17,99 €
Mehr erfahren.
- Herausgeber: John Wiley & Sons
- Kategorie: Lebensstil
- Sprache: Englisch
Your simple guide to the DIY die-cutting machine that lets you create without limitations
Your new Cricut can help you cut paper, vinyl, fabric, and beyond. Perfect for DIY enthusiasts, scrapbookers, and professional designers, Cricut machines are favorites among makers of all types. Cricut For Dummies gives you clear, simple instructions for using a Cricut machine, so you can start creating today. You'll learn how to achieve intricate, precise cuts, much faster than would be possible by hand. This step-by-step guide shows you how to make greeting cards, fun labels, personalized clothing, stickers, and even unique wood or leather goods. Don't have your Cricut yet? No problem! Cricut For Dummies explains the differences between the models and how to choose the best machine for your needs.
- Use the Design Space app and the Cricut design library to create successful projects
- Choose, set up, and operate your Cricut machine
- Choose a machine based on the type of material you will be using
- Get suggestions for fun projects at every skill level
This book is for anyone who wants to learn how to use a Cricut machine to design, create, or perfect their craft. Cricut For Dummies is ideal for beginners who have no experience using a cutting machine, and it's a handy reference for those who want to improve their Cricut skills.
Sie lesen das E-Book in den Legimi-Apps auf:
Seitenzahl: 448
Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2025
Ähnliche
Cricut® For Dummies®
To view this book's Cheat Sheet, simply go to www.dummies.com and search for “Cricut For Dummies Cheat Sheet” in the Search box.
Table of Contents
Cover
Table of Contents
Title Page
Copyright
Introduction
About This Book
Foolish Assumptions
Icons Used in This Book
Beyond the Book
Where to Go from Here
Part 1: Getting Started with Your Cricut
Chapter 1: Welcome to the World of Cricut
Cricut 101: What It Is and What It Does
Making Cool Stuff with a Cricut
Joining the Cricut Community
Chapter 2: Choosing the Right Cricut for You
The Cricut Maker Series
The Cricut Explore Series
The Cricut Joy Series
The Cricut Venture
Where to Buy a Cricut
Chapter 3: Setting Up Your Cricut
Firing Up Your Cricut
Syncing Your Cricut with Your Computer
Creating Your Cricut Account
Getting Cricut Design Space Up and Running
Chapter 4: Checking Out Cricut Tools and Materials
Looking at Tools and Accessories for All Cricut Machines
Choosing the Right Cricut Mat
Surveying Smart Materials
Cutting with Basic Blades
Writing and Drawing with Pens and Markers
Adding Accents with a Foil Transfer Kit
Making Lines with the Scoring Stylus
Staying Sharp with the Bonded-Fabric Blade
Trying Out Cricut Maker Series Tools
Picking the Right Heat Press
Customizing Items with Blanks
Chapter 5: Keeping Your Cricut in Top Shape
Cleaning Your Cricut Regularly
Changing Your Cricut Blade
Cleaning Your Cricut Blade
Caring for Your Cricut Mats
Maintaining the Software and Firmware
Calibrating Your Cricut
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Part 2: Mastering Cricut Design Space
Chapter 6: Joining Cricut Access
Unlocking Exclusive Content with a Standard Cricut Access Subscription
Checking Out Additional Cricut Access Subscription Types
Considering Other Options Besides Cricut Access
Chapter 7: Exploring the Cricut Design Space Canvas
Starting a New Project and Touring the Canvas
Finding Inspiration: Projects and Images
Chapter 8: Designing in Cricut Design Space
Creating Cricut Projects in Design Space: The Basics
Using Fonts and Designs Legally
Uploading Your Own Designs
Filling Your Designs with Patterns
Working with Text
Visualizing Your Design with Templates and Guides
Working with Layers
Setting the Correct Operations
Chapter 9: Bringing Your Designs to Life
Saving and Sharing Projects
Sending Your Design to Your Cricut
Part 3: Projects Using Paper and Cardstock
Chapter 10: Cutting Gift Tags
Checking Out Project Ideas Using Gift Tags
Picking the Right Tools and Materials for Gift Tags
Choosing Your Gift Tag Method
Creating Gift Tags: A Step-by-Step Guide
Chapter 11: Crafting Rolled Paper Flowers
Exploring Project Ideas for Paper Flowers
Choosing the Right Paper for Rolled Flowers
Discovering Paper Flower Templates
Choosing the Right Cut Size for Your Flowers
Mastering Quilling Tools
Rolling Paper Flowers: A Step-by-Step Guide
Chapter 12: Making Cards
Starting Your Card-Making Journey
Choosing between Insert Cards and Cutaway Cards
Gathering Materials for Card-Making
Making Cards with Your Cricut: A Step-by-Step Guide
Part 4: Vinyl and Heat Transfer Projects
Chapter 13: Working with Vinyl
Exploring Vinyl Project Ideas
Avoiding Surfaces Vinyl Doesn’t Stick To
Checking Out Types of Vinyl
Weeding Vinyl to Reveal Your Design
Using Transfer Tape
Gathering Your Materials for Vinyl Projects
Working with Vinyl: A Step-by-Step Guide
Caring for Your Vinyl Projects
Chapter 14: Layering Vinyl for Colorful Designs
Choosing the Right Vinyl for Layering
Working with Multilayered Designs in Design Space
Exploring Layering Techniques
Chapter 15: Using Heat Transfer Vinyl
Exploring HTV Project Ideas
Checking Out Types of HTV
Finding the Right Size and Placement for T-shirt Decals
Gathering Everything You Need for HTV Projects
Cutting and Applying HTV: A Step-by-Step Guide
Following Washing and Care Instructions for HTV Projects
Chapter 16: Trying Infusible Ink
Exploring Infusible Project Ideas
