutting Machine.
Fortunately, you can even make use of its mobile app as well. The Cricut Design Space app is also available for the users.
Also see: Best Sewing Machine for Beginners
Users of this machine can install its mobile app on the iOS device from the respective App Stores.
The mobile apps are compatible with Smartphones and Tablets, so you can get familiar with the different functions of the machine easily.
Once the app is installed, you will be able to see and explore all the projects and functions which are available to use.
You need to make sure that the mobile phone or tablet is connected with the machine.
You can connect the Cricut Explore Air 2 Machine to your Smartphone, Tablet or PC through USB Data cable or Bluetooth.
There is a Bluetooth function also available which lets you connect the machine wirelessly to your smart devices.
There are plenty of good things and functions available on the Cricut Design Space software.
First, the software has a dedicated Search box which lets you search for the designs and projects.
You can also explore the available library containing different projects and designs which are ready to use.
If you need some premium projects, you can purchase the required projects from the Catalogue. You have to pay for the selected project.
Macbook pro software. Depending upon your requirements, you can purchase its subscription plan which will give you access of the fonts, designs, and projects.
PROS:
- 2X Faster than its predecessor
- Writes and Cuts with one single step
- Premium German Carbide Blade
- Auto Settings for over 80 materials
- Compact and easy to use design
- Bluetooth Connectivity
- Supports Smartphones and Tablets
- Works with MacOS and Windows PC systems
- Easy to use interface
- Getting started guide for the newbies
Besides this, there is an online design studio also available for beginners. If you find the user interface of this machine is complex, you can go through the online design studio tutorials which are a lot easier than what you have received inside the box or with the software.
With the use of the Internet and the access to this studio, you will be more creative at creating attractive projects.
CONS:
- Android App is not yet available
- The Design Space Software needs an upgrade
- Bit noisy (Louder than the Cricut Explore Air Machine)
- The cutting and printing sizes are restrictive
Conclusion:
The new Cricut Explore Air 2 Machine works like a charm. However, we should not forget that the predecessor of this machine, I.e. Cricut Explore Air is also a wonderful and smart cutting machine by the same manufacturer.
If you have already used the Explore Air machine in the past, then the only difference you will notice in the new Cricut Explore Air 2 machine is the speed.
The new Cricut Explore Air 2 machine is very faster and will impress you on the very first cutting project.
The machine has an upgraded premium material blade that can work with over 100 types of materials.
You can easily cut down different types of materials and can finish the project on the desired materials using this one single machine, Cricut Explore Air 2.
Thankfully, the machine doesn't change its cutting functionality while working with different materials.
The machine works accurately and puts the right cuts even if it works at a faster speed.
You can also make use of its Fast mode to finish the cutting project even faster.
The machine also comes with customizable options to customize its settings and functions as per the requirements.
So you can easily set up things and can start the cutting process.
Besides this, there is special software available for the consumers who can work with the machine using their PCs.
The software serves easy to use interface with a lot of preinstalled projects and designs. You can select the design or project to start the machine.
In a nutshell, the Cricut Explore Air 2 machine is the best and smarted smart cutting machine available in the market.
The festive season is fast approaching. That means it's soon going to be the time of year when we wrack our brains about the best gifts to give our loved ones. I love personalized gifts and homemade gifts need not resemble bargain-basement selections. With advanced design and production tools like the Cricut Explore Air 2 machine, great, stylish, and truly useful gifts are within your grasp.
What is Cricut Explore Air 2?
The Cricut Explore Air 2 machine makes it possible to die-cut gifts in any design you want, from wine glasses, home decor, and even vinyl stickers.
The only limit is your imagination and the design you send from your computer.
The Cricut Explore is made to deal with tough materials such as foam, cork, fabric, sticker paper, vinyl and faux leather.
Think of vinyl wall stickers, DIY photo magnets, decals for smartphones, custom tote bags, festive season greeting cards, vinyl design serving trays and much more.
