Cricut Autopress Clever Heat Press in a Expensive Box User Manual

: June 5, 2024
: Cricut

Table of Contents

Cricut Auto press Clever Heat Press in a Expensive Box
Cricut Auto press FAQ
GENERAL
GETTING STARTED
ABOUT THE MACHINE
SUPPLIES/MATERIALS
PRESSING
MOVING, STORING, AND CARE
TROUBLESHOOTING
References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Download This Manual (PDF format)

Cricut Auto press Clever Heat Press in a Expensive Box

Cricut Autopress Clever Heat Press in a Expensive Box
product

Cricut Auto press FAQ

General (#general)
Getting started (#getting-started)
About the machine (#about-the-machine)
Supplies (#supplies)
Pressing (#pressing)
Moving, storing, and care (#moving-storing-and-care)
Troubleshooting (#troubleshooting)

GENERAL

What comes in the box with Cricut Auto press?

Cricut Auto press professional heat press
Cricut Pressing Mat
Control Pod + USB cable
Power cord(s)
User Guide
Safety Instruction
Warranty document

Only one power cord needed. Units sold in the UK/Europe area come with two power cords one with a plug con-gured for the UK, the other with a plug con- gured for Europe. Units sold in North America come with one power cord.
Do I need to register Cricut Auto press?
Yes, Cricut Auto press must be activated before first use. Activation also registers the press. To activate Cricut Auto press navigate toCricut.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
What do I need to activate Cricut Auto press?
You need a Windows/Mac computer with USB port and an internet connection
Note : If using a Mac computer, you’ll need an adapter for your USB port.
Does Cricut Auto press 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 4convenient presets for frequently used settings which can be reprogrammed for the projects you make most.
Does the press come with a cord?
Cricut Auto press comes with the power cord and USB cables needed for operation.

How long is the cord?

Power cord 80 in (1.9 m)
USB cable 39 in (99 cm)

How heavy is Cricut Auto press?
Cricut Auto press weighs53.2 lbs. (24.13 kg).
What are the dimensions of the Cricut Auto press heat plate?
Cricut Auto press heat plate is 15 in x 12 in (38 cm x 30 cm).
How much space will Cricut Auto press take up?

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)

What type and size of the surface is it safe to use the press on?
We recommend a sturdy, stable surface for Cricut Auto press. It was designed for use on a standard kitchen counter so any similar surface in your space that can hold 53lbs (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)

Is Cricut Auto press a clam shell press?
Cricut Auto press opens and closes vertically, but its innovative design allows the heat plate to lower straight down on your project rather than pinching or contacting your project from an angle. This means you don’t have to worry about your project shifting when you close the heat plate.
Is there a swing arm version of this heat press?
No.
Does this press require manual operation?
Not much! With Zero Effort™ operation, it just takes two fingers to close the machine and engage the motor for perfect pressure. The press does the rest and auto-releases when your transfer is complete.
Where can I find recommended time and temperature settings for my projects with Cricut Auto press?
Visit the Cricut Heat Guide for recommended settings for your project: cricut.com/heat guide (https://cricut.com/heatguide)
Cricut Auto press packaging has handles; can I use those to carry the product?
Yes. However, as the box is approximately 30 in (76 cm) wide and the parcel weighs approximately 58 lbs. (26.3 kg) we recommend using two people to lift the parcel .
Where can I use Cricut Auto press?
Cricut Auto press should be used indoors on a sturdy surface that can hold the weight of the machine.
What is the maximum material thickness for use with Cricut Auto press? Can the height be adjusted to press thicker materials?
Cricut Auto press can press flat materials up to2 in (5 cm)in thickness. The height cannot be adjusted to accommodate materials thicker than this.
Can a beginner use the press?
Cricut Auto press is great for all crafter sand can even be used by beginners! Follow the steps in the Cricut Heat Guide (https://cricut.com/heatguide) to ensure proper use and safety of the machine.
What does sublimation mean?
Sublimation uses special ink and a chemical reaction caused by high heat to bond ink to the fibers or poly-coating on sublimation-compatible blanks. When heated at high temperatures, sublimation inks transition from liquid to gas, which allows it to bond with sublimation-compatible materials.
Can I print directly on to a T-shirt with Cricut Auto press?
Cricut Auto press can transfer already cut or already-printed designs to a variety of base materials. Once you’ve cut or printed your design, follow instructions in the
Cricut Heat Guide (https://cricut.com/heatguide) to transfer the design to your base material.
What is the return policy on this machine?
For machines purchased through Cricut.com, view our Return Policy here (https://cricut.com/en_us/legal#online-policies) For machines purchased through other retailers, refer to the retailer’s return policy for guide.
How does the warranty work? If the machine stops working, do I get a new one?
Generally, the warranty is for one (1) year from date of purchase. Term may vary based on country requirements. View Cricut Auto press warranty information
here (https://help.cricut.com/hc/articles/360009431214)
If you experience any issue with Cricut Auto press, contact Member Care for assistance. In the event a machine is defective, it would be replaced if under warranty.
How long will this press last?
Cricut Auto press undergoes rigorous life testing and outlasts pressing cycles equivalent to5 years of steady use.
Is there a stand/caddy I can buy for this press?
No, but Cricut Auto press was designed for use on a arm, stable surface, such as a standard kitchen counter so if you have a similar arm, stable surface in your space you are good to go! Avoid unstable surfaces such as folding/fold- out portable tables.
Is this press UL certified?
Yes, this press conforms to UL Standards.
Where is Cricut Auto press manufactured?
Cricut Auto press is manufactured in our facility in Malaysia.

