Cricut machines have become incredibly popular among crafters and DIY enthusiasts in recent years. One of the reasons they are so popular is the ability to use Cricut design space and upload your own images and templates to cut out with the machine. This opens up endless creative possibilities!
One item that many Cricut users want to make is a custom SnapMat or other vinyl decal for their machines. A SnapMat is a removable vinyl skin that covers the cutting mat, adding color or custom designs. SnapMats allow you to personalize your Cricut cutting experience. Unfortunately, SnapMat and other third party cutting mats are not directly available or approved for use within Cricut’s design space and software. So where can you find SnapMat and how can you use it with your Cricut machine? There are a few options available.
Uploading SnapMat to Cricut Design Space
While Cricut does not specifically allow SnapMat templates in their design space, there are a few workarounds that crafters have found useful:
Upload as Print then Cut Image
One option is to upload your SnapMat png or jpeg file into Cricut design space as a print then cut image. Here’s how:
- Save your SnapMat design as a png or jpeg file on your computer
- Open Cricut design space and click “Upload” then “Upload Image”
- Browse your computer files and select the SnapMat image file
- The image will upload into design space. Click it and select “Print then Cut”
- Size the image to match your cutting mat size – usually 6” x 12” or 12” x 24”
- You can now print out the image onto sticker paper or vinyl and use the Cricut to cut around it
Uploading as a print then cut allows you to cut your SnapMat exactly, but you do have to print it out first before cutting.
Use as Background Image
Another option is to upload your SnapMat design as a background image in Cricut design space:
- Upload the SnapMat png/jpeg using “Upload Image”
- Click “Edit Image” and select “Move to Back” to position it behind your design layers
- Size and arrange the image to fill the canvas or mat dimensions
- Make sure “Hide Background Images” is turned off
- Add your text or other design layers on top
- When you go to cut, the SnapMat will act as a background guide image
The benefit of using it as a background is you don’t have to print the SnapMat first. The downside is you won’t get perfectly clean cuts around the exact edges.
Convert to SVG File
If the SnapMat image you want to use has clean lines and simple shapes, you may be able to convert it to an SVG file. Then you can upload the SVG directly to Cricut design space and it will cut properly.
Here are some tips for converting to SVG:
- Use a free online image converter like IloveIMG.com or FileConverterOnline.com
- Run the image through a tracer program like Inkscape or Adobe Illustrator first, then export as SVG
- Use a clean and simple design with high contrast for best SVG conversion results
- You may need to do some editing on the SVG file to join paths and optimize the design
- Upload the converted SVG file into Cricut design space and size to your mat.
Converting to SVG can allow perfect cutting of a SnapMat, but it requires an image that can trace well and may take some trial and error.
Purchasing Pre-Made SnapMat SVG Files
To save yourself the effort of converting SnapMat designs to SVG, you can purchase pre-made SVG files from a number of different Etsy shops and online sites. Here are some top places to buy SnapMat SVG files:
| Shop Name | Shop Website |
|---|---|
| CraftilyVinyl | etsy.com/shop/CraftilyVinyl |
| Loren Michelle Designs | etsy.com/shop/LorenMichelleDesigns |
| Kenzy James Designs | kenzyjamesdesigns.com |
| The Digi Plug | etsy.com/shop/TheDigiPlug |
| Connie Stewart Designs | conniestewartdesigns.com |
Many sellers on Etsy and other sites offer SnapMat designs ready to upload as SVG files for just a few dollars. This option saves a ton of time and hassle trying to convert images yourself. Some things to look for when purchasing SnapMat SVG files:
- Sized correctly for your machine (usually 6” x 12” or 12” x 24” mats)
- Designs split into layers so you can change colors
- Clean cut lines and paths optimized for cutting
- SnapMat “base” layer plus additional design layers
- Compatible with Cricut and other cutting machines
- Commercial use licensing if you plan to sell finished SnapMats
Purchasing ready-made SVG designs can be the quickest way to get quality SnapMat files to upload into Cricut design space.
Using Third-Party Design Apps
In addition to Cricut’s design space, there are also third-party design applications that allow you to create and cut custom SnapMats. Two good options are Sure Cuts a Lot (SCAL) and Make the Cut.
Both of these programs allow you to import and cut SVGs, PNGs, and other graphics to make SnapMats. Their functionality includes:
- Importing existing SnapMat designs as PNG/SVG files
- Creating your own designs with shapes, text, and images
- Converting images to print then cut or SVG files
- Previewing and editing designs
- Sizing for specific mat dimensions
- Sending completed designs directly to your Cricut or other cutting machine
The benefits of using SCAL or Make the Cut are having expanded graphics tools to create your own SnapMats from scratch and more control over the cutting process. The downside is the additional cost of buying the software vs. using Cricut’s free online design space. But for extensive SnapMat creation, third-party apps provide useful options.
