Let me help you avoid the headache of learning and figuring out what you need to know about the Cricut blades.
If you want to learn the differences, types, care, and everything about them, you are in the right place!
Before I got my Cricut, I didn’t understand anything about blades. I even thought that I just needed one blade for everything. You see it’s not that simple, but once you finish reading this post, it will be!
Before we dig into this topic, let’s have a little overview.
Blades allow your Cricut machine to cut all of your projects. However, and depending on the types of materials you want to work with, you’ll need a different kind of blade.
Right now, there are eight types of blades and four other crafting tools available:
- Fine Point blade – Gold/Silver
- Deep Point blade – Black
- Bonded Fabric blade – Pink
- Foil Transfer Kit – Blue
- Rotary blade – only works with the Cricut Maker – Silver
- Knife blade – only works with the Cricut Maker – Silver
- Quick Swap Perforation blade – only works with the Cricut Maker – Silver
- Quick Swap Wavy blade – only works with the Cricut Maker – Silver
- Quick Swap Debossing tip – only works with the Cricut Maker – Silver
- Quick Swap Engraving tip – only works with the Cricut Maker – Silver
- Quick Swap Scoring Wheel tips – only works with the Cricut Maker – Silver
- Cricut Joy Fine Point Blade – Silver with a white top – Cricut Joy Only.
Each one of the blades and Tips I just mentioned has different superpowers and can cut different materials. Failing to use the right blade can damage your materials, or even the blade itself.
You don’t NEED to worry about this though, because before you are going to cut a specific project, the Cricut Design Space software will tell you WHAT blade you need with any material.
However, I still think it’s a good idea for you to learn the Cricut blades differences so you can see if you need a specific blade before you purchase materials, or even more important before you buy a Cricut Machine (Not all blades work with all machines).
NOTE: If you are still deciding what Cricut you should buy. I highly recommend you reading this post. It took me a whole week to put it together and multiple hours of research. That post will help you to find out if the – or what – Cricut is the right machine for you!
Are you ready for some fun? Let’s go ahead and get started.
Everything you Need to Know about ALL of the Cricut Blades
When I bought my Cricut, I thought I had everything I needed, I sort of thought it was like a printer, but instead of printing, you just cut. Right?
Oh, boy, I was wrong!
The Cricut Machine is way more complicated than a printer, and there are many things to keep in mind before, during, and after the cutting process.
One of the variables that will set you for success is knowing about the Cricut blades and the materials each one of them can cut.
I am blessed to own all of the blades and that combined with my own experience and all of the research I’ve done, I am entirely sure that in this article you will learn everything you need to know about all of the Cricut blades.
Make sure to read my article on the differences between the Cricut Maker and Explore Air 2 for a more in-depth comparison of all of the things you can do with each machine.
Cricut Blade Anatomy
Cricut blades are exceptionally well designed and you can feel the quality of the materials once you are holding them in your hands. They are beautiful and do their job to perfection!
While I was learning about this topic, I was quite confused with some of the terminology that I read across the web regarding the Cricut blades. If you find yourself in the same spot, here I am to make it easy for you to understand.
Besides, colors and functionality when you see a picture of one particular blade what you are seeing is not just the blade itself, but also the housing.
Let me describe it better here:
- Housing: is what holds the blade in place. When your blade is due for a change, you don’t need to change the housing.
- Drive Housing: This type of housing is specifically designed for the Cricut Maker only, and they differ from standard housing blades because they have a golden top gear. The Cricut Adaptive Tool System drives these gears. Drive Housing blades come with a plastic cover that should be left at all times to keep the gears clean.
- Blade: blades look somewhat similar to a small nail, and are inserted inside the housings. Blades can be replaced when cuts are not as sharp as they used to be. Note: blades for drive housings look all different.
Cricut Blades and Tips – Quick Reference Table
For a quick reference of which blade and tool work with each machine, check out the following table.
| Blade / Tip | Maker | Explore | Joy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Point Blade | x | x | |
| Deep Point Blade | x | x | |
| Bonded Fabric Blade | x | x | |
| Foil Transfer Kit | x | x | |
| Rotary Blade | x | ||
| Scoring Wheel | x | ||
| Knife Blade | x | ||
| Perforation Blade | x | ||
| Wavy Blade | x | ||
| Engraving Tip | x | ||
| Debossing Tip | x | ||
| Cricut Joy Fine Point Blade | x |
What are the different types of Cricut Blades and What can they cut?
Right now, there are seven different blades and three different tips available. All nine tools can be used with the Cricut Maker, but only three of them can be used with the Cricut Explore Family Machine.
Let’s dig in!
Fine Point Blade
The Fine Point blade is the most common, and it comes with all of the Cricut Machines. It’s made out of German Carbide, which an extremely durable and high-quality material most commonly used for cutting tools materials.
This blade is perfect for making intricate cuts, and it’s designed to cut medium-weight materials. It used to be silver, but it now comes in a beautiful golden color.
It works with any of the Cricut Explore Family machines and the Cricut Maker.
Note: Besides color (from silver to gold) there’s no difference between the housings silver and gold housings, including the blade there’s inside it when you initially purchase your machine.
However, when you purchase a replacement blade for the Cricut Maker/Explore ALWAYS MAKE SURE that you purchase the blade with the white cap. The grey cap it’s for older Cricut machine models.
What Materials can I cut with the Fine Point blade?
- Printer Paper
- Vinyl: Glitter vinyl, printable, outdoor, holographic
- Iron-on or also HTV (Heat transfer vinyl)
- Cardstock
- Washi Tape
- Parchment Paper
- Vellum
- Canvas
- Light Chipboard
- Faux Leather (Paper Thin)
Deep Point Blade
If you need to cut thicker materials, the Deep Point blade will be your best friend. You can use it with any of the Cricut Explore Family machines or Cricut Maker!
