Section 1A

Cricut Explore

Cricut Explore: Whats in the box?

Everything you need and more! Use the starter project materials to cut, write, and make your
first projects a thank you card, a vinyl sticker for your machine, and iron-on to customize
your storage bag!

Power cord

USB cord

Cricut Exploremachine

Storage bag

Black and Jade

Cricut Cardstock

12" x 12" StandardGrip

cutting mat

Blade and housing

(pre-installed)

Silver Cricut
Vinyl

Pen and accessory adapter

(adaptor pre-installed)

White Cricut
Iron-on

Duckt Tape sheets

(colors may vary)

Content included in box may vary.

Section 1A Page 1

Section 1B
Cricut Explore

Cricut Explore: Overview

USB port

Power button
Power port

Open button
Tool cup
Smart Set dial
Cricut cartridge port
Load/Unload mat
Go
Pause
Accessory clamp A
Rollers

Blade clamp B

Utility port

Mat guides

Storage compartments
Cutting mat

Section 1B Page 1

Section 1C
Cricut Explore Air

Cricut Explore Air: Whats in the box?

Everything is included to set up your machine and create your first project.

Power cord

USB cord

Cricut Exploremachine

Storage bag

Gray and blue

Cricut Cardstock

Blade and housing

(pre-installed)

Pen and accessory adapter

(adaptor pre-installed)

12" x 12" StandardGrip

cutting mat

Content included in box may vary.

Section 1C Page 1

Section 1D
Cricut Explore

Cricut Explore Air Overview

Cricut Explore Air features the wireless design-and-cut system, meaning this machine can be used
with your computer or iPad to design and then those designs will be sent to the machine over a
Bluetooth connection. You can also connect via USB to your computer of you like.

Section 1D Page 1

Section 1E
Cricut Explore

Recommended minimum system requirements

Cricut Explore has recommended minimum system requirements for use. Cricut Design Space,
the free online design software used with Cricut Explore machines, utilizes the latest technology
for optimal user experience. From time to time the recommended minimum system requirements
for Cricut Explore machines and/or Cricut Design Space software may change to help improve
software performance. As updates are made to the software, some minimum system requirement
updates will be required.
Windows OS
OS: Windows 7, Windows 8
CPU: Intel Pentium4 2.33 GHz or equivalent AMD processor
RAM: 4GB
Browsers: Latest version of Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome
50MB free disk space
Available USB port
Mac OS
OS: Mac OS X 10.9+
CPU 1.83 GHz
RAM: 4GB
Browsers: Latest version of Safari, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome
50MB free disk space
Available USB port
iPad
iOS 7.1.2. or later
iPad 2 or newer
iPad mini or newer
100MB free memory storage capacity
Display
Minimum 1024px x 768px screen resolution
Software
Latest version of Adobe Flash
Internet
Broadband connection via PC, Mac 9, or iPad
Tip: Follow this link for more information on updating your Mac Operating System
https://www.apple.com/osx/how-to-upgrade/ .

Section 1E Page 1

Section 1F
Cricut Explore One

Cricut Explore One: whats in the box

Everything is included to set up your machine and create your first project, this Create vinyl sticker.

Cricut Exploremachine
Cricut Exploremachine

Power cord

Silver Cricut
Vinyl

USB cord

Blade and housing

(pre-installed)

12" x 12" StandardGrip

cutting mat
Section 1F Page 1

Section 1F
Cricut Explore One

Cricut Explore One: whats in the box

25 free ready-to-make projects

Want to make something fast? Start with the 25+ free Make It Now projects included with purchase!
Plus, there are plenty of other pre-designed projects for quick DIY creativity.

Section 1F Page 2

Section 1F
Cricut Explore One

Cricut Explore One: whats in the box

50+ free images

Create your own projects using the images that come free with your machine!
Argyle Phone Case

