Cricut

Information

The Cricut Maker is the ultimate smart cutting machine. Whether you are a seasoned user or just starting out, this innovative tool allows you to create a wide range of items from intricate card designs to stickers. Its unique adaptive tool system enables the easy swapping of tools, allowing you to cut, write, and score with unmatched precision on over 300 different types of material. Some projects already completed in the space include t-shirts, stickers, and vinyl decals.

The Cricut Maker mainly operates with the Cricut Design app, which gives users access to a huge library of images, fonts, and project ideas. Users can also upload their own images as .JPG, .PNG, .GIF, .SVG, .DXF, .HEIC or .BMP. The app is compatible with desktop and mobile devices.

Safety Basics

• Do not stick hands near the blade at any time. If something is wrong with the blade or machine, please ask a mentor on shift for help.

• Do not touch the mat, material, or blade while the machine is in motion. If an error occurs or you need to stop the machine, please touch the Cricut logo on top of the machine or the cancel button in the Design Space app.

How to use the Cricut

1. Download Cricut Design Space and create a free account. The premium account is not needed for basic use of the Cricut.

2. Open up the app and click on Canvas, which is located in the top left-hand corner.

1. Create your design on the Canvas using the toolbars located on the top and left side of the screen.

1. Once your design is finished, name and SAVE the project. Canvas Design Space does not automatically save progress. If you close the app without saving, your progress WILL BE LOST!

2. Connect your device to the Cricut Maker located at the Craft Station using either the white USB cord that should already be plugged into the machine or Bluetooth. If you cannot find the chord, ask a mentor on duty.

3. Make sure the machine is plugged in. If it is on the craft table, it should already be plugged in to an outlet located on the wall above the cutting mats. Open the machine by pulling up the top of the machine.

4. Select a cutting mat for your project and material. The mats are hanging on the wall above the craft station table.

   • We have three different types of mats:

     • Blue Light Grip Mat - used for materials such as paper, tissue paper, or cardstock.

     • Green Medium Grip Mat - used for materials such as vinyl and sticker paper.

     • Purple Strong Stick Mat - used for materials such as felt and leather.

   • We have two different sizes of each type of mat:

     • 12 x 12 - use for projects that do not exceed 11.5" x 11.5"

     • 24 x 24 - use for projects that do not exceed 11.5" x 23.5"

5. Peel the plastic cover off the mat of your choice. This plastic cover must NOT be thrown away as it protects the stickiness of the mat while being stored. Place the cover somewhere you can find it and it will not be mistaken for trash.

6. Place your material on the mat in the upper left-hand corner of the mat as close to the gridlines as possible. Make sure all corners are secure.

7. In the Design Space app click "Make". Now you will be taken to a screen that shows what the machine will be cutting and what it looks like on the mat. Make sure your design looks how you intended it to. Select your size mat, then press "continue".

1. The next screen will show three steps. Follow these three steps.

   1. Select your base material: Choose the material that you put on the map.

   2. Load tools and mat: Make sure the correct tool is selected.

   3. Press Go: when you are ready to start cutting press the flashing Cricut Logo button.

   

1. Once the cut is complete, press the Load/Unload button again to unload the mat.

2. Pull your material off the mat and place the plastic cover back on the mat. Return the mat back to where you found it.

3. Turn off and close the machine.

   1. Make sure all tools have been returned to their proper locations. Close up the machine by pushing up the front piece and closing the top.

   2. Place the black cover back on the machine.

   3. Neatly wrap up the USB chord and store it next to the machine.

Depending on what material you used there may be extra steps such as weeding and using transfer paper. If you have questions, ask the mentors on duty.