GETTING STARTED

Besides Cricut Auto press, what else do I need to make a shirt with letters on it?

Visit this help article (https://help.cricut.com/hc/articles/4542412583959) for information on what you need to get started

How do I open the Cricut Auto press box?

Set box on its side and slide outer sleeve
Pull perforated tape strips from bottom and sides of the box
Remove packaging
Open the
With a partner, lift machine from box by the front handle and handhold at the back of the

What type of assembly is required?

Cricut Auto press comes fully assembled. Simply connect the power cord to the port on the back of the machine and connect that to power outlet. Connect the USB cable to the port on the bottom of the control pod. Then, once you’ve completed the activation process on a computer, connect the control pod to Cricut Auto press via the USB cable.
How do I plug in the USB cable?

The USB cable connects to a micro-USB port on the bottom of the control pod, and a standard USB (Type A) port on the back of Cricut Auto press on the right side, near the power cord.
During activation, the control pod is first connected via USB cable to a standard USB (Type A) port on your computer. If using a Mac computer, you will need a USB adapter.
Do I need to get a printer or cutting machine to use along with Cricut Auto press?
You do need a way to take your design from Design Space or other software to physical form, whether you are cutting iron- on (HTV) or creating with Infusible Ink materials with a Cricut smart cutting machine or printing your design on a sublimation printer.
How do you get the design from the computer to the press?
Create and size your design in Design Space. Use a Cricut cutting machine to cut your design out of your preferred material.
How do I make multi-colored designs?
To transfer multiple colors of iron-on (HTV), you will need to use the layering technique [link to article]. For Infusible Ink material, you will use the “slice and set” technique to incorporate multiple colors and patterns onto the fewest possible number of liners.
Do I need to prewash fabric base materials
For iron-on (HTV) projects we recommend prewashing apparel base materials to avoid shrinkage after your design has been pressed. For Infusible Ink projects, do not prewash apparel base materials.
Where do I find instructions and recommended settings? Does the press come with a manual?
All our recommended settings and step-by-step instructions are found in our online Heat Guide (https://cricut.com/heatguide)

