Cricut Mystery Boxes

There are currently FIVE Mystery Boxes available at Cricut. Three are from this month (Thanksgiving box, regular November box and the Holiday box) plus two Cuttlebug Mystery boxes that were released in March 2018. There were several other boxes but they are now sold out. So be quick!  The two Cuttlebug boxes are $10 cheaper than they were when first released.

(This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links.)

Use code NARELLE on purchases over $50 to save 10% and receive free US/Canada shipping.

Here's the contents and links for each box:

Thanksgiving Mystery Box - $39.99

Glitter Gel Pen Set, Brights (5 ct.)
Deluxe Paper, Marvel® Avengers Assemble
Disney® Deluxe Paper, Vintage Mickey
Disney® Deluxe Paper, Princess Magic
Premium Vinyl - Permanent, Black
Premium Vinyl - Permanent, Maize
Premium Vinyl - Permanent, Red
Premium Vinyl™ Sampler, Brights – Permanent
Premium Vinyl™ , Turquoise – Removable
Premium Vinyl™ Sampler, Basics – Permanent
Holographic Sparkle Vinyl, Red


Holiday Mystery Box - $29.99

Gel Pen Set, Dark Petals (5 ct.)
Fine Point Pen Set, Wisteria (5 ct.)
Glitter Tape Sampler Pack
Essential Vinyl Tool Set
Fabric Shears, 8″
TrueControl Knife
Rotary Cutter, 45 mm


November Mystery Box - $29.99 - Available in the US only

Pen Set
Party Foil (four rolls)
Holographic Iron-On
Holographic Vinyl (two rolls)
Permanent Outdoor Vinyl
Glitter vinyl
Faux leather

Colors will vary depending on what is in stock at the time of purchase.

March 2018 Cuttlebug Mystery Box #1 - $29.99 ($99.67 value)

Designer Fabric Sampler
Anna Griffin All Heart Cut & Emboss Dies
Anna Griffin Paper Tricks Embossing Folders


March 2018 Cuttlebug Mystery Box #2 - $29.99 ($125.87)

Anna Griffin Mix and Match Framed Sentiments
Anna Griffin Paper Tricks 2 Embossing Folders


Mystery Boxes are avaible in the US and Canada only. Because of Marvel and Disney licencing restrictions the Thanksgiving box is only available in the US.

Contents may vary depending on what is in stock at the time of purchase.


Hope you grab a bargain.

Happy crafting!  ♥

Cricut - Using Iron on Vinyl on Cardstock

This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links.

Have you ever used iron on vinyl (also known as heat transfer vinyl or HTV) on cardstock?

If you haven't, you should give it a try. It's so much easier when you're working with lots of small pieces/letters that you want to keep positioned exactly as they are cut.

For example... this Merry Christmas image was cut with cardstock. It was really tricky trying to line up each line of text and even when I was finished I wasn't happy with how it looked. Because the image was quite small it was also quite flimsy which made it even harder to line everything up.

I have in the past used painters tape or drywall tape to try and transfer my cardstock from the cutting mat to my project, but that hasn't been terribly successful.

That's why using iron on vinyl on cardstock is so much easier. Once you weed your vinyl the clear transfer sheet keeps everything in place. All you need to do is iron on each colour individually.

The heat settings for Cricut regular vinyl on cardstock when using the Cricut EasyPress is 140°C/280°F for 30 seconds.

For Cricut glitter vinyl it's 145°C/290°F for 30 seconds.

When ironing on multiple colours I generally heat press the first colour for 20 seconds, carefully remove the clear coversheet (some bits might not be totally adhered so go slowly), then place the next colour and press again. When I get to my last colour I press for the full 30 seconds.

This week I took it a step further and used HTV on cardstock that I had embossed. I thought I'd show you the results of my testing. :)

I wanted to see which worked better... embossing then ironing on the vinyl, or doing the iron on first, then embossing.

The two photos below show you the results when using regular Cricut Iron on.

Both work fine, but if you don't want to see the imprint of the embossing on your vinyl then you should emboss first, then add your iron on. (You can see in the first photo that there was one small area when you could ever so slightly see the embossing). 

