The Cricut brand does not disappoint when it comes to the EasyPress Mini™. This convenient and efficient device is perfectly designed for its intended purpose. The slick, small-scale design and high-quality finish make it a must-have for crafters.
But don’t let its miniature size fool you! This comfortable-to-use mini press packs a powerful punch with its ceramic heat plate, which easily removes creases from fabric and marks from heat-erasable pens, while also allowing users to smoothly apply iron-on/HTV and infusible inks in a speedy fashion – meaning projects don’t get slowed during the making process!
Its small precision head allows for detailed work and the convenient size means it can easily be stored in any craft space or even taken along to workshops.
I highly recommend this product not just for people who already own a Cricut cutting machine, but for anyone who is looking for a desktop iron to aid in their crafting.
About the expert: Heather Nugent
Heather Nugent is a seasoned technical expert with over ten years of experience in craft publishing. Skilled in a variety of crafts, including sewing, embroidery and paper crafting, she has a passion for creating beautiful, hands-on projects.
Throughout her career, she has contributed to well-known publications such as Your Home, RSPB Wild Times, Love Embroidery, and Simply Sewing, sharing her expertise and creativity with craft enthusiasts.
Whether it's stitching, crafting or designing, Heather has the knowledge and experience to put this tool through its paces, to give you a thorough and honest review you can trust.
Where to buy
How easy is it to use?
Once plugged in, there is a single button which turns the device on. Users can then click the button again to choose and adjust the heat setting. Each press will cycle through the three heat settings, which will be indicated by illuminated wavy lines. The more lines that are lit – the hotter the temperature will be.
The orange light indicates that the iron is warming up and will turn green when the desired temperature has been met. Once finished with, the user just needs to click the button again to turn off. This is confirmed by all the lights turning off.
The handle of the EasyPress Mini™ is not wide enough to fit all your fingers inside, making the grip a little strange. As such, users with hand dexterity issues may find it slightly difficult to grip the handle. However, the smooth, ergonomic curves still make it somewhat comfortable to use and the machine itself is very lightweight, which is a plus.
Specifications
The EasyPress Mini™ comes in two colours: raspberry and zen blue.
The device is not wireless, but the cable is a generous 190cm long.
The overall size of the device is 5.4 x 8.4 x 10.3cm, with a heat plate measuring 4.7 x 8.1cm. The iron has a compact size that allows you to easily iron small items. Plus, the precision tip allows you to press in small spaces like between buttons and seams.
There are three heat settings available with the device
- Low: 255°F (125°C) to 295°F (145°C) – great for removing light creases or heat-erasable pen marks
- Medium: 300°F (150°C) to 355°F (180°C) – perfect for heat transfer vinyl films
- High: 355°F (180°C) – ideal for infusible ink
Safety features
The model comes with a safety base which acts as a handy stand to hold the iron while it comes up to temperature and when it cools down after use. The stand is very stable and keeps the hot element concealed – reducing the risk of burns. As with any iron, it is still very hot so be sure to keep it out of reach of pets and children.
It also comes with an auto shutoff feature which is great. After a period of inactivity (or no button pushes), the press will alert you and then shut off after 13 minutes.
Heat up and cool down
We timed how long it took to reach the highest temperature setting from completely cold. With our set-up it took just 45 seconds to reach max temperature on the machine.
Once it reached temperature on the highest setting, we timed how long it took to cool down. Of course, this will depend on the initial temperature of the press and the temperature of the room you are in, but we wanted to get a general idea. With our set-up, it took over 20 minutes to get just cool enough to touch and a little over 1 hour to get completely cold. Please be mindful that your iron may take longer to cool. Do not touch or pack away until it is completely cold.
Summary
I was really impressed by the Cricut EasyPress Mini™. I used it in conjunction with the EasyPress™ Mat. for the perfect desktop set-up. The device is so small that it sits comfortably on the edge of my craft desk, out of the way, until needed. The fact that it turns on and off on the device is particularly handy as it means there is no need to unplug after use.
