How to Cut Felt with a Cricut Machine Effectively

Alex Carter

·December 3, 2024

·20 min read

Cutting felt with a Cricut machine opens up endless creative possibilities. You can achieve clean, professional results by using the right tools and techniques. The Cricut Maker, for instance, excels at cutting felt with precision, especially when paired with a rotary blade. Even inexpensive felt works beautifully without needing extra backing or stiffening. If you’ve ever wondered, "can a Cricut machine cut felt?"—the answer is a resounding yes. With a little preparation and the right settings, you’ll find it surprisingly easy to create intricate designs and projects that stand out.

Key Takeaways

Use the right Cricut machine: The Cricut Maker is ideal for cutting felt due to its rotary blade, while the Explore and Joy can also cut felt with the appropriate blades.
Prepare your materials: Stabilize non-stiffened felt with fabric stabilizer or freezer paper to ensure clean cuts and prevent fraying.
Select the correct blade: Use the rotary blade for the Maker and the deep-point blade for the Explore to achieve the best results with felt.
Secure your felt properly: Use a FabricGrip or StrongGrip mat and consider painter's tape to keep the felt in place during cutting.
Adjust machine settings: Always perform a test cut and adjust pressure and blade depth based on the type of felt you are using for optimal results.
Maintain your tools: Regularly clean and sharpen your blades, and keep your mats free of debris to ensure smooth cutting experiences.
Handle your cuts with care: Gently peel the felt from the mat to avoid stretching or tearing, preserving the integrity of your designs.

Can a Cricut Machine Cut Felt? Required Tools and Materials

Cutting felt with a Cricut machine is not only possible but also incredibly effective when you have the right tools and materials. Whether you're using the Cricut Maker, Explore, or Joy, each machine has its strengths for handling felt. Let’s dive into the essentials you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools for Cutting Felt

To achieve clean and precise cuts, you’ll need a few key tools. Here’s what you should have on hand:

Cricut machine (Maker, Explore, or Joy)

Your Cricut machine is the star of the show. The Cricut Maker is the top choice for cutting felt, thanks to its ability to handle even loosely woven or inexpensive felt without additional backing. If you’re using the Cricut Explore, it works well with thicker felt when paired with the right blade. The Cricut Joy, while compact, can still cut lightweight felt effectively for smaller projects.

Rotary blade (for Maker) or deep-point blade (for Explore)

The blade you choose makes all the difference. The rotary blade, designed for the Cricut Maker, glides through felt like a pizza cutter, delivering smooth and accurate cuts. For the Cricut Explore, the deep-point blade is your go-to option for thicker or stiffer felt. Always ensure your blade is sharp for the best results.

FabricGrip mat or StrongGrip mat

A good mat provides the foundation for your project. The FabricGrip mat is ideal for felt, as it holds the material firmly in place without damaging it. If you’re working with thicker or stiffer felt, the StrongGrip mat offers extra security to prevent shifting during cutting.

Felt (Cricut brand or other types)

Choosing the right felt is crucial. Cricut brand felt is thinner and specifically designed for use with Cricut machines, making it an excellent choice for beginners. However, other types of felt, including inexpensive options, can also work well with proper preparation.

Brayer or scraper tool

A brayer or scraper tool helps you adhere the felt evenly to the mat. This step ensures the material stays flat and secure, reducing the chances of uneven cuts or material slipping during the process.

Additional Supplies for Best Results

For even better outcomes, consider these additional supplies:

Fabric stabilizer or freezer paper (for non-stiffened felt)

Non-stiffened felt can be tricky to cut due to its soft texture. Applying a fabric stabilizer or freezer paper to the back of the felt adds structure, making it easier to handle and cut. This step is especially helpful for intricate designs.

Painter’s tape or masking tape

Sometimes, even the stickiest mat needs a little extra help. Use painter’s tape or masking tape to secure the edges of the felt to the mat. This prevents any movement during cutting, ensuring clean and precise results.

Lint roller or mat cleaner

A lint roller or mat cleaner keeps your mat free of debris and fibers. Felt tends to shed, and a clean mat ensures better adhesion for future projects. Regular maintenance of your mat extends its lifespan and improves cutting accuracy.

