Cricut Explore Air 2 - A DIY Cutting Machine for All Crafts, Create Customized Cards, Home Decor & More, Bluetooth Connectivity, Compatible with iOS, Android, Windows & Mac, Rose

So, I debated buying one of these for months, and when it was on sale, I bit the bullet. I'm getting married this year and I am going all-in on DIYing this thing, so that was one of my main reasons for buying (though I plan on also using the cricut long after the fact to make cards and other personalized things).Before I go to far I want to touch on those top reviews that claim all the "hidden features" and "subscription required"...There is a 100% OPTIONAL $10/month subscription to "Cricut Access" which gives you lots of pre-made projects, fonts, SVGs, etc. Note: OPTIONAL. When you buy your Cricut they give you a trial, but I haven't even used mine yet. I don't need it. This is meant to be a creative hobby. I'd rather create my own projects than pay to use one that someone else made. At that point why not just go on Etsy and buy it rather than this printer? Honestly, I feel the subscription is for people who are not very computer/internet savvy and don't know how to google/download free fonts and vector graphics to save onto their computer. That's basically all you need. Now, I also am self-taught photoshop, so I use that a lot over their Cricut software, at least for text-based work. However, there is no prior knowledge of any other computer software required in order to make wonderful, unique Cricut projects.There are also negative reviews about how their software was entirely web-based. Well, that's changing in 2020. They've revamped their Design Space tool, and made it available to be used offline and desktop based.So, now down to the actual using of the printer! It's super simple to set up, but there is a slight learning curve. For example: super scripty fonts may look great on the computer, but when it comes to cutting it out on paper when there's a sticky mat, it makes for a hell of a time getting that paper off the mat. My advice would be to get some basic cardstock and cheap vinyl to practice on, so you don't go wasting your best materials off the bat. I mean, all crafting has a learning curve, right? Don't expect to be a Cricut Pro overnight. Watch youtube videos, read blogs for tips, see what other people are making to help inspire you and get an idea of what will work and what might not work so well.Also, get some tools to help pry the paper off the mat. The tool I use is basically a dental scraper, and it works wonderfully. Gets the paper off without tearing. I don't recommend trying to peel it all by hand, unless it's a thick piece of paper and a big project without intricate holes.Bottom line: I highly recommend this printer if you enjoy any type of paper crafts, typography, vinyl work, or are DIYing a lot for your wedding like I am. I'm using this thing to make personalized Wine Tumblers, Hangers, Photobooth Props, and other random decor. There's so much you can do with this one machine.Remember: creativity is required! The Cricut Access subscription is not!

I have waited a long time for a Cricut machine and this was definitely worth the wait. First, the color of the machine is beautiful. I love pink colors and this is a beautiful soft pink color. Secondly, I immediately signed up for the Cricut Design App. There are so many designs... some free, some not but so easy to navigate through. In addition to the app, YouTube has a ton of tutorials. The machine is quiet and works beautifully. I’m still learning my way around the machine as there are so many things you can create and do with it. Cricut is an outstanding product and would definitely recommend it to amateurs and experts alike.

Before purchasing I read a lot of reviews and watched a lot of videos, therefore it was easy for me to learn! I’ve used it several times and it’s worked perfectly everytime. I have the rose and it’s a pretty pastel pink that I LOVE. I will say the first machine I got was blue (I ordered pink) but amazon made the exchange SO easy. It’s really helped me get back in touch with my crafty side and get through this quarantine!

I am in LOVE with this machine. It cuts out so many different fabrics and is easier to use than the old versions. Depending upon what you want to do this machine should do just fine vs the maker. I went back and forth on this and the maker. I've made tshirts, canvas prints, leather earrings and all kinds of things on this.

There was definitely a learning curve at first even with lots of previous research. I've been working on a lot of practice projects and I'm getting the hang of it and i cannot believe I've ever lived without a Cricut. There's a lot of trial and error but if you love crafting, I think this is a really great machine that can tackle many different materials and projects.

So much fun to create different projects! This machine allows you to make amazing things. It takes awhile to understand how to use it. I recommend watching You Tube videos and getting a Cricut “how to” manual. Be prepared to buy other materials like vinyl adhesive, transfer tape, weeding tools, and mats. I am in love with the pink color I got! Once you get the hang of how to use it you will never regret your purchase!

The media could not be loaded. The color is a bit darker than the photos but it is beautiful. I really like the design. It is a bit loud but it didn’t disturb me. Installation is very easy. If you have your own design you can use the software free. However if you want to use cricut’s designs that requires subscription.

The Cricut software is horrible, but the machine is really cool.It's amazing how much you can create with this machine. I got this to make packaging, but I've made so much more with it in the short amount of time I've had it. I really recommend it!