The angle of this blade is so much steeper – 60 degrees compared to 45 degrees for the fine point blade – This allows the blade to penetrate and cut intricate cuts in thick materials.
The color of this blade is black and must be used with its respective housing. And by that, I meant that you can’t interchange other blades like Fine Point and Bonded Fabric.
What Materials can I cut with the Deep Point blade?
- Craft Foam
- Aluminum Foil
- Genuine Leather
- Metallic Leather
- Magnetic Sheet – 0.6mm
- Corrugated Paper
Compare the Angle Differences between Deep Point and Fine Point blade
Fine Point Blade 45° Deep Point Blade 60°
Bonded Fabric Blade
The Bonded Fabric blade is like the Fine Point Blade, but it’s color-coded so you only use it with fabric. To have a better experience when cutting fabric, don’t use this blade paper, or vinyl.
There’s a big caveat with this blade though. The fabric you are going to cut needs to be bonded to a backing material.
If you are a sewer, you might know what bonded fabric, but if you are like me and have no prior experience with fabrics, let me explain to you real quick.
“Backing” is a type of material – like heat & bond – that you need to adhere – bond – to your fabrics so you can cut with this blade; hence the name Bonded Fabric blade.
If you don’t bond your fabrics properly, you risk tearing apart and stretching out your materials, and you might also damage your mat.
Not fun, right?
This blade is compatible with the Explore Family Machines and Cricut Maker, the color is pink and can be used with the Fine Point blade Housing and with the Pink Fabric Mat.
If you don’t have a pink mat, you can also use it with the Standard Green Mat.
Note: If you are confused about the Cricut Mats. Let me help you out, go and Check out this fantastic post. I spent multiple hours putting together, trust me, you will learn all there’s to know about the Cricut Mats.
Check Bonded Fabric Blade Price
What Materials can I cut with the Bonded Fabric blade?
Like I just mentioned above, ALL of these materials need to be bonded.
- Oil Cloth
- Silk
- Polyester
- Denim
- Felt
- Burlap
- Cotton
Foil Transfer Kit (New)
The “Foil Transfer Kit” allows you to create beautiful and crisp foil effects on your projects. It’s compatible with the Cricut Maker and any of the Explore family machines.
I love using foil on my projects and I on many occasions I used iron-on. However, with iron-on you don’t have the intricacy that the “Foil Transfer Kit” has.
This kit is a 3 tools in 1; to best suit your project, Cricut has a fine, medium, and bold tips.
As far as I know, the foil tips only work with Cricut foil transfer sheets, they are available in a wide variety of colors.
Here are some of the materials you can use when working with the “Foil transfer kit.”
- Cardstock
- Deluxe Paper
- Pearl Paper
- Vellum
- Printable Vinyl
- Printable Sticker Paper
- Matboard
- Poster Board
- Copy Paper
- Photo Paper
- Faux Leather
Rotary Blade (Only Cricut Maker)
The Rotary blade is fantastic and it’s driven by the Adaptive Tool System, that’s why it’s only compatible with the Cricut Maker Machine.
The drive housing for this blade isn’t interchangeable with other blades. For you to change the blade itself, you need a particular kit.
The Rotary blade cuts through, pretty much, any fabric. And the best of all, you don’t need any backing material to stabilize the fabric on the mat. That alone should get you super happy!
This blade also comes with the Cricut Maker (this is a big deal because you usually have to buy these sorts of tools separately or in a bundle) and can only be used with the Fabric Grip Mat.
Although this blade is very cool and potent, it does have a small restriction. The image or project size you are trying to cut should be at least 3/4 of an inch (19 mm). Cutting smaller projects will result in shortening the blade’s life.
Check Rotary Replacement Kit Price
What Materials can I cut with the Rotary Fabric blade?
- Bamboo Fabric
- Bengaline
- Canvas
- Cashmere
- Chiffon
- Corduroy
- Cotton
- Denim
- Felt
- Fleece
- Gauze
- Silk
- Lycra
- Microfiber
- Nylon
Knife blade (Only Cricut Maker)
This knife blade is one of a kind, and it’s only compatible with the Maker Machine.
I think this blade is what makes the Cricut Maker a total making machine. The projects you can cut with this baby are just amazing. You can create wood signs for your home, boxes, extremely sturdy cake toppers and more.
The Purple or StrongGrip Mat is the mat you should be using with this blade. Sometimes that mat it’s not even enough for you to keep the materials in place, especially is you are cutting wood.
If you need to add extra grip because of the material you are using, use painter’s tape on the edges of it to secure it to the mat.
The drive housing for this blade isn’t interchangeable with other blades.
What Materials can I cut with the Knife blade?
- Tooling Leather
- Balsa – 1/16 in & 3/32 in
- Basswood – 1/16 in & Basswood – 1/32 in
- Heavy Chipboard – 2.0mm
- Matboard 4 Ply
QuickSwap Tips and Blades (Only Cricut Maker)
Unlike the rest of the blades that have a different housing, The QuickSwap system allows you to use five different tools (2 blades, and 3 tips)
- Scoring Tip
- Engraving Tip
- Debossing Tip
- Wavy Blade
- Perforation Blade
Something cool, and that I am quite thankful for is that you can use all of these tools with the same housing and that my friend equals savings!
Let’s see a little bit more about all of these tools:
Perforation Blade
blade &
housing
This particular blade will allow you to create projects with a tear finish. With this tool, a new world of possibilities has open. You can create coupons, raffle tickets, etc.!