Pro Tip: Always test your materials and settings before starting a big project. This helps you avoid wasting materials and ensures your cuts are perfect every time.

By gathering these tools and supplies, you’ll set yourself up for success. Whether you’re crafting simple shapes or intricate designs, having the right equipment makes all the difference. So, can a Cricut machine cut felt? Absolutely—and with these essentials, you’ll be ready to create stunning felt projects with ease.

Preparing Your Felt and Workspace

Getting your felt and workspace ready is a crucial step in achieving clean and precise cuts with your Cricut machine. Proper preparation ensures that your materials stay secure and your machine operates smoothly. Let’s break it down into manageable steps.

Choosing and Preparing Felt

Differences between stiffened and non-stiffened felt

Felt comes in two main types: stiffened and non-stiffened. Stiffened felt has a firmer texture, making it easier to cut and handle. It’s ideal for projects requiring sharp edges or intricate designs. Non-stiffened felt, on the other hand, is softer and more flexible. While it’s great for plush or layered crafts, its fibrous nature can make cutting tricky.

If you’re using non-stiffened felt, you might notice it shifts or frays during cutting. This happens because the fibers aren’t as tightly bound. Stiffened felt eliminates this issue, but don’t worry if you only have non-stiffened felt. You can still achieve excellent results with a little extra preparation.

Using stabilizers for non-stiffened felt

Non-stiffened felt benefits greatly from a stabilizer. Applying a fabric stabilizer or freezer paper to the back of your felt adds structure, making it easier for your Cricut machine to cut through cleanly. Stabilizers also prevent the felt from stretching or tearing during the process.

To use a stabilizer, simply iron it onto the back of your felt. This temporary backing holds the fibers together, ensuring smooth cuts. If you don’t have a stabilizer, freezer paper works as a budget-friendly alternative. Just remember to test a small piece first to ensure compatibility with your felt.

Pro Tip: Always choose a stabilizer that’s easy to remove after cutting. This keeps your finished project looking neat and professional.

Setting Up the Workspace

Cleaning and preparing the Cricut mat

A clean mat is essential for successful felt cutting. Felt fibers tend to shed, and any debris on your mat can affect adhesion. Use a lint roller or mat cleaner to remove dust, fibers, or leftover adhesive. This simple step ensures your felt sticks securely to the mat.

Once your mat is clean, choose the right type for your project. The FabricGrip mat works best for most felt types, while the StrongGrip mat provides extra hold for thicker or stiffer felt. Make sure the mat’s surface is sticky enough to keep the felt in place during cutting.

Securing the felt to the mat with tape or adhesive

Even with a sticky mat, felt can sometimes shift during cutting. To prevent this, use painter’s tape or masking tape to secure the edges of your felt. Apply the tape along the sides, ensuring it doesn’t cover the area where the blade will cut.

For added security, press the felt onto the mat using a brayer or scraper tool. This step flattens the material and improves adhesion, reducing the chances of uneven cuts. Properly securing your felt ensures your Cricut machine can work its magic without interruptions.

Preparing the Cricut Machine

Installing the correct blade

The blade you use plays a big role in how well your Cricut machine cuts felt. For the Cricut Maker, install the rotary blade. This blade glides through felt effortlessly, delivering smooth and precise cuts. If you’re using the Cricut Explore, opt for the deep-point blade. It’s designed to handle thicker materials like felt.

Before starting, check that your blade is sharp and free of debris. A dull or dirty blade can lead to frayed edges or incomplete cuts. Regular blade maintenance keeps your machine performing at its best.

Adjusting machine settings for felt cutting

Your Cricut machine’s settings determine how effectively it cuts felt. In Design Space, select the material type that matches your felt. For Cricut brand felt or stiff felt, the “Felt” setting works well. If you’re using non-stiffened felt, consider increasing the pressure slightly to ensure a clean cut.

Always perform a test cut before starting your project. This helps you fine-tune the settings and avoid wasting materials. Adjusting the blade depth, pressure, or speed based on your felt type ensures optimal results every time.

Quick Tip: Save your custom settings in Design Space for future projects. This saves time and ensures consistency across all your felt creations.