Cricut Explore Air 2 Features
The Cricut Explore is the tool that you need to explore any crafting idea. The machine works with PC's, Mac's, Android and iOS smart devices. This makes it so that anyone can get crafting. In addition, you can even make your own designs or purchase templates online.
The Cricut Explore Air 2 pack contains the machine itself, a fine point pen, Tricut's custom blade, a StandardGrip Machine Mat, and a card project to start you off.
But don't feel limited, use that software to make your own designs, or visit one of the many web pages where fans are continually posting new ideas.
Not only is this Cricut Explore model immensely sleek and attractive, but it is also available in a number of colors. Colors include classic matte black and white – and the more eye-catching cherry blossom, lilac and mint for that extra dose of fun.
It's almost silent to run
It has built-in storage compartments make organizing accessories intuitive and easy – just like the operation of the machine itself.
What Can You Make With the Cricut Explore Air 2?
Just let your imagination run wild! Here are 9 great project ideas to make with your Cricut.
- Iron on Clothing Decals
- DIY Home Decor Signs
- Greeting cards
- Tote Bags
- Photo Magnets
- Personalized Mugs or tumblers
- Jewelry
- Organization Labels
- Custom Wine Glasses
Sounds interesting? See how easy it is to make custom wine glasses. We show you how to make a personalized Cricut wine glass in our article ‘Make Custom Wine Glasses With Your Cricut Machine'.
Speaking of Accessories
Your crafting journey doesn't stop with the purchase of the Cricut Explore Air 2 machine. There's plenty more to make crafting even more fun and productivity with the optional accessories.
Cricut Access Membership
Perhaps this shouldn't be classed as an accessory – but it is useful – and certainly improves your Cricut experience, so maybe there's an argument to be made for its inclusion here.
Each Cricut Explore Air 2 comes with a two week trial of Cricut Access. This provides a huge library of 100,000 images, as well as fonts. Once your two weeks is up, you can choose to subscribe. Alternatively you can pay for those projects that are of interest at a particular time.
Cricut Essential Tool Set
There is the Cricut Essential Tool Set which contains
- a portable trimmer
- a scoring stylus
- a spatula
- one weeder
- a scraper
- a pair of scissors and those ever essential tweezers for detailed work.
Cricut Holographic Vinyl
You can make your Cricut project really shine with Cricut Holographic Vinyl.
This material is perfect for adding pizzazz and creating removable decals for projects like labels, media covers and even window décor.
It's up to you how far you can stretch your imagination.
It comes in a variety of colors. Picture is cricut holographic vinyl in Opal.
Cricut 2003986 Holographic Sparkle Vinyl, 12' x 48', OpalCricut Carrying Case
Sharing is half the fun with Cricut. The Cricut Carrying Case is the perfect accessory to make sure that your Cricut Explore (and your prized accessories) accompanies you to wherever that fun is happening.
Padded protection and easy carrying, as well as amazing storage options, make this a must-have accessory.
Introduce family and friends to the Cricut experience. Or simply work together with them (and other Cricut users) to produce incredible designs that will have everyone smiling.
Cricut Explore Air 2 Bundle
For those who want to start off with a bang and use all that the Cricut Explore Air 2 can offer, then the Cricut Explore Air 2 Essentials bundle is just what is needed.
With this bundle you will get the most out of your Cricut Explore Air 2 machine. It contains
- a collection of 20 different colored vinyl sheets
- two 12×12 inch GripMats
- five weeding tools for those intricate designs
- a set of replacement blades to keep you crafting
- training eBook that will introduce you to the skills needed
Cricut Explore Air 2 – Your New DIY Best Friend
The Cricut Explore Air 2 is the perfect tool for those who want to explore their creativity while producing gifts, decorative items, decals, homeware (and much more) that will impress everyone who sees them.
It's also quite simply fun – and one of the best ways to take your crafting hobby to the next level.
App For Cricut Explore Air 2
You can give the gifts that stand the test of time, don't require the frenzied shopping experience, come from the heart, and are made with loving care.
Cricut Explore Air 2, Matte Black