ABOUT THE MACHINE

How does Cricut Auto press work?
Cricut Auto press is our most advanced heat press ever. Put in your temperature and time, and Cricut Auto press 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 Auto press can heat to 400°F (205°C).
How long does the press take to heat up?
Cricut Auto press 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 Auto press has an auto-off feature. It will shut off after 13 minutes of inactivity.
Does the press have a temperature gauge?
Cricut Auto press 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 Auto press control pod work?
The preset buttons on control pod come pre-programmed with frequently-used settings:
Preset 1: Sport Flex/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 Auto press 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
Does the platen slide out so you can better center your design?
No need! Cricut Auto press has an extra-wide open position, so you have plenty of space above the mat/platen to position your project.
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 this plate heat at the same temperature across the entire heat plate? Is the press consistent enough to press dye sublimation transfers?
Yes. This was designed to have even heat across the plate to give you the best results.
Does the bottom of the press heat up? Are both surfaces heated or just one?
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.
Is the plate coated with non-stick material?
The heat plate is composed of aluminum with a ceramic non-stick coating.
What is the purpose of the fan?
The fan in Cricut Auto press is designed to channel the way air flows through the machine, directing heat away from the handle so it remains cool during use.
How long should the fan run after I turn Cricut Auto press off?
The fan turns off immediately when the machine is powered off. It will not continue to run.
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.
Can I close and lock Cricut Auto press as it cools?
Yes, once powered off you can close and lock Cricut Auto press for safety during cool down.
Does Cricut Auto press have connections so I can switch attachments later? Does it have an attachment for caps/hats, mugs, cups, shot glasses, or plates?
Cricut Auto press is not designed for use with attachments.
Does the handle lock down during the 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 handle.
Does Cricut Auto press 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.
Can I turn off the heat press with just the power button or should I decrease the temperature first and then press the power button?
You can turn it off by pressing the power button. It isn’t necessary to lower the temperature before powering off.
Does the press need to be calibrated?
Cricut Auto press does not need to be calibrated for pressure or temperature. Its unique design, construction, and even edge- to-edge heat allow it to automatically apply the necessary pressure to any project up to 2 in (5 cm) thick and even heat to your full design.
What voltage can Cricut Auto press handle?
Cricut Auto press is designed for 120-240V- 50/60 Hz and uses 1300W.
Can it be plugged into a regular outlet at home?
Yes, Cricut Auto press 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 Auto press: 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 Auto press 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.
How much energy does it take/cost per month if you are using it daily?
Cricut Auto press power requirements are 120-240V-50/60 Hz, 1300 W. Costs for power usage will vary by region and provider.
Can I replace the fuse on this press?
Cricut Auto press does not contain a replaceable fuse. While we are confident in the robust design, components, construction, and rigorous testing of Cricut Auto press, if you experience any issues with your machine, contact Member Care for assistance.
How easy is it to replace parts on this press? Where do I find parts for the press?
The control pod, USB cable, power cord, and pressing mat can be replaced. Internal machine components, however, cannot be replaced. If you experience any issue with Cricut Auto press, contact Member Care for assistance.
Is there a pressure readout?
No, Cricut Auto press does not have a pressure readout.
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.
Is there a way to turn off or turn down the sound?
No, the volume of the fan and notification chimes/beeps cannot be adjusted.

SUPPLIES/MATERIALS

What type of heat-transfer materials can be used with the press?
Cricut Auto press can be used to transfer iron-on (HTV), Infusible Ink & sublimation materials.
What base materials can be used?
Cricut Auto press 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 Auto press?
Cricut Auto press 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!
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.”
Can you add vinyl to shoes with this press?
No, Cricut Auto press is not designed for use with dimensional objects like shoes, but Cricut Easy Press Mini is perfect for heat transfer projects on shoes.
What types of fabric can be used with Cricut Auto press?
Cotton, polyester, cotton-poly blends, wool, felt, nylon, silk & more! Check out our online Heat Guide (https://cricut.com/heatguide) for materials tested for use with Cricut Auto press, 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 Auto press?
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 Auto press.
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 Auto press 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 Auto press. Visit our Heat Guide (https://cricut.com/heatguide) for instructions specific to your project.
Can you press cups, mugs, or hats with Cricut Auto press?
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 Auto press, 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 Auto press.
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 Auto press.
How do I get a replacement mat?
Replacement pressing mats will be available to purchase wherever Cricut Auto press 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 (https://cricut.com/heatguide) 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 Auto press?
Cricut Pressing Mat is the same size and shape as both the Cricut Auto press 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 Auto press 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 Auto press. 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 (https;//cricut.com/heatguide) 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 (https://cricut.com/heatguide) for these recommendations for your specific heat-transfer and base material.
How do I know which pressure to use?
Cricut Auto press applies pressure automatically when you press the handle to engage the motors. No pressure adjustments required!
How do I get Cricut Auto press to apply pressure to my project?
Cricut Auto press 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 Auto press 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 Auto press apply automatic pressure?
Cricut Auto press 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 Auto press. For best results and longevity for your design, ensure you are following all instructions, including care instructions, in our online Heat Guide (https://cricut.com/heatguide) .
How can I clean the heat plate?
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 Auto press in a place where it will not be exposed to extreme temperatures.

TROUBLESHOOTING

My Cricut Auto press control pod says, “No USB.” What should I do?
Ensure control pod is connected via USB cable to Cricut Auto press. If the cord is securely connected to both control pod and Cricut Auto press and the error persists, contact Member Care for assistance.
My Cricut Auto press won’t open. What should I do?
Use the switch on the right side of the machine to unlock the press. If the switch shows unlocked and lifting the handle does not open the press, contact Member Care for assistance.
Cricut Autopress Clever Heat Press in a Expensive Box
product

My iron-on (HTV) isn’t sticking, what should I do?
Ensure you’re following all recommended instructions in the Cricut Heat Guide (https://cricut.com/heatguide) for the heat-transfer material and base material you’re using. Cover your design with iron-on (HTV) backer or other protective sheet and lower the heat plate to re-touch the design for 10-15 seconds. If the iron-on (HTV) still won’t adhere, contact Member Care for assistance.