How to access a Silhouette Cameo/Cricut and similar equipment for free

The Silhouette Cameo is one of my favorite crafting tools, which is why most of my tutorials revolve around using it. I’ve found it to be well worth the investment – for around $5-$10 I can make a t-shirt that would cost me up to $30 to buy. This adds up a lot over time, especially when making gifts.

However, if you don’t plan on buying a Cameo or similar machine right now, there’s many ways to access a Silhouette Cameo/Cricut and similar equipment for free or a low cost. Mainly I’ll be focusing on makerspaces, which are spaces that have a variety of equipment like vinyl cutters, 3D printers and sewing machines available to members.

Local libraries

Call or check online and see if the library for your city or a neighboring city has a Silhouette Cameo or other vinyl cutter. Most of the time, the only requirement is that you have a library card, which can be free or a small fee.

Your school/college

Many colleges have makerspaces available to students and faculty for free. To see if your local college has one, make a google search or ask the school. Some are even open 24 hours, so if you have the urge to craft past midnight, you can do that! While it’s less common, there are makerspaces available in some high schools and middle schools – ask your librarian if your school has one!

Local makerspaces

Especially if you live in a large city, a quick google search for local makerspaces will likely yield some results. Generally these are not free – there’s usually a fee involved with using the space, whether it be a daily entrance fee or a membership. These facilities usually have equipment that’s far more complex and expensive than a vinyl cutter though.

Final notes:

Like I mentioned earlier, the Silhouette Cameo is one of my favorite crafting tools, so if it sounds like something you’d use frequently, buy it! If you’re on the fence, or just want it for one project, I definitely recommend going to a makerspace and seeing how you like it. Before you go, keep in mind that most spaces will require you to bring your own vinyl or other material. If your local library or school doesn’t have a makerspace, or a vinyl cutter in the makerspace, don’t be afraid to request it!

Is there any other places or ways you’ve been able to use a vinyl cutter for free? If you’ve been the any of the places I mentioned, how was your experience?