What Is Print and Cut? A Complete Guide for Crafting Success

What is print and cut? It’s a crafty way to print your design on regular paper, then use your Cricut machine to cut it out perfectly.

This technique merges printing and cutting in one project, making detailed stickers, labels, and custom shapes with crisp edges. You can use full-color images or intricate patterns that would be hard to cut by hand.

Start by creating or choosing a design that fits within the size limits, since Print Then Cut works best in a specific area. Keep your printer settings at 100% scale so the cut lines always match your print exactly. Also, use good quality cardstock or sticker paper to get the best cut results and avoid tearing.

What Is Print and Cut and How Does It Work?

Print and cut means first printing a design on paper, then cutting around it precisely with a cutting machine. You start by designing what you want and send it to your printer to get the colors and details printed. Next, your Cricut machine reads special registration marks on the paper and cuts the design exactly along those lines.

Combining printing and cutting saves time and lets you create complex designs with full color and perfect edges. Your printer handles the artwork, while the Cricut makes clean, accurate cuts based on the printed registration marks. This process can handle projects like stickers, custom labels, or layered cards, where you want both precise cuts and full-color images.

To get started, you print your design using an inkjet printer onto white paper or sticker sheets sized under 9.25 by 6.75 inches, which is the largest area most Cricut machines can cut with this method. The machine scans the crop marks around your print to know exactly where to cut. Some Cricut models, like the Venture, even support larger sizes up to 12 by 24 inches, but most machines stick to the smaller limit.

Print and cut projects usually take a bit more setup than just cutting vinyl or iron-on. You have to make sure your design fits inside the cutting limits and that your printer can handle the paper type.

Cleaning your printer heads and using fresh ink helps avoid smudges. If the machine can’t read the crop marks, the cut might be off, so your paper must lie flat and the lighting should be good during scanning.

Crafters use print and cut for making full-color stickers, custom tags, and even layered decorations that look more detailed than plain cut shapes. The colors and details come from the printer, while the Cricut’s blade cuts around exactly, allowing for lots of creativity. You can print then cut all layers merged as one or use the attach feature to print some parts and cut others, offering lots of design freedom.

This technology started combining print and cut in a single machine back in the 1990s, and now it’s easier than ever with Cricut and home inkjet printers. Expect the process to take just a few minutes, depending on your design’s complexity and your printer’s speed. Using print and cut together gives you detailed projects with professional results right from your home craft space.

Which Cricut Machines Support Print Then Cut and Paper Sizes

The Print Then Cut feature works with several Cricut machines, including the Explore Air, Explore Air 2, Explore 3, Maker, Maker 3, Joy Xtra, and Venture. These machines let you print your design on a printer first, then the Cricut cuts it precisely. Not every Cricut model supports this, so check your machine before starting.

Project and paper sizes vary but usually match small to mid-size crafts. You can print and cut on Letter (8.5 by 11 inches), A4 (8.3 by 11.7 inches), Legal (8.5 by 14 inches), Tabloid (11 by 17 inches), and A3 (11.7 by 16.5 inches) sheets. The biggest cuttable design is a bit smaller than the entire paper dimension.

The size limits are important because the Cricut relies on a small white margin around your print to detect cut lines. That’s why you can only print on white or very light paper for Print Then Cut. Dark or glossy paper may confuse the machine’s sensors and cause errors.

Tip: Always use matte or lightly colored paper for Print Then Cut projects, especially if your machine isn’t a Maker model.

Changing the paper size in Cricut Design Space adjusts the max print then cut area. Choose Legal, Tabloid, or A3 if your printer and material can handle larger sheets. Just remember, the cut area is smaller than the full paper size, so plan your project accordingly.

Preparing Your Design for Successful Print Then Cut

To prepare your design for print then cut in Cricut Design Space, you need to flatten it, size it within limits, and arrange elements carefully. This ensures your design prints clearly and the machine cuts accurately along the edges without misalignment. Taking these steps upfront saves time and prevents errors during cutting.

Using Flatten to Combine Layers

Flattening turns multiple images, text, and shapes into one printable layer so the Cricut only prints and cuts a single image. Without flattening, Cricut will treat each layer as a separate cut shape instead of one printed picture. Use flatten after completing your design but before setting up the print then cut.

