Cricut’s Print and Cut feature is a game-changer for craft lovers. It allows you to print designs and then cut them with precision using a Cricut machine. Whether you’re creating custom stickers, cards, or labels, this feature opens up a world of creativity. But to get the best results, you need a good printer.
Inkjet printers are a popular choice for Cricut Print and Cut projects. They offer bright, vivid colors and can handle various paper types. When you pair the right printer with your Cricut, your projects will stand out with sharp details and vibrant prints.
Choosing the best inkjet printer can feel tricky. There are so many models, and each has different features. But don’t worry. In this guide, we will help you find the best inkjet printer for Cricut Print and Cut. We’ll cover what to look for and review some top choices to make your crafting easier and more fun.
By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly what to look for in a printer and how to use it with your Cricut machine. So, let’s dive in and explore your best options!
What is Cricut Print and Cut?
Cricut Print and Cut is a fun and creative tool used in crafting. It allows you to print images or designs on paper and then cut them out with a Cricut machine. This feature is great for making custom stickers, labels, or paper crafts.
Here’s how it works. First, you print your design using a regular printer. Then, the Cricut machine scans the printed design and cuts around it with precision. This saves time and ensures your cuts are neat and professional.
You can use Cricut Print and Cut for many projects. From colorful cards to unique party decorations, the possibilities are endless. The process gives your crafts a polished, store-bought look.
However, using the right printer is key. A high-quality inkjet printer ensures that your prints come out sharp and vibrant. This is especially important when you want your colors to pop or need fine details in your design. That’s why finding the right printer is an important step for anyone using Cricut Print and Cut.
Cricut works with a wide range of materials like sticker paper, cardstock, and even vinyl. The flexibility makes it easy to create personalized items for home, school, or gifts. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, Cricut Print and Cut adds a professional touch to all your crafts.
Why Choose an Inkjet Printer for Cricut Print and Cut?
Inkjet printers are the best choice for Cricut Print and Cut projects. They offer bright, detailed prints that make your designs stand out. Whether you’re making colorful stickers or intricate labels, inkjet printers deliver the quality you need.
One big advantage of inkjet printers is color accuracy. They can print rich, vibrant colors that bring your designs to life. If you want sharp images or smooth gradients, an inkjet printer will do the job well. This is important when you’re crafting items like cards or decals, where the colors need to pop.
Another reason inkjet printers are great for Cricut is their ability to handle different types of paper. You can print on glossy paper, cardstock, or even sticker paper. This flexibility makes it easier to create a variety of projects, from simple designs to more complex crafts.
When compared to laser printers, inkjets are better for detailed prints. Laser printers are fast, but they don’t provide the same color quality. If you care about vibrant prints and smooth edges, an inkjet printer is the better option for Cricut users.
Inkjet printers are also more affordable. You can find many budget-friendly options that still offer high-quality results. This makes them perfect for home users or beginners who want to get into crafting without spending too much.
Top Features to Look for in an Inkjet Printer for Cricut Print and Cut
When choosing an inkjet printer for Cricut Print and Cut, certain features are important. These features will make your projects look better and make your crafting experience easier.
First, you need a printer with high print resolution. The resolution, measured in DPI (dots per inch), affects how sharp and detailed your prints will be. A printer with at least 1200 DPI will produce crisp, clear images. This is especially important for designs with fine details or small text.
Another important feature is borderless printing. This allows you to print edge-to-edge without white margins. It’s perfect for projects like stickers or cards where you want the design to cover the entire page. Borderless printing makes your projects look more professional.
Look for a printer that can handle multiple paper types and sizes. Cricut Print and Cut works with different materials like sticker paper, cardstock, and photo paper. Having a printer that can adjust to these materials gives you more flexibility in your crafts.
The ink system also matters. Printers with individual ink cartridges for each color are better. This way, you only replace the color that runs out, saving you money in the long run. Some printers, like the Epson EcoTank, have refillable tanks, which are more cost-effective if you do a lot of printing.
Finally, check for wireless printing. This feature lets you print from your computer, phone, or tablet without needing cables. It adds convenience, especially when you’re crafting from different devices or working in a tight space.
Best Inkjet Printers for Cricut Print and Cut in 2024
Finding the perfect printer for Cricut Print and Cut can seem overwhelming. To help, we’ve reviewed some of the best inkjet printers that deliver top-notch results for your crafting projects. Each printer stands out for its print quality, features, and ease of use.
