6 Best Cricut Machines Great for Making Shirts Unique

From the most advanced to compact and easiest-to-use, we picked and reviewed the most popular options.
By
Marilyn Grant
Marilyn Grant
Writer
Marilyn knows how to present the dullest topic in an interesting and easy-to-read way. When she’s not teaching English Literature at a local school or writing for our site read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Julie Flores
Julie Flores
Expert Consultant
Julie owns a shop specializing in sewing equipment and accessories. No wonder she knows everything when it comes to technical specifications of practically anything we revie read more
Last updated: August 15, 2023
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Considering how popular T-shirts are, we might want ours to look different than others. To make your T-shirt stand out, there is no better way than to customize it for you. While customizing T-shirts, most people will take a plain colored one and simply print something on it. However, you can take that to the next step by using the best Cricut for making shirts. Cricut machines are a great way to bring out your crafty side and make T-shirts on your own.

Today, we will be looking at the best Cricut machine for shirts. We will also be helping you pick out the best model by mentioning the features that you should be looking out for. Some of the Cricut machines offer huge customization and can be used not only for making clothes but also for other hobby tasks like printing on cups or making stickers. Cricut also offers heat-presses for those who don’t want to spend a fortune on a more advanced machine. Other features considered include the speed of operation and noise level, as well as compatible materials and software. Check out our picks below!

Quick Summary

  • Editor’s Choice: Cricut Explore 3
    "This cutting machine is affordable yet versatile and comes with plenty of features and much improved speed. Works for 100+ materials. Compatible with six tools. A huge variety of Smart Vinyl, Smart Iron-On, and tools."
  • Upgrade Pick: Cricut Maker 3
    "This machine offers the best cutting speed among all Cricut models and is great for commercial use. Works for 300+ materials. High cutting force. Compatible with 13 tools."
  • The Quietest: Cricut Explore Air 2
    "This machine easily handles HTV which makes vinyl heat transfer extremely easy. Cuts 100 materials. Features fast mode. Noise reduction feature."
  • Best Value: Cricut Maker
    "A powerful and affordable cutting machine that cuts through anything, even the strongest of materials. Cuts 300+ materials. Rotary blade. Compatible with 13 tools."
  • Budget Pick: Cricut Joy
    "A budget-friendly model that is compact, handles HTV smoothly, and is great for small crafting projects. Compact and portable. Weighs only 3.9 pounds. Cuts 50+ materials."
  • Best Heat Press: Cricut EasyPress 2 (red)
    "This heat press would be ideal for basic T-shirs and is great for kids, beginners, and those who don’t need a cutting machine. Advanced heat plate with ceramic-coated surface. Precise temperature control up to 400℉. Easy to use."

Top 6 Cricut Machines for Making Shirts Review 2024

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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9134 people in the past 30 days
9.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.8
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.7
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.6
9.9
1
Editor’s Choice

Cricut Explore 3

Features
  • Machine type: cutting machine with writing, foiling, and more
  • Suitable materials: 100+ materials from cardstock, vinyl and iron-on to glitter paper and bonded fabric
  • Software: Design Space software for iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac
  • Bluetooth: yes
  • Dimensions: 22.1 x 7.1 x 5.9 in
  • Weight: 11.02 lbs
  • Warranty: 1-year limited

Your shirts can now get the upgrade that they deserve with Cricut Explore 3. This machine is essentially a cutting machine that can perform other functions including writing, foiling, and more. This 11.02 lbs machine is compatible with the Design Space software that helps you create numerous creative designs. The machine also supports Bluetooth connections for easy connectivity.

If we compare the Cricut Explore 3 to its previous counterparts, we see that this version comes with a much-improved speed. You get to have your products 2 times faster than you would with Cricut Explore Air 2. The Cricut Explore 3 also comes with extra tools that can make it much easier to use the machine.