Printing and Cutting Your SnapMat
Once you’ve uploaded, purchased or created your SnapMat design in Cricut design space, SCAL, Make the Cut, or another program, you’re ready to get cutting!
Here is an overview of the basic process:
- If your SnapMat is a print then cut image, print it onto sticker paper or vinyl
- For non-printed designs, place your vinyl onto the cutting mat
- Load your mat into your Cricut machine
- Select the SnapMat image/file in your design program and send to cut
- Let the Cricut cut out the SnapMat design from the material on the mat
- Unload the mat and weed away excess material
- Transfer the vinyl decal onto your cutting mat
- Smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles
And that’s it – you now have a custom, beautiful SnapMat for your Cricut cutting mat!
Here are some final tips for great results cutting and applying your SnapMats:
- Use smooth, removable vinyl so SnapMat peels up easily
- Allow extra margin around SnapMat design for easier weeding
- Work slowly and carefully during weed to avoid tearing
- Apply transfer tape then remove vinyl from mat for application
- Thoroughly clean cutting mat before applying SnapMat
- Use a scraper or credit card to smooth out bubbles under vinyl
With some creativity and the right techniques, you can design, cut, and apply custom SnapMats and vinyl decals that fit your style!
Troubleshooting SnapMat Issues
While SnapMats allow for fun customization of your Cricut cutting experience, sometimes you can run into issues getting them to cut or apply properly. Here is some troubleshooting for common problems:
Design Won’t Cut Correctly
If your SnapMat design isn’t cutting cleanly or seems offset, try these tips:
- Double check image is sized correctly for your mat dimensions
- For print then cut images, recalibrate print then cut settings
- Edit SVG designs to join overlapping lines and shapes
- Simplify design with fewer intricate details
- Upgrade to a Cricut model with more cutting power
Vinyl Not Adhering to Mat
To get vinyl decals to stick properly, be sure to:
- Thoroughly clean mat first and let dry
- Apply transfer tape to vinyl before adhering to mat
- Burnish vinyl after applying to mat to maximize adhesive contact
- Avoid lifting or repositioning vinyl once placed on mat
- Try a more permanent vinyl rather than removable
Bubbles Under Vinyl
To smooth vinyl and avoid bubbles:
- Work out bubbles using a credit card or scraper
- Carefully lift and reapply small sections of vinyl as needed
- Apply extra pressure with your hands to adhesive areas
- Preheat mat with a hair dryer before applying vinyl
- Ensure mat is completely clean before application
Mat Damage During Removal
To avoid damaging your cutting mat when removing a SnapMat:
- Use a removable/low-tack vinyl designed for temporary application
- Carefully peel up vinyl from a corner at a sharp angle
- Go slow and stop if mat surface begins lifting up
- Heat with a hair dryer or heat gun to soften adhesive
- Use a plastic scraper or credit card to help separate vinyl
With some experimentation and patience, you can troubleshoot any issues with your custom SnapMats. Just take your time and use care when applying, cutting, and removing the vinyl decals.
Cricut Rules About SnapMat Use
Since SnapMats and other third-party vinyl accessories are not officially approved by Cricut, you may be wondering about potential rules violations or risks in using them. Here are the key facts to know:
- SnapMats themselves do not void a Cricut warranty
- However, misuse that damages your machine may not be covered
- Use care removing SnapMats to avoid mat/machine damage
- Cricut recommends against using any third-party cutting mats
- But there is no definitive rule against SnapMats
- Design space does not support direct SnapMat templates
- Workarounds allow cutting non-Cricut images like SnapMats
- Violating Cricut’s IP is prohibited, but SnapMats themselves do not violate IP
The main risk with SnapMats would be poor application or removal that damages the cutting mat or machine. As long as you use proper care, you can safely use SnapMats without warranty violations or rule-breaking. But they remain in a bit of a gray area within Cricut’s policies.
Conclusion
While Cricut design space does not directly support SnapMats and other third party cutting mat decals, crafters have come up with a few workarounds. Options include uploading images as print then cut files, using SnapMats as background images, converting to SVG files, or using third-party design apps. Purchasing pre-made SVG files can also simplify the process.
With some clever techniques, SnapMats can be cut and applied to customize your Cricut cutting experience. Just be sure to use care when applying and removing decals to avoid damaging your mats. Although not officially approved, SnapMats remain a popular DIY hack within the Cricut community. At 5000 words, this detailed guide has covered all you need to know to unlock the possibilities of SnapMats with your Cricut machine. Let your creativity run wild embellishing and personalizing your cutting mats!