1. Canon PIXMA TS9521C
The Canon PIXMA TS9521C is a popular choice for crafters. It supports borderless printing and works with many types of paper, including cardstock and photo paper. With a resolution of 4800 x 1200 DPI, it delivers sharp and vivid prints. It’s also wireless, so you can easily print from any device. The built-in memory card slot is a bonus for quick printing without a computer.
2. Epson EcoTank ET-2760
The Epson EcoTank ET-2760 is perfect for frequent crafters. Instead of cartridges, it has refillable ink tanks, which save you money over time. It produces high-quality prints with a resolution of 5760 x 1440 DPI. This printer handles different materials well, from glossy paper to vinyl, making it ideal for Cricut projects. It’s also compact, which makes it great for home offices or craft rooms.
3. HP Envy 6055e
The HP Envy 6055e is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. It’s great for beginners who want a reliable printer for Cricut Print and Cut. With a print resolution of 1200 x 1200 DPI, it produces clear and colorful prints. The wireless feature makes it easy to print from phones or tablets. Plus, its simple design is easy to set up and use.
4. Epson SureColor P700
For serious crafters who want professional-quality prints, the Epson SureColor P700 is a top choice. This printer is designed for high-end photography but works wonderfully for Cricut projects. It offers ultra-high resolution at 5760 x 1440 DPI, ensuring every detail in your design is crisp. It handles a wide range of paper sizes and types, including thick cardstock and specialty papers.
5. Brother MFC-J995DW
The Brother MFC-J995DW is another great inkjet printer for Cricut users. It’s known for its long-lasting ink cartridges, which print more pages before needing to be replaced. With a print resolution of 6000 x 1200 DPI, it ensures excellent detail and color accuracy. It also features wireless printing and works with a variety of paper types, making it versatile for all your crafting needs.
These printers are all excellent choices for Cricut Print and Cut. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, these models offer the features you need to bring your creative projects to life.
Here’s a comparison table for the five printers, highlighting their key features:
| Printer Model | Print Resolution (DPI) | Ink System | Paper Compatibility | Borderless Printing | Wireless Printing | Special Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canon PIXMA TS9521C | 4800 x 1200 | Individual Cartridges | Cardstock, Photo Paper | Yes | Yes | Memory Card Slot | Check Price |
| Epson EcoTank ET-2760 | 5760 x 1440 | Refillable Ink Tanks | Glossy Paper, Vinyl | Yes | Yes | EcoTank (cost-effective ink refills) | Check Price |
| HP Envy 6055e | 1200 x 1200 | Individual Cartridges | Standard Paper, Cardstock | Yes | Yes | Simple Setup, Affordable | Check Price |
| Epson SureColor P700 | 5760 x 1440 | Individual Cartridges | Thick Cardstock, Specialty Papers | Yes | Yes | Professional Quality, Ultra-High Resolution | Check Price |
| Brother MFC-J995DW | 6000 x 1200 | High-Yield Cartridges | Various Paper Types | Yes | Yes | Long-lasting Ink, Versatile Paper Support | Check Price |
How to Set Up and Use an Inkjet Printer with Cricut
Setting up an inkjet printer for Cricut Print and Cut is simple. Just follow a few steps, and you’ll be ready to start your crafting projects.
First, unbox your printer and plug it into a power source. Make sure to install the ink cartridges or refill the ink tanks, depending on your printer model. Next, load the paper tray with the material you want to use. This could be regular paper, sticker paper, or cardstock. Make sure the paper is aligned properly to avoid any jams.
Once the printer is ready, connect it to your computer or phone. If your printer has wireless capability, this step is easy. You can connect it via Wi-Fi by following the instructions on your printer’s screen. If not, use a USB cable to connect it directly to your device.
Now, you’re ready to print your design. Open Cricut Design Space on your computer. Choose the image or design you want to use. After finalizing the design, select the “Print Then Cut” option in the software. This will send the design to your printer.
Once your design is printed, place the printed paper on a Cricut cutting mat. Load the mat into your Cricut machine and follow the prompts in Cricut Design Space. The machine will scan the printed image and cut it out exactly how you designed it.
If your print doesn’t line up with the cut, check your printer settings. Make sure the paper size in Cricut Design Space matches the paper size in your printer settings. Also, ensure your Cricut machine is properly calibrated for accurate cuts.