Gathering Your Materials
Working with Infusible Ink Transfer Sheets: A Step-by-Step Guide
Drawing with Cricut Infusible Ink Pens and Markers
Caring for Your Infusible Ink Projects
Chapter 17: Etching with Vinyl Stencils
Exploring Glass Etching Projects
Gathering Your Materials for Glass Etching Projects
Creating Your Stencil in Cricut Design Space
Etching Glass with Your Cricut: A Step-by-Step Guide
Part 5: Projects Using Printable Materials
Chapter 18: Mastering Cricut Print Then Cut
Knowing How Print Then Cut Works
Exploring Print Then Cut Project Ideas
Testing Different Print Then Cut Materials
Preparing Your Cricut for Print Then Cut
Using Print Then Cut: A Step-by-Step Guide
Chapter 19: Creating Custom Stickers
Exploring Project Ideas Using Stickers
Gathering Your Materials
Designing Your Stickers in Cricut Design Space
Printing Your Stickers
Waterproofing Your Stickers
Cutting Both Ways: Kiss-Cut Stickers versus Die-Cut Stickers
Chapter 20: Crafting with Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl
Understanding the Pros and Cons of Printable HTV
Exploring Project Ideas with Printable HTV
Gathering Your Materials for Printable HTV Projects
Using Printable HTV: A Step-by-Step Guide
Following Proper Care Instructions
Part 6: The Part of Tens
Chapter 21: Ten Beginner Cricut Projects
Making Birthday Banners
Crafting Custom Bookmarks
Personalizing Water Bottles
Assembling Acrylic Key Chains
Decorating Throw Pillows
Designing Custom Hats
Monogramming Towels
Creating Infusible Ink Coasters
Organizing with Custom Labels
Creating Custom Candle Labels
Chapter 22: Ten Advanced Cricut Projects
Engraving Pet ID Tags
“Etching” Coated Metal with Citristrip
Fashioning Leather Earrings
Assembling Fabric Flowers
Stenciling Wood Signs
Creating Vibrant Coffee Mugs
Making Decorative Cake Toppers
Cutting Perfect Quilt Blocks
Piecing Together Custom Puzzles
Personalizing Elegant Envelopes
Index
About the Author
Supplemental Images
Connect with Dummies
End User License Agreement
List of Tables
Chapter 11
TABLE 11-1 Cut Sizes and Finished Flower Dimensions
Chapter 12
TABLE 12-1 Insert Cards versus Cutaway Cards
List of Illustrations
Chapter 3
FIGURE 3-1: How to connect the power adapter to your Cricut.
FIGURE 3-2: Where to plug in each end of the USB cable on your Cricut and compu...
FIGURE 3-3: To create a new account, go to
Myaccount.Cricut.com
, click on Creat...
FIGURE 3-4: Downloading Cricut Design Space from
design.cricut.com
.
FIGURE 3-5: Google Play with Cricut Design Space displayed.
FIGURE 3-6: The Home screen in Cricut Design Space.
FIGURE 3-7: Using the Heat Guide in Cricut Design Space.
FIGURE 3-8: Finding and adjusting your Design Space settings.
FIGURE 3-9: Finding the My Stuff page on the Design Space Canvas.
FIGURE 3-10: Click on the three dots on a project tile to enable the Save for O...
FIGURE 3-11: Locating the Save for Offline settings in Design Space under Setti...
FIGURE 3-12: Bookmarking an image.
FIGURE 3-13: Finding your bookmarked images under the My Stuff tab.
FIGURE 3-14: Finding the font download button, and the computer icon, which app...
Chapter 5
FIGURE 5-1: Removing the Fine-Point Blade from the Fine-Point Housing.
FIGURE 5-2: Removing and reinserting the Fine-Point Housing into Clamp B when r...
FIGURE 5-3: Press the blade tip into a ball of aluminum foil to remove debris.
Chapter 7
FIGURE 7-1: Locating the Navigation bar, Design panel, Edit bars, and Layers pa...
FIGURE 7-2: How to use the Projects tab.
FIGURE 7-3: Using the Images tab.
Chapter 8
FIGURE 8-1: Before background removal.
FIGURE 8-2: Incorrect cut preview.
FIGURE 8-3: Correct cut preview.
FIGURE 8-4: Applying a pattern fill to a circle shape in Cricut Design Space.
FIGURE 8-5: Finding and adding text.
FIGURE 8-6: Tools used for customizing fonts.
FIGURE 8-7: The steps to use the Monogram Maker tool in Cricut Design Space.
FIGURE 8-8: The Templates screen showing layout guides for items like mugs and ...
FIGURE 8-9: Legacy Templates options.
FIGURE 8-10: Customizing a Legacy Template.
FIGURE 8-11: Custom guides created from text and shapes on the Canvas.
FIGURE 8-12: Identifying layers of a Christmas tree design in the Layers panel....
FIGURE 8-13: A quick reference guide to key tools in Design Space.
FIGURE 8-14: The Operation drop-down menu and Layers panel in Design Space.
Chapter 9
FIGURE 9-1: The Prepare screen showing the initial setup options.
FIGURE 9-2: Make screen setup illustrating how to connect your machine, set mat...
FIGURE 9-3: How to load tools and materials into your Cricut.
Chapter 10
FIGURE 10-1: Chicken-shaped price tags made using white cardstock and Print The...
FIGURE 10-2: Use a simple cut for designs like these.
FIGURE 10-3: These birthday gift tags are made using the drawing and cutting me...
FIGURE 10-4: Designs like these are made using the Print Then Cut method.
FIGURE 10-5: How to make a custom tag using shapes.
FIGURE 10-6: Change the operation to Draw for text and Basic Cut for the tag sh...
Chapter 11
FIGURE 11-1: The Images area in Cricut Design Space showing template options.
FIGURE 11-2: The Projects area in Cricut Design Space showing complete project ...
FIGURE 11-3: Attaching the paper to the quilling tool.
FIGURE 11-4: Applying glue to the round flap and the bottom, coiled part of the...
Chapter 12
FIGURE 12-1: A wedding Insert Card design featuring a bride and groom silhouett...
FIGURE 12-2: An Insert Card with missing design elements due to the lack of adh...