Arrow Tote Bag

Dove Card

Sail Away Card

#M4467E

#MFCEE1

#M4CF5B

#M4CF67

Doily Card

Triangle Flower Box

Floral Mini Card

3D Leaf Wreath

#M4CF55

#M97A0D

#M93595

#MA3F1B

Snowflake Cupcake

Chevron Tote

Gold Valentine
& Envelope

Create Sticker

#MCC4D9

#M32EEC

#MFC9D2

Section 1F Page 3

Section 1F
Cricut Explore One

Cricut Explore One: whats in the box

Bowtie Bodysuit

Thinking of you card

#M370AB

#M152B84

Good Luck Card

#M1523B7
Bow Gift Box

#M97DA6

#M41F28

#M440AC

Snowflake Luminary

Noel Banner

#M35CA1

#M40622

#M4509A

Target Mug

#M354D5

#M3CF51

#M42044

Treat Box Seals

#M3948A

#M277A3A

#M277A35
Section 1F Page 4

Section 1F
Cricut Explore One

Cricut Explore One: whats in the box

Halloween Candy Containers

#M44C37

#M440FA

#M454E8

#M4CFFE

Chalkboard Fonts
-Condensed

Stay Humble Pillow

#M4D003

Cross Stitch Wall Art

#MFCAC7

#MFCAC3

#MFCA79

#M270FFE

#M271005

Recipe Book

#M270FF7

Section 1F Page 5

Section 1F
Cricut Explore One

Cricut Explore One: whats in the box

Pennant Cake Topper

#M277A77

#M277A81

#M277A8E

Tiny Packages with Bows

#M93468

#MB00E6

#MA2253

#M935DB

#MEF96C

#MEF991

#MEF967

#MEF9BF

#M18690A

#M8B167

#M3CBCD

#M376C4

Silverware Tray

#MEF963
Hello Frame

#M3ED3E

Section 1F Page 6

Section 1F
Cricut Explore One

Cricut Explore One: whats in the box

Happy Birthday Cursive Card

#M475A8

#M3CF51

#M415EE

#M4CF5C

#M435502

Everyday Fonts
-Announcement

Section 1F Page 7

Section 1G
Cricut Explore One

Cricut Explore One overview

Create DIY projects and crafts with Cricut Explore One, an electronic cutting machine offering
amazing precision at an irresistible price. It cuts a wide variety of materials from paper to iron-on to
adhesive vinyleven thick materials like leather and burlap!
Design on your computer or iPad using free, cloud-based software. Say goodbye to complicated
material settingsyoull get the perfect cut when you select the material with a turn of the Smart Set
dial, and Cut Smart technology delivers the most precise cuts. Plus, you get 25+ free one-click projects
and 50+ free images to get you started right away.

Section 1G Page 1

Section 1G
Cricut Explore One

Cricut Explore One overview

Explore your creativity and delight your loved ones with handmade projects and gifts from the heart!
Cricut Explore Air makes it easy, fast, and affordable to bring your DIY projects to life.

Cricut Explore quality at an affordable price

Ultra-precise cuts
Upload your own images and use your own fonts for free
Cut materials from vinyl to leather
Smart Set dial for 1-step material settings
25+ free 1-click projects and 50+ free images
Integrated storage compartments
Free Cricut Design Space online software and iPad app
Works with Cricut cartridges
Cuts printable images

Section 1G Page 2

Section 1G
Cricut Explore One

Cricut Explore One overview

Clean cuts, big or small
The Cricut Explore One features patent-pending Cut Smart technology. Cut all sorts of shapes with
exceptional precision in sizes ranging from " to 11" wide x 23" tall.

No settings required
Forget the complicated materials settings. Now you can get the perfect cut on nearly any
materialjust turn the Smart Set dial. You can even create custom settings for different materials.

Section 1G Page 3

Section 1G
Cricut Explore One

Cricut Explore One overview

Which Cricut machine is best for you?
Explore
One

Explore

Bluetooth for wireless cutting

Seperate
purchase
required

Seperate
purchase
required

Cut and write in 1 step

2 steps;
Seperate
purchase
required

Upload your own images for free

Cut a wids variety of materials

Smart Set dial for easy material settings

Design software for PC and Mac, app for iPad

Works with Cricut cartridges

Explore
Air

Section 1G Page 4

Section 2
Cricut Explore

Plugging in the machine

Step 1. Plug the square end of the USB cable into the back of your Cricut machine.

Step 2. Plug the rectangular end of the USB cable into your computer.

Section 2 Page 1

Section 2
Cricut Explore

Plugging in the machine

Step 3. Plug the power cable into back of your machine and power outlet.

Step 4. Press the Power button on your machine.

Section 2 Page 2

Section 2
Cricut Explore

Plugging in the machine

Step 5. Press the Open button to open your machine.

Section 2 Page 3

Section 3

Loading & unloading

Loading & unloading the mat

Step 1. Remove the clear plastic cover from the mat and save for storage.

Step 2. Place the material on the mat in the top left corner inside grid.

Section 3 Page 1

Section 3

Loading & unloading

Loading & unloading the mat

Step 3. Position the mat underneath the mat guides on your Cricut machine.

Step 4. Keeping mat pushed firmly against rollers, press the Load/Unload button.

Step 5. Ensure there is enough space for the mat to run all the way through the machine.