Some of the materials you’ll be able to use with this blade are:
- Corrugated Cardboard
- Metallic Poster Board
- Cardstock Glitter
- Cardstock Heavy Cardstock
- Felt
- Craft Foam
- Glitter Craft Foam
- Iron-On
- Faux Leather (Paper Thin)
- Tooling Leather – 2-3 oz. (0.8 mm)
- Vellum
- Plastic
- Acetate
- Foil Acetate
Learn how to use the Perforation Blade.
Wavy Blade
& housing
Instead of cutting on straight lines like the rotary or fine point blade, this tool will create wavy effects on your final cuts.
Getting curved lines in Design Space is quite complicated, so this tool will come in handy if you like these sorts of effects.
Gift Tags, banners, cards, envelopes, and unique vinyl decals are some of the projects that will benefit from this tool.
Oh, did I mention that you can also cut fabric with it!
Some of the materials you can cut with this blade:
- Heavy Cardstock
- Corrugated Cardboard
- Foil Poster Board
- Kraft Board
- Metallic Poster Board
- Poster Board
- Glitter Cardstock
- Cotton Denim
- Flannel
- Fleece Fusible Fleece
Engraving Tip
The Engraving Tip is something that many crafters have been waiting for! With this tool, you’ll be able to engrave a wide variety of materials.
Tip & Housing
Do you have a dog? What about making a dog tag!… You can create monograms on aluminum sheets or anodized aluminum to reveal the silver beneath.
Here are some of the materials you’ll be able to use with this blade:
- Anodized Aluminum
- Brass
- Bronze
- Stainless Steel
- Faux Leather (Paper Thin)
- Garment Leather – 2-3 oz. (0.8 mm)
- Genuine Leather
- Tooling Leather
- Vellum
- Acetate Foil
- Acetate
Debossing Tip
Tip & Housing
This tip will push the material in, and it will create beautiful and detailed designs. The debossing will bring your projects to a whole new level because of the detail you can now add to your designs.
Just imagine debossing a beautiful gift box with flowers, hearts, stars, etc.! You can also make 3D Cards and monograms!
Here’s a list of some of the materials you’ll be able to use with this tool:
- Foil Poster Board
- Heavy Chipboard – 2.0 mm
- Kraft Board
- Light Chipboard – 0.37 mm
- Matboard 4 Ply
- Metallic Poster Board
- Poster Board
- Foil Acetate
- Vellum
- Faux Leather (Paper Thin)
- Genuine Leather
- Tooling Leather
- Craft Foam Glitter Cardstock
- Heavy Cardstock
- Balsa – 1/16″ (1.6 mm)
- Balsa – 3/32″ (2.4 mm)
Scoring Wheel (Tip 01 and 02)
The Scoring Wheel is a tool that allows you to create beautiful, edgy, and crispy folds on your materials.
To give you the best results, Cricut has designed The Scoring Wheel with two different Tips, 01 and 02. Depending on the material you select, Design Space will suggest you the tip you need.
Tip 01: It is ideal for light materials such as print paper, regular cardstock, etc.
Tip 02: It is ideal for heavy and coated materials such as chipboard, glitter cardstock, metallic poster-board, etc.
Read my tutorial to learn how to use the Scoring Wheel.
Here are some of the materials you can use with this tool:
- Corrugated Cardboard
- Damask Chipboard
- Flat Cardboard
- Foil Kraft Board
- Heavy Chipboard – 2.0 mm
- Kraft Board
- Cardstock
- Foil Acetate
- Plastic Packaging
- Copy Paper
- Corrugated Paper
Cricut Joy Blades
The Cricut Joy only has a “Fine Point Blade.” The blade housing has a white cap, and the blade itself it’s quite different from any other blades.
Cricut Joy Blade Housing 
Cricut Joy Blade
The Cricut Joy Blade is not interchangeable, therefore you need to use its respective housing.
Here are some of the materials you can cut with this blade:
- Smart Iron-On and Vinyl (Without a Cricut Mat)
- Copy Paper
- Cardstock
- Insert Cards with a Card Mat.
- Writable Vinyl
- Corrugated Cardboard
- Glitter Cardstock
- Foil Poster Board
Discontinued Blades
The blades listed down below have been now discontinued. That’s why I will not be mentioning them across this post.
- Standard blade housing
- Deep Cut Blade & housing
- Scoring tip & housing
- Cricut Cake blade & housing
Are Cricut Blades Interchangeable?
The Fine Point blade and the Bonded Fabric blade can use the same housing. Also, the QuickSwap tools can use the same housing, so if you already own one, from now on, you only need to get the tip or blade.
The other three remaining blades (Deep Point, Rotary, Knife) can only be used with their respective housing.
I mentioned this in every blade description. But if you were skimming this post, there’s the quick answer 🙂
Where Can I buy Cricut Blades?
All Cricut blades and tips are available on any Craft Store like Michael’s and Joann. Even Walmart carries them!
I like to get them on the Official Cricut Website; I have a baby and no car, therefore online shopping is the most convenient for me!
Check out all of the blades prices here
How long does the Cricut Blade Last?
This is not a size fits all kind of question
Although Cricut blades are made to last for a reasonable amount of time, there comes a time where replacing the blade is necessary.
The blade’s life depends on the kind of materials you are working with, how often you use them, and of course how you care for them.
For instance, paper and cardstock are harder on the blades than a much more smoother material like vinyl is. So, if paper is your jam, then you’ll go through blades more often.
Blades that cut through really thick materials like the Deep Point blade and, especially, the Knife blade need to be replaced more often because of the pressure that the blade needs to execute to get smooth and clean cuts.
You’ll know you have to replace the blades when your cuts are dull and not as sharp as they used to be.
How to replace Cricut Blades?
Cricut blades are very easy to change. Just be careful because they are very sharp and I don’t want you to get cut!
The Fine Point, Deep Point, and Bonded Fabric are very easy to change. Just press the top of the blade, remove it with your hands and insert the new blade with the housing upside down.