FIGURE 12-3: A stencil font design where the letter elements stay connected to ...
FIGURE 12-4: A Cutaway Card with adhesive backing that keeps the message intact...
FIGURE 12-5: Finding Insert and Cutaway Card projects in Cricut Design Space.
FIGURE 12-6: Options for customizing or making a card project in Cricut Design ...
FIGURE 12-7: Finding and using a Cutaway Card Template.
FIGURE 12-8: Working with Legacy Card Templates.
FIGURE 12-9: Creating a custom card template in Cricut Design Space.
FIGURE 12-10: Moving the star wheels to the center of the Cricut Maker to preve...
Chapter 14
FIGURE 14-1: Ungrouping a cow design in Design Space to reveal individual layer...
FIGURE 14-2: Aligning and positioning registration marks in Design Space.
FIGURE 14-3: Attaching registration marks to design layers for precise cutting....
Chapter 17
FIGURE 17-1: Drag your design over the shape to create a stencil.
FIGURE 17-2: Delete the sliced parts of your design.
Chapter 18
FIGURE 18-1: The black L-shaped marks in the corners are the registration marks...
FIGURE 18-2: Auto-resizing your image to the maximum cut size.
FIGURE 18-3: Changing your paper size.
FIGURE 18-4: Comparing Bleed on to Bleed off prints.
Chapter 19
FIGURE 19-1: Using the Create Sticker tool.
FIGURE 19-2: Different border options for a simple text sticker in Cricut Desig...
FIGURE 19-3: Halloween die-cut stickers I made for individual giveaways.
Guide
Cover
Table of Contents
Title Page
Copyright
Begin Reading
Index
About the Author
Pages
i
ii
1
2
3
5
6
7
8
9
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79
80
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
100
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
109
110
111
112
113
114
115
117
118
119
120
121
122
123
124
125
126
127
128
129
130
131
132
133
134
135
136
137
138
139
140
141
142
143
144
145
146
147
148
149
151
152
153
154
155
156
157
158
159
160
161
162
163
164
165
166
167
168
169
170
171
172
173
174
175
176
177
178
179
180
181
182
183
184
185
186
187
189
190
191
192
193
194
195
196
197
198
199
200
201
203
204
205
206
207
208
209
210
211
212
213
214
215
216
217
218
219
220
221
222
223
224
225
227
228
229
230
231
232
233
234
235
236
237
239
240
241
242
243
244
245
246
247
248
249
250
251
253
254
255
256
257
258
259
260
261
262
263
264
265
266
267
268
269
270
271
272
273
274
275
276
277
278
279
280
281
282
283
284
285
286
287
288
289
291
292
293
294
295
296
297
298
299
300
301
302
303
304
305
306
307
308
309
310
311
313
314
315
316
317
318
319
320
321
322
323
324
325
326
327
Cricut® For Dummies®
Published by: John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030-5774, www.wiley.com
Copyright © 2025 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All rights reserved, including rights for text and data mining and training of artificial technologies or similar technologies.
Published simultaneously in Canada
No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, scanning or otherwise, except as permitted under Sections 107 or 108 of the 1976 United States Copyright Act, without the prior written permission of the Publisher. Requests to the Publisher for permission should be addressed to the Permissions Department, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030, 201-748-6011, fax 201-748-6008, or online at http://www.wiley.com/go/permissions.
The manufacturer’s authorized representative according to the EU General Product Safety Regulation is Wiley-VCH GmbH, Boschstr. 12, 69469 Weinheim, Germany, e-mail: [email protected].
Trademarks: Wiley, For Dummies, the Dummies Man logo, Dummies.com, Making Everything Easier, and related trade dress are trademarks or registered trademarks of John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and may not be used without written permission. Cricut is a trademark or registered trademark of Cricut, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. is not associated with any product or vendor mentioned in this book.
LIMIT OF LIABILITY/DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY: THE PUBLISHER AND THE AUTHOR MAKE NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES WITH RESPECT TO THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THE CONTENTS OF THIS WORK AND SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIM ALL WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. NO WARRANTY MAY BE CREATED OR EXTENDED BY SALES OR PROMOTIONAL MATERIALS. THE ADVICE AND STRATEGIES CONTAINED HEREIN MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR EVERY SITUATION. THIS WORK IS SOLD WITH THE UNDERSTANDING THAT THE PUBLISHER IS NOT ENGAGED IN RENDERING LEGAL, ACCOUNTING, OR OTHER PROFESSIONAL SERVICES. IF PROFESSIONAL ASSISTANCE IS REQUIRED, THE SERVICES OF A COMPETENT PROFESSIONAL PERSON SHOULD BE SOUGHT. NEITHER THE PUBLISHER NOR THE AUTHOR SHALL BE LIABLE FOR DAMAGES ARISING HEREFROM. THE FACT THAT AN ORGANIZATION OR WEBSITE IS REFERRED TO IN THIS WORK AS A CITATION AND/OR A POTENTIAL SOURCE OF FURTHER INFORMATION DOES NOT MEAN THAT THE AUTHOR OR THE PUBLISHER ENDORSES THE INFORMATION THE ORGANIZATION OR WEBSITE MAY PROVIDE OR RECOMMENDATIONS IT MAY MAKE. FURTHER, READERS SHOULD BE AWARE THAT INTERNET WEBSITES LISTED IN THIS WORK MAY HAVE CHANGED OR DISAPPEARED BETWEEN WHEN THIS WORK WAS WRITTEN AND WHEN IT IS READ.
For general information on our other products and services, please contact our Customer Care Department within the U.S. at 877-762-2974, outside the U.S. at 317-572-3993, or fax 317-572-4002. For technical support, please visit https://hub.wiley.com/community/support/dummies.
Wiley publishes in a variety of print and electronic formats and by print-on-demand. Some material included with standard print versions of this book may not be included in e-books or in print-on-demand. If this book refers to media that is not included in the version you purchased, you may download this material at http://booksupport.wiley.com. For more information about Wiley products, visit www.wiley.com.