Section 3 Page 2

Section 3

Loading & unloading

Loading & unloading the mat

Step 6. Once the machine has completed the project, Unload mat by pressing the Load/Unload
button again.

Step 7. Remove large cuts or excess material by gently bending mat until one edge of the
materials releases.

Section 3 Page 3

Section 3

Loading & unloading

Loading & unloading the mat

Step 8. Holding the material on a flat surface, slowly pull the mat away until all material is released.

Step 9. Once excess material is released, remove small cuts one at a time, bending the mat to release
edges. Gently peel cuts pieces off the mat, or use Cricut tools to lifts pieces off.

Section 3 Page 4

Section 3

Loading & unloading

Loading & unloading the mat

Mat care and storage

Replace the clear mat cover after use to keep the mat surface clean.

Never store a mat that still has material attached to it.

Use the entire surface of the mat evenly by alternating which end you load into the machine first.

Section 3 Page 5

Section 4A

Loading & unloading the pen

Cricut Explore and Cricut Explore Air

Load/Unload pen
Step 1. Open accessory clamp A.

Step 2. Remove the cap from the pen.

Section 4A Page 1

Section 4A

Loading & unloading the pen

Cricut Explore and Cricut Explore Air

Load/Unload pen
Step 3. Hold the accessory clamp up while pushing the pen down into the housing until the arrow on the
pen disappears.

Tip: Holding accessory clamp A up prevents the pen from marking your machine or, if you have already
loaded the mat, paperthe material on it.
Step 4. Close the clamp.

Section 4A Page 2

Section 4A

Loading & unloading the pen

Cricut Explore and Cricut Explore Air

Load/Unload pen
Step 5. Once the machine has finished writing, open accessory clamp A and pull the pen upward
to remove.

Step 6. Recap the pen to prevent it from drying out.

Section 4A Page 3

Section 4B

Loading & unloading the pen

Cricut Explore One Load/Unload pen

Step 1. Remove the cap from the pen.

Step 2. Insert the pen into the accessory adapter until the arrow on the pen disappears.

Section 4B Page 1

Section 4B

Loading & unloading the pen

Cricut Explore One Load/Unload pen

Step 3. Open the clamp.

Step 4. Hold the clamp up while pushing pen and adapter down into housing until adapter snaps
into place.

Tip: Holding the clamp up prevents the pen from marking your machine or, if you have already loaded
the mat, the material on it.
Section 4B Page 2

Section 4B

Loading & unloading the pen

Cricut Explore One Load/Unload pen

Step 5. Close the clamp

Step 6. Once the machine has finished writing, open the clamp and pull the pen upward to remove both
the pen and the adapter.

Section 4B Page 3

Section 4B

Loading & unloading the pen

Cricut Explore One Load/Unload pen

Step 7. Remove the pen from the adapter.

Tip: Store the accessory adapter in the storage compartments found in the door of the machine.
Step 8. Recap the pen to prevent it from drying out.

Section 4B Page 4

Section 5A
Accessing setup

Google Chrome
Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, and Safari are the most common web browsers.
Choose the one youre most comfortable with. In this guide, well show you how to access the setup
website using Google Chrome.
Step 1. Find and double click on the Google Chrome icon on your computers desk top.

Tip: Your computers desk top is the main screen you see when you turn your computer on.
Step 2. Click on the address bar at the top of the browser. The current URL or web address will
be highlighted.

Section 5A Page 1

Section 5A
Accessing setup

Google Chrome
Step 3. Enter the web address www.cricut.com/setup.

Tip: Remember, spelling is important to get the correct web page.

Step 4. The first setup screen welcomes you to Cricut. Click on the green Get Started button in the
bottom right corner to begin the set up process.

Section 5A Page 2

Section 5B
Accessing setup

Internet Explorer
Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, and Safari are the most common web browsers.
Choose the one youre most comfortable with. In this guide, well show you how to access the setup
website using Internet Explorer.
Step 1. Find and double click on the Internet Explorer icon on your computers desk top.

Tip: Your computers desk top is the main screen you see when you turn your computer on.
Step 2. Click on the address bar at the top of the browser. The current URL or web address will
be highlighted.

Section 5B Page 1

Section 5B
Accessing setup

Internet Explorer
Step 3. Enter the web address www.cricut.com/setup.

Tip: Remember, spelling is important to get the correct web page.

Step 4. The first setup screen welcomes you to Cricut. Click on the green Get Started button in the
bottom right corner to begin the set up process.

