If you are a Cricut user, you must already know its Print And Cut feature. This feature allows you to edit images, text, patterns, etc., to create designs in the Cricut Design Space software. That design is printed on whatever medium you choose, and then the Cricut machine cuts the design out. Theoretically, you can use any printer to create stickers, labels, and other print-and-cut designs with the Cricut machine. But with a good printer and Cricut machine, you can create anything you can dream up. But many printers are available on the market, and choosing the right one can take time and effort. Read this to find the right printer without wasting your time and effort.
What Accessories Do You Need for “Print And Cut” Projects?
There are certain important aspects that you need to consider while choosing a printer. The media type is the most subjective to the individual's personal needs for a crafting printer. One person may want a printer that can handle relatively heavy printing jobs, like printing on vinyl, canvas, or fabric. The other criteria are:
Printing Technology
Printers are of two types: laser and Inkjet. For Cricut Print and Cut jobs, Inkjet is better suited than laser printers as they can print colorful, high-quality images. Laser printers are limited to printing only text and documents on regular office paper as they mostly use black-and-white toner. You need an inkjet printer to print on Cricut-compatible materials like sticker paper and vinyl. These materials would damage the laser printer and artwork, as the heat from a laser printer could melt the coating on some of these materials.
Connectivity Option
When you purchase a printer, ensure the connectivity method is convenient for your needs. Most printers nowadays offer wireless connectivity options such as WiFi and Bluetooth. But some printers connect with your system using a USB Data cable. The connectivity feature is as important as functionality. A wireless connectivity option gives you the freedom to operate from anywhere without worrying about the proximity of the Cricut to the printer. It also enables you to connect the printer to other smart devices.
Functionality
A normal printer can print on basic materials such as paper. However, for Print-and-Cut designs, you will need a printer that can handle thicker materials like card stock, vinyl, sticker paper, poster board, glitter paper, iron-on material, canvas, and more. These printers can handle larger sizes of paper with ease. Inkjet printers can handle most of these papers and materials. Nowadays, many printers also come with scanning features.
Resolution
Invest in a durable printer, with high resolution, for clear and superior print quality. The resolution is measured in dpi(dots per inch); the higher the number, the clearer the printed image. A resolution of 4800x1200 DPI is adequate for Cricut projects.
Value
There are various printers available in the market at different prices. Therefore, you must choose a printer with all the essential features that fit your budget.
The Best Overall Printer for Cricut Print And Cut
These printers are worth your money in terms of overall quality, durability, and versatility.
EPSON SURECOLOR P700
It's not the least expensive Cricut machine, as its price point ranges from mid to high. However, this versatile machine is compatible with various materials and offers superior-quality Print. It can handle cardstock and other thick materials you occasionally want to print. Highlighting features of this machine are its 5760x1440 DPI resolution and durable construction. It's a great choice for occasional crafters and small business owners.
Reasons to buy
- High Resolution
- Easy set-up
- Touch screen
Reason to avoid
- Little expensive for a home printer
Canon TS9521C
Many people consider Canon TS9521C a crafter's dream. Other than printing, it can also copy and scan documents. It can print on various types of paper, which also includes cardstock. The ChromaLife100 ink protects your projects from fading. Canon TS9521C features five individual ink cartridge systems; if any of these runs out of ink, you can replace them. The machine also offers connectivity options such as WiFi, AirPrint, and the Canon Print app.
Reasons to buy
- 12x12" paper support and fade-resistant ink
- Individual ink cartridge system
- Clear image quality
- Copy & scan feature
Reasons to avoid
- Not the fastest and most affordable printer in the market.
Best Budget Printer
If your budget is a little constrained, then the following printer will suffice all your basic needs.
Canon PIXMA Wireless Inkjet Printer G3260
With a print size capacity of 8.5x1.4" with 4800x1200 DPI resolution, this printer can handle most Cricut Print and cut jobs. The model uses large ink tanks instead of ink cartridges so that the refilling cost will be low. As a result, the printer produces excellent print quality at a very affordable price.
Reasons to Buy
- Affordable price
- Economical ink refilling cost
- Excellent print quality at an affordable price
Reason to Avoid
- Not the best printer to print on fabric and canvas
Conclusion
Hope we have cleared most doubts regarding the best printer for Cricut print and cut. You don't need to spend all your money on an expensive printer to get all the essential features. These printers truly justify their price tag.
FAQ
What is the best printer to work on Cricut Projects?
Every individual's needs are different from others. There is no particular Cricut machine that suits everybody's needs. You can use the following for fine print Cricut projects.
- EPSON SURECOLOR P700
- Canon TS9521C
- Canon PIXMA Wireless Inkjet Printer G3260
Laser or Inkjet printer, which works best on Cricut Projects?
The heat from the laser printer could react with the coating of some of the materials and could harm the printer and artwork. So they are suitable for Cricut Cut and Print jobs. Inkjet Printers are a better choice for this job.
What do you need to look for in a crafting printer?
There are four things that you need to look for in a printer.
- Printing Technology
- Connectivity Option
- Functionality
- Resolution
- Value
