The Cricut brand is known for manufacturing and selling pro-level cutting machines with which you can do almost any project using various materials. The Cricut Mug Press is not as versatile as other Cricut machines as it is designed to perform only one task: designing and printing professional-quality mugs. But MugPress does it with utmost ease and perfection.
Mug Press is an add-on accessory for Cricut cutting machines compatible with the Cricut Maker, Air, and Joy models. The designs you created using the Design Space app will be sublimated onto specially treated mugs or tumblers. The designs will become part of the mug or tumbler with a smooth glossy finish. In this blog, we are going to determine whether the features of Mug Press do justify its price tag or not.
Ref. https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81N+dmxPE7L._SL1500_.jpg
What are Its Specs and Features?
Mug Press resembles a simple look, whose dimensions are 9.29’’x13.14’’x 8.18″. So, you won't need much space to store it. Mug Press features a patent-pending heat plate. This plate ensures that heat is evenly distributed when transferring your design. The only controls you will see are a simple one-touch setting button and lever, making it very simple to operate. With its “Smart Temperature” feature, you don't have to worry about setting a timer or the right temperature. Its auto-switch-off feature automatically turns off the machine when it gets too hot. Since the Mug Press uses very high temperatures during operations, this safety feature will be useful.
What's in the Box?
Like other Cricut machines with accessories and tools, the Mug Press also comes with a bundle of things. But it is a little light on accessories compared to other Cricut machines. You'll get the following things:
- Cricut Mug Press machine
- USB data cable
- User manual
- Warranty card
What is the Process of Making a Custom Mug?
According to the Cricut website, the process is divided into three easy steps: Design, Press, And Reveal. But the whole process is a lot lengthier.
- First, connect the Mug Press to your computer or laptop via a USB cable.
- Then, use Design Space software to create a mug design on your computer or laptop.
- Before cutting, click on the “mirror” button in Design Space so that if your image contains any letters or words.
- Depending on your design, load the cutting machine with an invisible ink pen or the cutting tool. If your design has fine details, use the ink pen, and if your design is fairly simple, use the cutting tool.
- Load a sheet of infusible ink on a standard grip mat, then press ‘go' to start the process.
- Use a weeding tool or negative space in the design if you are using a cutout design. The tool will remove the cutout.
- Turn on the Mug Press and let it preheat for 3-4 minutes. When the green light is on the mug press, it means the Mug Press is fully preheated and ready to go.
- Before applying your cut design, wipe down the mug with the lint roller,
- Then slowly wrap the infusible ink sheet around the mug, and lower it into the press with the handle facing outward.
- Use the mug handle position to ensure your design is centered.
- The machine will beep in 5-6 minutes, indicating the process is done. After it's done, raise the lever and remove the mug.
- The handle should be cool enough to touch.
- Once it's cooled down, peel away the carrier sheet, and voila. A new professional-looking mug with your unique design is born.
Ref.https://kasooq.com/public/uploads/all/CnJpgUwHQAF8tpiSRRAoOcgCfSGT5EiYINBkUpZA.jpg
Things That You Need to Keep in Mind Before Using Mug Press
The first thing you need to know before using Mug Press is that it is only compatible with Cricut machines and Cricut's Design Space software or app. Note that the mug press won't work with any ceramic mug; you'll need to use mugs that are termed “sublimation banks. These mugs are infused with an invisible poly-coating. Cricut sells its sublimation mugs in various sizes. However, other craft companies sell sublimation mugs and tumblers that will work in the Cricut Mug Press. Make sure the size is compatible with the Mug Press and has straight sides.
Special Materials Needed to Design a Mug
There are several materials that you need to design a mug. The first material is infusible ink transfer sheets. It is advisable to use Cricut's infusible ink sheet as they come in a large selection of colors and patterns, and Cricut machines can easily cut them. Next is infusible ink pens, which can draw designs into laser copy paper. Cricut also makes a line of infusible ink pens compatible with the Cricut machines.
Conclusion
The Cricut Mug Press will cost you around $199.99, and if you are thinking of making one or two mugs, then Mug Press isn't for you. It is a bit expensive, so consider the cost of the machine and materials when deciding whether you will use it often or not. If you don't plan to use it often, you won't get your money's worth. But if you plan to sell your custom mugs, you might get your money's worth. But we would also like to add that even imperfect mugs will look impressive with a glossy finish.
FAQs
What materials do I need to create a custom mug, and how much will it cost?
The first thing you will need is the Mug Press, which will cost $199, and a Cricut machine which starts at $179. You will also require a lint roller($3), infusible ink transfer paper ($10 for two sheets), sublimation mugs ($73 for 36), or Cricut mugs ($28 for six). Depending on the project, you may also need infusible ink pens, heat transfer tape, laser copy paper, and butcher paper. All these will cost you around $149. Lastly, the Design Space software is free.
What kind of result should I expect from Mug Press?
The result will be a dishwasher, microwave-safe, and professional-looking mug with a glossy finish. The design won't peel off easily like vinyl stickers. For the best results, Cricut recommends using laser copy paper.
Source URL: – https://cricutcomsetupwindow.blogspot.com/2023/03/cricut-mug-press-is-it-worth-your.html