Section 5B Page 2

Section 5C
Accessing setup

Mozilla Firefox
Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, and Safari are the most common web browsers.
Choose the one youre most comfortable with. In this guide, well show you how to access the setup
website using Mozilla Firefox.
Step 1. Find and double click on the Mozilla Firefox icon on your computers desk top.

Tip: Your computers desk top is the main screen you see when you turn your computer on.
Step 2. Click on the address bar at the top of the browser, where it reads Search or enter address.

Section 5C Page 1

Section 5C
Accessing setup

Mozilla Firefox
Step 3. Enter the web address www.cricut.com/setup.

Tip: Remember, spelling is important to get the correct web page.

Step 4. The first setup screen welcomes you to Cricut. Click on the green Get Started button in the
bottom right corner to begin the set up process.

Section 5C Page 2

Section 5D
Accessing setup

Safari
Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, and Safari are the most common web
browsers. Choose the one youre most comfortable with. In this guide, well show you how to
access the setup website using Safari.
Step 1. Find and double click the Safari icon on your dock at the bottom of your screen.

Step 2. Click on the address bar at the top of the browser, the current URL or web address will
be highlighted.

Section 5D Page 1

Section 5D
Accessing setup

Safari
Step 3. Enter the web address www.cricut.com/setup.

Tip: Remember, spelling is important to get the correct web page.

Step 4. The first setup screen welcomes you to Cricut, click on the green Get Started button in the
bottom right corner to begin your set up process.

Section 5D Page 2

Section 6
Cricut Explore

Adobe Flash
Adobe Flash Player is necessary to use with Cricut Design Space to deliver rich interactive web
content across browsers and platforms. Adobe Flash Player is propriety software from Adobe
Systems Inc. Should you encounter difficulty while downloading Flash, please visit Adobes Flash
Player Help: http://helpx.adobe.com/flash-player.html. If you need further assistance, please call
our Customer Care at 1-877-7-CRICUT.

Section 6 Page 1

Section 7A
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Cricut Plugin (PC)

In order to access all the creative features of Cricut Design Space, youll need to install the Design
Space plugin. The plugin is installed onto your computer and executed by your browser, so if you
use Design Space on more than one computer, youll need to install it on each one. However, it is
not necessary to install the plugin in order to use the Cricut Design Space app for iPad.
As new features become available, you may be prompted to update your plugin when you begin a new
project. Therefore, the plugin pictured below may not reflect the most recent version of the Design
Space plugin.
Step 1: Click Download Plugin.

Section 7A Page 1

Section 7A
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Cricut Plugin (PC)

Step 2: Open your computers Start menu and open your Documents folder.

Step 3: Go to the Downloads folder and then double click the Cricut Design Space file.

Section 7A Page 2

Section 7A
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Cricut Plugin (PC)

Step 4: The plugin installer will open to set up Cricut Design Space. Click Next to continue.

Step 5: Review and accept the Terms of use. Click Next to continue.

Section 7A Page 3

Section 7A
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Cricut Plugin (PC)

Step 6: You will need to close all browsers. To proceed, click Quit and Continue.

You may lose any unsaved work that is currently open in your browser unless it is saved at this point.
When you are ready to continue, click Yes..

Section 7A Page 4

Section 7A
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Cricut Plugin (PC)

Step 7: Decide if you would like a shortcut to Cricut Design Space on your computers desktop.
Click Next to continue.

Step 8: You are ready to install the plugin. Click Next to begin the process.

Section 7A Page 5

Section 7A
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Cricut Plugin (PC)

Step 9: Depending on your computer settings a security question may appear asking if you would
like to install the device software from Provo Craft & Novelty, Inc. Click Install to continue.

Step 9: The Cricut Design Space plugin has successfully installed. If you would like to
automatically launch Design Space into your default browser, leave the box checked
and clicked Finish.

To return to Cricut Design Space, go to www.cricut.com/design.

To return to the machine setup process, go to www.cricut.com/setup.

Tip: If you arrive back at the Update Cricut Plugin screen, it may be that your plugin is being blocked
by the browser. Check your browsers settings to ensure the Cricut plugin is allowed or activated.
Section 7A Page 6

Section 7B
Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Cricut Plugin (Mac)

In order to access all the creative features of Cricut Design Space, youll need to install the Design
Space plugin. The plugin is installed onto your computer and executed by your browser, so if you
use Design Space on more than one computer, youll need to install it on each one. However, it is
not necessary to install the plugin in order to use the Cricut Design Space app for iPad.
As new features become available, you may be prompted to update your plugin when you begin a new
project. Therefore, the plugin pictured below may not reflect the most recent version of the Design
Space plugin.
Step 1: Click Download Plugin.

