Cardstock is the perfect way to get started crafting with your Cricut machine. Whether you have a Cricut Joy, a Cricut Explore Air, or any of the other machines in the line, you can create beautiful, intricate designs using cardstock. Not sure where to begin? We’ve got you covered. Read on for our tips on how to make amazing projects with cardstock and your Cricut cutting machine! You can, of course, make these projects on other cutting machines, or even by hand, too!
Choose the Right Cardstock Material and Color
First things first – you need to choose the right cardstock material and color for your project. If you are making greeting cards or gift tags, choose smooth cardstock that is easy to write on with Cricut pens. For 3D projects or paper flowers, use thicker cardstocks that won’t tear easily when folded. Save the glitter cardstock for small details. And don’t forget about color! The right color combination can take your project from mediocre to marvelous in no time flat.
Use Free SVG Cut Files
Great news – there are tons cardstock designs in Cricut Design Space, as well as free SVG cut files available! From intricate designs for Valentine’s Day cards to free SVGs for party decorations, there is something out there for everyone. A great way to find free SVG cut files is my resource library at – I offer hundreds of free images (even a few fonts) that you can use in to make easy Cricut projects.
Start Smaller Projects First
If this is your first time working with cardstock on a Cricut machine, start with smaller projects first before attempting more intricate cuts or larger projects like wall art or home décor pieces. You want to get comfortable with using your machine mat and different types of cardstock before tackling bigger tasks — this will help ensure success down the road! Plus, smaller projects are perfect for trying out different materials like glitter paper or metallic cardstock without breaking the bank!
Ready to get creative with your Cricut machine and some cardstock projects? I hope so! With these tips in mind and a little bit of patience, I know you will be crafting amazing projects in no time flat. Here are my favorite paper projects to get you started:
Cricut Cardstock Projects
Here are 42 of my favorite Cricut cardstock projects ... all are free to make! Just click on a photo to learn what you need and get the instructions!
Crafting with cardstock has never been easier thanks to card sets like the layered card set! Perfect for use with your Cricut, these card sets are filled with cardstock pieces that have easy-to-follow layers that are ideal for making greeting cards. Pick a card set design then simply layer and decorate it with embellishments to make any occasion special. A card is a great first project!
If you’re looking for a creative and easy cardstock project to give someone, look no further than the coffee cup gift card holder! With just cardstock and a Cricut machine you can create a fun card that also serves as something special. All you have to do is cut and assemble the card, insert a gift card of your choice, and voila: you have an unforgettable handmade item with plenty of personality!
Transform ordinary cardstock into a unique wall art masterpiece with the Paper Flower Dress Canvas Wall Art project. This beginner Cricut project is perfect for adding a fresh and fun look to any room in your home, and it's a great way to get familiar with using a cutting machine. A wide variety of cardstock can be used to craft this eye-catching design, so you have plenty of choices when it comes to color and texture.
If you’re looking for an easy way to spruce up your card-making, why not try making this beginner-friendly paper heart envelope? It’s great for any occasion, and can be made with just cardstock. With very few steps involved, even true card-making novices will find this project a breeze. Plus, the result is truly beautiful—from weddings to birthdays to anniversaries!
You can make this cute little box in just a few minutes and with minimal supplies. All you need is cardstock and a way to cut it, like a Cricut! It's perfect for giving someone special on Valentine's day, or anytime you want to show that special someone how much they mean to you. With just basic cardstock these boxes will look beautiful and heartfelt - and you have cardstock creativity left over for your next project!
Even for beginners, these easy paper villages are achievable with a few basic materials and some helpful tips. All you need to get started is cardstock and a Cricut machine. Follow my simple instructions to make charming little buildings that can be arranged into quaint towns.
You're going to love how easy these cardstock projects are - even if you've never crafted before!
Is your next party begging for an extra bit of glam? Make it sparkle with these easy-to-make DIY cake toppers! Perfectly finished cardstock projects come together quickly and easily when you have the right tools, like a Cricut cutting machine. Make them out of any color or patterned paper that matches your event’s decor – personalize and customize as much as you want!
Unleash your creativity with cutouts larger than 12" x 24"! Make oversized cards, cut out characters, and decorations that will stand out from the rest. We make it easy to craft something extraordinary!
Add some festive sparkle to your home this winter with these beautiful paper star lanterns! With a few simple steps, you can transform any room into an enchanting twinkle-filled wonderland. Brighten up cold days and dark nights when creating these stunning decorations for yourself or as gifts!
Custom shadow boxes are one of the most popular cardstock crafts. You'll be amazed at what you can make!
Card stock can also be used to organize things ... as with these drawer dividers!
Rolled paper flowers are one of the first Cricut paper crafts I ever did! They are fun and amazing!
I've saved the best for last... the layered mandala rose is a truly gorgeous cardstock project! This is one of my all-time favorite Cricut project ideas.
Get my Free Cricut Cardstock Projects
To get access to my free SVG library with hundreds of designs and tutorials, just fill out this form and I’ll send you the password immediately! The library is where I store all of my new SVGs, too!
If you use one of my free Cricut cardstock projects, I’d love to see it! Please share a photo in our Facebook group or tag me on social media with #jennifermaker.
Love,