To flatten, select all the layers you want combined. The flatten button is on the right layers panel in Design Space. This merges everything into one printable graphic, turning cut layers into a print layer while keeping the outer cut path.

Sizing Your Design Correctly

Your design must fit inside the Print Then Cut boundary, which is about 6.75 x 9.25 inches for Cricut machines. Designs larger than this won’t print or cut correctly and might trigger an error symbol in Design Space. Avoid resizing your design after flattening as this can shift layers and ruin alignment.

Here’s a step-by-step way to size your design properly:

1. Open your project in Design Space and select your flattened design layer.
2. Check the size box at the top and set the width and height to be under 6.75 x 9.25 inches.
3. Make sure “Fit to Page” and “Scale to Fit” are turned off so it prints at 100% scale.
4. Use the “Print Then Cut Page Size” dropdown to select your paper size.
5. Preview the layout to confirm everything fits inside the designated rectangle.

Avoiding Common Design Pitfalls

Misaligned cuts mostly happen because designs aren’t calibrated or scaled correctly. Run the Print Then Cut calibration under Settings > Calibration to fix misalignment issues before printing. Also, don’t try to resize your entire project after flattening, smaller changes should be made before flattening.

Try to keep white or blank space around your design edges. This space acts as a buffer for your machine to detect the cut lines accurately. Avoid overlapping cut lines or tiny intricate parts in your design as these can confuse the cutter or lead to tears in your paper or vinyl.

Choosing the Right Printer and Materials for Print Then Cut

A special printer isn’t required for print then cut, but inkjet printers are a better choice. They use liquid ink that holds well on printable vinyl and sticker sheets. Laser printers melt toner with heat, which may crack during cutting, causing problems with this craft.

Choosing the right paper or vinyl is key to good results. Printable vinyl, sticker sheets, cardstock, and glossy photo paper all work with Cricut’s print then cut feature. You want thinner materials that feed easily through your printer and cut cleanly in your Cricut machine.

Printable vinyl and sticker paper made for inkjet printers often come as peel-and-stick sheets. These are easiest to work with because your Cricut can cut right through the backing liner. Cardstock also works well but may require more blade pressure and careful feeding.

Don’t use thick materials that jam in the printer. Laser printers especially struggle with thicker printable vinyl or sticker sheets.

The material needs to fit your home inkjet printer’s paper tray, usually 8.5 by 11 inches. Cricut machines like the Explore or Maker can only work with this size for print then cut.

Step-by-Step Process for Printing Then Cutting on Cricut

Printing then cutting with your Cricut involves a few clear steps to move from your design on screen to a perfectly cut physical project. You start by finishing your design, then print it with exact scale and settings. Finally, you load it onto your Cricut machine to cut along the printed edges.

Finalizing and Flattening Your Design

Before printing, your design needs to be ready for the Print Then Cut process. Make sure all your layers are combined into one flat image. This tells Cricut Design Space to print the entire design as one image instead of cutting each layer separately.

Use the Flatten tool in Design Space to convert your multi-layer design into a single printable layer. Double-check colors and details before flattening, to avoid surprises after printing.

Printing Without Scaling

Setting the print scale to 100% is essential for cutting accuracy. Printing at the correct size means your Cricut can match the cuts to your design precisely. Avoid resizing in your printer settings as that can distort your design and cause miscuts.

After flattening your design, click “Make It” in Design Space. On the print preview, make sure the design fills the expected print area without shrinking or stretching. When you send the print job to your printer, check the printer preferences and select “Actual Size” or “100%” scale.

Cricut suggests you print your design and cut it within the same session and day to improve sensor accuracy. Make sure to calibrate your Cricut machine first, especially if you haven’t used Print Then Cut before or just updated the software.

Loading and Cutting on Cricut Machine

Once printed, place your paper or sticker sheet on the correct Cricut cutting mat, aligning with the top left corner. Insert the mat into your machine, guiding it in slowly until the rollers grab it. Choose the right material setting for your paper or vinyl type in Design Space.

The Cricut detects black sensor marks around your printed design to align cuts precisely. Make sure these marks are fully visible on your printout and not trimmed off. Avoid glossy or very dark papers that may confuse the sensors.

After starting the cut, watch for any issues with the sensor reading. Recalibrate your Cricut machine and inspect the print quality near the sensor marks when it cuts inaccurately.