Section 7B Page 1

Section 7B
Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Step 2: Open Finder in the dock at the bottom of your screen.

Step 3: Go to the Downloads folder and then double click the Cricut Design Space zip file.
Tip: You may need to unzip the file. Once this is completed, double click the unzipped file.

2
1

Section 7B Page 2

Section 7B
Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Step 4: Depending on your computer setings a warning that this application has been downloaded
from the Internet may appear. If it does, click Open to continue.

Step 5: Depending on your computer settings, you may be prompted to enter your administrator name
and password. Enter the information and click OK to continue.

Section 7B Page 3

Section 7B
Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Step 6: The plugin installer will open to set up Cricut Design Space. Click Next to continue.

Step 7: Review and accept the Terms of use. Click Next to continue.

Section 7B Page 4

Section 7B
Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Step 8: You will need to close all browsers. To proceed, click Quit and Continue.

You may lose any unsaved work that is currently open in your browser if you do not first save it. When
you are ready to continue, click Yes.

Section 7B Page 5

Section 7B
Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Step 9: You are ready to install the plugin. Click Next to begin the process.

Step 10: The Cricut Design Space plugin has successfully installed. If you would like to automatically
launch Design Space into your default browser, leave the box checked and clicked Finish.

To return to Cricut Design Space, go to www.cricut.com/design.

To return to the machine setup process, go to www.cricut.com/setup.

Section 7B Page 6

Section 7C
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC with

Google Chrome
In order to access all the creative features of Cricut Design Space, youll need to install the Design
Space plugin. As new features become available, from time to time youll be prompted to update the
plugin. Its installed on your computer and executed by your browser, so if you use Design Space on
more than one computer, youll need to install it on each device. However, it is not necessary to install
the plugin in order to use the Cricut Design Space app on iPad.
Updating the plugin is a 4 stage process.

Stage 1 Clear browsing history, cache and cookies

Stage 2 Update and enable Google Chrome to use plugins
Stage 3 Download and install the Cricut plugin
Stage 4 Enable the Cricut plugin in Google Chrome

Stage 1 Clear browsing history, cache and cookies

Step 1. Open Google Chrome and click on the menu (3 stacked lines located in the upper right corner
of the browser).

Section 7C Page 1

Section 7C
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC with

Google Chrome
Step 2. From the menu, select History.

Step 3. You will be taken to your browsing history stored by Chrome. Click the Clear browsing data
button located in the top left of your screen.

Section 7C Page 2

Section 7C
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC with

Google Chrome
Step 4. A Clear browsing data pop-up window will open with the words Obliterate the following
items from next to a selection menu. Choose the beginning of time. Dont worry, this process wont
hurt your computerit simply helps Chrome work from a clean slate. Make sure at least the following
boxes are checked:

Browsing history
Download history
Cookies and other site and plug-in data
Cached images and files

Section 7C Page 3

Section 7C
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC with

Google Chrome
Step 5. Click the Clear browsing data button.

Step 6. Once the browsing data has been cleared, the pop-up window will dismiss. Quit Google
Chrome by clicking the X in the upper right hand corner.

Section 7C Page 4

Section 7C
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC with

Google Chrome
Stage 2 Update Google Chrome and enable it to use plugins
Step 1. Reopen Google Chrome and click on the menu (3 stacked lines located in the upper right
corner of the browser).

Step 2. From the menu, select About Google Chrome.

Section 7C Page 5

Section 7C
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC with

Google Chrome
Step 3. Check your version of Google Chrome.
a. If it is version 42.0.2311.90 or above, continue on to step 4.
b. If your version is lower than 42.0.2311.90, your browser will automatically update. Wait for the
update to complete and then click Relaunch to finish updating. (Make sure to "allow" if your
computer gives you a prompt.)

Step 4. Once your version of Chrome is up to date, enter this URL into the address bar of your browser:
chrome://flags/#enable-npapi

Section 7C Page 6

Section 7C
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC with

Google Chrome
Step 5. The resulting page contains a number of links. Locate the highlighted text Enable NPAPI.
Click Enable.
Tip: Double-check to avoid clicking the incorrect link. If Enable NPAPI does not appear on the screen,
you do not need to make any changes. Close the tab and continue to the next stage, Download and install
the Cricut plugin.

Section 7C Page 7

Section 7C
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC with

Google Chrome
Stage 3 Download and install the Cricut plugin
Step 1. Click this link or enter this URL into the address bar of your browser:
https://us.cricut.com/Design/Data/Software/Plugin/CricutDesignSpace.exe

Step 2. The downloaded file will appear at the bottom of the window. Double-click on the file begin the
Cricut plugin installation process.