By preparing your felt, workspace, and Cricut machine properly, you set yourself up for success. Whether you’re working with stiffened or non-stiffened felt, these steps make the cutting process smoother and more enjoyable. With everything in place, you’re ready to create stunning felt designs with ease.

Step-by-Step Cutting Process for Cricut Machines

Cutting Felt with the Cricut Maker

Using the rotary blade for clean cuts

The Cricut Maker is a powerhouse when it comes to cutting felt. Its rotary blade is specifically designed for fabric, making it the best choice for clean and precise cuts. The blade glides smoothly through the felt, avoiding snags or uneven edges. Before you start, make sure the rotary blade is installed correctly. A sharp blade ensures your cuts are crisp and professional-looking.

When placing the felt on the mat, use the FabricGrip mat for the best results. Press the felt down firmly with a brayer to keep it flat and secure. This step prevents the material from shifting during the cutting process. Once everything is set, you’re ready to move on to the next step.

Selecting the correct material setting in Design Space

In Cricut Design Space, selecting the right material setting is crucial. For Cricut brand felt or stiffened felt, choose the “Felt” option from the material list. If you’re working with non-stiffened felt, you might need to increase the pressure slightly. This adjustment ensures the blade cuts through the fibers cleanly.

Always perform a test cut before starting your project. A small test helps you confirm that the settings are correct and prevents wasted materials. Once you’re satisfied with the test, proceed with your design. The Cricut Maker, paired with the rotary blade, makes cutting felt a breeze.

Cutting Felt with the Cricut Explore

Using the deep-point blade for thicker felt

The Cricut Explore can handle felt effectively with the right blade. The deep-point blade is your best option for cutting thicker or stiffer felt. This blade has a steeper angle, allowing it to cut through dense materials with ease. Before starting, ensure the blade is sharp and properly installed.

Place the felt on a StrongGrip mat for added stability. Use painter’s tape to secure the edges if needed. This extra step keeps the felt in place and prevents any movement during cutting. With the deep-point blade and a stable mat, you’ll achieve clean and accurate cuts.

Adjusting pressure and blade depth settings

In Design Space, select the material type that matches your felt. For thicker felt, you may need to adjust the pressure and blade depth settings. Increasing the pressure slightly helps the blade cut through the material completely. If the default settings don’t work, try customizing them for better results.

Test cuts are essential when using the Cricut Explore. They help you fine-tune the settings and avoid mistakes. Once you find the perfect combination of pressure and blade depth, cutting felt becomes a smooth and straightforward process.

Cutting Felt with the Cricut Joy

Tips for working with smaller mats and designs

The Cricut Joy is compact but still capable of cutting felt for smaller projects. Its smaller mats require a bit of extra care when setting up your materials. Use lightweight felt for the best results, as the Joy isn’t designed for thicker or stiffer materials.

When placing the felt on the mat, make sure it’s aligned properly. A brayer can help press the felt down evenly. If the mat isn’t sticky enough, use painter’s tape to secure the edges. These steps ensure your felt stays in place during cutting.

Best practices for cutting lightweight felt

Lightweight felt works best with the Cricut Joy. In Design Space, select the “Felt” material setting and adjust the pressure if needed. Since the Joy uses a fine-point blade, it’s important to keep the blade sharp and clean. A dull blade can cause frayed edges or incomplete cuts.

For intricate designs, slow down the cutting speed if possible. This gives the blade more time to navigate small details. After cutting, peel the felt off the mat carefully to avoid stretching or tearing. With these tips, the Cricut Joy can handle lightweight felt projects with ease.

Removing the Felt from the Mat

Gently peeling the felt to avoid stretching or tearing

Once your Cricut machine finishes cutting, it’s time to remove the felt from the mat. This step requires care to keep your designs intact and avoid damaging the material. Start by flipping the mat upside down on a clean surface. Instead of pulling the felt off the mat, gently bend the mat away from the felt. This technique helps release the material without stretching or tearing it.

For intricate designs or small pieces, use a weeding tool or tweezers to lift the felt carefully. Work slowly and focus on one section at a time. If the felt sticks too much, try rolling the mat slightly while holding the felt in place. This method reduces the risk of fraying or distorting your design.

