Purchasing Advice on Cricut Extra Materials

This article has some stellar advice! https://www.clarkscondensed.com/diy/cricut-tips-for-beginners/

You'll definitely want to get one of the starter kits if your just starting out on this machine.

My daughter wants to get one for her new daughter-in-law and I have been comparing them online based on what my original Explore had with it when I got it. Walmart has the Air2 for $249 with a bunch of supplies, but I found her the same one on ebay for $179 with the same supplies. I make strictly paper crafts, so I haven't used the included vinyl. Mine didn't have a weeding tool, but you definitely need one, so my husband found a dentist's pick for $1 at a flea market which works great. The machine is designed to only use the Cricut markers, so you will need those if you use the writing feature. The scoring tool should be included with the machine. Blades and mats are way cheaper on ebay than from Cricut or JoAnn. There are a bunch of tutorials on youtube for how to restick the mats and do other things with the machine. Have fun!

My advice for you is buy Cameo with this machine you dont need buy any catrages go to silhouette america and check this machine a do Have one is very good. Cutting mats and another accessories you can buy on amazon much cheeper that on ebay.

You can use the Crayon brand markers in your Cricut machine. There is also a Crazy Art marker set (but I have a little trouble fitting it). This is way cheaper than the Cricut brand!

I recommend buying a Cricut Exspression 2 for the beginner. It does not need a computer to use (easy to use) but does have the power cord to use with computer. This is Great machine for the bigger jobs For Beginners. For the smaller jobs, I use a Cricut CRV001 personal cutting machine or CRV002 Cricut Create cutting machine. Easy to use, no computer required! My first one was the Cricut Explore, and I got so frustrated on learning how to use it, I put back in its box and sold later. Bought a Cricut CRV001 and absoulutly love it!!! I recommend Cricut.com for Quality supplies, they always have sales, Fast free shipping! Super! EBay For cutting mats.

hope I have helped you, Marla

I would recommend Brother's ScanNCut. I researched all machines and chose the ScanNCut 650W. It is well worth the cost. The other machines have extra costs. I can use my computer. It has a built in scanner so I can make my own designs and scan them. I can scan drawings, handwriting, and so much more. ScanNCut Canvas can be used to create, modify or adapt images and designs. I can cut vinyl, fabric, paper, etc. There are no limits to what you can create. The only limit is one's imagination.

Marie, I'm sure we all like our own choice for crafting supplies, but the Cricut is available in so many retail stores in my area, so that's why I purchased the Explore Air 2.

My post was meant for whatever accessories and tools I needed in addition to the machine that I now have.

Thanks to everyone who contributed. I've got my list of tools and accessories waiting for when I can shop.

My Question has been Resolved.

Marie & Eleanor, my question was about accessories needed for the Cricut Explore Air 2. I made my decision about which machine I wanted to purchase. My post was not a survey about which machines everyone liked.