Section 7C Page 8

Section 7C
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC with

Google Chrome
Step 3. You may be asked if you would like to allow Cricut Design Space to be downloaded from the
internet. If so, click Yes.
Step 4. The plugin installer will open to set up Cricut Design Space. Click Next to continue.

Step 5. Review and accept the Terms of Use. Click Next to continue.

Section 7C Page 9

Section 7C
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC with

Google Chrome
Step 6. If you are asked to specify the directory where Cricut Design Space will be installed, choose a
directory or use the default and click Next.

Step 7. The components you want to install have been preselected. Click Next to continue.

Section 7C Page 10

Section 7C
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC with

Google Chrome
Step 8. You will need to close down all browsers in order for the plugin to successfully install. You
may be prompted to do so. However, if you are not prompted, you will still have to do this manually.
Click on the menu (3 stacked lines in the upper right corner of the browser) and then select Exit.

Tip: When you quit, you may lose any unsaved work that is currently open in your browser unless it is
saved at this point.

Section 7C Page 11

Section 7C
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC with

Google Chrome
Step 9. You are ready to install the plugin. Click Next to begin the process.

Step 10. Depending on your computer settings, a security question may appear asking if you would like
to install the device software from Provo Craft & Novelty, Inc. Click Install to continue.

Section 7C Page 12

Section 7C
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC with

Google Chrome
Step 11. The installation process will then begin automatically.

Step 12. The Cricut Design Space plugin has successfully installed. If you would like to automatically
launch Cricut Design Space into your default browser, leave the box checked and clicked Finish.

Your Cricut plugin has been updated. If you have checked the Launch Cricut Design Space box, you
will be taken to Cricut Design Space when your browser reopens. You can also open your browser
and enter this URL into the address bar to go to Cricut Design Space: www.cricut.com/design
Section 7C Page 13

Section 7C
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC with

Google Chrome
Stage 4 Enable the Cricut plugin in Google Chrome
Step 1. In Google Chrome, open a new browsing window by clicking on a tab at the top of the screen.

Step 2. Enter this URL into the address bar of your browser:
chrome://plugins/

Section 7C Page 14

Section 7C
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC with

Google Chrome
Step 3. In the list of plugins, locate Cricut.
a. If the Cricut plugin bar is highlighted in gray, click on the word Enable and check the box Always
allowed to run.
b. If the Cricut plugin bar shows as Disable, ensure that the Always allowed to run box is checked
and proceed to step 4.

Step 4. Your Cricut plugin is ready to go. Close the browser tab.

Section 7C Page 15

Section 7C
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC with

Google Chrome
Step 5. You have completed the plugin update process. If you need to return to Cricut Design Space,
enter this URL into the address bar of your browser:
www.cricut.com/design
Have fun creating!

Section 7C Page 16

Section 7C
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC with

Google Chrome

Section 7C Page 17

Section 7D
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut plugin on a PC

with Internet Explorer
In order to access all the creative features of Cricut Design Space, youll need to install the Design
Space plugin. As new features become available, from time to time youll be prompted to update the
plugin. Its installed on your computer and executed by your browser, so if you use Design Space on
more than one computer, youll need to install it on each device. However, it is not necessary to install
the plugin in order to use the Cricut Design Space app on iPad.
Updating the plugin is a 3 stage process.

Stage 1 Clear browsing history, cache and cookies

Stage 2 Download and install the Cricut plugin
Stage 3 Enable the Cricut plugin in Internet Explorer

Stage 1 Clear browsing history, cache and cookies

Step 1. Open Internet Explorer and open the Tools menu by clicking on the gear icon in the upper
right corner.

Section 7D Page 1

Section 2D

Make It Now Projects

Updating the Cricut plugin on a PC

with Internet Explorer
Step 2. From the menu, select Internet Options.

Step 3. An Internet Options pop-up window will open. Under Browsing history, click the
Delete button.

Section 7D Page 2

Section 2D

Make It Now Projects

Updating the Cricut plugin on a PC

with Internet Explorer
Step 4. On the Delete Browsing History pop-up window, make sure at least the following boxes
are checked:

Preserve Favorites website data

Temporary Internet files and website files
Cookies and website data
History
Download History

Section 7D Page 3

Section 2D

Make It Now Projects

Updating the Cricut plugin on a PC

with Internet Explorer
Step 5. Click the Delete button. Dont worry, this process wont hurt your computerit simply helps
Internet Explorer work from a clean slate.

Step 6. Click Okay to close the Internet Options pop up window.