Library of Congress Control Number is available from the publisher.
ISBN 978-1-394-30950-4 (pbk); ISBN 978-1-394-30952-8 (ebk); ISBN 978-1-394-30951-1 (ebk)
Introduction
Imagine a tool that can bring any creative project to life — from designing custom clothing and home décor, to making personalized cards and more! Your Cricut machine is that tool, and this book is your guide to mastering it. I’ve spoken with many crafters who were so intimidated by their new Cricut that they left it in the box for months. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. I understand the challenges of figuring out new technology, so in this book I’ve broken the process into simple, easy-to-understand steps to make crafting with your Cricut not only easy but also enjoyable. We’ll start this creative journey together, and soon you’ll be crafting on your own with confidence!
About This Book
Whether you’re just starting out or ready to dive into more advanced projects, this book is your friendly guide to everything Cricut. Cricut machines are designed to do it all: cut, write, draw, score, and more, depending on the model you choose. Don’t have a Cricut machine yet? No worries. Chapter 2 helps you find the best Cricut for your crafting needs.
After taking your Cricut out of the box, you can check out the chapters in Part 1 to find out how to turn it on and set it up. In Part 2, you can explore the ins and outs of Cricut Design Space — the software you’ll use to create your designs and send them to your machine. Not sure what to make? This book is packed with lots of fun, easy-to-follow projects that will inspire you to Cricut everything in sight. You can also explore how to use a variety of materials — from paper and vinyl to leather and fabric — to truly maximize the potential of your machine. Each chapter offers practical tips and step-by-step instructions to make your crafting experience a breeze.
Whether you’re looking to create beautiful home décor, personalized gifts, or even handcrafted items to sell, this book has you covered. It’s organized to help you build your skills at your own pace, with plenty of projects so you can practice techniques that are new to you. So get ready to start crafting and turning your ideas into reality!
A quick note: Sidebars (shaded boxes of text) dig into the details of a given topic, but they aren’t crucial to understanding it. Feel free to read them or skip them. You can pass over the text accompanied by the Technical Stuff icon, too. The text marked with this icon covers some interesting but nonessential information about Cricut crafting.
One last thing: You may note that some web addresses in this book break across two lines of text. If you’re reading the print version of the book and want to visit one of these web pages, simply key in the web address exactly as it’s noted in the text, pretending as though the line break doesn’t exist. If you’re reading this as an e-book, you’ve got it easy — just click the web address to be taken directly to the web page.
Foolish Assumptions
Here are some assumptions about you, dear reader, and why you’re picking up this book:
You have a Cricut machine or are planning to purchase one.
You’re interested in creating personalized projects, like custom T-shirts, home décor, or gifts.
You’re willing to invest time to find out about Cricut’s capabilities and experiment with new crafting techniques.
You’re looking to join a community of like-minded crafters who share tips, tricks, and inspiration.
Icons Used in This Book
Like all For Dummies books, this book features icons to help you navigate the information it contains. Here’s what they mean.
If you take away anything from this book, it should be the information marked with this icon.
This icon flags information that delves a little deeper than usual into the world of Cricut.
This icon highlights especially helpful advice about how to make the most of your Cricut.
This icon points out situations and actions to avoid to help you use your Cricut machine safely and effectively, and sidestep common mistakes.
Beyond the Book
In addition to the material in the print or e-book you’re reading right now, this product comes with some access-anywhere goodies on the web. Check out the free Cheat Sheet for info on must-have supplies, vinyl decal sizing, and mat usage to enhance your Cricut projects. To get this Cheat Sheet, simply go to www.dummies.com and type “Cricut For Dummies Cheat Sheet” in the search box.
Where to Go from Here
You don’t have to read this book from cover to cover, but if you’re an especially thorough person, feel free to do so! If you just want to find specific information and then get back to work, take a look at the table of contents or the index, and then dive into the chapter or section that interests you.
If you’re curious about the various tools you can use with your Cricut, Chapter 4 is a great place to start. Want to become a pro at Cricut Design Space? Head over to Part 2. If custom clothing is what you’re interested in, Chapter 15 shows you how to craft beautiful wearable designs. And when you’re ready to expand your horizons, Chapters 21 and 22 in the Part of Tens offer projects ranging from beginner to advanced skill levels.
With this book in hand, you’re well on your way to becoming a Cricut expert. Every page you turn is a new chance to craft something extraordinary. Start with what excites you most, and create projects you’re proud to share!
Part 1
Getting Started with Your Cricut
IN THIS PART …
Kickstart your Cricut journey by exploring what this versatile crafting machine can do.
Decide which Cricut model is best for you based on what you want to create.
Get your Cricut set up quickly and start crafting right away.
Discover the essential tools and supplies you’ll need for your projects.
Find out how to take care of your Cricut and fix common issues.
Chapter 1
Welcome to the World of Cricut
IN THIS CHAPTER
Understanding what Cricut is and how it works
Creating cool projects with a Cricut
Becoming part of the Cricut community
Ever wished you could turn everyday items into unique, personalized creations? With Cricut, you can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, all from the comfort of your home. Welcome to the world of Cricut, where your creative ideas come to life with the help of this incredible cutting machine. Whether you’re dreaming of a one-of-a-kind T-shirt, a custom card, or a stunning piece of home décor, Cricut’s precise cutting and versatile features make it easy to craft projects that show off your style and creativity.
In this chapter, I introduce you to what a Cricut machine is and how it works. You discover the endless possibilities for crafting, whether you’re doing it for personal enjoyment, making thoughtful gifts, or even starting a small business. Additionally, I guide you on how to connect with the crafty Cricut community, where you can find inspiration, share your creations, and get advice from fellow craft enthusiasts. By the end of this chapter, you’ll be ready to dive into the exciting world of Cricut and start turning your crafting ideas into reality.
Cricut 101: What It Is and What It Does
A Cricut is a versatile cutting machine that can precisely cut materials ranging from paper to wood. Think of it as your personal crafting assistant, transforming your ideas into beautiful creations.