    Why is it special?
  • The Cricut Explore 3 comes with many desirable features, such as a large cutting size. The machine can cut lengths up to 12 feet. The Explore 3 can also handle smart materials. It is compatible with more than 100 materials so you can use it for anything possible. The machine also offers free access to Cricut Design Space where you can be as creative as possible.
    What are the flaws?
  • With all the great features, the machine does have room for improvement. For example, the size of the machine is too big that it can’t possibly fit in every place. The design space also requires a constant and stable internet connection which might not be available to everyone. The machine might just also be a bit heavy on your pockets, but it is also worth buying.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8951 people in the past 30 days
9.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.2
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.2
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.5
9.7
2
Upgrade Pick

Cricut Maker 3

Features
  • Machine type: cutting machine with writing, scoring, foiling and embellishing functions
  • Suitable materials: 300+, from delicate fabric and paper to matboard and leather
  • Software: Design Space software for iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac
  • Bluetooth: yes
  • Dimensions: 22.1 x 7.1 x 6.2 in
  • Weight: 15.4 lbs
  • Warranty: 1-year limited

If you are looking for a cutting machine with numerous functions, then you should definitely get your hands on the Cricut Maker 3. This machine weighs 15.4 lbs. and covers an area of 22.1 x 7.1 x 6.2 inches. The machine is also extremely versatile in function as it can cut more than 300 different types of materials, including paper, leather, and more.

Among all the Cricut machines, the Maker 3 is one of the most powerful machines. It even offers the best cutting length and width of 12 feet and 13 inches, respectively. The machine is able to cut multiple materials simultaneously. Unlike other models, this one features 13 additional tools that help with cutting, foiling, embellishing, and other functions.

    What do we love it for?
  • The Cricut Maker 3 is compatible with Design Space, allowing you to be as creative as you want. The machine also offers the best cutting speed out of all Cricut cutting machines. You can get the job done in seconds. This machine is ideal for commercial use, and even then it is extremely simple and easy to use. You can even control the machine wirelessly and do your tasks in your comfort.
    What were we disappointed with?
  • While it may have so many great features, the Maker 3 might not be ideal for those who travel frequently or those who have a small working space. This machine requires a large surface area and isn’t exactly travel-friendly. Apart from this, you should definitely consider it as one of your options.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2634 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.2
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.2
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.5
9.6
3
The Quietest

Cricut Explore Air 2

Features
  • Machine type: cutting machine with writing and scoring functions
  • Suitable materials: cardstock, vinyl, iron-on, and a range of specialty materials
  • Software: Design Space software for iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac
  • Bluetooth: yes
  • Dimensions: 24 x 9.5 x 9.5 in.
  • Weight: 14 lbs
  • Warranty: 1 year on electronic parts, 90 days labor

While the Cricut Explore 2 might be a bit outdated, it can still be considered one of the best choices to make your own shirts. The 14 lbs machine comes with a cutting size of 11.5 inches x 23.5 inches, which is more than sufficient to create different designs. The machine is Bluetooth compatible and can be connected to Design Space software on iOS as well as Android and Windows. The machine comes with many desirable features that can instantly improve your shirt-making experience.

Unlike other modern models, the Cricut Explore 2 is not a flagship model. This is a good thing because that makes the machine more affordable for anyone to buy. The machine has also been battle-tested multiple times while showing great results each time. In terms of speed, the machine has a speed upgrade, making it twice as fast as other machines.

    What makes it special?
  • Among its many great features, you will see that the Cricut Explore 2 can easily handle HTV which makes vinyl heat transfer extremely easy. The machine has a cutting force of up to 350g which can easily help cut vinyl. The machine also comes with a noise reduction feature so that you can work in any space.
    What cons did we find?
  • Despite many useful features, there are still a few things that can be improved. For example, the machine requires a constant internet connection for it to work with the software. This means that you can’t take it to any area without an internet connection. The machine also does not have any specialized blades which are much needed while cutting.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 3664 people in the past 30 days
9.4
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.2
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.0
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.1
9.4
4
Best Value

Cricut Maker

Features
  • Machine type: cutting machine with writing and scoring functions
  • Suitable materials: 300+ materials, from the most delicate fabric and paper to matboard and leather
  • Software: Design Space software for iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac
  • Bluetooth: yes
  • Dimensions: 22.6 x 7.09 x 6.22 in.
  • Weight: 15.02 lbs
  • Warranty: 1-year limited

If you are looking for a versatile machine, then the Cricut Maker is your answer. This machine allows you to access more than 300 materials. The Cricut maker is a 15.02 lbs machine, with dimensions of 22.6 x 7.09 x 6.22 in. The machine can perform multiple functions, making your shirt-making process much easier. It comes with a cutting size of 12 x 24 inches that is great for many.

