The Lowdown
For anyone interested in creating projects for sale or as gifts, the Cricut Maker 4 is the go-to cutting machine, offering the most opportunities. The fact that it can utilize 300 materials using 13 different tools means design opportunities are nearly endless. Paired with the Design Space app, it is truly mind-blowing what can be created, and it will fit any style or need you can imagine.
Overall
Pros
- Many compatible tools and materials
- Fast, accurate cutting
- Can cut up to 12′ designs
- Design Space app is a next-level tool for creation
Cons
Whether creating custom items for sale, as gifts, or for personal enjoyment, Cricut is the industry leader in cutting machines. The Cricut Maker 4 is the newest generation of the smart cutting machine, delivering speed and precision while cutting twice as fast as its predecessor. Creating custom projects is easy and enjoyable using the Design Space app.
The Cricut Maker 4 is compatible with over 300 materials, including vinyl, iron-on, cardstock, and leather, as well as a wide range of other materials. Write, draw, foil, engrave, emboss, and more with endless possibilities.
The Maker 4 measures 22.1″ x 7.1″ x 6.2″ and weighs 15.4 pounds. It easily fits on a table and is relatively compact for its capabilities. It can cut Smart Materials up to 11.7″ wide and 12′ long. The new extended cutting length significantly expands the possibilities.
There are enough possibilities with the Maker 4 to satisfy anyone’s creative style and needs. We have been focusing on vinyl cutting for customized items and shirts, but the cutter can also be utilized in many other ways. I am interested in learning more and exploring the creation of leather items this summer.
After using the Maker 3, there is a big jump in features with the Maker 4. Not only are there new materials that can be used, but creating designs up to 12 feet long also opens up numerous opportunities for projects. It cuts faster and seems to be even more accurate.
Most users know Cricut as a vinyl cutter, but the Maker 4 sells 13 compatible tools to create projects that are only limited by your creativity. My wife is quite crafty and can whip out projects on a whim. She had made custom shirts for my son’s sports teams before heading out for a game, as well as customized wedding and birthday gifts, and various items around the house. It is truly a remarkable machine.
To open the possibilities, you will need the free Design Space app. Design all projects on the app and send them to the machine to create the best items. The app is intuitive and easy to use, requiring no prior design experience to learn. We pay for Cricut Access, a paid subscription that is optional. The inclusion of numerous design features is a game-changer and well worth the cost.
For anyone interested in creating projects for sale or as gifts, the Cricut Maker 4 is the go-to cutting machine, offering the most opportunities. The fact that it can utilize 300 materials using 13 different tools means design opportunities are nearly endless. Paired with the Design Space app, it is truly mind-blowing what can be created, and it will fit any style or need you can imagine.
We have been using the Maker 4 weekly and continue to expand and explore its capabilities. This is the best creative machine we have ever used.
The Cricut Maker 4 retails for $399; it is available directly from the manufacturer and other retailers, including Amazon.
Source: Manufacturer-supplied review sample
What I Like: Many compatible tools and materials; Fast, accurate cutting; Can cut up to 12′ designs; Design Space app is a next-level tool for creation
What Needs Improvement: Nothing
The Maker 4 seems very versatile, with all the tools it can use and the materials it can cut.
There is such a community around these that it’s really easy to find ideas, plans and projects – especially nice as summer is here and the kids need distractions.