Edited: October 10, 2024
GETTING STARTED
What comes in the box with Cricut Autopress?
- Cricut Autopress professional heat press
- Cricut Pressing Mat
- Control Pod + USB cable
- Power cord(s)*
- User Guide
- Safety Instructions
- Warranty document
*Only one power cord needed. Units sold in the UK/Europe area come with two power cords – one with a plug configured for the UK, the other with a plug configured for Europe. Units sold in North America come with one power cord.
Do I need to activate and register Cricut Autopress?
Yes, Cricut Autopress must be activated before first use. Activation also registers the press. To activate Cricut Autopress navigate to Cricut.com/setup on a Windows/Mac computer and follow the on-screen prompts.
Note: If using a Mac computer, you’ll need an adapter for your USB port.
Does Cricut Autopress work with the Cricut Heat app?
No, it is not Bluetooth enabled. However, our online Heat Guide has all our recommended time and temperature settings, as well as step-by-step instructions for a variety of heat-transfer and base materials. Additionally, the control pod has 4 convenient presets for frequently used settings which can be reprogrammed for the projects you make most.
How heavy is Cricut Autopress?
Cricut Autopress weighs 53.2 lbs (24.13 kg).
What are the dimensions of the Cricut Autopress heat plate?
Cricut Autopress heat plate is 15 in x 12 in (38 cm x 30 cm).
How much space and what type of surface do I need for Cricut Autopress?
We recommend a sturdy, stable surface for Cricut Autopress. It was designed for use on a standard kitchen counter so any similar surface in your space that can hold 53 lbs (24 kg) will work. The surface should be, at minimum, the same size as the press:
When sitting closed with the handle facing forward:
- Width: 16.63 in (42.243 cm)
- Height: 6.62 in (16.812 cm)
- Depth: 26.07 in (66.207 cm)
When sitting open with handle facing forward
- Width: 16.63 in (42.243 cm)
- Height: 25.14 in (63.848 cm)
- Depth: 23.21 in (58.961 cm)
Where can I find recommended time and temperature settings for my projects with Cricut Autopress?
Visit the Cricut Heat Guide for recommended settings for your project: cricut.com/heatguide
What is the maximum material thickness for use with Cricut Autopress? Can the height be adjusted to press thicker materials?
Cricut Autopress can press flat materials up to 2 in (5 cm) in thickness. The height cannot be adjusted to accommodate materials thicker than this.
How does the warranty work?
Generally, the warranty is for one (1) year from date of purchase. Term may vary based on country requirements. View Cricut Autopress warranty information here.
If you experience any issue with Cricut Autopress, contact Member Care for assistance.
Is this press UL certified?
Yes, this press conforms to UL Standards.
I bought the Cricut Autopress in a different country from where I live. Can I safely use the press in my home country?
Cricut Autopress is manufactured to work with power outlets providing 120-240 volts and comes with the right power cord for the country in which it is sold.
Important: Do not use Cricut Autopress with a power converter. Refer to Cricut Autopress Warranty and Safety documents for information about safe and warranted use of Cricut Autopress.
ABOUT THE MACHINE
How does Cricut Autopress work?
Cricut Autopress is our most advanced heat press ever. Put in your temperature and time, and Cricut Autopress takes out the guesswork by auto-adjusting to your project and auto-releasing when the pressing cycle is complete.
What is the max temperature of the press?
Cricut Autopress can heat to 400°F (205°C).
How long does the press take to heat up?
Cricut Autopress can heat up to its maximum temperature of 400°F (205°C) in 8 minutes.
Does the press have automatic shut-off if it is accidentally left on?
Yes, Cricut Autopress has an auto-off feature. It will shut off after 13 minutes of inactivity.
Does the press have a temperature gauge?
Cricut Autopress will heat to the temperature specified on the control pod. It also contains componentry that is constantly assessing heat plate temperature.
Does this press have a timer?
Yes, use the control pod to set the time for your project. When you press down the handle to engage the press motors, the timer will automatically start to countdown. A beep will sound when the timer reaches zero.
How do the presets on Cricut Autopress control pod work?
The preset buttons on control pod come pre-programmed with frequently-used settings:
- Preset 1: SportFlex/Polyester - 305°F (151° C)/30 seconds
- Preset 2: Everyday Iron-On/Cotton - 315°F (155°C)/40 seconds
- Preset 3: Glitter Iron-On/Cotton - 330°F (165°C)/30 seconds
- Preset 4: Infusible Ink/Polyester - 400°F (205°C)/45 seconds
It’s quick and easy to create new presets! Simply use the dials on the control pod to select desired time and temperature settings. Then, press and hold a preset button until it beeps (3 seconds). The preset is now re-programmed with your new setting.
