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Purchasing a Cricut machine can be an exciting venture into the world of DIY crafting, but it's not without its learning curve. If you're considering getting one or recently made the leap, here are five things I wish I had known before buying my Cricut machine:

1. The Cost of Materials Adds Up The Cricut machine itself isn't the only investment. Blades, mats, vinyl, cardstock, and other materials can quickly add to your expenses. Understanding the full scope of ongoing costs can help budget-conscious crafters plan better. One remedy is having an Access Subscription- Members receive a 10% discount (and access to exclusive discounts) while shopping on the Cricut website! Not an Access Member? Sign up here

2. Steep Learning Curve The Cricut Design Space software has many features, which can be overwhelming at first. Expect a learning period where you'll spend more time troubleshooting than creating. Watching tutorials and practicing with smaller projects can help you get the hang of it faster. Also, our facebook group is here to help! Have a question? Join our group and ask! Cricut Tips and Tricks Facebook Group

3. You Can Familiarize Yourself with Design Space BEFORE you buy! I didn’t know this. If I had started with the program and learned the basics before purchasing the machine, I think it wouldn’t have sat in the box for quite as long.

4. The Importance of Maintenance and Care Regular maintenance, like changing blades, cleaning mats, and keeping the machine dust-free, is essential for consistent results. I underestimated how much upkeep was involved, but it's crucial for extending the life of your machine and ensuring it performs well. I have a few suggestions on this, look for my blog post!

5. Opening the box is the worst part. My Explore Air 2 sat in my living room floor for weeks before I had the courage to open the box and try the starter project. It’s not nearly as scary of a machine for me now.