What is a Cricut machine?
A Cricut cutting machine is an innovative electronic tool designed to cut a wide range of materials, including leather. It works by connecting to a computer or smartphone, allowing you to download cutting templates or create your own designs. Thanks to its precision and ease of use, the Cricut is ideal for creative projects of all kinds.
It is ideal for projects with complex cuts. Leather is not always easy to cut, especially on curves or small shapes. The Cricut offers a clean and ultra-precise cut that can guarantee the success of all leather projects.
What type of leather can be cut with the Cricut?
Before starting a project, it is advisable to test on leather scraps to check the result. The Cricut machine can cut leather up to 2.5 mm thick. Cutting on semi-soft, semi-firm, and very firm leathers works very well. It is recommended to test very soft or thin leathers, which may tear during the cutting process.
Cutting leather with a Cricut machine:
Step 1: Open the Cricut "Design Space" software
Launch the Cricut Design Space software on a computer or mobile device. Then create a new project.
Step 2: Import a cutting design
Download or create a design in the software. Downloaded files must be in .svg format.
It is possible to convert PDF files to SVG using free online converters.
Step 3: Secure the leather to the cutting mat
Use a strong grip cutting mat to hold the leather firmly during cutting. Add masking tape strips to ensure the stability of the leather during the cutting process.
Two choices:
- Place the grain side of the leather directly on the adhesive part. Be careful, on some leathers, the grain side may be damaged if the mat's adhesion is too strong.
- Place the flesh side of the leather (fuzzy side) on the adhesive part of the mat. Be careful, lint can soil the mat.
Two tips to avoid soiling your mat: apply tokonole to the back of the leather (this will wax it) or clean the mat with hot water and soap (this does not affect adhesion).
Step 4: Define the cutting area on Cricut Design Space
Depending on the size of the mat and the dimensions of the leather, place the project(s) to be cut on the Cricut Design Space software.
Step 5: Install the knife blade
The knife blade is specially designed for cutting thick materials like leather, and can cut up to 2.5 mm thick. Install the blade correctly in the machine.
With use, the blade will become less sharp; replacement blades are available for sale on our website. Please note: the blade cannot be sharpened.
Step 6: Start the cutting process
Adjust the cutting parameters according to the thickness and type of leather chosen and start cutting (see the video at the top of the article). Keep in mind that the more complex the design, the longer the cutting may take.
Step 7: Remove the leather from the mat
Once cutting is complete, carefully remove the leather from the mat.
We also invite you to watch Jane Émilie's video:
Tips for successful cutting:
- Ensure the cutting blade is clean and sharp.
- Always test the cut on a scrap piece before starting the final project.
- Choose simple and well-defined designs for the best results.
- Regularly clean the Cricut machine to prevent any malfunctions when cutting leather.
With these tips and simple steps, you will be able to cut leather with a Cricut machine like a professional. Explore your creativity and create unique and personalized projects using this cutting-edge technology.
Marking and embossing leather with the Cricut Maker
The Cricut machine not only allows cutting, but it can also emboss and transfer a design onto vegetable-tanned leather.
Watch the video ⬇️🎥
Applying foil to leather
We don't have enough feedback on the use of Cricut foil on leather, particularly regarding its long-term durability. We invite you to check out Jane Emilie's blog post where she conducted tests:
Some of our SVG patterns for the Cricut Maker:
KEY CASESearching for a small key in a large purse is like looking for a needle in a haystack... With this key organizer, you won't lose them anymore! |
HEART BOOKMARKPrepare a small token of affection for your partner or a loved one: a leather heart-shaped bookmark. |
 |
 |
| SEE THE TUTORIAL > |
LEATHER BROOCHESMake small floral-themed leather brooches. Perfect for adding a touch of originality to your outfits or bags. |
LEATHER FLOWER BOUQUETHow about having flowers that never fade? Unlike a traditional flower that will quickly wilt, a leather flower is made to last.
|
 |
 |
| SEE THE TUTORIAL > |
BOOBS KEYCHAINMake this leather keychain, practical for slipping in your house or car keys, this trendy accessory will accompany you everywhere! |
COIN PURSE CARD HOLDERA leather card holder, coin purse that is easy to make and personalize! It will accompany you daily, versatile and easy to carry! A gift idea that is always appreciated: Christmas, Father's Day, birthday... |
 |
 |
| SEE THE TUTORIAL > | SEE THE TUTORIAL > |
HEART COIN PURSEMake a small heart-shaped leather coin purse. Practical for slipping in some coins, it will follow you everywhere! Offer it to your loved one for Valentine's Day or another occasion ❤ |
SUNGLASSES CASENever know where to put your sunglasses? Tired of them falling off every time you put them on your head? Make a leather case: your glasses will be well protected and always within reach! The essential for summer! |
 |
 |
| SEE THE TUTORIAL > | SEE THE TUTORIAL > |
To learn more about Cricut:
We have a collection of books by Anne-Sophie Gouverneur. She is a Cricut expert and also the creator of the reference blog in this universe: "Je Crée, Je Cut".
Alternatives to Cricut
We have a wide selection of punch tools, ideal for cutting different shapes into leather. Die-cutting machines are also available for faster work.