1. Complete your design in Design Space and use Flatten to prepare it for printing.
2. Click “Make It” and check the print preview size is correct without scaling.
3. Select “Print” and set your printer preferences to 100% or Actual Size.
4. Wait for your design to print fully, then place the sheet on the appropriate Cricut mat.
5. Insert the mat into the Cricut machine aligned at the top left corner.
6. Choose the correct material setting in Design Space for your paper or sticker type.
7. Press “Go” on your Cricut and let it read the sensor marks and cut your design.
8. Remove the cut piece carefully from the mat to avoid bending or tearing.

Always check that the sensor marks are crisp and fully visible on your print. Faded or cut-off marks can cause alignment errors during cutting.

Common Issues and How to Fix Them in Print Then Cut

Misaligned cuts happen when your Cricut can’t read the black sensor marks correctly. These marks guide the machine to cut exactly around your print.

Recalibrate your machine when your cuts are off by even a millimeter. Go to your Cricut settings, print the calibration sheet, and follow the on-screen instructions for the best accuracy.

A common confusion is the black box that appears around your design on the screen and on your printed paper. That black box isn’t an error, it’s the sensor guide your Cricut uses for alignment.

Make sure you do not crop or edit out that box in your design software. The printer must print the full box clearly on the paper for your Cricut to find it.

Printing on the wrong type or color of paper can cause problems too. Always use white or light-colored paper for print and cut projects. Dark or patterned paper makes it hard for the machine’s sensor to detect the alignment marks, leading to errors or no cut at all.

• Use white or light-colored paper to prevent sensor reading errors.
• Keep the black sensor box intact and unedited on your printouts.
• Calibrate your Cricut regularly to fix cut misalignment.
• Avoid shrinking or scaling your designs after printing and before cutting.
• Ensure your printer settings use borderless printing if available.
• Wait a few minutes for ink to dry before loading paper into the Cricut.

Another issue is resizing your image between printing and cutting. Once printed, the design size must match exactly what the Cricut expects to cut. Don’t resize the image on your cutting machine or app after printing.

This causes the sensor marks and cuts to fall out of sync. Also, avoid smudging the ink by letting the print dry fully before cutting.

Make sure your printer supports borderless printing or set your margins as low as possible. Crop marks can interfere with the black sensor box.

When you see a black box but your cuts are off, clean the sensors on your Cricut with a soft cloth. Dust or smudges on the sensor lens can block the marks and cause errors.

Differences Between Print Then Cut and Just Cut Features

Print then cut lets you print detailed, full-color images on your home printer first. After printing, the Cricut machine cuts precisely around those printed shapes. This works best for multi-color designs, stickers, or anything needing detailed image work that a blade alone can’t create.

Just cut means your Cricut only cuts shapes from your chosen material. This option is perfect for simple shapes, letters, or stencil designs that don’t need any printed color or detail. It uses only the cutting blade, so you can skip the printing step entirely.

Choose print then cut when you want vibrant, complex images on paper, vinyl, or sticker sheets. You prepare your design in Design Space as “Print Then Cut,” making sure the image is flattened and marked for print then cut. Then print the design with your regular printer and load the sheet into your Cricut for cutting.

Pick just cut when your design has one color or just outlines. For example, plain cardstock invitations, iron-on vinyl decals, or simple layered paper projects. It’s faster since you skip printing, and it saves ink and printing supplies.

Print then cut requires you to keep the printed design within a 6.75 by 9.25-inch space on your paper, as Cricut machines have this scanning limit. Also, avoid making designs too dense or too detailed; too many colors or complicated patterns can sometimes confuse the printer or result in blurry cuts.

Just cut is more flexible in size and material. You can cut larger shapes in thicker materials like leather, chipboard, or fabric. Print then cut mainly works on thinner materials that can go through your printer.

Both methods offer creative possibilities. Print then cut is excellent for photo-quality stickers, labels, and colorful layered projects. Just cut shines for clean edges, intricate shapes, and materials that don’t print well.

Use the Design Space filter to find “Print Then Cut” images or flatten your layers to turn your art into a printable file. For just cut, design as separate cut layers without flattening. This way, the Cricut cuts them as individual pieces.

Creative Projects and Selling Opportunities with Print Then Cut

Print then cut lets you create detailed, colorful crafts with clean edges. It works great for fun items like stickers, cards, and labels. These crafts can be sold online or at markets if done well.