If we compare it to previous models, we see many improvements in the Cricut Maker. The Cricut Maker comes with improved blades. It consists of a rotary blade for cutting fabric and a knife blade for thick material. The machine also comes with a docking station which improves its overall look and function.

    What are our favorite features?
  • The Cricut Maker is ideal for working with multiple materials which makes this machine functional for any purpose. It comes with a cutting power of 4000g which makes it cut through anything, even the strongest of materials. The machine is also great in terms of speed as it reduces your cutting time considerably. The machine also requires very few accessories, reducing its operation cost.
    What could be better?
  • Our biggest complaint with the Cricut Maker is that this machine can be hard to get your hands on as it always seems to be out of stock. The machine is also on the pricier side, which might not be ideal for everyone.
Also Product Ranking:
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5720 people in the past 30 days
9.1
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.0
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.8
9.1
5
Budget Pick

Cricut Joy

Features
  • Machine type: cutting machine with writing function
  • Suitable materials: iron-on, cardstock, vinyl, paper, Smart Materials™, and more
  • Software: Design Space software for iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac
  • Bluetooth: yes
  • Dimensions: 8.43 x 5.43 x 4.25 in.
  • Weight: 3.9 lbs
  • Warranty: 1-year limited

You might be wondering what would be the purpose of a machine as small as the Cricut Joy. Don’t go on this machine’s size as it is just as functional. This 8.43 x 5.43 x 4.25 in. The machine only weighs 3.9 lbs. It can be used to craft smaller outfits. The machine can work with numerous materials including, iron-on, cardstock, vinyl, paper, Smart Materials™, and more.

Compared to other Cricut machines such as the Cricut Explore Air 2, this machine is considerably expensive. But the machine’s small size makes it extremely easy to handle and carry around. This travel-friendly machine comes with a cutting surface of 4.5 x 6.5 inches which is sufficient enough to meet your needs.

    What are our favorite features?
  • The great thing about Cricut Joy is that it can handle HTV smoothly. This machine is great for your kids’ crafting projects or DIYs as it is safe to use as well. The machine also offers great cutting speed, so you get done with your tasks in as much less time as possible.
    What could be better?
  • However, there are a few flaws in their Joy model. The machine requires extra accessories to function which can increase the operation cost. Even if you get the extra accessories for the machine, such as the blade or the cutting mat, they will not be compatible with other Cricut machines.
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2457 people in the past 30 days
8.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.4
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.5
8.9
6
Best Heat Press

Cricut EasyPress 2 (red)

Features
  • Machine type: heat press
  • Suitable materials: all Infusible Ink™ products and most major brands of iron-on material
  • Software: N/A
  • Bluetooth: no
  • Dimensions: 6 x 7 in.
  • Weight: 5.3 lbs
  • Warranty: 1-year limited

The Cricut Easy Press 2 is essentially a heat press that helps you transfer material on your T-shirt. The 5.3 lbs. machine is extremely compact as it is 6 x 7 inches in dimensions. You can easily take the machine anywhere. The Cricut Easy Press 2 is suitable for all infusible ink products as well as different brands of iron-on materials.

Unlike traditional irons, the Easy Press 2 is more efficient in transferring the design due to its balanced heat surface. The machine heats up in just a few seconds and distributes the heat evenly. Another great thing about the Cricut Easy Press is that, unlike other heat press machines, it is cheap and takes up very little space.

    What makes it stand out?
  • This machine also comes with many useful features. For example, it has the functioning of a professional heat press, but it gets the job done in a very few seconds. The machine also comes with a safety base and extra material for practice.
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • The Cricut Easy Press comes with a few flaws, one being that it is not made for bulk work. The machine can only withstand a light load as you won’t be able to buy a lot of shirts in one go. The machine also works best only on flat surfaces. So before you begin to work, you need to find a workspace that can best accommodate the machine. While this may be a hassle, the productivity of the machine makes it worth it.

Things to Consider

As you can see above, there is a wide variety of Cricut machines available. All of these machines come with unique features of their own. This can make it difficult to help make your decision. To make it easier for you, we have come up with a buying guide that helps you look out for different features in each of these machines. This buying guide will help you find the perfect Cricut machine.

