Things You Need to Know About Cricut Explore Air 2 Machine

Cricut Explore Air 2 was released in October 2016, and since then, it has become one of the most popular cutting machines. It shows no signs of fading despite being overtaken by new Cricut cutting plotters like the Cricut Maker and Cricut Joy. Continue reading our blog, and we promise you’ll find everything you need to know about the machine before buying that will hopefully help you make the best decision.

What Comes With the Machine?

Other than its products, Cricut is also popular for offering various other crafting materials along with its die-cutting machine to help craters get started on their very first project. When you open the box the first time, you may get overwhelmed. The same case is with Cricut Explore Air 2. In the first box, you will find the following standard items to create your first project:

1. Cricut Explore Air 2 machine
2. Instruction Guide
3. Premium Fine-Point Blade and blade Housing
4. USB cable and Power Adapter
5. LightGrip Mat
6. Black Point Pen 
7. Cardstock and vinyl samples (varies by model)

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With the purchase of a Cricut Explore Air 2, you also get access to the following:

1. Cricut Design Space software
2. Over 100 free images
3. Over 50 free projects
4. Free trial membership to Cricut Access

The fine point blade can cut over 100 materials with the Cricut Explore Air 2, and the lightGrip Mat is best suited for cutting paper. But you must use the Deep Cut Blade to cut thicker materials such as cardboard and thin wood. And you may want to use the Standard Grip mat to cut Vinyl or thick cardstock. Even though you get the blade, pen, and card stock samples, you should invest in Explore Air 2 Machine + Everything Bundle to get the most out of your machine. 

What About Cricut Explore Air 2 Model? 

Likewise, Cricut Explore Air 2 looks very similar to its predecessor but with slight improvement. The machine was originally available in three pastel colors: mint green, pale blue, and pale pink. Since then, Cricut has released plenty of different colors and special editions. Its Candy Apple Red version is super fun and looks great. The particular model is exclusively sold at Michaels and. The same model is available in black, sky blue, and golden colors. 

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Now take a closer look at the machine’s physical and technical aspects. Cricut Explore Air 2 is a little sleeker than its predecessor. The control panel is present on the outer right side of the cutter. The control panel features a power button, Load, Go, and Pause buttons, and Smart Set Dial. The smart Set dial is more integrated into the machine to make the machine sleeker. The machine boasts a Premium Fine-Point Blade made from German carbide steel. It is sharper and more durable than other cutting blades. It can cut over 100 different types of materials. 

The machine possesses all the essential features of its predecessor, such as Bluetooth connectivity, storage space for tools, auto-settings, and dual carriage. The accessory adapter holds all the Cricut pens. You can draw and write with these pens to create cards and scrapbooks. Explore Air 2 also boasts a double tool holder, and a real timer saver feature, so you can cut & score or cut & draw simultaneously. Its only drawback is that it is louder than Cricut Explore Air.

What are the Key Features of Explore Air 2?

The machine uses three blades: fine-point, deep-point, and bonded fabric. With the help of these blades, you can cut different types of materials, including Vinyl, paper, foam sheets, bonded fabrics, and chipboard. The Explore Air 2 is a versatile machine that is very easy to use. You can use it to make everything from vinyl decals to quilts. It is possible because the machine packs numerous features; we have selected the most important features of the Explore Air 2. 

With Smart Set Dial, you can select the material you are working with, and the machine will automatically adjust the cutting depth and speed accordingly. Another time-saving feature of the machine is its 2x fast mode. It lets you cut thin materials such as paper, Vinyl, and cardstock at twice the speed. The machine can also be used with other great accessories. With Cricut pens, you can write and draw to make personalized cards and signs. You can also use a scoring stylus and Easy Press 2 with Cricut Explore Air 2 for various projects. Lastly, the Cricut Design Space software is a free cloud-based design software. You can access your projects on your computer, phone, or tablet.

How to Set Up the Machine for The First Time?

If you are unfamiliar with the Cricut machine, you will need some directions to set up your new machine for the first time. To help you in this situation, we have divided the setup process into easy-to-understand steps. You won’t have any problem understanding the process, even if you are a beginner. After unboxing your new Cricut machine, you’ll need to plug it in and get it ready to use. In the box, you will find the USB and power cable. 

1. First, plug the power cable in and use the USB cable to connect your computer and the machine.
2. You could also use Bluetooth to connect them.
3. Visit Cricut’s official website and download the Design Space app to your computer.
4. Install the app on your computer and follow the on-screen instructions to create a simple user ID.
5. Once logged in to your account, you will be prompted to connect a device.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect your new device via Bluetooth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to use the Cricut Explore Air 2 machine?

When you are done setting up the Cricut machine, you need to follow the steps mentioned below:

1. Create your design in Design Space.
2. Ensure that you have it sized to the right and click Make It.
3. Select the material you are going to work it and the appropriate Mat.
4. Place the material on the Cricut mat.
5. Turn the Smart Set Dial according to the material. 
6. Align your Mat and insert the end of the Mat into the machine.
7. Then, press the double-sided arrow button.
8. Check the Design Space. 
9. On the screen, it will tell you which tools you need to load into the machine according to the material you choose and the design.
10. Tap on the flashing C. 
11. When the cutting is finished, tap on the double-sided arrow again to unload the Mat.

Who Should Buy Cricut Explore Air 2?

It is best suited for people working on these craft projects:

1. Viny, cardstock, and other crafting materials
2. Hobbyists who want to make projects using various materials. 
3. Someone with Cricut cartridges who wants to use them in a new machine.

Can Cricut Explore Air 2 Cut Thicker Materials?

Yes, the machine can cut thicker materials, but you must also purchase the Deep-Point blade and housing. Then you will be able to cut thicker materials, including:

1. Chipboard
2. Thick cardstock
3. Stamp material
4. Foam sheets
5. Stiffened felt 
6. Cardboard