The other blades – Rotary and Knife, are a little bit more tricky. So the best way for you to learn how to change the blades is by watching! Check out these YouTube videos, and become an expert to change the blades.
Note: I will be creating my videos soon, so Subscribe to my channel and press the bell, so you get notified! It’s also a great way to support me 🙂
Learn How to replace Rotary Blade
Learn How to replace the Knife Blade
How to Care for my Cricut Blades
Caring for your Cricut blades will increase their life. Blades and housings are quite the investment, so make sure you are doing your best to care for them at all times.
Here are a couple of tips for you to take care of your precious blades.
The best way to care for your blades is by using them with the right materials. It can be tempting to try to cut something thicker with the fine point blade if you don’t have have the Deep Point one.
However, not only your project won’t be appropriately cut, but you will also add extra wear and tear to the blade.
Make sure to keep the plastic cover for blades – and also scoring wheel – that has a drive housing. This cover protects the gears of the housing. When you remove the cover, you are exposing the blade & housing to small particles like hair and dust.
Put them away when they are not in use.
How to Store your Cricut Blades
My favorite way to store my blades is inside the Cricut itself. I love that they wherever my Cricut is. You can also have them in a small box or container.
The Compartments inside the Cricut Machines are specifically designed to hold your blades – They thought of everything – For the replacement blades there’s a metallic magnet that will keep them in place at all times.
The Cricut Maker has even more storage for you to keep the blades in place!
However you decide to store them, make sure to put them way far away from your children’s – or anyone else that doesn’t know that’s a blade – reach.
How to Sharpen Cricut blades
Honesty is key!
I haven’t tried to sharpen my Cricut blades yet. They are still very sharp, but since I wanted you to give you all you needed to know in this article, I wanted to share something cool I found out about.
While researching and learning about the Cricut blades, I found out an excellent way for you to sharpen your Fine and Deep point blades!
The secret is, Aluminum Foil!
Make a little ball with aluminum foil, press the top of the housing so you can see the tip of the blade and poke the ball for about a minute or so.
Frequent Cricut Blades Problems
There might be a point where you’ll feel frustrated about your blades.
Maybe your blades are not cutting well, dragging the materials, cutting too deep, or simply not cutting at all!
Most of these problems can be solved by checking out your settings, especially if you modified them in the past to cut a custom material.
Maybe your mats are not stabilizing the material correctly, and you need to change them, or perhaps it’s time for you to replace the blade.
If these little things don’t solve your problems, check out this post from the Cricut Website for this particular problem. They walk you through everything you need to know!
Don’t leave yet!
I love creating and designing printables. However, I don’t have enough time to create a post for every single design, but I still want to create them!
Oh! And just so you know, I also have a FREE growing library with tons of printables and SVG files ready to be cut.
I would love for you to be able to get access to all of them. It’s 100% Free for my daydreamers (aka subscribers) check out a live preview here, or get access here.
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I spent multiple hours to put this useful content together! If you learned something and think someone else could benefit from this great article. Don’t be shy and share it on your favorite social media!
By doing that you are also supporting my work!
Camilla Milward says
I have just plugged in my cricut machine but there’s so much to learn and this article was truly fantastic! I can see myself referring back to it again & again. Clearly you have put a serious amount of effort into it! Thank you, thank you! I can’t wait to get started x
Catalina says
You’re very welcome! I am glad I was able to help.
Liz says
Wow lots information thank you. I have a Cricut create and read you article to find my blade replacement and believe now I should sell the one I have with my many cartridges and by a Cricut maker instead. What do you think? I would love to here your input
Catalina says
If you have a very old machine I totally recommend you to sell it and get one of the newer ones! The new machines are awesome 🙂
Patti says
Great info! Thanks for sharing!
Catalina says
You’re welcome!
Linda says
I bought my Cricut machine 7 months ago. Just started to work with it!!! Scared!!! I just printed your post and believe it will help me!!! Thank you
Catalina says
You’re very welcome!
Carolyn Cline says
I have been looking for a comprehensive guide on Cricut blades.
I FOUND IT!
Thank you for this valuable information.
Catalina says
You’re very welcome I am happy to hear.
Elena says
I am considering purchasing a Cricut Maker but wanted to add up the cost of all the “extras” I will need to get in addition to the machine to see if it’s really worth it or not. When I started looking at all the different options, I was getting overwhelmed and confused by the various housing, blades, etc. (which goes with which? which ones do I really need?). Your post just saved me hours and hours of time plus stress. I can’t tell you how grateful I am for this information being pulled together so clearly and concisely in this post. Amazing! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!
Catalina says
You’re very welcome! I am very happy I was able to save you the time!
Ema says
Thank you for this in depth explanation I greatly appreciate it, I am looking at getting a cricut maker and this helped me alot. Thank you for sharing.
Catalina says
You’re very welcome 🙂
Erica says
Hola Catalina!
Best page ever! thanks for taking the time to explain each tool in such a simple way… love it!
Question… I got an Explore One as a present… Most projects I see are for the Explore Air 2… what is the difference between the two and are they compatible at all? Thank you in advance… !
Catalina says
All projects that work with the Explore Air 2 will work on the Explore One, but it will take a little longer because there’s only 1 tool holder instead of 2. Make sure to buy a pen adapter so you can use Cricut Pens!
Thelma says
I am waiting for my Cricut to be delivered. Meanwhile I wanted to immerse myself in the knowledge of what I need, how it works and uses. I am eternally grateful for those like yourself who has spent no doubt countless hours to share with someone else.
Thank you so much!
Catalina says
You’re very welcome, I am glad I can help!
Kathy says
Thank you so much for a great article. I have just started with a Cricut Maker and did not really understand the use of the blades and which ones, if any, from the Explorer family were appropriate for use in the Maker. I have already used the wrong blade in one project without realizing my mistake. But now I know, thanks to you! I am bookmarking this page for future reference.
