# ✂️ Does the Cricut Maker 3 require a cutting mat?

*Published: 2024-09-23 | Updated: 2024-10-06 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/answers/does-the-cricut-maker-3-require-a-cutting-mat*

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## Product: Cricut Maker 3
**Brand:** Cricut

The Cricut Maker 3 gives you options when it comes to using a cutting mat. If you're using [Cricut's Smart Materials](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DCricut%27s%2BSmart%2BMaterials%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), you can skip the mat altogether since these materials are designed to feed directly into the machine. This is super handy for larger projects. 

However, if you're working with traditional materials like paper or fabric, you'll still need a cutting mat to keep everything steady during the cutting.

Our research also highlights that the Maker 3 is generally praised for being user-friendly, especially for those doing more intricate projects. It's a popular choice for making custom signs, tags, and cards, which can be fantastic for personal or small business use. 

Just keep in mind, the machine relies on [Cricut Design Space](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DCricut%2BDesign%2BSpace%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) for its software. While it works fine for most tasks, some have found it a bit restricting for advanced designs and occasionally frustrating.

Remember, you might need to do some regular calibration and tweaking depending on the materials you're using to keep things running smoothly. It seems that with a bit of patience, you can really make the most of its features and elevate your crafting projects.

## Current Prices

| Retailer | Price | Availability |
|----------|-------|-------------|
| Mercari | $300.00  | Check |
| BUYA.COM | $304.99  | Check |
| B&H Photo-Video-Audio | $349.00  | Check |
| Cricut | $349.00  | Check |
| HSN | $349.00  | Check |
| Kohl's | $349.00  | Check |
| Michaels Stores | $349.00  | Check |
| Target | $349.00  | Check |
| Walmart | $349.00  | Check |
| Best Buy | $349.99  | Check |
| Provantage | $370.30  | Check |
| Blick Art Materials | $399.00  | Check |
| Hobby Lobby | $399.00  | Check |
| iPC Store | $399.00  | Check |
| Eduporium | $399.99  | Check |
| Genesis Technologies | $429.00  | Check |
| JOANN | $429.00  | Check |
| Wayfair | $429.00  | Check |
| School Specialty | $500.84  | Check |
| Office Depot | $501.09  | Check |

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*Where this comes from: This answer is based on ShopSavvy's product database, real-time pricing from thousands of retailers, and analysis of user reviews to give you a well-rounded picture.*