Cricut machines use various blades for different materials. The Fine-Point Blade handles delicate paper, and the Deep-Point Blade cuts thicker materials like foam and chipboard. The Rotary Blade is perfect for fabric, and the Knife Blade tackles tougher materials like wood and acrylic.
Different Cricut models offer unique capabilities. The Cricut Maker can cut through wood and acrylic with its specialized Knife Blade, but the Cricut Joy and Cricut Explore Air 2 are limited to lighter materials like paper and vinyl. For more details on each machine’s capabilities, check out Chapter 2.
Cricut Design Space, the software that powers your Cricut machine, allows you to create custom projects or choose from premade designs. After your design is ready, Cricut Design Space sends it to the machine for precise cutting. You load your material onto a Cricut mat, which holds it in place during cutting. Mats come in different colors, each offering varying levels of stickiness to match your material. (I give you full details on Cricut Design Space in Part 2; find out more about mats in Chapter 4.)
After cutting, the next step is weeding — removing excess material to reveal your design. Then you transfer the design to your “blank” (T-shirt, tote bag, mug, and so on) using transfer tape for vinyl or the carrier sheet for heat transfer vinyl (HTV). For more on the differences between vinyl and HTV, check out Chapter 15.
Making Cool Stuff with a Cricut
Cricut’s versatility lets you create nearly anything you can dream up. For example
You can design custom cards for any occasion using the Fine-Point Blade and Cricut Pens (see
Chapter 12
for details).
For home décor, make personalized wall decals, pillows, and framed art that reflect your style.
Custom tees are a Cricut favorite — create wearable art for group outings, fundraisers, or family events using heat transfer vinyl (see
Chapter 15
for guidance).
Beyond these, Cricut lets you explore projects like jewelry making, scrapbooking, and sign making (see
Chapter 22
), with endless possibilities limited only by your imagination.
Joining the Cricut Community
Joining the Cricut community is a wonderful way to connect with new friends who share your passion for Cricut crafting. By engaging with fellow crafters, you’ll discover endless inspiration, pick up new techniques, get answers to your questions, and find plenty of encouragement. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned pro, being a part of the vibrant Cricut community will make your crafting journey even more fun and rewarding.
Social media is a great way to connect with Cricut enthusiasts and stay inspired:
On Facebook, join Cricut-specific groups to share projects and exchange ideas; just be cautious of scammers.
YouTube offers detailed tutorials and project walk-throughs; use popular search terms like “Cricut project ideas” and “Beginner Cricut.”
TikTok provides quick, bite-size tutorials and creative ideas.
Instagram gives daily inspiration and project ideas.
Pinterest is ideal for saving and organizing creative ideas.
To stay ahead, follow Cricut bloggers like me at www.kerricraftsit.com for in-depth articles and tutorials, and influencers on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, such as Jennifer Maker and myself, for fresh inspiration and new techniques.
Using hashtags on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest can help you connect with other crafters and discover new ideas. Try searching #Cricut, #CricutCrafts, or #CricutDesignSpace to find your next project inspiration.
Being part of the Cricut community means supporting each other. If you see a project you love, show your appreciation with a like or comment! Your compliments and encouragement can make a big difference in boosting another crafter’s confidence. When someone asks a question on a post, try to provide a helpful answer. Remember, we all started as beginners. Above all, always be kind and supportive.
Chapter 2
Choosing the Right Cricut for You
IN THIS CHAPTER
Exploring different models
Discovering each machine’s capabilities
Shopping for a new Cricut
You may be asking yourself, “Which Cricut machine is the best fit for me?” Choosing the perfect Cricut can feel a bit overwhelming with all the options out there, but don’t worry — I’ve got you covered! The answer comes down to the types of projects you want to make, your budget, and what each machine can do.
Cricut currently offers four families of machines: the Maker series, the Explore series, the Joy series, and the Venture. Each family offers something a little different depending on the types of projects you’re looking to make. This is the complete lineup of machines available at the time of writing:
Cricut Maker 4
Cricut Maker 3
Cricut Maker
Cricut Explore 4
Cricut Explore 3
Cricut Explore Air 2
Cricut Joy Xtra
Cricut Joy
Cricut Venture
Older models like the Cricut Explore Air 2, the original Maker, and the Explore 3 and Maker 3 are still available in some places, but they’re gradually being phased out. Although fully discontinued models aren’t covered in detail, this chapter walks you through each of the machines currently offered by Cricut, their capabilities, and the types of projects they’re best suited for. So dive in and find your perfect match!
Chapter 4 has details on tools and materials for your new Cricut machine. Parts 3, 4, and 5 are chock-full of project ideas.
The Cricut Maker Series
The Cricut Maker series is designed for crafters who want more power, precision, and versatility. With models including the Cricut Maker, Cricut Maker 3, and the newest Cricut Maker 4, these machines can handle everything from delicate fabrics to tough materials like leather and balsa wood. With a variety of interchangeable tools, these machines go beyond cutting — you can engrave, deboss, and even use the Rotary Blade for fabric projects. The Maker series gives you the flexibility to tackle just about any creative project you have in mind!
The Cricut Maker 4
The Cricut Maker 4, released in February 2025, is the latest addition to the Cricut Maker series. It does everything the Maker 3 does but can be up to two times faster, with speed varying by the material and use of a cutting mat. This model introduces two new colors, seashell and sage.
The Cricut Maker 3
The Cricut Maker 3, released in June 2021, is an upgraded version of the original Cricut Maker (which I cover later in this chapter) and is the most versatile Cricut machine for both hobbyists and pros.