Catalina says
It happens to all of us! I am happy I can help you during your journey!
Jessika says
I received my Cricut explorer a week ago. I am feeling very intimidated and overwhelmed by it. This post is EXACTLY what I needed. I feel a lot more confident to use my machine. I’m excited to make lots of pretty things!
Catalina says
Yay! So happy to hear I was able to help!
Barbara says
Great article! Thank you so much. I just posted a link to Twitter. Quick questions. My Maker (purchased May 2020) came with 2 replacement blades that have grey caps. You say to use white cap ones. Should I throw those with grey caps out? Is deep point blade better, worse or about the same as the knife blade? I don’t want to buy both if I don’t have to. Thank you.😎
Catalina says
If it came with the grey caps I would caution you. You can try to use them, but people have complained in the past about those particular replacement blades. The knife blade is stronger than the fine point blade (10x), it’s not about what blade is better, they both are, it’s more about the type of material you want to cut and the thickness. I hope this helps 🙂
Marie Cambria says
Is there a way to print all of this. I am one of those people who like to have everything in front of me. My computer is not to close to my Cricut Maker. I guess I can just print what I need. Thank you
Catalina says
Press Ctrl + P and send it to your home printer.
Susan says
Thank you do much. I learned a lot from you. I haven’t opened my Cricut Maker yet because I didn’t know where to start or what I was supposed to do or buy to get started. It was a lot of help.
Catalina says
I am glad I was able to help! I have tons of tutorial that will guide you step by step!
Louise Wade says
Thank you! Very informative. Answered my questions. Keep up the good work
Catalina says
You’re very welcome. I am glad I can help!
ALLETSIRCANA says
Thank you so much for your post about the cricut blades.
I will be honest I was getting frustrated with trying to figure out which blades are which and which are used or compatible with the Maker. Now I’m ready to start creating.
Catalina says
That sounds fantastic!
Mary Ann Zagami says
Hi, Catalina what is the difference of fine point blade to premium fine point blade? Thanks
Catalina says
There’s really not a big difference according to Cricut’s website
Lynne says
Thank you so much for clearing up my confusion about housings and blades! I just got my Maker and am still doing homework before using it.
Catalina says
That’s great! I am happy I can help!
Shelby Baldwin says
What blade do you recommend for the infusible ink. My standard blade that came with the machine is not cutting deep enough
Catalina says
Fine Point Blade. Maybe your blade has lost some of its sharpness and you need to buy a replacement?
Lori Ward says
Thank you so much for taking the time to put this together. I can never get enough information when it comes to my Cricut Explore Air 2. Posts like this make my life so much easier. It truly means a lot to be able to read this info and put it to good use. I look forward to reading more. Enjoy your day.
Catalina says
You’re very welcome I am glad I can help!
Paige says
Hi! Thank you for all the information. It is very helpful. I have an old school cricut expression. Which blades work with it? I just have the one that came with it. Are there any other blades that I can get?
Catalina says
None of the older blades will work with the new machines. As far as old machines I am not very aware of them and the blades they need.
susan says
You state to purchase the standard blades with the white caps, what if I have the grey caps from another machine. Do you recommend using them, if not why.
Catalina says
Don’t use them. Apparently, they don’t cut very well with the fine point blade housing. A lot of people have ruined their materials.
Marcella says
This was so helpful. I just got the my Cricut maker. I really learned a lot. For sure I will be following you and sharing with others.
Thank you so much.
Catalina says
You’re very welcome I am glad I can help!
Jenny says
When I bought my Circut Explore, I bought it in a bundle and it came with 3 blades. I have a silver in its silver housing, but I also have a black housing, then a blue covered blade and a red covered blade. Do you know what those blades are? Does the blue go with black and red with pink? I didn’t get a pink houseing with my bundle kit though.
Catalina says
the blue-capped blade it’s for the black housing (deep point). I haven’t heard of Cricut using red caps. Did you buy your bundle at Cricut.com? If you didn’t it may be a replacement blade for the fine point housing (silver) from other sellers. You can also call Cricut to check out this info.
Calandra says
This was great info! I am very new to the Explore Air 2 and my question is what blade would I need to cut sticky flock for bling design templates?
Catalina says
You can try to check in Design Space to see if they have that material. I don’t have experience with it so I don’t know. If it’s a thin material you can use the fine point blade. I hope this helps 🙂
Heather says
One more, first is it possible to use the debossing tip in place of the scoring tip? Like would my maker know I’m tricking it by assigning lines to “score” when the debossing tip is actually loaded? And if so, do you think the debossing tip would work just as well?
Heather says
Any chance you could try it out for me to see the difference, or recommend any tips to make it work well enough?
Catalina says
I can try at some point, but I am working on a couple of things at the time. If you’re planning on scoring a lot you can either get the scoring tips with the drive housing, or the scoring stylus (cheaper option).
Catalina says
If you install the debossing tip and Design Space says you need to score, Cricut will know your cheating lol. I think it could work, I haven’t tried yet, but you need to select “deboss” instead of “score.”
Heather says
I just bought the maker and I’m wondering if I should bother to buy the deep point blade, or just skip right to the knife blade? Wouldn’t the knife cut any thicker materials cleaner than the deep point? Do you think it’s wise to own both? Is there any material I should only be using the deep point over the knife? Thank you!
Catalina says
Sometimes there’s the option for deep point blade and not knife blade. I’ve only used the deep point on very few occasions. I think you can get started without it and buy it if you feel you need it down the road.
Janette says
Thank you for the great and detailed explanation. I am new to Cricut, I just got my maker and found the different tools and attachments a bit overwhelming. This is a big help. I am printing this out!