The next thing I wanted to test was using Glitter heat transfer vinyl.

I used the same Christmas Tree image as in my first photo. Here are the results:

The image on the left was embossed first then ironed on. The image on the right was ironed on first then embossed.

On an image this small you can't really see much differenence. However, like the blue sample above, the embossing has been pressed into the vinyl if you emboss last.

For that reason, I prefer embossing first then applying the iron on vinyl.

As a side note, heat pressing the embossed cardstock didn't appear to flatten the embossing at all. But when applying the iron on first I noticed that in the areas around the image it didn't emboss as deeply.

Which is another reason to emboss first. 😊


I hope this has encouraged you to try using heat transfer vinyl on cardstock.

Let me know if you have any questions.

Happy crafting!  ♥

Free Double Pleated card cut file

It's Day 6 of our Let's Get Festive 2018 event over at Cricut Explore, Maker and More Facebook group.

Today's project is a Double Pleated Card. Also known as a Double Pleated Curtain card.

Here are my two sample cards.

  

Here's my assembly video for the card on the left.

You can get the free Design Space cut file for this project in my Facebook group.

Happy crafting!  ♥

3 Tier slider card

We've started a new challenge and giveaway over at Cricut Explore, Maker and More Facebook group.

Each weekday from 5th - 30th November we'll be posting a new project for you to make.

Enter your version of each days project to be entered into the giveaway.  You have until December 15 to complete and submit your versions of the projects into the challenge album.

Here is our first project.

Head over to the group to get the free Design Space cutting file.

Here's the assembly video.

Happy crafting!  ♥

Cricut writing fonts

Did you know that there are 220 writing style fonts in Cricut Design Space?  And that 147 of them are included in Cricut Access?

I know this because I've just finished compiling previews of them all into a PDF which I have posted in my Facebook group Cricut Explore, Maker and More.

Head over there to download it. (Click the link above.) You'll find it in our Files section.  It's totally free!

I'm also putting the finishing touches to my "Complete guide to Cricut Fonts" book.  It now includes previews of every Cricut font (that I know of) as well an expanded section on how to use fonts in Design Space. (Cricut and System.)

I'll post when it's ready. The current version is available in the sidebar of this blog. It's only current up to last year though.

Happy crafting!  ♥

Cricut EasyPress carrying case

If you have the 9" x 9" Cricut EasyPress and have been looking for a carry case, the following two items from Amazon might interest you. 

Be sure to ask if it fits the new EasyPress 2 9x9 before you purchase.

Happy crafting!  ♥

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Cricut EasyPress 2 9x9” on sale

This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links.

If you’re quick you can get the 9’ x 9” Cricut EasyPress 2 while it’s on sale for $145.87 at Amazon.


This price won’t last long so be quick if you’re after this model. Current price at Cricut.com is $189.99.  Let me know if you have any questions. 😀

Happy crafting!  ♥

Heat Transfer Vinyl project

This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links.

Here's a recent project that uses heat transfer vinyl on an unusual surface.

This is a faux leather notebook holder that I purchased for about $10 at KMart Australia.

The quote came from The September bundle from Craftbundles.com.  (There's only three days left to get that bundle so check it out if you want this image.)

The arrows were also part of the bundle, but I think I liked it better without them!

I used Cricut Glitter HTV in White and Chestnut and Cricut Holographic HTV in Gold.

I used the Cricut Iron-on Protective sheet to make sure the faux leather didn't melt.

It was a super easy project and just one way of using Heat Transfer Vinyl on a surface other than fabric.

Let me know if you have any questions. 

Happy crafting!  ♥

How to change the Cricut Maker Knife blade

This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links.

I recorded a quick video today showing how to replace the blade in the Cricut Maker Knife Blade housing.  Hope you find it useful. 

You can purchase the Knife blade replacement kit here:

#ad  http://shrsl.com/1798z (Cricut online store)



Heavy Chipboard - http://shrsl.com/1799h (Use code NARELLE on this item to get 10% off and receive free economy shipping in US/CA.



Free cutting file for my Tool Caddy can be found in my Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/cricutexploreandmore

Happy crafting!  ♥

Cricut Maker Tool Caddy - free file!