The Cricut Maker 3 is loaded with features. It can cut, write, draw, foil, score, engrave, deboss, and perforate. Check out some of the new and improved features of the Cricut Maker 3:
Cuts 300+ materials, including Smart Materials
Works twice as fast as the original Cricut Maker
Uses the Adaptive Tool System for a wide range of tools
Has dual tool clamps for simultaneous cutting and writing
Supports Print Then Cut, allowing precise cuts around printed designs (see
Chapter 18
for details)
The largest cut size for the Cricut Maker 3 is 11.7 inches wide by 12 feet long when you’re using Smart Materials. Because Smart Materials don’t need a mat, you’re not limited by mat size for longer projects. If you’re using other materials with a mat, the biggest mat size is 12 inches by 24 inches, so that’s your limit.
Although the Cricut Maker 3 is incredibly versatile, it does have some limits. It can only cut materials up to 12 inches wide, which may not be enough for large projects like oversize wall decals or banners. Also, although it can engrave aluminum and acrylic using the Engraving Tip, it can’t cut these materials.
The Cricut Maker 3 works with all the same tools as the original Cricut Maker, giving you lots of project options. Here’s a list of the QuickSwap tools and accessories you can use:
Premium Fine-Point Blade
Foil Transfer Tool
Pens and Markers
Deep-Point Blade
Scoring Stylus
Bonded-Fabric Blade
Scoring Wheel Tip (single and double)
Rotary Blade
Wavy Blade
Knife Blade
Engraving Tip
Debossing Tip
Perforation Blade
The Cricut Maker
Released in August 2017, the Cricut Maker was a big deal before the Maker 3 and 4 arrived. Although it doesn’t support Smart Materials for matless cutting, it remains highly versatile with its Adaptive Tool System. You can use it for custom apparel, home décor, paper crafts, and personalized gifts like engraved items or custom mugs.
It’s worth noting that the series doesn’t include a “Cricut Maker 2” — it jumped right from the original Cricut Maker to the Cricut Maker 3.
The Maker can perform all the same functions as the Maker 3. It can cut, write, draw, foil, score, engrave, deboss, and perforate. Here’s what you can expect from the original Cricut Maker:
Cuts 300+ materials
Uses the Adaptive Tool System, which supports 13+ tools
Works faster than the Cricut Explore Air 2 (twice as fast, to be exact)
Supports Print Then Cut, so you can cut out printed designs like stickers
With a cutting mat, the Cricut Maker can cut designs up to 11.7 inches by 24 inches. This works well for large projects like oversize wall decals or banners made in sections that you piece together. If you need continuous cuts for extra-long designs without seams, consider the Cricut Maker 3 or 4.
The Maker can’t use Smart Materials, meaning you’ll need a cutting mat for every project. This limits your cuts to a maximum length of 24 inches, so you can’t work with extra-long matless designs. And although it’s fast, it doesn’t quite hit the speed of the newest Maker 4, but it’s still a solid machine.
Here’s a list of the tools and accessories that work with the original Cricut Maker:
Fine-Point Blade
Deep-Point Blade
Rotary Blade
Knife Blade
Scoring Wheel Tip (single and double)
Bonded-Fabric Blade
Engraving Tip
Debossing Tip
Perforation Blade
Wavy Blade
Foil Transfer Tool
The Cricut Explore Series
The Cricut Explore series is a great middle-ground option for crafters who want more versatility than the Cricut Joy offers but don’t need all the advanced tools of the Cricut Maker series. These machines, which include the Explore Air 2, the Explore 3, and the newly released Explore 4, these machines can handle a variety of materials, making them great for projects like T-shirts, decals, and greeting cards. With features like a Fine-Point Blade for precision cuts and compatibility with Cricut Pens for writing and drawing, the Explore series is a solid choice for everyday crafters looking to bring their designs to life.
The Cricut Explore 4
Released alongside the Maker 4 in February 2025, the new Cricut Explore 4 doubles the cutting speed of its predecessor, the Explore 3. For more on what the Explore 4 can do, just look at the Explore 3’s features — they’re pretty much the same.
The Cricut Explore 3
Released in June 2021, the Cricut Explore 3 is an upgrade from the Explore Air 2, offering matless cutting with Smart Materials for longer and faster projects.
The Cricut Explore 3 can cut, write, draw, score, and foil. Check out some of the new and improved features of the Cricut Explore 3:
Cuts 100+ materials, including Smart Materials
Can cut designs up to 12 feet long
Cuts twice as fast as the Explore Air 2
Has a dual tool holder for simultaneous cutting and writing
Compatible with Print Then Cut, allowing for accurate cutting of printed designs
With Smart Materials, the Explore 3 can cut up to 12 inches wide and 12 feet long. If you’re using a mat, the maximum size is 11.7 inches by 24 inches.
Unlike the Maker series (which I cover earlier in this chapter), the Explore 3 doesn’t support advanced tools like the Rotary Blade, Knife Blade, or Debossing Tip. It can’t handle heavy materials like chipboard or thick leather, which are a breeze for the Maker machines.
The Explore 3 is compatible with the following tools:
Premium Fine-Point Blade
Foil Transfer Tool
Pens and Markers
Deep-Point Blade
Scoring Stylus
Bonded-Fabric Blade
The Cricut Explore Air 2
The Cricut Explore Air 2, released in August 2017, is an upgraded version of the original Cricut Explore, cutting and writing up to two times faster. Although not as fast as the Cricut Maker series, it can still handle a variety of projects, including vinyl decals, custom T-shirts, gift boxes, personalized signs, and full-color stickers using the Print Then Cut feature.
The Cricut Explore Air 2 can cut, write, draw, foil, and score. With a mat, the Explore Air 2 can cut materials up to 11.7 x 24 inches. Benefits of the Cricut Explore Air 2 include the following:
Cuts 100+ materials
Cuts and writes up to two times faster than previous Explore models
Is compatible with the Fine-Point, Deep-Point, and Bonded-Fabric blades
Has a dual tool holder for simultaneous cutting and writing
Works with Print Then Cut, so you can cut out printed designs with precision
Unlike the Explore 3 and 4, the Explore Air 2 can’t cut Smart Materials, so it’s not suited for extra-long projects. Plus, it doesn’t have the Adaptive Tool System, so you can’t use the more advanced QuickSwap tools that are available for the Maker series.