Catalina says
I am happy I was able to help!
Chelsea says
i am having trouble cutting thicker things, which is confusing and makes me worried about even attempting to cut thicker materials. from my reading of your guide, i should be using the perforation tip to cut this “solid core” cardstock that seems about as thick as light poster board. even when i set my maker to the thickest cardstock and a heavier pressure, it wont cut all the way through the page with the fine point blade it came with. im wondering if you have used this brand/type of Park Lane Solid Core Cardstock from JoAnn Fabric/Crafts, and if so, what blade is best? i am pricing out the different blades, i just dont know if i should go or the black premium, the knife blade, or the perforation tip.
Catalina says
the perforation tip is for making raffle tickets or projects where you don’t want to have a solid cut. Try selecting a heavier posterboard, or glitter cardstock with the Fine Point Blade. Hopefully, that will work.
Mike says
I just got a cricut about 2 weeks ago! I started paper crafting because I was selling french macarons and couldn’t find boxes to fit them, so my search brought me to paper crafting and making my own boxes. It was fun but very time consuming, and frustrating when one small mistake ruins everything. Cricut seemed to be a great option since it would never make a mistake, and could even draw and write on my boxes for me.
My question – and forgive me if you’ve already answered this – I don’t need to buy the new gold housing if I have the silver, correct? From what you said it sounds like they’re 100% identical, aside from the color? I did buy a replacement blade, just to have on hand when this one wears out. With Joann only doing curbside pickup and pretty much everyone else closed, I figured it was easier to get it now. Thanks!!
Catalina says
You are correct. You don’t need to buy a gold housing. I think it’s smart to have a replacement blade on hand!
Wandy says
Thanks a lot for putting together, in one place and well detailed, such valuable information and then sharing with all of us.
🌸
Catalina says
You’re very welcome 🙂
Janie says
A very informative article. Thanks for the info! Question about the deep cutting blade- if I am cutting very heavy glitter card stock should I be using the deep cut blade?
Catalina says
I’ve cut very thick glitter cardstock, even poster board, and always used the fine point blade. Design Space will bring the blade you need.
Kem says
Hello Catalina and thanks for putting together this post. I found it very useful.
I just got my maker 3days ago, using it to make caketoppers for now. All worked well till I wanted to cut the double sided glitter cardstock which is 350gsm/130lbs. It fell off green mat and did not cut through. I then used the purple mat and tried poster board and heavy cardboard settings, it cuts but not finely, has ripped edges. Do I now need the deep point blade?
Catalina says
I don’t think you need the deep point blade. But I would try poster board but add a second pass. You can do this by tapping on the Cricut logo again after your machine is done cutting. Try cutting something small so you don’t waste material.
Linda Jackson says
Just received my Cricut Maker. This is totally new to me and I thank you for the very helpful information. I am a little nervous and a whole lot excited as I start this new journey.
Catalina says
You’re going to great! Just take one day at the time!
Carla Hundley says
Fabulous article and
thank you for your
hard work researching
everything.
Carla from Utah
Catalina says
You’re very welcome 🙂
Betsy says
All of your tutorials are fabulous! Most be so time consuming. I appreciate you sharing your knowledge. I am wondering if the knife blade itself on the Cricut Joy can be changed. I am referring just to the blade and not the housing. I see that there is the button to press on top and the blade can be removed. If so, do you think the same blades can be used as on other Cricut machines?
Marcia L says
Very Informative post! Will treat this as my cricut bible.
Just have the same question about the Blade (Norma Sanez 2/12/20) – wether to buy it with housing or quick swap. Is the housing/blade the machines comes with shared with any other blade or is it best to buy each blade with its housing?
Catalina says
You don’t need to buy a drive housing for each blade when using any of the quick swap tips. You can also use the same housing for gold and pink blades. The rest of the blades need their own housing.
bobby says
great info, thanks for taking the time to research this info for us. I just received my machine and been doing a lot of research myself.
Catalina says
Welcome to the Cricut fam! 🙂 I am glad I can help.
Bashchalaye says
Pls were I get those machine pls
Catalina says
You can get them on Amazon, Michaels, Walmart, Cricut.com
patty says
Do you have any tutorials on cutting fondant with your cricut explore air or cricut explore air 2?
Catalina says
Hi Patty. None of the new Cricut Machines are food safe; therefore I don’t have tutorials for this purpose.
Norma Saenz says
I’m confused as far as purchasing extra blades, and this may seem like a dumb question, but I haven’t even unboxed my maker until I upload my cartridges onto design space using my Explore since there aren’t any adapters available. Some say quick swap housing others say drive housing. Do you need one for each of your blades, or if you purchase a blade with quick swap or drive housing do you have to get one for all the blades or can they use the one you have. (I understand that if its supposed to be quick swap, you use that, or if it s the drive housing , you use that one but do you purchase one for each blade or can you just have one of each?
Marcia L says
Hello Norma:
Newbie here!!
I have the same question about the blades. Can you share your response?
Catalina says
For the quick swap, you can use any of the tips. Each blade on the article will tell you if it’s compatible with something else 🙂 Also read the part that says Are blades interchangeable?
Norma Saenz says
This information was awesome. I need to put this in my binder as a reference. Not sure it will print without all the ads. Love this!
Catalina says
Hi Norma. I don’t think there’s a way to print it without the ads. :/ Sorry. I am working on an Ebook, though!
Have a lovely day.
Susan says
Fantastic post. Read it thoroughly…even took notes. Thank you for all your insight on blades and what they do.
Catalina says
Glad to hear, Susan!
Marcia says
Very informative article…I’m glad I stumbled upon your site! I learned more about the blades and tools from here than I did after an hour of searching Cricut’s website. I’ll definitely be checking out your other content, thanks!!