Pro Tip: If you notice any loose fibers or edges, trim them with small scissors for a polished finish. This extra step makes your project look professional.

Cleaning the mat after use

After removing the felt, you’ll likely see some leftover fibers or debris on your Cricut mat. Cleaning the mat is essential to maintain its stickiness and ensure it’s ready for your next project. Use a lint roller to pick up loose fibers quickly. Roll it across the mat in straight lines, applying light pressure.

For stubborn debris, a scraper tool works wonders. Gently scrape the surface of the mat to remove any stuck-on fibers or adhesive residue. Avoid pressing too hard, as this could damage the mat’s surface. If the mat has lost some of its stickiness, wash it with warm water and mild soap. Let it air dry completely before using it again.

Quick Tip: Regular mat maintenance extends its lifespan and improves cutting accuracy. Make cleaning your mat a habit after every project.

By peeling the felt carefully and keeping your mat clean, you’ll ensure smooth and hassle-free crafting sessions. These simple steps protect your materials and equipment, setting you up for success with every project.

Tips for Clean Cuts and Troubleshooting

Cutting felt with a Cricut machine can sometimes present challenges, but with the right care and adjustments, you can achieve flawless results. This section will guide you through maintaining your tools, caring for your mat, and solving common issues.

Blade Maintenance

Cleaning and sharpening the blade

A clean and sharp blade is essential for precise cuts. Over time, felt fibers can build up on the blade, affecting its performance. To clean it, remove the blade from your Cricut machine and gently wipe it with a lint-free cloth. For stubborn residue, use a small amount of rubbing alcohol on the cloth.

If your blade feels dull, consider sharpening it. While Cricut blades aren’t designed to be sharpened traditionally, you can extend their life by cutting through aluminum foil several times. This trick helps remove tiny burrs and restores some sharpness.

Pro Tip: Regularly inspect your blade for wear. A clean blade not only improves cuts but also reduces frustration during crafting.

Replacing a dull blade

When cleaning or sharpening no longer improves your blade’s performance, it’s time for a replacement. A dull blade struggles to cut through felt, leaving frayed edges or incomplete cuts. Always keep spare blades on hand to avoid interruptions during your projects.

To replace the blade, follow your Cricut machine’s instructions. Ensure the new blade is securely installed before starting your next project. A fresh blade makes a noticeable difference in the quality of your cuts.

Mat Care

Cleaning the mat to maintain stickiness

Felt tends to leave behind fibers and adhesive residue on your mat. A clean mat ensures better adhesion and smoother cuts. Use a lint roller to pick up loose fibers after each use. For stubborn debris, gently scrape the mat with a Cricut scraper tool.

If adhesive residue builds up, wash the mat with warm water and mild soap. Use a soft sponge to clean the surface without damaging it. Let the mat air dry completely before using it again.

One crafter shared that using contact paper on the mat can help reduce felt residue. While this isn’t always necessary, it’s worth trying if you frequently work with felt.

Reapplying adhesive to a worn mat

Over time, your mat may lose its stickiness. Instead of replacing it, you can reapply adhesive to extend its life. Use a repositionable spray adhesive designed for crafting. Apply a thin, even layer to the mat’s surface and let it dry completely before placing your felt.

Quick Tip: Avoid applying adhesive to areas outside the cutting zone. This keeps your mat clean and prevents unnecessary mess.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Adjusting settings if the felt doesn’t cut through

If your Cricut machine struggles to cut through felt, check your settings. In Design Space, ensure you’ve selected the correct material type. For thicker felt, increase the pressure slightly or choose a custom setting. Always perform a test cut to confirm the adjustments work.

If the issue persists, inspect your blade and mat. A dull blade or a mat with poor adhesion can cause incomplete cuts. Address these problems before continuing your project.

Fixing frayed or uneven edges

Frayed or uneven edges can ruin the look of your design. To fix this, ensure your blade is sharp and your mat is clean. Use a brayer to press the felt firmly onto the mat, reducing movement during cutting.

For intricate designs, slow down the cutting speed if your machine allows it. This gives the blade more time to navigate tight corners and small details. After cutting, trim any frayed edges with sharp scissors for a polished finish.

