The Untold Story of Discontinued Cricut Cutting Machines!
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Time to read 9 min
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by Viktoria Volk
Graphic Designer & Crafter
Here's an updated timeline of Cricut's discontinued machines
2006: Cricut Personal Electronic Cutter
2008: Cricut Create
2009: Cricut Expression
2010: Cricut Cake
2010: Cricut Imagine
2011: Cricut Expression 2
2011: Cricut Mini
2014: Cricut Explore
2015: Cricut Explore Air
2016: Cricut Explore Air 2
2017: Cricut Maker (1st Gen)
What happened to the discontinued cutting machines from Cricut?
Why do some crafters still swear by these older
discontinued cutting machines, while others
have moved on to more powerful alternatives?
Explore the rise and fall of Cricut’s discontinued cutting machines,
and the technology behind them!
Cricut has been a game-changer in the crafting world!
Allowing DIY enthusiasts, small business owners,
and hobbyists to create everything from intricate
paper designs to custom vinyl decals.
BUT as technology evolves, some of the earliest
Cricut cutting machines have been discontinued,
fading into the background as more advanced models take center stage.
HOWEVER, the story of these discontinued cutting machines is far from over!
What happened to these once-popular discontinued cutting machines?
Let's uncover:
- Their unique features
- Release dates
- Reasons behind their retirement
Table of contents
The Cartridge Era Cricut Personal Cricut Create Cricut Expression The Experimentation Era Cricut Cake Machine Cricut Imagine Cricut Expression 2 Out of Service: Retired Relics Cricut Mini The Wi-Fi Era: Goodbye Cords Cricut Explore Hello Computer Connection! Cricut Explore Cricut Explore One Cricut Explore Air Cricut Explore Air 2 Cricut Maker (1st Gen) FAQ
The Cartridge-Based Cricut Era
Like cassettes for images!
For a while, Cricut machines relied on physical cartridges that contained
pre-loaded fonts and designs for cutting.
- Limited Designs
- No Custom Uploads
- Physical Storage
and The Machine That Started it ALL!!!
Cricut Personal Electronic Cutter
🛠️ Release Date: 2006
✂️ Machine Type: Cutting Machine
📄 Max Size: 6" x 12"
📁 Design System: Cartridges
The first electronic cutting machine! 🎉✨
Cricut Personal! The cutting machine that transformed home crafting.
This innovation made it easier for crafters to bring their creative visions to life!
This machine was powered with a cartridge-based system. Allowing users to access a pre-loaded library of designs.
Unlike today’s digital interfaces,
users had to purchase separate physical cartridges to expand their design collection. There were limited customization options.
Why Was the Cricut Personal Discontinued?
Crafting technology advanced and demand shifted toward machines with greater flexibility and digital integration.
By the late 2000s, Cricut introduced extensive online design libraries, that are beyond what cartridges could offer.
An Iconic Milestone in The World Of Crafting!
Cricut Create
🛠️ Release Date: 2008
✂️ Machine Type: Cutting Machine
📄 Max Size: 6" x 12"
📁 Design System: Cartridges
Two years later, Cricut Create was introduced! A more compact and CUTE version of a cutting machine.
Also, more precise! Users could now rotate, flip, and resize designs directly from the machine.
Why Was the Cricut Create Discontinued?
With a shrinking cartridges market, using this machine today is challenging.
BUT some crafters still swear by it!
The cartridge-only system means that users can't create their own designs without purchasing new cartridges.
A True Game Changer
Cricut Expression
🛠️ Release Date: 2009
✂️ Machine Type: Cutting Machine
📄 Max Size: 12" x 24"
📁 Design System: Cartridges
The Cricut Expression marked a significant leap forward in personal cutting technology.
Unlike its predecessors, Cricut Expression introduced a larger cutting area!
It also came with a digital LCD screen for easier navigation and project manipulation!
Why Was the Cricut Expression Discontinued?
The Cricut Expression was eventually another discontinued cutting machine in favor of more versatile and precise models. It can still be used today with carriages.
The Experimentation Era!
From cake decorating to printable designs. These machines were ambitious!
A stepping stone for future innovations.
Let's dive into these experimental machines and see why they didn’t last.
A Delightful Twist
Cricut Cake Machine
🛠️ Release Date: 2010
✂️ Machine Type: Cutting Machine
✨ Collection: Martha Stewart Range
📄 Max Size: 12" x 24"
📁 Design System: Cartridges
A bold departure from traditional cutting machines! The Cricut Cake cuts food-safe materials! Designed specifically for cake decorators, bakers, and pastry artists.
