Do You Have to Use Special Paper for Cricut?

When it comes to crafting with your Cricut machine, the paper you use can make all the difference. Using the wrong type of paper can lead to color fading, tearing, and even damage to your Cricut machine. So when it comes to choosing a paper for your Cricut project, is special paper required?

The short answer is no. While there are certain papers that are ideal for use with a Cricut machine, you don’t have to use special paper in order to produce great results. However, there are a few things that you should keep in mind when selecting paper for your Cricut project.

Thickness and Weight

When selecting paper for your project, thickness and weight should be top of mind. Your Cricut machine can cut through thin and lightweight papers like cardstock and construction paper, but thicker or heavier papers may be too much for the blade to handle. If you’re using thicker or heavier papers like poster board or chipboard, it may be best to hand-cut those items instead.

Texture

The texture of your chosen paper also matters. Smooth surfaces work best with the Cricut blade because it is able to make more precise cuts without slipping or dragging. If you’re using textured papers like crepe or tissue paper, it may be best to hand-cut those items instead.

Ink Compatibility

If you plan on adding ink or paint onto your project then it’s important to choose a type of paper that is compatible with those materials. Cardstock tends to work well with most types of ink but other types of specialty papers like vellum may require additional steps in order for the ink or paint to adhere properly.

Conclusion: Do You Have To Use Special Paper For Cricut?

No special type of paper is required when crafting with a Cricut machine – however, thickness and weight should be taken into consideration as well as texture and ink compatibility when selecting a type of paper for your project. Keep these tips in mind and you’ll be sure to get great results every time!