Are you ready to know what can you do with Cricut Explore 3? This machine is a dream tool for crafters. It has more powerful features and can work with smart materials, such as smart vinyl and iron-on, smart paper sticker cardstock, etc. The Explore 3 now features enhanced capabilities, including faster cutting speeds. This machine can cut, write, score, engrave, and deboss. Cutting speed has increased, and it’s 2x faster than before. It can cut up to 12 inches without a machine mat. Dive in to explore all about this crafting machine and the endless possibilities for crafters of all levels.
Set up a Cricut Explore 3 on Your Computer
Before you learn what can you do with Cricut Explore 3, let’s see how we can set up the machine. Follow the below instructions:
- First, you need to connect your machine to a power outlet and switch on your machine.
- After that, connect the machine to your device via Bluetooth or cable.
- Now, go to the official Cricut website and download the Cricut Design Space app.
- Then, a New Machine Setup button will appear.

- Next, choose your machine from the list and then connect it to your computer.
Projects You Can Create With Cricut Explore 3
Here are a few projects that you can make with this crafting machine. Proceed to read:
Stickers

Creating stickers with Cricut is so easy. Open the Cricut Design Space software and upload or create a design. After that, load your machine with smart paper cardstock, and you can cut this material without a mat. When you’re done with the cutting, you just need to remove the paper from the back while you hold your sticker. Now, just peel off your sticker and use it for your diary, notebook, etc.
Leather Earrings

It is one of the simplest projects you can make with Explore 3. First, design your project on the Cricut Design Space app. Then, select the material (faux leather) as we use leather here. Next, mirror your image if you use some text; otherwise, there is no need. Afterward, load the mat for cutting, unload and remove the extra part, and iron the design onto your material with the Cricut heat press.
Banners

Making birthday banners is one of the most interesting projects one can do. First, design your banner according to your choice in the Cricut Design Space software, then choose the material – foil poster board. Click on this material on your app and cut it out with your machine. Once you have cut the design, join all the pieces, and your banner will be ready.
Note: The Explore 3 can cut smart materials, but it should be at least 6 inches long to use without a cutting mat.
What Can You Do With Cricut Explore 3: Easy Steps
Here are the steps which will help you to get started with your first project:
Step 1: Make a Design
Initially, create your design for the project. Open the Cricut Design Space app, which has many images, fonts, and ready-to-make projects that are available to help you with crafting. After that, select from the premade projects or create your own by clicking New Project.
Step 2: Select Your Cutting Materials
Now, choose the material from which you want to make the design. Now, put your material on the sticky mat. Next, click the Go button and load the mat into your crafting machine.
Step 3: Choose the Material in the Settings
Before the machine starts cutting, you will be asked to select the material you want to cut for your design. Also, choose the material in the Cricut Design Space app before you send the design to your machine.
Step 4: Cut the Material
Then, move to your machine and tap on the flashing button. The machine will begin the cutting process to bring your design to life.
Step 5: Unload the Design
Once the cutting is done, you must unload your mat from the machine. Lastly, you have to remove the extra part using the weeding tool. If you work on iron-on projects, you can place the design directly on your surface using the Cricut heat press machine.
Conclusion
Cricut Explore 3 is an amazing machine for every crafter. After reading this blog, you can create your first project with this machine. You can create many projects, such as keychains, custom shirts, wall decor stickers, bookmarks, and more. Crafting becomes fun when you know how to use your machine.
It becomes easy when you have prior knowledge about the tools and materials that you will need for your project. What can you do with Cricut Explore 3 is limitless, so explore today and start creating your beautiful project with this crafting companion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How is Cricut Explore 3 different from its previous model?
This crafting machine differs from its previous model in that it can work with smart materials without the mat. It can cut over 100 materials, such as cardstock, vinyl, paper, foil fabric, etc. It can also write, score, and emboss. Its strong features make it fast and easy to use.
What accessories come with Cricut Explore 3?
Apart from all the supplies that come with the machine, you can buy your own. Those materials help crafters create their projects, but what comes with it is enough to start making your projects.
● Cricut Explore 3
● Welcome card
● USB cable
● Power adapter
● Premium fine-point blade
● Materials for practice projects
● One hundred free pre-design projects in the Cricut Design Space app
What are some tips you can use to keep Cricut Explore 3 safe?
To keep your crafting machine safe, you can do these things:
- After making your projects, clean the machine to remove paper and any residue.
- Make sure you organize your tools and put the blade aside so it will not lose its sharpness.
- When you are done using it frequently, cover them with a sheet and put them into a box.