Why the Cricut Joy 2 Stands Out
If you've ever wanted to dip your toes into the world of custom sticker making or small-scale crafting but felt overwhelmed by expensive, complex machines, the Cricut Joy 2 might be exactly what you need. After spending several weeks testing this compact device — and coming in as a complete newcomer to Cricut's ecosystem — I can attest that it offers a gentle learning curve without sacrificing essential features. Its space-saving design and lower price point make it an attractive entry point, especially with current discounts that sweeten the deal.
Print Then Cut: A Game Changer for Sticker Makers
The standout feature of the Cricut Joy 2 is its integration of the Print Then Cut capability into Cricut's most affordable lineup. This means you can design full-color artwork on your home printer and then let the machine precisely cut around each image, turning a simple printout into a sheet of professional-looking stickers. In my testing, this process became one of the most satisfying creative activities — once you master the initial steps, it's quick and straightforward. Just be aware that while laser printers are compatible, Cricut's own sticker paper is formulated for inkjet printers, so you'll need to source your own compatible materials if you go the laser route.
Beyond Stickers: What Else Can You Create?
The Cricut Joy 2 is not a one-trick pony. It can also handle custom cards, simple vinyl decals, labels, bookmarks, and iron-on transfers. I found it especially useful for practical tasks like creating planner templates and labeling drawers, as well as for purely creative projects. The versatility makes it a solid investment for hobbyists and small business owners alike who want to experiment without committing to a larger, more expensive machine.
Setup and Software: The Learning Curve
Getting the Cricut Joy 2 out of the box and set up is relatively painless. The hardware itself is intuitive, but the real challenge lies in mastering Design Space, Cricut's proprietary design app. I initially struggled to navigate the interface, but after a few days of following tutorials and working with pre-made templates, things started to click. Projects came together much faster once I got comfortable. A key help was the free 30-day trial of Cricut Access, which unlocks a vast library of templates, images, and fonts. However, remember that it auto-renews at $9.99 per month unless you cancel — a detail worth keeping in mind to avoid unexpected charges.
Pricing and Bundle Deals: What's the Best Value?
At its base price of $99, the Cricut Joy 2 is already affordable, but the current sale makes it an even better deal. The Essentials Bundle costs $119 (down from $139) at Amazon and Cricut, and includes supplies for 35 projects right out of the box. The Ultimate Bundle, priced at $169 (originally $209), adds extra tools — including an iron press — and enough materials for over 75 projects. For most beginners, the Essentials Bundle strikes the right balance between cost and starter supplies, while the Ultimate Bundle is ideal if you're ready to dive into iron-on projects from day one.
Where to Buy
- Essentials Bundle: $119 at Amazon or Cricut
- Ultimate Bundle: $169 at Amazon or Cricut
Both deals represent significant savings, making this a great time to invest in your crafting journey. Whether you're making stickers for Etsy or just for fun, the Cricut Joy 2 offers a beginner-friendly, versatile, and cost-effective entry point.