Today I released the Design Space cutting file for my "no glue" Cricut Maker Tool caddy.

This file is free and currently only available in my Cricut Explore, Maker and More Facebook group.

Head on over and grab it!  If you're not a member yet, you'll need to answer our three entry questions.  Be sure to tell us at question 3 that you saw this post! ♥

Happy crafting!  ♥

CRICUT: The EasyPress 2 is here!

This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links.

They're finally here... The EasyPress™ 2 Machines are now available. You can see them all here:

Cricut EasyPress 2™

There are three EasyPress 2™ models available - 6" x 7"; 9" x 9" (the same size as the original EasyPress™) and 12" x 10".

What's new with the EasyPress 2™?

EasyPress 2™	Original EasyPress™
Adjustable heat up to: 400℉ (205 C)	Adjustable heat up to: 350℉ (180 C)
Colour: Raspberry	Colour: Sky
Available in three sizes  6" x 7" - ideal for small items like baby  clothes.  9" x 9" - ideal for T-shirts and other regular  size  clothing as well as pillows, bags, aprons  and more.  12" x 10" - ideal for larger T-shirts, sweatshirts,  banners, blankets, and more	Available in one size -  9" x 9"
EasyPress™ 2 heats more quickly - up to 25%   faster
When you power on the EasyPress™2 it   remembers the last temperature that you set and   will automatically heat to that temperature.
Each EasyPress™ 2 comes in a carry bag to suit   its size.

Heating times to heat to 315℉ are as follows:

6" x 7" - Just under 1 minute
9" x 9" - Just under 2 minutes
12" x 10" - Just under 3 minutes

Each size has a matching EasyPress™ Mat. However, you can use a smaller EasyPress™ on a larger mat.

You'll find the EasyPress™ Mats here: EasyPress Mats



To match the new EasyPress 2 - Cricut have just released the Cricut Explore Air 2™ in Raspberry!

The Raspberry Air™ 2 is $299.99.  Or you can purchase it in one of two bundles.

The Cricut Explore Air™ 2 + Essentials Bundle - $418.93. It contains:

Deep-Point Blade + Housing

Machine mat Variety Pack, 12" x 12"

Scoring Stylus

Basic Tool Set

Pen Set, Candy Shop

Window Cling, Black

*Items may be replaced with those of equal value based on availability

And the Cricut Explore Air™ 2 + Everything Bundle - $595.77. It contains:

Deep-Point Blade + Housing	Machine Mat Variety Pack, 12" x 12"
Scoring Stylus	Basic Tool Set
Portable Trimmer	Pen Set, Metallic
Multi Pen Set, Gold	Vellum Sampler, Metallic
Printable Iron-On, Light	Printable Iron-On, Dark
Window Cling, Black	Window Cling, White
Printable Sticker Paper	Faux Leather, Wood Grain
Poster Board, Metallic	Premium Outdoor Vinyl, Light Blue
Vinyl, Dry Erase	Vinyl Sampler, Home
Vinyl Transfer Tape	2 Premium Fine-Point Replacement Blades

*Items may be replaced with those of equal value based on availability.

Current Promo codes available:

Use code NARELLE at checkout to save 10% on supplies and materials and get free shipping in the USA and Canada. *Does not work on Explores, Makers, EasyPress, Bright Pad, bulk items or Cricut Access subscriptions.

Use code FREESHIP9 to get free USA/Canada shipping on orders over $99.

Happy crafting!  ♥

CRICUT Grab bags

This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links.

Cricut have just released three Clearance Grab Bags. They are available only until stocks run out. Quantities are very limited!  Click the links below to purchase.

You'll find a list of the contents after clicking on the links below. 

Grab Bag #1 - Iron-on - $34.99 (MSRP $83.91) - Buy here

Grab Bag #2 - Cuttlebug - $34.99 (MSRP $71.93) - Buy here

Grab Bag #3 - Vinyl - $34.99 (MSRP $78.93) - Buy here 

Be sure to use my Cricut discount code NARELLE to get a further 10% off and get free US/CAN shipping.  If you have a Standard or Premium Cricut Access subscription you will save a further 10%.


