Let's Do Butterflies in Cricut

So I haven't worked with my Cricut machine in about five years. Nothing's changed much. This is the new interface for my Explore Air 2. I uploaded my 6" x 9" .png files but you can also upload other graphic formats and then just remove the background in Cricut. 

The problem comes when you try to cut out larger files over 6 x 9. Cricut has a size limit and you will get the warning if you try to go much over that. If you print a larger file like an 8-1/2 x 11, you will have to downsize it so much that the graphics will be tiny So if you use files designed in 6 x 9 and print then cut in 6 x 9 your files should be the right size. I print out a label with mine but you can just erase it when you upload if it's not needed.

What I noticed first was that if I want my stuff to print the same size I designed it, I need to make the print area a little smaller to allow for the transparent border on the originals. 

You can store all your layers in the same file and just turn them on or off for print then cut. And you can resize them up a little bigger but they will lose print quality when you do.

Honestly, it hadn't changed that much. It accepts more file formats than it used to and you can still remove the backgrounds for free and it's still pretty familiar and easy to use. Look at all those butterflies! I never need to buy another one ever with all of these. Butterflies truly are free!

And the cuts are clean if you calibrate your printer by following the calibration instructions. That feature is better. I always select to print with a bleed around the edge and I use my own printer settings to get the best quality. The Cricut default on any printer is not good enough for a high quality sharp print. The highest quality setting is always the best. I use Epson. Epson ink tank printer and Epson card stock presentation matte paper. 

I can only find the paper on Amazon. They don't carry it in the stores any more... maybe an office supply store? The print on this paper looks like velvet! Use the highest setting on your printer. If you want professional quality you have to use the quality settings, ink and paper to get it. If you already have Cricut and a printer, you are already saving money making your own pretty things. 

An ink tank printer makes it the most affordable way to get your own collection of graphics and cutouts. I only have to buy new ink about every 18 to 24 months and I print a lot of graphics on mine. A lot. The ink cost about the same for four bottles as just one tri-color plus black cartridges were for my old printer. Of course if you have a laser printer then you will get better results than with an ink jet. But it is possible to get professional results with an ink jet.

So the upgraded application is better, the cuts are better, my machine does what it's suppose to do and cut them out well and so far I'm getting professional quality cutouts for pennies and I don't have any hand cramps from scissors cuttings. I couldn't be happier!