Section 7D Page 4

Section 2D

Make It Now Projects

Updating the Cricut plugin on a PC

with Internet Explorer
Step 7. Once the browsing data has been cleared, a message will appear at the bottom of the screen
indicating Internet Explorer has finished deleting the selected browsing history. Quit Internet
Explorer by clicking the X in the upper right hand corner.

Section 7D Page 5

Section 2D

Make It Now Projects

Updating the Cricut plugin on a PC

with Internet Explorer
Phase 2 Download and install the Cricut plugin
Step 1. Open Internet Explorer and enter this URL into the address bar of your browser:
https://us.cricut.com/Design/Data/Software/Plugin/CricutDesignSpace.exe

Step 2. A prompt will appear at the bottom of the screen. Click Run to continue.

Section 7D Page 6

Section 2D

Make It Now Projects

Updating the Cricut plugin on a PC

with Internet Explorer
Step 3. You may be asked if you would like to allow Cricut Design Space to be downloaded from the
internet. If so, click Yes.
Step 4. The plugin installer will open. To set up Cricut Design Space, continue by clicking Next .

Step 5. Review and accept the Terms of Use. Click Next to continue.

Section 7D Page 7

Section 2D

Make It Now Projects

Updating the Cricut plugin on a PC

with Internet Explorer
Step 6. If you are asked to specify the directory where Cricut Design Space will be installed, choose a
directory or use the default and click Next.

Step 7. The components you want to install have been preselected. Click Next to continue.

Section 7D Page 8

Section 2D

Make It Now Projects

Updating the Cricut plugin on a PC

with Internet Explorer
Step 8. You will need to close down all browsers in order for the plugin to successfully install. You
may be prompted to do so. However, if you are not prompted, you will still have to do this manually.
Quit all open browsers by clicking the X in the upper right hand corner.

Tip: When you quit, you may lose any unsaved work that is currently open in your browser unless it is
saved at this point.
Step 9. You are ready to install the plugin. Click Next to begin the process.

Section 7D Page 9

Section 2D

Make It Now Projects

Updating the Cricut plugin on a PC

with Internet Explorer
Step 10. Depending on your computer settings, a security question may appear asking if you would like
to install the device software from Provo Craft & Novelty, Inc. Click Install to continue.

Step 11. The installation process will then begin automatically.

Section 7D Page 10

Section 2D

Make It Now Projects

Updating the Cricut plugin on a PC

with Internet Explorer
Step 12. The Cricut Design Space plugin has successfully installed. If you would like to automatically
launch Cricut Design Space into your default browser, leave the box checked and clicked Finish.

Your Cricut plugin has been updated. When your browser reopens, you will be taken to Cricut Design
Space. You can also enter this URL into the address bar of your browser to go to Cricut Design Space:
www.cricut.com/design

Section 7D Page 11

Section 2D

Make It Now Projects

Updating the Cricut plugin on a PC

with Internet Explorer
Stage 3 Enable the Cricut plugin in Internet Explorer
Step 1. In Internet Explorer, open the Tools menu by clicking on the gear icon in the upper
right corner.

Step 2. From the menu, select Manage add-ons.

Section 7D Page 12

Section 2D

Make It Now Projects

Updating the Cricut plugin on a PC

with Internet Explorer
Step 3. A Manage Add-ons pop up window will open. In the list of plugins, locate Provo Craft &
Novelty, Inc.
a. If the status of the Cricut Design Space Bridge Plugin is Enabled, proceed to step 4.
b. If the status of the Cricut Design Space Bridge Plugin is Disabled, click on the plugin to select it
and then click on Enable in the bottom right corner of the pop up window.

Step 4. Your Cricut plugin is ready to go. Exit the Manage Add-ons pop up window by clicking Close.

Section 7D Page 13

Section 2D

Make It Now Projects

Updating the Cricut plugin on a PC

with Internet Explorer
Step 5. You have completed the plugin process. If you need to return to Cricut Design Space enter this
URL into the address bar of your browser: www.cricut.com/design
Have fun creating!

Section 7D Page 14

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC

with Mozilla Firefox
In order to access all the creative features of Cricut Design Space, youll need to install the Design
Space plugin. As new features become available, from time to time youll be prompted to update the
plugin. Its installed on your computer and executed by your browser, so if you use Design Space on
more than one computer, youll need to install it on each device. However, it is not necessary to install
the plugin in order to use the Cricut Design Space app on iPad.
Updating the plugin is a 3 stage process.