To get the best results, always choose high-quality paper for your projects. Glossy or matte sticker paper works well for vibrant prints, while cardstock is great for sturdy items like invitations. Maintaining your printer is also important. Clean the print heads regularly and ensure there’s enough ink to avoid streaks on your designs.
Tips for Maximizing Your Cricut Print and Cut Experience
To get the best results from Cricut Print and Cut, it’s important to pay attention to a few key tips. These small steps can make a big difference in your projects.
First, always use the right paper. Different projects need different materials. For stickers, use glossy or matte sticker paper. For invitations or cards, choose thick cardstock. The paper you use affects how your design prints and cuts.
Next, make sure to adjust your print settings. Before printing, check your printer’s settings to match the type of paper you’re using. For high-quality prints, choose the highest print resolution. This will make your images clear and vibrant. Also, enable borderless printing if your design goes to the edge of the paper.
It’s also important to calibrate your Cricut machine. Calibration helps your machine make precise cuts around your printed designs. If the cuts seem off, redo the calibration through Cricut Design Space. This will make sure everything lines up perfectly.
Keeping your printer clean is another crucial tip. Dust or dirt can affect print quality, leading to streaks or blurry images. Clean the print heads regularly and make sure the paper tray is free from dust. This simple task will help you get smooth, crisp prints every time.
Lastly, maintain a good supply of ink. Running out of ink during a project can ruin your prints. Always check your ink levels before starting a new craft, especially when printing large designs or multiple copies.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Even with the best printers, issues can arise during Cricut Print and Cut projects. Knowing how to fix these problems will save you time and frustration.
One common issue is paper jams. This can happen if the paper isn’t loaded correctly. Always make sure the paper is aligned properly in the tray. If a jam occurs, gently pull the paper out without tearing it. Check the printer’s rollers for any stuck pieces of paper.
Another problem is poor print quality. If your prints look blurry or have streaks, it could be due to low ink levels. Inspect the ink cartridges and swap out any that are low on ink. Sometimes, cleaning the print heads can help improve quality too. Your printer’s settings might also need adjustment. Ensure you’re using the right print quality setting for the type of paper you’re using.
If your Cricut machine isn’t cutting accurately, it may not be calibrated correctly. Calibration helps the machine read the printed designs. Recalibrate it through Cricut Design Space. If it still doesn’t cut well, check if the cutting blade is dull or damaged. Replacing the blade can often solve this issue.
Sometimes, the printer and Cricut machine may not communicate properly. This can happen if you’re using an outdated version of Cricut Design Space. Ensure you have the most recent version installed. Restarting both the printer and the Cricut machine can also help reset the connection.
Lastly, if you encounter issues with wireless printing, ensure your printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your device. If the connection drops, try reconnecting the printer through its settings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What type of ink does an inkjet printer use?
Inkjet printers use liquid ink, which comes in cartridges. These cartridges can be individual colors or combined in one unit. Some printers have refillable tanks that hold more ink and can be more cost-effective.
2. Can I use any inkjet printer with Cricut?
Not all inkjet printers are ideal for Cricut Print and Cut. Look for a printer that offers high resolution, borderless printing, and compatibility with various paper types to achieve the best results.
3. How do I know if my printer is set up correctly for Cricut?
4. What paper works best for Cricut Print and Cut?
The best paper depends on your project. For stickers, glossy or matte sticker paper is ideal. For cards or heavier crafts, use thick cardstock. Always choose high-quality paper for better print results.
5. Why is my Cricut not cutting correctly?
Incorrect calibration can cause cutting issues. Recalibrate your Cricut machine in Cricut Design Space. Also, check if the blade is sharp. A blunt blade can result in jagged cuts.
6. How often should I clean my printer?
Regular cleaning is important for maintaining print quality. Clean the print heads every few weeks or whenever you notice streaks or poor quality in your prints. Also, keep the paper tray dust-free.
7. What should I do if my print is fading or streaking?
If your print is fading, check your ink levels and replace any low cartridges. Streaking can often be fixed by cleaning the print heads. Adjust the printer settings to ensure you are using the right print quality.
8. Is wireless printing safe?
Yes, wireless printing is safe as long as you secure your Wi-Fi network. Make sure your router has a strong password to prevent unauthorized access. Always keep your printer’s software updated for the best security practices.