To return to factory presets, gently press a paperclip into the hole on the bottom of the control pod.
How do I switch between Celsius and Fahrenheit?
Use the toggle switch on the bottom of the control pod to switch between C°/F°.
Do I have to have the press open to heat it up?
Yes, Cricut Autopress must be powered on, unlocked, and open to begin heating.
What does the light on the handle mean?
- Orange = heating or cooling to target temperature
- Green = target temperature reached
- Flashing Red = handle is locked, control pod is not connected, or an error is detected
- No light = machine is powered off
How easy is it to open and close the press? How much effort is required to use the press?
With Zero Effort ™ operation, it takes just two fingers to close the machine, and engage the motor for perfect pressure. The press does the rest, and it auto-releases when the pressing cycle is complete.
Does the bottom of the press heat up?
The bottom of the machine is a platen that does not heat up on its own but could absorb some of the heat from multiple presses. Using the mat on top of the platen helps to absorb that heat, so it is still safe to touch.
What is the purpose of the fan?
The fan in Cricut Autopress is designed to channel the way air flows through the machine, directing heat away from the handle so it remains cool during use.
Cooling Tips
- Cricut Autopress will begin cooling once powered off. There is no need to turn down temperature or otherwise allow the press to cool before powering off.
- Once Cricut Autopress been powered off, unplug the machine until your next session. It is recommended to unplug the press any time it is not in use.
- Cricut Pressing Mat may be left in the machine while it is cooling – no need to remove it.
- Close the lid and engage the lock for safety while the press cools down.
Transitioning between settings
When you change temperature settings, the light on the handle will turn orange until the press has reached the new target temperature on the pod. Once the temperature has been reached the light will turn green, and the Cricut Autopress will beep.
Is there a way to keep the press closed when not in use? How easy is it to lock/unlock the press?
Absolutely! When you’re finished with your session, power off the machine, unplug the power cord, and use the switch on the right side of the press to lock the machine.
How do I disengage and lift up the heat plate to stop a press?
When you press the handle to engage the motors, the press will remain closed until the timer reaches zero. At this point, it will open automatically.
It isn’t locked, though. If you need to open the machine during a press, simply lift the underside of the handle. It will disengage, beep, and open automatically.
Does Cricut Autopress open automatically when the cycle is complete?
Yes, when the timer reaches zero, the heat plate will lift automatically.
Is there a release button for opening the press after you close it?
To open the press after it has been closed, simply lift the handle.
What voltage can Cricut Autopress handle?
Cricut Autopress is designed for 120-240V- 50/60 Hz and uses 1300W.
Can it be plugged into a regular outlet at home?
Yes, Cricut Autopress will come with the correct cord for standard outlets for the region in which it is purchased. Ensure that your power outlet matches the requirements for Cricut Autopress: 120-240V – 50/60 Hz, 1300 W.
Can I use an extension cord or power strip/surge protector with the press?
An extension cord or power strip that matches the power requirements of Cricut Autopress may be used: 120-240V-50/60 Hz 1300 W. Ensure that the outlet to which the cord/power strip is connected also matches these requirements.
Does the press beep when it is heated up?
Yes, a beep will sound when the press has reached temperature, and the light on the handle will turn green.
Does the press beep when the time is up?
Yes, a beep will sound when the timer reaches zero, and the press will open automatically, so your project doesn’t receive too much heat.
How do I know my heat plate's temperature is accurate and uniform across the whole surface?
We run thorough accuracy and uniformity testing on Cricut heat presses. This testing is done in two steps. First, we paint the surface of the heat plate with a thermal paint. The thermal paint eliminates heat plate reflections during infrared scanning for accurate readings. Second, we add thermal couples or temperature probes directly to the heat plate. By adding temperature probes directly to the heat plate, we eliminate outside factors that may affect readings when heating up and at set temperature. All testing is also done in controlled environments. When testing with a heat gun, consider these factors:
- Heat gun must be regulated for high temperatures (heat guns intended for testing temperatures on humans will not read accurately in higher-temperature ranges)
- Heat guns with lasers do not always have perfect alignment between laser and temperature sensor
- Temperature of heat gun at time of testing Distance from heat gun to heat plate
- Ambient temperature in the room
- Tilting of the heat plate due to heat convection
- Reflectiveness of heat plate surface
Should you have concerns with the accuracy or uniformity of the heat plates on your product, our Member Care team can help.
