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Can you use any printer alongside your Cricut machine?
Each printer is designed for a different purpose. Chances are, you can’t print Cricut applications on your HP office printer. It’s simply not designed to print thick paper like cardstock and other materials used for Cricut. On top of that, you’ll need to adjust a lot of settings to get your desired results.
If you’re asking “‘”do you need a printer for Cricut”, follow this article for answers!
What Kind of Printer Is Suitable for Cricut?
If you want to enjoy your Cricut machine to the fullest, you’ll probably need a printer to decorate its side. The printer will allow you to print your own designs, and you’ll be able to use the Cricut machine to its fullest potential.
But, the question remains, can any printer work for Cricut crafts?
In terms of printing, any printer should work for your Cricut. The machine won’t care about the printer you’re using, as long as it’s doing its purpose.
However, the issue here lies in the process of printing itself. The resolution, size, and quality of your printing depend on the printer you’re using.
Here, the answer becomes no, you can’t use any printer for Cricut. You’ll need a printer that’s able to print on thick paper, like card stock, cardboard, and their alternatives. Additionally, its maximum printing size should align with the dimensions your Cricut can support. Otherwise, you’ll waste a lot of paper, or worse, go short on it.
What Are the Essential Things to Consider When Buying a Printer for Cricut?
Although the Cricut machine won’t say no to any printer you use, you need to be mindful of the printer’s capabilities, or else it’ll be rendered useless.
If it can’t print on the types of paper you use for Cricut, you won’t be able to use it. Therefore, there are a couple of essential considerations to keep in mind. Here they are.
Paper Type
Each paper type has a different strength, thickness, and size. With Cricut, the heavier the paper, the better because it means you can use it for more applications. Here are the most common types used for Cricut. Keep them in your mind when buying your printer to make sure it supports them.
Text Paper
Text paper is a bit thin, but not as thin as writing paper. If you want to imagine, think of flyers and brochures. Similar applications require text paper. If you intend on printing these, you’ll need a printer that supports them.
Writing Paper
Writing paper is the thinnest type available for printing. It’s the one we write on, so you probably already know how thin it is. All printers on the market should support writing paper, so you won’t have an issue here.
However, it’s always good to make sure your printer of choice supports a sufficient printing size.
Cover Paper
Cover paper and cardstock are the most common types for Cricut, thereby making them the most essential to consider. If your printer of choice doesn’t support cover paper and its derivatives, it’s not a good option for Cricut.
Printing Size
Different printers have different printing sizes, so it’s vital to consider how big your printer will be able to print. For example, if you’re making stickers, it’s recommended to go with big printing sizes to avoid lots of waste.
Generally, the size you need differs according to the application you’re doing. Your chosen printer should be able to print the sizes that you need.
Printing Resolution
While printing resolution doesn’t make much difference when printing text paper, it can make or break a picture. The higher the printing resolution, the better your image will come out. So, your printer of choice for Cricut needs to offer a high resolution.
For most applications, 4800 x 1200 will suffice, but more is always better.
Wrap Up
To wrap it up, a printer for Cricut needs to be able to print on thick paper. Additionally, it should offer a high resolution and a sufficient printing size. Make sure to weigh your needs and ensure the printer complies with them.
Otherwise, you won’t be able to make most of the applications you want.
