Cutting machines
Consider the maximum cut width, whether it needs a mat, which materials it's designed to cut, and whether its software works on your device. Some features may need a paid subscription, so check before buying.
Shop nowCraft guide
Cricut, cutting machines & vinyl
Personalised mugs, name labels for school uniform, wedding signage, intricate card toppers: a digital cutting machine opens up a whole new side of crafting.
A digital cutting machine is like a printer that cuts instead of prints. You design (or download) a shape on a computer, tablet or phone, and the machine cuts it from vinyl, card, iron-on transfer and, on some models, fabric, felt, leather or thin wood.
The best-known brands in the UK are Cricut, Silhouette and Brother ScanNCut. Each uses its own software and has different cutting widths and supported materials, so it's worth comparing the official specifications for the projects you have in mind.
Supplies to look for
Adhesive vinyl
Permanent vinyl is for things that get washed or live outdoors (mugs, bins, car stickers); removable vinyl is for walls, windows and temporary decorations.
Shop nowHeat transfer vinyl (HTV)
Also called iron-on. Applied to fabric with an iron or heat press. Remember to mirror your design before cutting.
Shop nowCutting mats
Mats come in different tack levels: light grip for paper, standard for vinyl and card, strong grip for thicker materials. Check which size and type fits your machine.
Shop nowWeeding tools
Hooks, tweezers and a scraper for removing the excess vinyl around your design. A light pad makes fine lettering much easier to weed.
Shop nowHeat presses
A small heat press gives more even heat and pressure than a household iron, which helps HTV stick properly and survive washing.
Shop nowBuying tips
- Buy transfer tape to match your vinyl: standard tape for most vinyl, and a stronger grip for glitter or textured finishes.
- Do a small test cut on every new material to check the settings.
- Clean mats gently and keep the plastic cover on when you're not using them, to make the tack last.
- Check the fabric's care label before applying HTV, and follow the vinyl maker's temperature and time guidance.
- Fonts and images are licensed: if you plan to sell what you make, check the licence allows commercial use.
Good to know in the UK
Plugs and power: buy machines and heat presses intended for the UK market with a UK plug and UK/EU safety marking rather than an import with an adapter. Many UK sellers also offer vinyl in rolls sized for popular machines, so check the width before you buy.
Personalised items are popular for school leavers, hen and stag dos and Christmas, so vinyl and blanks can sell out around those dates.
Explore more crafts
Paper & Cardmaking
Knitting & Crochet
Sewing & Quilting
Painting & Drawing
Jewellery Making
Scrapbooking
Kids' Crafts
Candle & Soap Making
Resin Crafts
Embroidery & Cross-Stitch
Seasonal Crafts
Craft Storage
Just starting out? Read the beginners' guide or pick a weekend project.