The Explore Air 2 works with
Premium Fine-Point Blade
Foil Transfer Tool
Pens and Markers
Deep-Point Blade
Scoring Stylus
Bonded-Fabric Blade
The Cricut Joy Series
The Cricut Joy series is perfect for crafters looking for a compact, easy-to-use cutting machine for quick projects. These machines are smaller than the Explore and Maker series but still pack a punch, handling a variety of materials like vinyl, heat transfer vinyl (HTV), and cardstock. Designed for convenience, the Joy series is great for making cards, labels, decals, and other small-scale projects without taking up much space.
The Cricut Joy Xtra
The Cricut Joy Xtra, released in September 2023, is the newest and slightly larger member of the Cricut Joy family, offering more space for bigger projects. It’s perfect for printable projects like stickers and custom labels, thanks to its compatibility with Cricut Print Then Cut.
The Cricut Joy Xtra can cut, write, draw, and foil. The maximum cut size is 8.5 inches by 4 feet. Here’s what the Cricut Joy Xtra brings to the table:
Cuts 50+ materials, including Smart Materials
Is compact and portable, like the original Cricut Joy
Has Print Then Cut capability for stickers and labels
Features dual tool clamps for simultaneous cutting and writing
The Cricut Joy Xtra has a few limitations to keep in mind:
It cannot perform scoring, engraving, debossing, or perforating, which are functions available on more advanced machines like the Cricut Maker series.
It’s not compatible with a range of specialized tools, such as the Deep-Point Blade, Scoring Stylus, Bonded-Fabric Blade, Rotary Blade, or Engraving Tip. This means that you won’t be able to work with thick materials or create intricate textures like you would on a more versatile machine.
Although it allows for larger projects than the original Cricut Joy, its maximum cut width is still limited to 8.5 inches, making it less suitable for big designs or materials like large T-shirts.
The Cricut Joy Xtra works with
Premium Fine-Point Blade
Foil Transfer Tool
Pens and Markers
The Cricut Joy
The Cricut Joy, released in February 2020, is Cricut’s smallest and most portable machine, perfect for crafting in tight spaces or taking to craft fairs.
The Cricut Joy has the same functions as the Cricut Joy Xtra. It can cut, write, draw, and foil. The Cricut Joy’s maximum cut size is 4.5 inches by 4 feet. Key features of the Cricut Joy include
Cuts 50+ materials, including Smart Materials
Is ultra-compact and easy to take with you
Has a single tool clamp for cutting or writing
It’s a great beginner’s machine, but as you dive deeper into crafting, you may want a machine with more versatility, such as the Cricut Maker 3, which can tackle more advanced projects like intricate jewelry, large paper flowers, and more.
The Cricut Joy does have quite a few limitations to keep in mind:
It can’t do Print Then Cut projects, which means it can’t precisely cut around printed designs. Although you can create greeting cards using Cricut’s card-making features, like Insert Cards, predesigned templates, and writing with Cricut Pens, it isn’t capable of cutting around printed invitations or stickers because it doesn’t have a sensor to detect printed registration marks.
It isn’t compatible with a lot of the tools you can use with other Cricut machines. This includes the Deep-Point Blade, Scoring Stylus, Bonded-Fabric Blade, Scoring Wheel Tip, Rotary Blade, Wavy Blade, Knife Blade, Engraving Tip, Debossing Tip, and Perforation Blade.
It only cuts materials up to 4.5 inches wide, so it’s not ideal for large designs like custom shirts with HTV, because adult sizes typically need about 9 inches.
The Cricut Joy has only one tool clamp; other machines have two. This means you’ll have to pause and switch tools if your project involves both cutting and writing.
The Cricut Joy works with
Premium Fine-Point Blade
Foil Transfer Tool
Pens and Markers
The Cricut Venture
The Cricut Venture, released in July 2023, is Cricut’s largest cutting machine, designed for professional crafters and small businesses. It’s perfect for large projects like wall decals, custom apparel, 3-D paper crafts, and stickers.
The Venture can cut, write, draw, score, and foil. Here are some of the features that make the Cricut Venture stand out:
Cuts 100+ materials, including Smart Materials
Has an adjustable wide-format design (13 inches and 25 inches)
Works at super-fast, commercial-grade cutting speeds
Features a space-saving 45 degree–angled design
Has dual tool clamps for simultaneous cutting and writing
The Venture can cut Smart Materials in both 13-inch and 25-inch widths, which makes it the only Cricut machine with adjustable widths. For comparison, the Maker and Explore machines (I cover both earlier in this chapter) can only cut materials up to 11.7 inches wide, so the Venture can handle designs that are twice as wide.
When it comes to length, the Venture can cut a single image up to 12 feet long. This means that you can create large, continuous designs — like a banner or a long decal — without having to break the design into sections. On top of that, the Venture can cut repeated images up to 75 feet long, making it perfect for bulk projects like creating a batch of shirts or decals for a business, team, or fundraiser without reloading material.
The Cricut Venture has a few limitations compared to the Maker series. It doesn’t work with QuickSwap tools, so you can’t engrave, deboss (impress or imprint a design), or perforate (create a small series of cuts for easy folding or tearing) with it. It also can’t cut thick materials like wood or fabric without a backing. For example, though the Maker can cut fabric directly using the Rotary Blade, the Venture needs the fabric to have a sticky backing and uses the Bonded-Fabric Blade instead. Another key difference is that the Venture doesn’t have a Card Mat, which all other Cricut models offer. The Card Mat makes card-making much easier by holding pre-folded cards in place while cutting. If you’re interested in card projects, check out Chapter 12 to see how other Cricut models handle card-making.
If you need more speed and cutting width, the Venture is a great option, but for more versatility, the Maker series may be a better choice.
