Cricut News 2019 marked a pivotal year for the popular cutting machine brand, filled with exciting product launches, software updates, and community-driven innovations that shaped the future of DIY crafting. Throughout the year, Cricut continued to solidify its position as a leader in the home crafting technology space, introducing new machines, materials, and features that expanded what makers could achieve at home. This article rounds up the most significant Cricut news and developments from 2019 that every crafter and maker should know about.
Cricut Maker Gets Major Updates
One of the biggest pieces of Cricut news in 2019 was the continued evolution of the Cricut Maker, which had launched in late 2017 but truly came into its own throughout 2019. The tool library expanded significantly, with new rotary blades, knife blades, and additional adaptive tool compatibility. Design Space, Cricut's proprietary software, received multiple updates that improved user experience, including better image upload tools, enhanced text editing, and a more intuitive layout. These updates made the Maker more accessible to beginners while giving experienced crafters the advanced capabilities they demanded.
Cricut Explore Air 2 Remains a Bestseller
While the Maker grabbed headlines, the Cricut Explore Air 2 remained one of Cricut's top-selling machines in 2019. Its affordability, ease of use, and fast cutting speeds continued to attract hobbyists and small business owners alike. Throughout the year, new bundle deals—often including iron-on vinyl, cardstock, and tool sets—made the Air 2 an even more compelling entry point. Cricut also expanded its line of compatible materials, introducing new patterns and specialty vinyl options exclusive to the Explore ecosystem.
Introduction of New Materials and Accessories
2019 saw Cricut launch several new materials that expanded creative possibilities. The introduction of Infusible Ink marked perhaps the most groundbreaking material release of the year. Unlike traditional iron-on vinyl, Infusible Ink became one with the substrate, resulting in vibrant, professional-quality transfers that wouldn't peel, crack, or fade. This technology required specific blanks—Cricut developed a new line of Infusible Ink-compatible blanks, including T-shirts, tote bags, and coasters, creating an entirely new product category within the Cricut ecosystem.
Cricut EasyPress 2 Enhancements
The Cricut EasyPress line also saw growth in 2019. Building on the original model's success, Cricut introduced additional size options and color variants. The EasyPress 2, launched in late 2018, continued to dominate the heat press market with its user-friendly design. Throughout 2019, the Cricut Heat Guide became an essential resource, helping crafters determine the optimal time, temperature, and pressure for various projects. The compatibility with the EasyPress mat and the expanding range of heat-transfer vinyl options made these tools indispensable for anyone doing iron-on projects.
Software Improvements in Design Space
Design Space 3 was the focus of significant software news throughout 2019. The platform received updates that improved stability, speed, and functionality. A significant change was the shift toward a browser-based model, reducing reliance on desktop installations. Critics initially raised concerns about needing an internet connection, but Cricut addressed many issues through caching improvements and better offline functionality throughout the year. The addition of more font access through Cricut Access—the subscription service—also drew both praise and discussion in the community.
Cricut Access Subscription Growth
Cricut Access, the subscription service offering access to thousands of images, fonts, and ready-to-make projects, expanded significantly in 2019. More licensed content from major brands joined the platform, and the pricing tiers became more flexible. For many crafters, Cricut Access became an essential part of the Cricut experience, providing a constant stream of inspiration and resources. The subscription model proved lucrative for Cricut and helped build a loyal, engaged community of users who regularly discovered new projects and cutting files.
Community and Education Initiatives
2019 was also the year Cricut invested more heavily in community building and educational resources. YouTube partnerships with crafting influencers increased, and Cricut's own educational content expanded. The company hosted more live virtual events, tutorials, and design challenges. Social media communities on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest grew exponentially. The hashtag #CricutMaker and #CricutExplore trended regularly as users shared projects ranging from home décor and personalized gifts to custom apparel and small business products. This organic community growth played a pivotal role in sustaining momentum throughout the year.
Key Events and Collaborations
Several key events defined Cricut news in 2019. Cricut's presence at Crafts and Hobbies trade shows showcased new products and upcoming features. The company also continued collaborations with Disney, Marvel, Nike, and other major brands, bringing officially licensed cutting designs to the community. These partnerships were especially popular during holiday seasons and major product launches, driving significant engagement and sales. The year ended with one of the strongest holiday seasons yet, with Cricut machines appearing on numerous "best gifts for crafters" lists across major publications.
Looking back, 2019 proved to be a transformative year for the Cricut brand. From material innovations like Infusible Ink to software enhancements and a thriving maker community, the news reflected a company deeply invested in empowering creativity at every skill level. Whether you were a seasoned crafter or just beginning with your first cutting machine, Cricut news 2019 offered something to inspire, inform, and fuel your next project.