SUPPLIES/MATERIALS
What type of heat-transfer materials can be used with the press?
Cricut Autopress can be used to transfer iron-on (HTV), Infusible Ink & sublimation materials.
What base materials can be used?
Cricut Autopress can accommodate a variety of fabric and flat base materials up to 2 in (5 cm) thick. You can press T-shirts, hoodies, jerseys, tote bags, pillowcases, ceramic coasters, even wood signs!
What kinds of blanks (clothing, tiles, etc.) can I press with Cricut Autopress?
Cricut Autopress can accommodate a variety of fabric and flat base materials up to 2 in (5 cm) thick. You can press T-shirts, hoodies, polo shirts, baby bodysuits, jerseys, tote bags, pillowcases, ceramic coasters, even wood signs!
Note: Cricut Autopress is not designed for pressing on dimensional objects such as shoes, plates, hats, mugs, etc.
What’s the largest size shirt you can press?
You can press on any size of shirt blank. Just open the shirt, position the pressing area on the mat and tuck the rest of the shirt under and around the platen. This is known as “threading.”
Note: For Infusible Ink designs, ensure your design is smaller than the heat plate. Infusible Ink designs should receive a single application of heat. Iron-on designs may be larger and pressed in sections.
Can you add vinyl to shoes with this press?
No, Cricut Autopress is not designed for use with dimensional objects like shoes, but Cricut EasyPress Mini is perfect for heat transfer projects on shoes.
What types of fabric can be used with Cricut Autopress?
Cotton, polyester, cotton-poly blends, wool, felt, nylon, silk & more! Check out our online Heat Guide for materials tested for use with Cricut Autopress, as well as step-by-step stacking and pressing instructions for a variety of projects.
What Cricut heat-transfer and base materials will work with Cricut Autopress?
All Cricut Iron-On, Infusible Ink Transfer Sheets, Infusible Ink Pen & Marker designs, as well as all Cricut apparel, tote bag, wine bag, cosmetic bag, coaster, and aluminum sheet blanks may be used with Cricut Autopress.
Do I need to use heat-transfer paper with this press?
No, heat transfer projects don’t generally require a transfer paper/tape like self-adhesive vinyl does. Most iron-on (HTV) comes adhered to a sticky heat-resistant liner (carrier sheet) that is used as the “transfer sheet” for those designs. Infusible Ink Transfer Sheets use a similar carrier sheet. If you need something to hold your design in place on your base material, make sure to use heat resistant tape.
Can Cricut Autopress be used for both iron-on (HTV) and sublimation materials?
Yes, the press is designed for use with a variety of heat-transfer materials including iron-on (HTV), Infusible Ink & sublimation materials. We’ve tested many different heat-transfer and base materials for use with Cricut Autopress. Visit our Heat Guide for instructions specific to your project.
Can you press cups, mugs, or hats with Cricut Autopress?
No, but Cricut Mug Press and Cricut Hat Press are perfect for these projects.
Can I use the press on sublimation-compatible ceramic tiles?
Absolutely! Be advised that, while generic ceramic tiles labeled as sublimation compatible will likely work with Cricut Autopress, we cannot guarantee quality results.
Can I press on wood?
Yes, flat wood signs up to 2 in (5cm) thick may be pressed with Cricut Autopress.
Can I use laser paper with the press?
Yes, laser paper, which we recommend when creating designs with Infusible Ink Pens and Markers, can be used with Cricut Autopress.
How do I get a replacement mat?
Replacement pressing mats will be available to purchase wherever Cricut Autopress is sold. If you experience a defect with your pressing mat, however, contact Member Care for assistance.
The mat is not glued down, how does it work?
Cricut Pressing Mat features a nonslip silicone base, allowing it to hold your project in place during transfer.
PRESSING
What temperature should I use for my project?
We have tested a variety of heat-transfer and base materials and put them in our online Heat Guide for your convenience! This guide also contains step-by-step stacking and pressing instructions for a variety of projects.
How do I position my project on Cricut Autopress?
Cricut Pressing Mat is the same size and shape as both the Cricut Autopress heat plate and platen, so you can use the mat as a guide. Remove the pressing mat from the platen to your work surface, arrange your blank, and transfer materials on the mat so that they fit on the surface area of the mat. Then, transfer the whole stack to the Cricut Autopress platen. Position the pressing mat so its edges align with the edges of the platen. You're ready to press! The Cricut Pressing Mat bottom silicone layer holds the mat in place on the platen – it will not move when you lower the heat plate to begin the pressing cycle.
