Could a Cricut machine help you start a side hustle? What it does and which model to buy

If you've ever thought about turning your love of crafting into a side hustle, there's one gadget worth putting on your radar. Cricut machines are often associated with personalised stickers, greeting cards and DIY projects, but their capabilities go much further. With the right machine, materials and a little imagination, you could use one to start creating products to sell, build a small business from home or even explore a completely new career.

What is a Cricut machine?

A Cricut is a smart cutting machine that connects to your computer, tablet or smartphone. Using Cricut's Design Space software, you can create or customise designs and send them to the machine to cut, draw or work with compatible materials. Depending on the model and tools, it can handle materials such as vinyl, cardstock, iron-on transfers and fabric, helping you produce neat, repeatable designs without cutting everything by hand.

Could a Cricut help you start a business?

This is where things get interesting. A Cricut could help you explore a range of small-business ideas without immediately investing in expensive manufacturing equipment. Here are just a few ideas:

• Personalised gifts: Create custom tote bags, mugs, water bottles, gift boxes and keepsakes.
• Wedding and event stationery: Design invitations, place cards, table numbers, cake toppers and favours.
• Custom clothing: Make personalised T-shirts, sweatshirts, baby grows and fabric accessories using compatible materials and equipment.
• Home décor: Create decorative signs, wall decals, labels and seasonal decorations.
• Small-business branding: Produce packaging labels, branded stickers and product tags for independent businesses.
• Party supplies: Make themed decorations, banners, party bags and personalised birthday accessories.

Which Cricut machine should you buy?

Cricut offers different machines for different projects and budgets. The Cricut Joy Xtra is a compact option for smaller crafts, stickers, cards and compatible iron-on projects. The Cricut Explore range is suited to a broad selection of popular crafting projects, while the Cricut Maker range offers greater versatility for working with different materials and specialist tools.

Do you need to pay for a subscription?

No. Cricut Design Space is free to use, and you can upload your own designs or use the free content available. Cricut Access is an optional paid subscription that unlocks a larger library of designs, fonts and projects. If you're starting a business, I'd begin with the free version and work out which designs and tools you actually need before adding another regular expense.

Is Cricut worth considering if you want a career change?

If you're creative and enjoy making things, a Cricut could be a stepping stone towards a small business, a side hustle or simply a new skill that opens up opportunities. It allows you to experiment with products, personalise designs and discover what customers might want.

Natalie Dixon is our Lifestyle reporter, if you liked this article and want to read more about lifestyle you can follow Natalie Dixon on X here