It can cut into fondant, gum paste, and frosting sheet, making it possible to create intricate decorations for cakes, cookies, and cupcakes with professional-level detail!
Eventually, production was discontinued, leaving the Cricut Cake as a niche collector’s item.
Why Was the Cricut Cake Discontinued?
Despite its innovative concept, many cake decorators preferred the traditional method of hand-cutting icing and fondant.
Is It Still Worth Using in 2025?
For those who still own a Cricut Cake,
it can be a fun tool for edible crafting!
Cricut Can Cut and PRINT?!!
Cricut Imagine
"The machine that dreamed too big."
🛠️ Release Date: 2010
✂️ Machine Type: Cutting & Printing Machine
📄 Max Size: 12" x 24"
📁 Design System: Cricut Craft Room & Cartridges
The Cricut Imagine was a major step in personal cutting technology!
For the first time, users could combine print and cut functions in a single machine!
Cricut Imagine also has a touchscreen!
No more trying to guess which button creates to what shape. The crafting world held its breath will never be the same.
Cricut Imagine cartridges were like VIP passes. You couldn’t craft without one!
These fancy little little things hold both images and colors. And don’t even think about using regular cartridges! The Imagine has its own exclusive club, and basic cartridges weren’t invited. 🚫
Why Was the Cricut Imagine Discontinued?
Despite its groundbreaking concept, the execution didn’t quite match the vision. The Cricut Imagine faced several issues that ultimately led to its downfall:
❌ Ink Costs Were Too High
❌ Print Quality Was Unreliable
❌ Limited Material Compatibility
Is the Cricut Imagine Still Usable in 2025?
If you still have a working Cricut Imagine? You can still use it... kind of.
✅ It still cuts and prints…but only with physical cartridges
(since Craft Room is gone).
✅ Finding ink is like hunting for a unicorn.
Welcoming the Design Software!
Cricut Expression 2
🛠️ Release Date: 2011
✂️ Machine Type: Cutting Machine
📄 Max Size: 12" x 24"
📁 Design System: Cartriages
The Cricut Expression 2 was a MAJOR step forward in cutting technology! Introducing digital design integration for the first time!
Unlike earlier Cricut machines that relied only on cartridges, the Cricut Expression 2 introduced Cricut Craft Room, a software platform that allowed users to access designs. Expanding creative possibilities beyond physical cartridges!
✅ 200+ Pre-Loaded Designs
Included fonts, images, and sayings for immediate crafting
... but Cricut Expression 2 also has a cartridge system!
Actually, it was the last Cricut machine to have that option!
When Cricut Craft Room shut down in 2018, Cricut Expression 2 remains usable until this day due to it's cartridge system.
Unlike later models that relied entirely on Cricut Design Space, the Expression 2 could still function independently!
No Wi-Fi, no software updates, just good old-fashioned cartridges.
Why Was the Cricut Expression 2 Discontinued?
Although Cricut Craft Room was an exciting innovation, it was eventually phased out in 2018. Leaving Cricut Expression 2 users with cartridges only.
Plus, newer machines embraced wireless connectivity, Bluetooth, and real-time design updates.
The following machine can no longer be used:
Out of Service: Retired Relics
What if I told you that some cutting machines can no longer be revived?
With no cartridge system and no Craft Room software since 2018.
They sit around, reminiscing about the good old days. Some say if you press the power button, all you’ll hear is a faint whisper: "Error... Error..."
Hello Computer Connection!
Cricut Mini
🛠️ Release Date: 2011
✂️ Machine Type: Cutting Machine
📄 Max Size: 8.5" x 12"
❌ Design System: No Longer Available
The first cartridge-free cutting machine...
A compact and lightweight cutting machine designed to work with Cricut Craft Room.
Unlike previous Cricut models the Cricut Mini introduced computer connectivity!
Fully ditching cartridges.
It also has a sleek, modern design!
BUT, compared to the Cricut Joy that we all know and love today, the Cricut Mini is actually not that mini!
Why Was the Cricut Mini Discontinued?
Its reliance on Cricut Craft Room became its biggest downfall.
In 2018, Cricut Craft Room shut down, making the Cricut Mini unusable.
Newer models like the Cricut Explore and Maker series introduced wireless Bluetooth connectivity, eliminating the need for a wired connection altogether.
The Wi-Fi Era: Goodbye Cords
Hello Cricut Design Space!
