I use the Cricut Maker (the original) but as a paper crafter I am not really using all the fancy cutting blades.

Light blue cutting mats are definitely the way to go! And I have been using this off brand and been extremely happy.

I love this 12x12 storage case for my layouts in progress.

and of course MY Template Tools!

Yes I am a Stampin' Up! demonstrator because I love their products and I wanted the discount. So you will often see me using Stampin' Up! papers, stamps and inks but it is not a requirement that you do that too. You will want to find a quality paper that your Cricut likes to cut and for me that is Stampin' Up! Yes, the paper does matter when you are "cricuting"