Popular Print Then Cut Crafts

Stickers are the top project for print then cut users, thanks to their versatility and demand. You can also make greeting cards, party favors, gift tags, and even custom business cards. Cake and cupcake toppers or iron-on designs for shirts and onesies add more fun options.

Print then cut makes it easier to add full-color designs without layering vinyl or paper. Using the Offset tool helps create crisp outlines for stickers and labels. Many crafters also enjoy making tote bags or magnets with these precise cut designs.

Selling Print Then Cut Stickers

Many small businesses sell print then cut stickers online or at local fairs. Print on high-quality sticker paper and use a strong printer to avoid blurred edges. Make sure your cuts are precise with your Cricut’s sensor for professional results.

Keep your designs original or licensed to avoid copyright problems. Use glossy or matte vinyl paper that’s durable and water-resistant for best customer satisfaction. Price competitively, including materials and machine costs, usually about $0.10 to $0.30 per sticker for small runs.

Avoid feeding wrinkled or curled paper into your printer, as it can cause misaligned cuts.

Material Choices for Different Projects

For stickers, printable vinyl or sticker paper works best, especially the kind labeled waterproof if your project will be handled a lot. Cardstock with a smooth finish is perfect for cards and tags, giving sturdy and neat edges.

For iron-on designs, look for printable heat transfer vinyl made for your printer type. Magnetic sheets can be printed on for fridge magnets but check if your printer accepts thicker materials. Try using different finishes like glossy or matte depending on your project’s look.

• Printable vinyl for waterproof stickers
• Matte or glossy sticker paper for general use
• Cardstock for cards and gift tags
• Printable heat transfer vinyl for shirts and onesies
• Magnetic sheets for refrigerator magnets
• Glossy photo paper for detailed image projects

Step-by-Step Action Plan to Start Print Then Cut with Your Cricut

Follow these steps to get your first print then cut project done smoothly. Check each one to make sure your design prints and cuts perfectly.

1. Before you start: Choose your design and size it to fit your material. Confirm it’s within Cricut’s maximum print then cut dimensions (under 6.75” x 9.25”).
2. Day 1: Set up your printer with the right paper and quality settings. Print a test page to ensure colors and registration marks appear clearly.
3. Day 1: Upload your design to Cricut Design Space, and add the print then cut feature. Use the “Flatten” tool correctly so your design prints as one piece.
4. Day 2: Print your design from Design Space using your printer. Verify the black registration box prints cleanly around your design to guide the cutter.
5. Day 2: Place the printed sheet on the Cricut cutting mat aligned with its top-left corner. Load it into the Cricut machine for cutting.
6. Day 2: Choose the correct material setting in Design Space before starting the cut. Watch the initial cut to ensure the machine reads the registration marks properly.
7. After 2 weeks: Experiment with different materials like sticker paper or vinyl. Track which materials give the cleanest cut and print quality.
8. After 1 month: Try selling small print then cut projects or gifts locally or on craft marketplaces. Use feedback to refine your designs and workflow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Size for a Print Then Cut Project on Cricut Machines?

Most Cricut machines handle designs up to 9.25 by 6.75 inches in size. Your artwork needs to stay inside these measurements so the machine can cut it right.

Can I Use Glossy Paper for Print Then Cut with All Cricut Models?

No, glossy paper is not recommended for all Cricut models. For example, the Cricut Maker and Maker 3 handle it better, but others require matte paper for Print Then Cut.

Does Print Then Cut Work with Any Color Printer?

Print Then Cut works best with inkjet or laser printers but check your printer’s compatibility. Using a reliable printer improves the cut accuracy around printed designs.

Do I Need Special Software to Prepare Designs for Print Then Cut?

You don’t need special software besides Cricut Design Space. It provides features to set cut lines and print designs within the allowed size.

Will the Cricut Warn Me If My Design Is Too Large for Print Then Cut?

Yes, the Cricut will show a warning if your design exceeds 9.25 x 6.75 inches. This helps you adjust the size before printing and cutting.

Can I Combine Print Then Cut with Other Cricut Features in One Project?

Yes, but with size limits and careful layering. Mixing Print Then Cut with other cuts requires planning your design layout.

The Bottom Line

Print then cut lets you bring any design to life with crisp prints and precise cuts. Start by printing a simple design and cutting it on your Cricut today. You’ll gain confidence quickly by practicing these exact steps.