The Venture is compatible with seven tools to write, score, foil (press metallic foil onto materials for a decorative effect), and more, including
Performance Fine-Point Blade
Foil Transfer Tool
Pens and Markers
Deep-Point Blade
Scoring Stylus
Bonded-Fabric Blade
Automatic Cutoff Blade
Keep in mind that the Cricut Venture isn’t compatible with the Cricut Maker’s QuickSwap tools — like the Scoring Wheel Tip, Debossing Tip, Engraving Tip, Perforation Blade, Knife Blade, and Wavy Blade — which means it’s limited when it comes to handling different materials. However, some new accessories were made just for the Venture:
Docking Stand:
The Docking Stand gives you a secure place to store your machine while keeping your workspace tidy. Now, you don’t have to use the Docking Stand — it’s optional — but it does come with some nice perks! It has easy-glide wheels with a safety lock, making it a breeze to move around and put away, plus it comes with built-in roll supports for Smart Materials. The antistatic catch baskets keep your cut projects from falling to the floor, and it even has handy hooks to store your mats. You can buy the Docking Stand on its own or as part of a bundle.
Performance Machine Mats:
The Cricut Venture’s Performance Machine Mats come in two sizes — 24 by 12 inches and 24 by 28 inches — and are available in LightGrip, StandardGrip, and StrongGrip varieties. However, no fabric or card mats are made specifically for the Venture, and mats from other Cricut machines won’t work in it.
Where to Buy a Cricut
You can buy Cricut machines from various retailers, but shopping on Cricut’s official website, www.cricut.com, offers several benefits. They provide better bundles, trusted sales, warranty protection, and often a free Cricut Access trial (see Chapter 6 for details). If you prefer to shop in person, check stores like Amazon, Best Buy, Costco, Hobby Lobby, Michaels, and Walmart.
Once you’ve got your new Cricut, flip to Chapter 3 to find out how to set it up. Happy crafting!
Chapter 3
Setting Up Your Cricut
IN THIS CHAPTER
Powering up and connecting your Cricut
Setting up your Cricut account and Design Space
Setting up your Cricut may seem a bit overwhelming at first, but don’t worry — it’s easier than it looks. Think of it like putting together a simple puzzle. With a little patience and the easy-to-follow steps in this chapter, you’ll be crafting in no time. So, grab your machine, find a comfy spot, and get started on your crafting adventure!
Firing Up Your Cricut
Follow these steps to power up your Cricut:
Find the power adapter that came with your Cricut machine.
All Cricut machines use a two-part power adapter: a small white box with a cord and a second cord that connects to the wall plug. However, power adapters are model-specific, so be sure to use the one designed for your machine if you’re purchasing a replacement.
Connect the two parts of the adapter.
The cords are designed to fit together in only one way, so you can’t go wrong.
Locate the power port on the back of your Cricut.
It’s a small round hole that matches the end of the cord coming from the white box.
Plug the cord into the power port on your Cricut (see
Figure
3-1
), and then plug the adapter into a wall outlet.
Source: Kerri Adamczyk
FIGURE 3-1: How to connect the power adapter to your Cricut.
Now your Cricut machine is powered up and ready to connect to your computer.
Syncing Your Cricut with Your Computer
You can connect your Cricut machine to your computer in two ways: with the included USB cable (for compatible models) or via Bluetooth for wireless convenience. The following sections cover how to set up each connection.
Connecting via USB cable
Follow these steps to connect your Cricut with a USB cable:
Find the USB cable that came with your machine.
One end has a rectangular USB-A connector (for your computer), and the other has a square USB-B connector (for the Cricut).
Plug the USB-A end into your computer and the USB-B end into the back of your Cricut (see
Figure
3-2
).
Source: Kerri Adamczyk
FIGURE 3-2: Where to plug in each end of the USB cable on your Cricut and computer.
The plugs fit only one way, so if they don’t go in, just flip them around. Once connected, your computer should recognize the Cricut.
Connecting via Bluetooth
For a clutter-free setup, you can connect your Cricut using Bluetooth.
Cricut Joy and Cricut Joy Xtra both require Bluetooth, because they don’t have a USB port.
Here’s a quick guide to pairing on different devices. For more detailed instructions, visit Cricut’s support website (https://help.cricut.com/hc/en-us).
For a Windows PC, follow these steps:
Make sure your Cricut is powered on and within 10 to 15 feet of your computer.
Go to Start > Settings > Bluetooth & devices on your computer and make sure Bluetooth is on.
If Bluetooth is off, toggle it on.
Select Add device, or View more devices and then Add device.
Choose your Cricut from the list (if you selected Add device) or click on Everything else (if you selected View more devices).
If asked for a PIN, enter 0000.
This may apply to older models.
Follow these steps for a Mac:
Make sure your Cricut is on and within range of your Mac.
Go to Apple Menu > System Preferences > Bluetooth and turn Bluetooth on.
Find and select your Cricut from the list.
If multiple devices appear, choose the one with your Cricut’s Bluetooth device code, which is printed on the machine near the serial number.
If asked for a PIN or pairing code, enter 0000.
This may apply to older models.
Follow these steps for iOS/Android:
Be sure your Cricut is on and your mobile device is within range.
Open Settings > Bluetooth on your device.
Make sure Bluetooth is on and select your Cricut from the list.
If multiple devices appear, select the one with your Cricut’s Bluetooth device code, which is printed on the machine near the serial number.
Once your desktop or mobile device is connected, head back to Design Space for the final setup, where your machine should now show up as connected. (Flip to Part 2 for details on Cricut Design Space.)
Bluetooth may not work as well on metal surfaces, which can interfere with the signal. Place your Cricut and connected device on a nonmetal surface for a better connection.
Creating Your Cricut Account
Before diving into crafting, you’ll need a Cricut account. This is your personal login for Cricut Design Space (see Part 2), where all the magic happens! Creating an account means you’ll have access to thousands of designs, project ideas, and tools to make crafting easier and more fun. Plus, you can save your work and return to it later — perfect if you need a quick break. You can also access your account on the Cricut Design Space mobile app, allowing you to manage your projects from your phone or tablet anytime.
Consider the following benefits of your Cricut account:
Track all your purchases on
Cricut.com
.