Cricut Explore
🛠️ Release Date: 2014
✂️ Machine Type: Cutting Machine
📄 Max Size: 12" x 24"
📁 Design System: Cricut Design Space
Cricut Explore was a game-changer!
For the first time, a Cricut machine used Cricut Design Space, a software that allows users to upload their own SVG files!
Introducing the score tool for the first time!
AND the first cutting machine with bluetooth connectivity!
Although... to use the bluetooth connection, crafters had to buy a separate Bluetooth adapter.
A Budget Friendly Version
Cricut Explore One
🛠️ Release Date: 2015
✂️ Machine Type: Cutting Machine
📄 Max Size: 12" x 24"
📁 Design System: Cricut Design Space
The Explore One is a more affordable version of the Explore series.
The Explore One has a single tool holder, meaning it can only use one cutting tool at a time, while the regular Explore has a double tool holder.
And let’s talk about wireless bluetooth.
Yes, the Explore One was technically Bluetooth-compatible... If you buy the extra bluetooth adapter.
BUT despite these limitations,
Explore One was a solid cutting machine choice for budget-conscious crafters.
Finally Fully Wireless!
Cricut Explore Air
🛠️ Release Date: 2015
✂️ Machine Type: Cutting Machine
📄 Max Size: 12" x 24"
📁 Design System: Cricut Design Space
The Explore Air took things wireless!
Adding built-in Bluetooth connectivity for cable-free crafting.
No more tripping over cords AND no more bluetooth adapters.
Just pure, wireless creative freedom!
Need for Speed!
Cricut Explore Air 2
🛠️ Release Date: 2016
✂️ Machine Type: Cutting Machine
📄 Max Size: 12" x 24"
📁 Design System: Cricut Design Space
Cricut turned up the speed with the Explore Air 2, introducing a cool new feature called Fast Mode!
Allowing users to cut and write up to twice as fast as previous models!
This enhancement significantly improved efficiency for crafters handling large or multiple projects.
It also came in a range of pastel colors, making it one of the prettiest Cricuts yet! 🌈✨
The Beast
Cricut Maker (1st Gen)
🛠️ Release Date: 2017
✂️ Machine Type: Cutting Machine
📄 Max Size: 12" x 24"
📁 Design System: Cricut Design Space
Enter the Cricut Maker, aka The Beast.
Cricut Maker is compatible with a knife blade, allowing it to cut through thicker materials such as wood and matboard, further expanding its range of applications.
Further expanding the possibilities!
Discontinued Cutting Machines
Rescue or Let It Rest in Peace?
These machines have been phased out
for a variety of reasons!
Outdated technology, low sales,
or Cricut simply deciding to upgrade.
That being said, not all discontinued cutting machines
deserve a one-way trip to the crafting graveyard.
If you can find one in working condition,
they can still cut, slice, and dice like they did in their prime.
Plus, you might snag a bargain on eBay or Amazon,
especially if you're looking for a budget-friendly way to get into Cricut crafting.
So, should you adopt a discontinued Cricut cutting machine?
If you're feeling nostalgic or just love a good deal...go for it!
But if you're after speed, versatility,
and a crafting experience that
doesn’t involve fighting outdated tech,
an upgrade is the way to go.
Happy crafting!!!
FAQ
Can I still use a discontinued Cricut cutting machine in 2025?
Yes! Many discontinued Cricut cutting machines still work perfectly fine, as long as they are in good condition and have the necessary accessories . However, some older models require cartridges or outdated software like Cricut Craft Room, which is no longer supported . If you have a discontinued cutting machine, make sure it’s compatible with Cricut Design Space or has alternative ways to function.
Where can I buy a discontinued Cricut cutting machine?
You can often find discontinued Cricut cutting machines on platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Amazon , but availability depends on the specific model. Some crafters sell them in crafting groups, second-hand stores, or garage sales , so keep an eye out for deals. Just be sure to check if replacement parts, power cords, or cutting mats are still available before purchasing!
What should I do if my discontinued Cricut cutting machine stops working?
If your discontinued cutting machine is having issues, check Cricut’s support website or look for troubleshooting guides online. You can also try:
- Buying replacement parts (power cords, cutting blades, mats) from online sellers
- Joining Cricut Facebook groups where users share solutions for older machines
- Searching for third-party software alternatives (if your machine is no longer supported)
If all else fails, it might be time to say goodbye to your discontinued cutting machine and upgrade to a newer, more efficient model. ✂️😊