One user recommended using a spatula tool to carefully lift felt from the mat. This prevents stretching or tearing, which can contribute to uneven edges.

Tips for intricate designs and small details

Cutting intricate designs requires extra care. Use stiffened felt or apply a stabilizer to non-stiffened felt for better results. These materials hold their shape better, making it easier for the blade to cut cleanly.

For small details, ensure your blade is sharp and your mat is sticky. Secure the felt with painter’s tape if needed. Perform a test cut to fine-tune your settings before starting the full design.

Pro Tip: When working with tiny pieces, peel the mat away from the felt instead of pulling the felt off the mat. This technique helps preserve delicate details.

By maintaining your tools, caring for your mat, and addressing common issues, you’ll enjoy smoother crafting sessions. These tips ensure your Cricut machine delivers clean, professional cuts every time.

Cutting felt with a Cricut machine becomes a rewarding experience when you use the right tools and follow a clear process. By experimenting with different types of felt and adjusting your settings, you’ll discover what works best for your projects. Whether you’re using a rotary blade for smooth cuts or a deep-point blade for thicker felt, each tool offers unique advantages. With these tips, you can confidently create clean, professional-looking designs. Dive into your next project with ease, knowing you’ve got the knowledge to make it a success!

FAQ

Can all Cricut machines cut felt?

Not all Cricut machines handle felt equally well. The Cricut Maker is the best option for cutting felt because of its rotary blade, which glides through fabric effortlessly.

What type of felt works best with a Cricut machine?

Cricut brand felt is a great choice, especially for beginners. It’s thinner and designed to work seamlessly with Cricut machines. Stiffened felt also cuts well because of its firm texture. Non-stiffened felt can work too, but you’ll need to use a stabilizer or freezer paper to make it easier to cut.

Do I need a special mat for cutting felt?

Yes, the right mat makes a big difference. The FabricGrip mat is ideal for most types of felt because it holds the material securely without damaging it. For thicker or stiffer felt, the StrongGrip mat provides extra stability. Always ensure your mat is clean and sticky enough for proper adhesion.

How do I keep felt from moving on the mat?

To prevent felt from shifting, press it firmly onto the mat using a brayer or scraper tool. If the mat isn’t sticky enough, secure the edges of the felt with painter’s tape or masking tape. This keeps the material in place during cutting and ensures clean, precise results.

What blade should I use to cut felt?

The blade you need depends on your Cricut machine. Use the rotary blade with the Cricut Maker for smooth and accurate cuts. For the Cricut Explore, the deep-point blade works best for thicker felt. The Cricut Joy uses a fine-point blade, which is suitable for lightweight felt.

Why is my felt fraying or tearing during cutting?

Fraying or tearing often happens when the blade is dull or the felt isn’t properly secured. Check that your blade is sharp and clean. Use a brayer to press the felt firmly onto the mat. If you’re cutting non-stiffened felt, apply a stabilizer or freezer paper to the back for added structure.

Can I reuse my Cricut mat after cutting felt?

Yes, you can reuse your mat, but it’s important to clean it after each project. Felt fibers tend to shed, so use a lint roller or scraper tool to remove debris. If the mat loses its stickiness, wash it with warm water and mild soap, then let it air dry completely.

How do I remove felt from the mat without damaging it?

Flip the mat upside down and gently bend it away from the felt. This technique helps release the material without stretching or tearing it. For intricate designs, use a weeding tool or tweezers to lift small pieces carefully. Work slowly to avoid damaging your project.

What should I do if my Cricut doesn’t cut through the felt?

If your Cricut doesn’t cut through the felt, check your settings in Design Space. Make sure you’ve selected the correct material type. For thicker felt, increase the pressure slightly or adjust the blade depth. Perform a test cut to confirm the settings before continuing.

Can I cut intricate designs with felt?

Yes, you can cut intricate designs with felt, but preparation is key. Use stiffened felt or apply a stabilizer to non-stiffened felt for better results. Ensure your blade is sharp and your mat is sticky. For small details, slow down the cutting speed if possible and peel the mat away from the felt to preserve delicate pieces.