How to Get Clean Cricut Cuts Every Time -

I know that sometimes your Cricut does not cut cleanly. Sometimes the cuts don’t cut all the way through or they tear. But, it is usually not your machine’s fault. There are steps you should be takingT to make sure that you get clean cuts every time. In this post I am going to tell you all the things that you should be doing to make sure that you get the best cut results with your Cricut. If you would like more beginner Cricut information check out my ebook here or on Amazon.

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Step 1: Make sure your Mat is Sticky

Over time and use Cricut mats lose their stickiness due to left over debris from previous cuts. It is not always possible to get the debris off just using a scraper. You really need to clean your mats and store them correctly. To do this I recommend using non alcoholic wipes. You can use other non abrasive cleaners but non alcoholic wipes such as baby wipes really work best. You will also want to make sure that you use a lint roller to get off any lint particles left behind.

To store your mats correctly lay them on a flat surface or hang them up so that they are hanging flat. Either way you want to make sure the the mats are flat when storing them and that the clear plastic is on top to prevent dust and debris from gathering on top.

Step 2: Make sure your Blade is Clean and Sharp

It is important to make sure that your blade is both clean and sharp. It is best to remove the blade from the housing to clean it and sharpen it. Be careful when you are doing this so was not to cut yourself. the blades are sharp. To do this, simply unclamp the clamp and remove the housing with the blade in it. Once you have removed the housing, push down the top plunger and the blade will be ejected from the housing. Pull it out of he housing by hand.

Once you have removed the blade, you can clean it using alcohol or you can clean it as you sharpen it. The best way to sharpen it is using aluminum foil. Yes, that is right. Aluminum foil. Simply role up a ball of foil in your hand and stab the blade in and out numerous times. The foil will sharpen the blade as it goes in and out. You can also use steel wool for this process as well.

Step 3: Check your Design

Remember that if the design is too intricate the machine may not be able to cut it properly. For example of there are pieces that are just too small the machine may not be able to cut them cleanly and the material may tear. There is a simple way to rid your design of cuts that are just too small before you cut. All you need to do is to click contour and all of the little pieces will come up on the screen. You click them they will be removed from the design. Chances are that if they are small enough to cause problems with the cutting removing them will not be noticeable. This is particularly effective on layered designs like mandalas. Also make sure that your design has clean edges to begin with.

Step 4: Check your Material

You want to make sure that your material is firmly secured to the mat. I do this by using a brayer. I like to make sure that I use my brayer on every cut. You also want to make sure the you are using quality materials. Some materials simply are low quality. Often times you get what pay for. You may want to invest in Cricut products to ensure a good cut. There are other quality products out there but search carefully before spending a lot of money on paper and vinyl that will not cut appropriately.

Step 5: Use the Right Mat

Cricut makes different mats for a reason. They each have a different level of grip for different material types. Using the wrong mat could result in poor cuts.

Light Grip Mat: used for light-weight materials like paper,velum, and construction paper (light blue)

Standard Grip Mat: this mat is used for heavier fabrics like ironon vinyl and heavy cardstock (Green)

Strong Grip Mat: Used for interfaced fabric, leather, and balsa wood (Purple)

Fabric Grip Mat: Used for fabrics. (Pink)

Step 6: Use the Right Blade

Cricut Las makes different blades for a reason. They are used for different things. You will most likely use the Fine Point blade for most of your cutting but if you are cutting wood, fabric, or leather there are special blades for that. The deep point blade, the knife blade and the rotary blade can wreak havoc with card stock and vinyl so make sure that you use the appropriate blade for the material you are using if you want a nice clean cut.

Step 7: Check your Settings

Finally, if you have done all of these things check the settings on your machine. The best way to do this is in Design Space. Design Space allows you to select the exact type of material you are using and tells you the appropriate blade to use for the cut you are about to make. If you have a Cricut Explore turn the dial to Custom to set the settings in Design Space. it is that simple. Design Space is an Amazing tool. If you want to know more check out my eBook to learn more.

I hope you enjoyed this Cricut tips tutorial. If you would like more Cricut projects subscribe to our free Newsletter and receive your free Paper daisy SVG.

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