Other Cricut sale info for this week:

Cutting Materials Sale! Snag 30% off with code CUTTING30. Valid 9/12-9/18.

Accessories Sale! 30% off with code ACCESSORY30. Valid 9/12-9/18.

$15 off Cricut EasyPress™ BUNDLES with code EASY15. Valid 9/12-9/18.

FREE Economy Shipping on orders $99+ to US and Canada. Use code FREESHIP9.

Happy crafting!  ♥

CRICUT: Marvel Digital Mystery Box

Cricut have just released a Marvel Digital Mystery Box containing three exclusive image sets. 

This Mystery Box is $24.99 with a value of $89.97 (if purchased separately).

You can purchase your copy by using the following link:

Click here to purchase the Marvel Digital Mystery Box

If you are a Premium Access subscriber you will receive 10% off your purchase of this box. No other discounts will apply. 

Because of Licensing restrictions this Digital Mystery Box is only available in the USA. 

The card below uses one of the images from the Marvel - Spiderman set. The background was created by embossing some white cardstock with the Cricut "Old Paris" embossing folder. You can purchase that folder here: Old Paris Embossing Folder

After embossing I left the cardstock in the embossing folder and applied Tim Holtz Distress Embossing Ink using a brayer. I then sprinkled Nuvo Shimmering Pearl Glitter Embossing Powder over it and heat set it.  

I popped his head up using two layers of Stampin' Up Stampin' Dimensionals and used another layer of Dimensions under the entire Spiderman image. In real life he really pops off the card. 

Here’s the Inside of my card. I used the Cricut writing font “Agent Q” for my sentiment.

I used the red pen from the Glitter Gel Pen Set, Brights. 

 I used the black from the Glitter Pen Set, Basics for the drawing on the Spiderman image.

Here are the images that you'll find in the Mystery Box. 

Marvel - Avengers Assemble - Part 2

Marvel - Spiderman

Marvel - Spiderman Kawaii

Happy crafting!  ♥

One dollar design deals starting in 4 hours

Fontbundles-dot-net are kicking off another “one dollar deals” event in just over four hours.  

The $1 Design Event will include 21 SVG/Craft File Bundles. There are limited quantities of each bundle available so make sure you visit the site now and take a look at the bundles that are going to be available.  Here’s the link to the $1 deal event page: 

https://designbundles.net/one-dollar-deals/rel=SFjNLc

The event starts at 11am CDT and the deals don’t last long. 

Hope you grab a bargain. 🙂

Cricut Sale, Halloween month, giveaway and more

Here’s this weeks deals from the Cricut shop

Use discount code NARELLE at checkout to save a further 10% and get free US/CA shipping.

Cricut Access (10%) and Circle (10%) discounts also apply. 

Cricut machine cutting mats are 30% off

Blades are 30% off (some exceptions)

The Cricut Maker Everything Bundle is $130 off

The BrightPad +Vinyl Essential bundle is $99.99 

On the last two items use code FREESHIP9 to get free US/CA shipping as the NARELLE discount code does not work on those items.

Halloween month

Starting Monday 3rd September over at my Cricut Explore, Maker and More Facebook group, we are featuring Halloween projects by our super talented Design Team. 

You don't want to miss out on what the Design Team has in store for you!

Giveaway

We have an "Amazing Fables" giveaway currently underway in the group.  Enter for your chance to win a book of your choice that is personalised with your child's name throughout the story.

Enter here:  https://tinyurl.com/ycoogy2s
(Must be a member of Cricut Explore, Maker and More to enter.)

Current Font/Image Freebies

The clock is ticking on some of these freebies so grab them now!

Monogram freebie from The Hungry JPEG
Expires in 24 hours

Pastelyn Font freebie from The Hungry JPEG

Lots of freebies available at Craftbundles.com including this Halloween image

This Tooth Fairy set is free this week at Creative Fabrica

Newest free font from Fontbundles.net

Free Halloween design from DesignBundles.net

This weeks Cricut Design Space free image set is the Locker Talk cartridge.
To find them in Design Space click on Images, Categories, Free this week.
Images are free to cut with for one week.

Most recent freebie from Dreaming Tree

Happy crafting!  ♥