What Makes Cricut Machines Great for T-shirts?

The reason why people use Cricut machines specifically is that they are great for T-shirts. These machines cut out the iron-in vinyl designs efficiently. With such precision, you can use Cricut machines to even start your own T-shirt business.

Why Pick Cricut?

6 Best Cricut Machines Great for Making Shirts Unique
Cricut excels in introducing advanced technologies to their cutters and making them easy to use

Cricut has been in the market for ages which makes it a very reliable company. The company is most known for its extremely functional cutting machines. On the outside, these cutting machines look like printers, but they are some of the best cutting machines in the market. The great thing about Cricut is that it comes with its own design software that allows you to create different designs on your computer and then transfer it to your machine. Not only does this make the process extremely accurate and precise, but it is a lot faster to do this way as well.

Apart from this, Cricut also offers numerous other machines that can perform different tasks. You can get a machine for printing designs on clothes, mugs, and so on. All in all, Cricut would be an amazing choice.

Features of a Cricut Machine to Consider

Buying the best Cricut machine would be ideal for making T-shirts, especially if you are running or planning on running a T-shirt business. Today, we will guide you through some of the features that you should look out for while buying a Cricut machine.

Machine Type and Functions

The first and the most important thing that you should look at is the type of machine that you are getting and the function it can perform. The great thing about Cricut machines is that they are not just for cutting the material Trusted Source Cricut Machines for absolute beginners What is a Cricut machine and what can you make with them, we take you through the basics to help you decide if a cricut die-cutting machine is something you should add to your craft stash! craftworld.com . Most machines are able to perform several different tasks at the same time. If you take a look at Cricut Explore Air 2, you will see that the machine can also write and score, while cutting. This allows you to perform different tasks simultaneously. With Cricut machines, your crafting projects can not only be done quicker but also efficiently, saving you a lot of time.

Compatible Materials

Your machine also needs to be compatible with all sorts of materials so that it works efficiently. Among all the mentioned machines, the Cricut Maker offers the most compatibility. It can work with more than 300 materials, including delicate material such as paper or strong material such as leather.

Software and Connectivity

Nearly all Cricut machines use the Design Space software for designing. This software is compatible with both iOS and Android. You won’t need to worry about using a specific device with it. This software can even be synced across many devices. The Cricut Design Space software helps you create your own designs or even lets you have access to its gallery that is filled with pre-designed projects. With the Design Space, you can even use your own camera to help visualize the project. However, this software does require a constant and reliable internet connection.

For connectivity, all of the above-mentioned machines use Bluetooth, which makes it easier for you to connect the machine to different devices. This also helps make the Design Space access easier.

Additional Tools and Accessories

While the Cricut machines are great on their own, you can always add additional tools and accessories to help enhance your shirt-making experience. With the Cricut machines, you can use rolls of Smart Materials. These materials can be recognized by all the machines mentioned above. Using Smart Materials help save your mats from any type of wear and tear. Apart from this, you can also use an Insert Card Mat for the Cricut Joy machine, specifically. This accessory helps you cut designs intricately, especially for a machine this small. With the Cricut machines, you can also use Infusible Ink Trusted Source How to Use Cricut Infusible Ink Step By Step T-Shirt Tutorial - YouTube Cricut Infusible Ink T-Shirt Step-by-Step Tutorial Learn how to Create Stunning, Vibrant Designs Using Cricut Infusible Ink Available at JOANN with this Step… www.youtube.com , which is a Cricut product itself. While traditional iron-on’s get destroyed over time, this ink remains embedded on the surface of your T-shirt. No matter how many times you wash the shirt, the design will remain the same.

You can also use a Cricut transfer tape while working with vinyl or decals. This tape helps keep your pieces of vinyl in place while they are being cut. Another tool that is mostly used is the Cricut Access month membership which has a whole library of ready-made projects that you can use. This membership costs about $10 per month and can be canceled anytime.

Size and Weight

6 Best Cricut Machines Great for Making Shirts Unique
Even some of the smallest models offered by Cricut can be easily used to customize a shirt

Many Cricut machines, mentioned above, are able to work smoothly with different types of designs. However, they can get restricted by their size and dimensions. For example, the largest possible area on any Cricut machine is the maximum that you will be able to work on. So while these machines make a great choice for T-shirts and other small projects, they can’t be used for very large projects. For commercial purposes, Cricut Maker 3 offers a very large cutting size. And if you are looking for a small-sized machine, then the Cricut Joy is your best possible option.