Catalina says
You’re very welcome, Marcia! I am glad, I am able to help.
Corinna says
I just got a Cricut Maker for Christmas and this article has been a lifesaver in explaining everything about blades and tips, thank you!!
Catalina says
I am happy I can help!
Tricia says
Hi, I just bought a Cricut Maker and want to purchase additional blades. What would you suggest as a beginner for must haves. Would like to purchase since Michaels is having the buy one get one half off.
Catalina says
Hi Tricia! I have an article that will show you what’s idea to get depending on what you want to do with your machine!
Melissa says
Hello ,
I’m trying to make my first tshirt and I’m cutting with glitter vinyl, I have tried adjusting my material and changing my blades..HELP plz
Catalina says
Are you using more pressure? What brand of vinyl are you using? Try a second pass before you unload the mat, just press the go button again! I hope this helps.
Sherry says
I loved the article! I just received explore air two for Christmas. I have a question… I understand that I cannot use the scoring toolThat the maker uses but you said something about the explore air to did scoring. How do I score with my machine?
Catalina says
Yay! Sherry to happy for you! The little tool is called Scoring Stylus and I have a great article that compares the Stylus and the Wheel too! I hope this helps.
Krystal says
I just received a Cricut for Christmas and am already frustrated. The fine point blade that came with the machine is not cutting. I feel like I’m doing something wrong. I’ve watched it very closely and the gears are not making the housing spin. Does this housing unit need to be put into another one with gears like the cloth tool? I’m so confused! It won’t even calibrate, says blade not detected.
Catalina says
Hi Krystal. I think you are using the Rotary blade instead of the Fine Point Blade. The Fine Point blade, doesn’t have gears. It’s a learning curve. You’ll get there!
Liberty says
Hi Catalina,
I’m glad you laid everything out so clearly— I used your post to help me order extra blades today. I am a new Maker owner, and excited to use it to make more stuff!
Thank you! Oh, and A. Nonny Mouse– wow! Anonymous!! hahaha!
Liberty
Catalina says
You’re very welcome Liberty! Welcome to the Cricut family!
Nancy says
Code to buying a cricut. Have decided on the maker. I was looking at one with large bundle until I start comparing. I do not think you get an extra
Blades lie the knife blade or scoring wheel. Do each of these need to be purchased separate?
Catalina says
Yay! Welcome to the Maker family! The Maker only comes with the Rotary and Fine Point Blade. Other blades are separate.
Jen says
This is Cricut post is extremely informative – it cleared up any question I had on blades! Thank you for your time in creating such a great article!
Catalina says
You’re very welcome Jen!
Diane says
Do you know if I can cut chunky glitter canvas with the Explore Air 2? If so which blade, mat, and settings?
Catalina says
Yes, you can! I haven’t done it myself yet, but here’s a Youtube video that shows you how.
Michele Ishino says
Thanks for sharing. I just got a cricut expression 2 second hand and was having issues with it not cutting well and pulling up off the matt. I do have a question about the blade. When I go to cut it says I need blade 6 or with vinyl it says blade 4. Do you know which blades are they talking about?
Catalina says
Hi Michele. I don’t have any experience with older Cricut machines so I am not able to help, I hope you can figure it out! 🙂
Stacy says
Are you sure it doesn’t mean to set the blade at 4 or 6? With my old expression, you had to set the blade depth on a dial. Just a thought.
Kathleen Brown says
Thank you, thank you, thank you. I can’t say it often enough. I spent yesterday afternoon trying to cut earrings out of faux leather. I had no luck and was ready to throw the Cricut out the window and then set it on fire. I am in awe of you in that you have uncovered so much information and then so clearly written this blog. You will keep me from setting my Cricut on fire!!!!!!!
Catalina says
Thank you for your comment!
I am here laughing out loud. I am so glad I saved your Cricut! Definitely keep coming back, I have really cool tutorials for everyone that feels like burning their Cricut.
Marie says
Awesome article….looking to buy a cricut and was not sure if I wanted the air2 or maker….you helped me out by convincing me to get the maker….hope Santa gets my request….lol
Thank you…looking forward to following you also. ?
Catalina says
Yay Marie! Let’s hope Santa gets you the Maker, come on over to my blog to find really cool tutorials 🙂
Chelsea says
This has been such an informative post!! Definitely saving it to my Pinterest board! I just purchased a Cricut over the weekend (used from eBay, trying to save for a wedding!!) and it came with the bare minimum – the charging cords. I need to purchase housing, and I have a silly beginners question. I’m mostly cutting vinyl, so I know I need the fine point blade, but I’ve seen in some tutorials that there are two blades in the machine at a time. Does that mean I need two of them?
Catalina says
What you see are 2 different tools. For instance the scoring stylus and the fine point blade. Or a Pen and the other blade. I hope this makes sense.
Susan says
Thank you ! Your guide helped me figure out that I now want the Maker instead of Explorer Air 2.
Catalina says
That’s awesome. The Maker is an amazing machine!
Anke says
Very informative, thank you very much. I just received a Circuit Maker for my birthday and am super excited to get started.
Catalina says
Yay! You’re going to love it.
Tanaria Carey says
Very informative blog post! Most appreciated!!! <3 and I love you are a follower of Jesus! I'm a follower of Jesus, mom of 3 boys, and serial crafter! Thank you for taking the time to put this article together! This took a lot of time (no doubt). I would love to connect when you are able! <3
Sincerely,
Tanaria
Catalina says
You’re very welcome 🙂
I am glad you loved this tutorial! Let’s connect on Instagram 🙂
Flora Poole says
I might sound stupid I didn’t understand if I can use my my fine debossin tip with my circut explorer please sayrg again the blades that are compatible with the circuit explorer 2
Catalina says
Hi Flora. At the beginning of this article, you can find the information. Debossing tip is only for the Maker. The only blades you can use with the Explore machines are Fine Point, Deep Point, and Bonded Fabric blade.
