Looking to level up your tumbler crafting game? Whether you’re crafting for fun or starting a business, Cricut accessories are total game-changers. Let’s walk through the top 12 Cricut accessories every tumbler maker should have, how to use them, and where to find more inspiration and support for your tumbler journey.
Why Cricut Accessories Matter in Tumbler Crafting
If you’ve ever tried customizing tumblers with your Cricut, you already know: having the right tools makes everything smoother. The right accessories can help you achieve cleaner cuts, sharper designs, and a flawless finish that screams professional quality.
Ready to save time, boost creativity, and avoid those annoying crafting hiccups? Let’s dive in.
Choosing the Right Cricut Machine
Before we get to accessories, let’s talk about the core of your crafting: the Cricut machine.
Cricut Explore vs. Cricut Maker
If you’re into DIY tumbler projects, the Cricut Explore Air 2 is a reliable choice. But if you want to cut thicker materials like leather, balsa wood, or chipboard for display stands or packaging, the Cricut Maker is more versatile.
Cricut Joy for Quick Tumbler Tasks
For smaller, quick designs like names or decals, Cricut Joy is compact and efficient. It’s great for simple customizations or testing new ideas.
Essential Cricut Accessories for Tumbler Crafts
Here’s the fun part: the must-have accessories that make your tumbler crafts stand out.
1. StandardGrip and StrongGrip Mats
These mats are essential for holding your vinyl or other materials steady during cutting.
Best Uses for Each Mat
- StandardGrip: Great for most vinyl, Infusible Ink, and heat transfer materials.
- StrongGrip: Best for glitter vinyl or thicker materials like leather.
Explore more about crafting materials here.
2. Weeding Tools Set
Removing excess vinyl (aka weeding) is way easier with a proper toolset.
What Comes in a Cricut Weeding Kit?
Typically includes:
- Hook tools
- Tweezers
- Scraper
- Scissors
You’ll need these to ensure a flawless finish on detailed tumbler designs.
3. Fine-Point and Deep-Point Blades
The blade you use can make or break your design.
Knowing Which Blade to Use
- Fine-point: Ideal for standard vinyl and HTV.
- Deep-point: Cuts thicker or specialty materials.
Check out this guide on crafting technique to get better results.
4. Transfer Tape
Without transfer tape, placing your vinyl just right would be a nightmare.
Different Types of Transfer Tape
- Standard grip: Best for everyday vinyl.
- Strong grip: Ideal for glitter or textured vinyl.
5. Vinyl (Permanent and Removable)
Vinyl is the star of the show in most tumbler crafts.
Choosing the Right Vinyl for Tumblers
- Permanent vinyl: Durable and dishwasher-safe.
- Removable vinyl: Best for temporary designs.
Don’t forget to tag your projects with #diy-tumbler!
6. Heat-Resistant Tape
This tape holds your design in place when using heat presses or sublimation.
Securing Designs for Sublimation
Trust us, heat-resistant tape = no slipping = better results.
7. Infusible Ink Sheets
These sheets create stunning, vibrant, long-lasting designs.
Long-Lasting, Vibrant Designs
Unlike vinyl, the ink actually infuses into the surface. It’s perfect for sublimation tumblers and gives that pro-quality finish.
8. Tumbler Wrap Templates
Templates make sizing designs a breeze.
Free and Paid Template Sources
Get templates via Cricut Design Space or download them from DIY materials tags and other tutorials.
9. Brayer Roller
A small, often overlooked tool that helps press vinyl evenly onto the mat.
Why It’s a Game-Changer
It prevents bubbles, wrinkles, and misalignments—small details that make a big difference.
10. Cricut Mug Press
While made for mugs, it’s also compatible with some tumblers.
Not Just for Mugs! Tumbler Magic
Pair this with sublimation blanks and Infusible Ink for stunning results. Explore DIY tips for more ideas.
11. Printable Vinyl Sheets
These let you print custom images and designs using a regular printer.
Print Then Cut for Personal Touches
Want to add photos, logos, or quotes? This is your go-to.
12. Scraper Tools
For getting that vinyl to stick tight without bubbles.
Smoothing Out Bubbles & Ensuring Stick
Don’t forget to clean your surface first for the best adhesion. A simple but powerful step toward a flawless finish.
Bonus Tools for Tumbler Success
Working With Epoxy and Sealing Tools
If you’re into glitter tumblers or full-wrap designs, epoxy and sealers give them a professional shine. Learn more on our epoxy tumbler tag.
Where to Buy Cricut Tumbler Supplies
Get your accessories from trusted craft retailers or explore curated resources at TumblerCrafts.com/tools-materials.
Tips for Cricut Beginners Starting Tumbler Projects
Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment
Start small. Try different vinyl types, blades, and mats. Test before you stress.
Watch Tutorials and Join Communities
You’ll find gold in community groups, blogs, and influencers. Check out Instagram crafters and tumbler influencers for inspiration.
Conclusion
Cricut accessories don’t just make your life easier—they elevate your crafts from homemade to high-end. Whether you’re customizing tumblers for fun or planning to sell your creations (start a craft business here), investing in the right tools pays off.
Every accessory on this list helps with precision, creativity, or efficiency—everything you need for crafting success. Want more tips and tutorials? Dive into beginner crafts, craft pricing, or even our profit guide if you’re ready to turn your passion into income.
FAQs
1. Can I use Cricut Joy for making custom tumblers?
Yes! Cricut Joy works great for smaller designs, monograms, or labels. It’s perfect for quick tumbler touches.
2. What’s the best vinyl for tumblers?
Permanent vinyl is best for long-lasting designs, especially if the tumbler will be washed frequently.
3. Do I need a heat press for tumbler crafts?
Not always. For vinyl-only designs, no. For sublimation or Infusible Ink, yes—you’ll want a mug press or similar.
4. How do I avoid bubbles when applying vinyl?
Use a scraper and a brayer roller. Start from the center and smooth outward.
5. Can I sell tumblers with Cricut designs legally?
Yes, but be careful with copyrighted images. Stick to original designs or Cricut’s commercial-use library.
6. What’s the easiest way to start selling tumblers?
Check out business tips and the sell tumbler tag on TumblerCrafts for step-by-step guides.
7. Where can I find project inspiration for tumblers?
Head over to TumblerCrafts.com/inspiration and follow tags like follow inspiration.