Apart from the size, the weight of the machine also matters. A lightweight machine would not only be easier to carry but it will be travel-friendly and can be taken along anywhere. Among all the machines, the Cricut Joy is the one that weighs the least. We also have some heavy weighing machines on the list that include the Cricut Maker 3, Cricut Maker, and so on.

Warranty

While buying anything, having a warranty is extremely important. A warranty ensures that any manufacturing damage to the product is compensated by the company itself. Additionally, it helps you build trust towards the product. All the Cricut machines come with a 1-year warranty period. During this time, any damage to the machine will be repaired by the company itself.

You can go to your nearest Cricut help center and get your machine repaired, in case anything happens to it.

Price

Generally, the Cricut machines are affordable. But since there is a wide variety of machines available, the prices may vary. Additionally, if you add on more tools or supplies, then the overall costs increase as well. For a budget-friendly option, Cricut Explore Air 2 is a great option that you can consider. This machine ranges between $200-$300. Even Cricut Joy is not as expensive as other options out there. If you are willing to splurge, then you can opt for the Cricut Maker or the Cricut Maker 3. The price for these machines goes up to $500.

While prices and functions may vary for each machine, you have to look at what suits your budget the most.

How to Use Cricut Machines for Making Shirts?

6 Best Cricut Machines Great for Making Shirts Unique
Aside from cutting machines, Cricut also makes heat presses that can be used to transfer a design to a shirt

Cricut machines allow you to use machines in two different ways. For making shirts, you can either go with printed designs or with embroidered designs that can be sewn on.

With printed designs, you can be a lot more flexible while choosing the image and the color. You have more options when it comes to printed designs. However, with sew-on designs, you will find them more long-lasting as they are resistant to any kind of damages that can be done while washing.

To use the machines, you simply have to connect your device to it. Once, you have connected, you can use the Design Space software to create new designs or use the ones from the library. After this, the machine does all the work and you end up with some really pretty shirts.

FAQ

Where can I find ready-to-use ideas and designs?

The software that works with the Cricut machines comes with preloaded designs that can be used readily. So, even if you have a creative block, you can browse over there for some ideas and come up with designs on your own. Apart from this, Cricut also offers an Access membership, which allows you to browse to prepared designs. You can even look at these designs for ideas or use them as it is.

Can I create custom images?

Each Cricut machine is compatible with Design Space software. Design Space is design software that has been specially created for Cricut machines. This software can easily be connected to your machines while you use it on your computers. Using the Design Space software, you can create any type of custom image. Know that sky is the limit with this software. You can go as creative as possible!

What devices do I need to use a Cricut machine?

In order to design your projects, your Cricut machine needs to be connected to some device while you use their software. Thankfully, you don’t have to worry about getting any specific device to use a Cricut machine. All the machines are Bluetooth compatible and can be connected to devices over the internet. This means that it does not matter if you have an Apple device or an Android, or anything else, you can still connect your Cricut machine and work on it easily.

Our verdict

By now, you should know everything that you needed to know about Cricut machines for making shirts. According to our analysis, the best Cricut for making shirts is the Cricut Explore 3. Not only is it fast and efficient, but it also has low operational costs.

If you are looking to make shirts as a project, then your best option is the Cricut Explore Air 2 or the Cricut Easy Press 2. These machines can easily deliver high-quality results. For small scale projects, you can opt for Cricut Joy.

No matter what machine best suits your need, you will see that Cricut machines always deliver, making your shirt designing experience even better!

References

1.
Cricut Machines for absolute beginners
What is a Cricut machine and what can you make with them, we take you through the basics to help you decide if a cricut die-cutting machine is something you should add to your craft stash!
2.
How to Use Cricut Infusible Ink Step By Step T-Shirt Tutorial - YouTube
Cricut Infusible Ink T-Shirt Step-by-Step Tutorial Learn how to Create Stunning, Vibrant Designs Using Cricut Infusible Ink Available at JOANN with this Step…
9,9
Total Score
Cricut Explore 3 - Editor’s Choice
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