What size of shirt can I press?
Any size of shirt may be pressed with Cricut Autopress. Just position your shirt so the pressing area is on the mat/platen and you’re good to go! If needed, you can open the shirt and slide one layer of it over the mat/platen, then tuck the rest underneath and around the platen.
Design size is also a consideration. The heat plate is 15 in x 12 in (38 cm x 30 cm), so if your iron-on design is larger than this, you can apply heat to the design in sections. Simply reposition your base material between pressing cycles and apply heat.
Infusible Ink designs, however, should not be larger than the heat plate and should receive a single application of heat. Keep this in mind as you size your Infusible Ink designs.
Does the press work on all sizes of shirts, including XL and up?
Yes. The heat plate is 15 in x 12 in (38 cm x 30 cm), so if your iron-on design is larger than this, you can apply heat to the design in sections. Simply reposition your base material between pressing cycles and apply heat.
Infusible Ink designs, however, should not be larger than the heat plate and should receive a single application of heat, so keep this in mind as you size your Infusible Ink designs.
Can I press a design on both sides of a t-shirt?
Absolutely! Once you’ve finished pressing one side of the shirt, we recommend “threading” your shirt on the mat/platen to press on the other side. To do this, open the shirt and slide it over the mat/platen until the pressing area is positioned how you want it. Then, tuck the remainder of the shirt under and around the platen, out of the way. This prevents your designs from receiving an impression of the design on the opposite side of the shirt. Similarly, if your shirt has thick seams, pockets, buttons, or zippers on the opposite side from the one you’re pressing, threading the shirt like this will prevent impressions from seams/pockets/buttons/zippers from appearing in your design.
Can the temperature be adjusted to make logos and for iron-on (HTV)?
Yes. Use the temperature dial on the control pod to adjust the temperature for your project. If you need to switch from Celsius to Fahrenheit, use the toggle switch on the bottom of the control pod. Refer to the Cricut Heat Guide for specific time and temperature settings for your project.
Do I have to put something between the heat plate and my project so it doesn’t catch on fire or cause damage?
Some projects involving more delicate materials may require an extra barrier. Follow the instructions in our online Heat Guide for these recommendations for your specific heat-transfer and base material.
How do I know which pressure to use?
Cricut Autopress applies pressure automatically when you press the handle to engage the motors. No pressure adjustments required!
How do I get Cricut Autopress to apply pressure to my project?
Cricut Autopress is designed to automatically apply the needed pressure on base materials up to 2 in (5 cm) thick. When you’re ready to press, just grasp the handle and lower the heat plate until it touches your project. Then, apply gentle downward pressure on the handle - the press motors take over!
How much pressure should be applied when pressing a shirt?
Cricut Autopress was designed to take the guesswork out of pressure! Once your base material with transfer is positioned on the mat/platen, simply lower the heat plate until it contacts your project. Then, gently press down on the handle to engage the motors, and the press does the rest!
Does Cricut Autopress apply automatic pressure?
Cricut Autopress applies pressure automatically. Just lower the heat plate until it touches your project, then gently press down on the handle for the motors to engage, and the press does the rest!
MOVING, STORING, AND CARE
Can you wash and dry apparel normally after using this heat press?
A little more care is required for iron-on designs, but you can wash and dry apparel base materials after using them with Cricut Autopress. For best results and longevity for your design, ensure you are following all instructions, including care instructions, in our online Heat Guide.
How do I clean Cricut Autopress?
Information on how to safely clean Cricut Autopress is included in the Safety Instructions document that comes in the box.
Cleaning Cricut Autopress
- Before cleaning, unplug Cricut Autopress, and allow to cool completely.
- Only clean with soft cloth dampened with glass cleaner or water.
- Never use flammable liquid of solvents like acetone or nail polish remover.
- Do not immerse in water or use in wet conditions.
To clean the heat plate, you can use commercially available iron cleaner.
In case you accidentally adhere iron-on (HTV) to the plate, get a thick rag and wipe it off quickly while it's still warm. Be sure not to touch the heat plate – it's hot.
Should I keep the press closed or opened when not in use?
We recommend keeping the press closed and unplugged when not in use.
Can the press be left outside on a covered back porch in the summer?
We recommend storing Cricut Autopress in a place where it will not be exposed to extreme temperatures.