Charis says
YOU ARE AWESOME!!! I was just about to make a large order of stuff I was not going to be able to use with a used Cricut Explore Air 2 I just bought that came with no blades, etc. I am so thankful I read your article before pushing submit on that order. This is one article I will totally print and keep in my Cricut folder and SHARE!!
Thank you again!!
Catalina says
Hi Charis,
I am glad I was able to help you out!
E Buck says
Do you have a post there you cover any of the following:
– Examples of the different materials including materials that you shouldn’t use
– Things you can make for free with your Cricut Maker
– Free design resources for your cricut
– Holiday specific designs
Thanks for the article. It really clarified a lot of things for me!
Catalina says
Hi E Buck!
I have many articles for Cricut. Check out all of my tutorials here
Rosie Niery says
Do you have something printable for this? It is SO informative and being a newbie, I need all the knowledge I can get! 🙂
Catalina says
Hi Rosie, at the moment I don’t have this information on printables. It’s here for you to see anytime you need it! 🙂
Jeanette green says
I love what I read so far I am trying to get my cricut started, I havn’done anything so far with mine it’s kinda confusing so far but working on it.
Catalina says
I am glad i am able to help!
Rose says
Super information. Thanks so very much for taking the time to share. Will be sure to spread the word.
Catalina says
Thank you!!
Diane Kranz says
I CANNOT thank you enough for this article. You literally saved me from having to show up to an event without the promised gift.
Catalina says
So happy I was able to help!
Karen says
Thank you for taking the time to create this article. It has been very helpful for me. I have used the same blade on everything for years now! After reading your article I purchased the deep cut blade to cut 10mil. Mylar. I can’t find a setting on design space that will cut through this mylar. Any suggestions? I have an Explore Air .
Catalina says
Hi Karen. 10 mm, that’s a bit too much. The Maker can only cut up to 2.4mm? Are you sure it’s this thick?
Fadi El-ghussein says
Hello,
Thank you very much for such a wonderful post. I wonder if it is possible to include an image of the possible cuts for each blade/tip. I am very new to all of this (creativity in general!) and would find this very helpful. For example, maybe include an image of an engraved or debossed item to help explain what each tip/blad does.
Best wishes
Catalina says
Hi Fadi!
I would love to include this. I just got the new tips and blades so I have to make time for it. Thank you so much for your suggestion.
E Buck says
I was thinking the exact thing. A picture is worth a thousand words
Catalina says
I will at some point; thank you for your input!
Kimberly Choi says
Can I use Roland housing and blades in my air 2
Catalina says
I don’t think so. I wouldn’t use housings that aren’t made by Cricut.
Heather says
Thank you so much for this! I was wondering, are the premium fine blades and regular fine blades interchangeable and able to use the same housing? I have been looking and haven’t had luck finding an answer.
Catalina says
Hi Heather. The answer is right here; read the part that says: Are Cricut Blades Interchangeable?
bobby says
No you did not. You did not answer whether premiem fine point blade can be replaced with fine point blade housing.
Catalina says
Fine Point Blade and Premium Fine Point Blade can be used with Gold, Silver, or Pink housing.
Katie says
I am having a problem. My Air 2 won’t cut a whole image. It starts out great, then nothing. It looks like the blade is scoring the image. Basically the left side of a circle is cut, but not the rest of it. I have done everything they said: check for debri on blade tip and housing, clean cookies out of computer, put in a new blade, check the mat, etc. Still NOTHING! My machine is only 3 months old. Any suggestions?
Catalina says
Hi Katie. I have no idea why this is happening. If your machine is still within warranty I will explore that solution. I am so sorry this is happening to you.
Brandi says
I am being told that the scoring wheel can be attached to the rotary wheel that comes with the cricut maker. Based on my understanding of your article, you are saying that is not possible. Have you heard different since you wrote this article or are you still under the impression that this cannot be done.
Catalina says
Hi Brandi! Nothing has changed. The housing for the wheel is different than the one for the rotary blade.
I hope this helps 🙂
Vicky Iverson says
HI there. Love this information. Thank you for spending your time on this. I do have a question on the Double Scoring Blade though. Something new for Cricut Maker? Why would I need this ‘double’ feature?
Catalina says
Hi Vicky! You are welcome. The double scoring week works wonders on thick materials. I have two articles that will explain you everything.
1) Scoring Wheel VS Scoring Stylus
2) How to Use the Scoring wheel
I hope this helps!
Ida M Diaz says
Im new to the cricut maker and i have to say… thank you, you have made this information so easy for me. Cant wait to learn more and get started
Catalina says
Hi Ida! I am very happy I can help! Happy Cutting 🙂
Deb says
This is exactly what I needed. Thank you for all of your hard work and time. It was well worth it for me!
Catalina says
Hi Deb!
I am happy to hear this post was helpful for you. Make sure to check out my other posts as well, they are full of gold. It’s my joy to help you on your Cricut Journey!
Joy Rachoy says
Thank you so much for your help!! Very insightful.
Catalina says
Joy you are very welcome 🙂
Crystal says
Thank you so much for this article! I just bought a Cricut Explore 2 and trying to learn as much as I can to get myself prepared before tackling my first project. Great information!
Catalina says
You are so welcome! Make sure to read my full tutorial for Design Space!
Sharon Clagg says
Great information! This is exactly what I’ve been searching for to understand the blades better! Thank you!
Catalina says
Yay!
I am so happy I could help you on your Cricut Journey!
A. Nonny Mouse says
This was very helpful. Thank you.
Catalina says
Hi Nonny, I am glad I was able to help… Have a lovely day!