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 all kinds of creative projects.
It's ideal for projects with intricate cuts. Leather isn't always easy to cut, especially curves or small shapes. The Cricut offers a clean, ultra-precise cut that can guarantee the success of all your leather projects.
What type of leather can be cut with the Cricut?
Before starting a project, it's advisable to test on scraps of leather to check the results. The Cricut machine can cut leather up to 2.5 mm thick. Cutting medium-soft, medium-firm, and very firm leathers works very well. It's recommended to test on 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. Uploaded 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 high-adhesion cutting mat to hold the leather firmly in place during cutting. Add strips of masking tape to ensure the leather remains stable during the cutting process.
Two choices:
- Place the grain side of the leather directly onto the adhesive surface. Be careful, on some leathers, the grain side may be damaged if the mat adheres too strongly.
- Place the flesh side of the leather (the fuzzy side) onto the adhesive part of the mat. Be careful, the lint can soil the mat.
Two tips to avoid soiling your rug: apply Tokonole to the leather backing (this will wax it) or clean the rug with hot water and soap (this does not affect the grip).
Step 4: Define the cutting area on the Cricut Design Space
Depending on the size of the rug 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 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 the cutting process (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 rug
Once the cutting is complete, carefully remove the leather from the rug.
We also invite you to watch Jane Émilie's video:
Tips for successful cutting:
- Ensure that 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 to achieve the best results.
- Clean the Cricut machine regularly to avoid any malfunctions when cutting leather.
With these tips and simple steps, you'll be able to cut leather with a Cricut machine like a pro. Explore your creativity and create unique, personalized projects using this cutting-edge technology.
Leather marking and embossing with the Cricut Maker
The Cricut machine not only allows cutting, 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 using Cricut foil on leather, particularly regarding its durability. We encourage you to read Jane Emilie 's blog post where she conducted tests:
Some of our SVG patterns for the Cricut Maker:
KEY CASELooking for a small key in a large handbag is like looking for a needle in a haystack… With this key organizer, you'll never lose them again! |
HEART BOOKMARKPrepare a small gift for your partner or loved one: a heart-shaped leather bookmark. |
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| SEE THE TUTORIAL > |
LEATHER BROOCHESMake small leather brooches with a floral theme. Perfect for adding a touch of originality to your outfits or bags. |
LEATHER FLOWER BOUQUETHow would you like to have flowers that never fade? Unlike a traditional flower that will quickly wilt, a leather flower is made to last. |
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| SEE THE TUTORIAL > |
BOOBS KEYCHAINMake this leather key holder, practical for slipping in your house keys or car keys, this trendy accessory will accompany you everywhere! |
WALLET CARD HOLDEREasy-to-make and personalize leather card and wallet holder! It will be your everyday companion, versatile and easy to carry! A gift idea that's sure to please: Christmas, Father's Day, birthdays... |
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| SEE THE TUTORIAL > | SEE THE TUTORIAL > |
HEART-SHAPED WALLETMake a small heart-shaped leather coin purse. Perfect for holding a few coins, it will go everywhere with you! Give it to your sweetheart for Valentine's Day or any other occasion ❤ |
SUNGLASS CASENever know where to put your sunglasses? Tired of them falling out every time you put them on? Make a leather case: your glasses will be well protected and always within easy reach! A summer essential! |
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| SEE THE TUTORIAL > | SEE THE TUTORIAL > |
To learn more about the Cricut:
We have a collection of books by Anne-Sophie Gouverneur. She is a Cricut expert, and also the creator of the leading blog in this field: "Je Crée, Je Cut".
Alternatives to the Cricut
We have a wide selection of punches, ideal for cutting various shapes in leather. Cutting presses are also available for faster work.
