Anyone who has never used or seen the Cricut Explore is likely to mistake it with a printer, but it couldn’t be any further from that. The Cricut Explore is a crafting tool that takes away the hassle of having to use things like pencils, razors, scissors, and shears to create intricate designs and patterns. It has the ability to score, cut, and even draw on several different materials ranging from vinyl to leather and so much more. Cricut is known for many things in the craft world, but the Cricut Explore product line has to be by far one of their greatest achievements even superseding the Design Space Software that is used with most Cricut Machine. The Cricut Explore product line consists of Cricut Explore One, Cricut Explore Air and Cricut Explore Air 2. Each of these machines brags its unique set of features and fare differently from each other. However, for, this article, today we shall be looking at the Cricut Explore one which revolutionized the crafting world when it was first introduced into the market.
Product Overview
As previously mentioned, the Cricut Explore One caused a paradigm shift in the crafting world when it was introduced in the market. Even though there have been other cricut machines and cutting machines that have come up since, the Explore One still remains a crowd favorite for a lot of crafters and DIYers given that it is an easy tool to use and it is also affordable. Despite its basic set of features, the Explore One is a great machine for scoring, writing and precision cutting. The machine is extremely user-friendly with an interface that is easy to maneuver. It also allows for users to effortlessly create and design their projects straight from their tablets, personal computers, and smartphones. Equipped with a premium German carbide blade, the Explore one is a beast capable of cutting through a series of different materials including, paper, leather, vinyl fabric, and so much more. The German carbide blade, which is overly resilient and durable facilitates the cutting of products with up to a medium weight without breaking down. The biggest downside of the Cricut Explore one in our opinion would be the lack of Bluetooth. Although this may not have been an issue a couple of years back, the evolution of technology today has changed how a lot of things operate and as such being able to function wirelessly is something that is extremely crucial not only for crafters but also for the rest of the world.
Features of the Cricut Explore
Like with every other cutting machine, the Cricut Explore one has a set of features including
Integrated storage compartments: The Explore one has storage compartments on the side of the machine which were ingeniously designed to be used as storage for work items such as pens, scissors, etc. and ensure that a user’s workspace remains clutter-free. The integrated storage compartments also play a vital role in ensuring users can save up on space that they are likely to use later while working.
Smart Set dials: previously, when crafters would do their work, there was a lot of guesswork involved as they tried to figure out how things worked. However, the smart set dial has changes how things work as the innovative feature enables users to work with the optimal predetermined settings for whatever material they are using. By choosing the right mode when operating the machine users no longer have to worry about things like getting the pressure, speed, or even depth that is ideal for their projects.
Cricut Design Space Software: For starters, the design software opened a whole new world of designs giving users access to over 60,000 designs that they could use on their projects. Users can access this extremely powerful software through their smartphones, tablets, and computers by simply logging into the system. You’ll certainly be spoiled for choice from the selection of pre-made projects. The software is quite simple and easy to use and provides users with the option to create their designs in the moment by clicking the “Make it Now” option.
Grip Cutting Mat: I think that this is actually a privilege as some cutting machines usually do not have the grip cutting mat forcing users to purchase it as an additional accessory. The Explore One’s mat has been designed in such a manner that it can be used for various crafting materials without the material slipping out of place while it is being worked on. The mat is of high quality and has great grips to achieve the perfect cuts.
Pros of the Cricut Explore
- Users can still use the old cartridges with the Cricut Explore which can accommodate the said cartridges.
- It’s extremely easy to use, and anyone, regardless of their skill level, can use it. Beginners will particularly enjoy using it as it has all the basic requirements they would need.
- Users no longer have to make manual adjustments when working as the Smart Det dials takes over the task.
- The Cricut Explore one is reasonably priced and within range for a lot of crafters.
Cons of the Cricut Explore
- The machine cannot undertake two activities such as cut and draw at the same time, which is something its descendants the Explore Air 2 can do.
- It is not equipped with Bluetooth technology, which is crucial in today’s world.
- Users require a fast internet connection.
- Users may have to purchase additional accessories, which can greatly increase the total cost of the machine.
Final Thoughts
The Cricut Explore is a great machine that offers great value for money to its users. It is a machine we would highly recommend particularly to beginners who are just getting into the die-cutting world. Nevertheless, this is not to say that experienced crafters cannot use it as anyone who enjoys crafting can. The entire Explore product line offers users with unlimited possibilities, and it helps if a user understands what their needs are and opts for a die-cutting machine that can help them realize their goals.