Stage 1 Clear browsing history, cache and cookies

Stage 2 Download and install the Cricut plugin
Stage 3 Enable the Cricut plugin in Mozilla Firefox

Stage 1 Clear browsing history, cache and cookies

Step 1. Step 1. Open Mozilla Firefox and click on the menu (3 stacked lines located in the upper
right corner of the browser).

Section 7E Page 1

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC

with Mozilla Firefox
Step 2. From the menu, select History.

Step 3. Your browsing history will be displayed. Click Clear Recent History

Section 7E Page 2

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC

with Mozilla Firefox
Step 4. A Clear All History pop-up window will open. In the Time range to clear drop-down menu,
select Everything. Dont worry, this process wont hurt your computerit simply helps Firefox
work from a clean slate. Make sure at least the following boxes are checked:

Browsing & Download History

Form & Search History
Cookies
Cache

Section 7E Page 3

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC

with Mozilla Firefox
Step 5. Click the Clear Now button.

Step 6. Once the browsing data has been cleared, the pop-up window will dismiss. Quit Mozilla
Firefox by clicking the X in the upper right hand corner.

Section 7E Page 4

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC

with Mozilla Firefox
Phase 2 Download and install the Cricut plugin
Step 1. Enter this URL into the address bar of your browser:
https://us.cricut.com/Design/Data/Software/Plugin/CricutDesignSpace.exe

Step 2. You will be prompted to save the file. Click Save File.

Section 7E Page 5

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC

with Mozilla Firefox
Step 3. The file will download and can be accessed by clicking on the arrow on the top right of your
screen and then clicking on the file.

Step 4. You may be asked if you would like to allow Cricut Design Space to be downloaded from the
internet. If so, click Yes.

Section 7E Page 6

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC

with Mozilla Firefox
Step 5. The plugin installer will open. To set up Cricut Design Space, continue by clicking Next.

Step 6. Review and accept the Terms of Use. Click Next to continue.

Section 7E Page 7

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC

with Mozilla Firefox
Step 7. If you are asked to specify the directory where Cricut Design Space will be installed,
choose a directory or use the default and click Next.

Step 8. The components you want to install have been preselected. Click Next to continue.

Section 7E Page 8

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC

with Mozilla Firefox
Step 9. You will need to close down all browsers in order for the plugin to successfully install. You may
be prompted to do so. However, if you are not prompted, you will still have to do this manually. Quit all
open browsers by clicking the X in the upper right hand corner.

Tip: When you quit, you may lose any unsaved work that is currently open in your browser unless it is
saved at this point.
Step 10. You are ready to install the plugin. Click Next to begin the process.

Section 7E Page 9

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC

with Mozilla Firefox
Step 11. Depending on your computer settings, a security question may appear asking if you would like
to install the device software from Provo Craft & Novelty, Inc. Click Install to continue.

Step 12. The installation process will then begin automatically.

Section 7E Page 10

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC

with Mozilla Firefox
Step 13. The Cricut Design Space plugin has successfully installed. If you would like to automatically
launch Cricut Design Space into your default browser, leave the box checked and clicked Finish.

Your Cricut plugin has been updated. When your browser reopens, you will be taken to Cricut Design
Space. You can also enter this URL into the address bar of your browser to go to Cricut Design Space:
www.cricut.com/design

Section 7E Page 11

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC

with Mozilla Firefox
Stage 3 Enable the Cricut plugin in Mozilla Firefox
Step 1. In Mozilla Firefox, click on the menu (3 stacked lines located in the upper right corner of
the browser).

Section 7E Page 12

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC

with Mozilla Firefox
Step 2. From the menu, select Add-ons.

Step 3. In the list of plugins, locate Cricut. The horizontal tile for the Cricut plugin has a drop-down
menu on the right side. From this menu, select Always Activate.

Section 7E Page 13

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a PC

with Mozilla Firefox
Step 4. Your Cricut plugin is ready to go., Close the browser tab.

Step 5. You have completed the plugin process. If you need to return to Cricut Design Space enter this
URL into the address bar of your browser: www.cricut.com/design . Have fun creating!

Section 7E Page 14

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac with Safari

In order to access all the creative features of Cricut Design Space, youll need to install the Design
Space plugin. As new features become available, from time to time youll be prompted to update the
plugin. Its installed on your computer and executed by your browser, so if you use Design Space on
more than one computer, youll need to install it on each device. However, it is not necessary to install
the plugin in order to use the Cricut Design Space app on iPad.
Updating the plugin is a 3 stage process.
Stage 1 Clear browsing history, cache and cookies
Stage 2 Download and install the Cricut plugin
Stage 3 Enable the Cricut plugin in Safari

Stage 1 Clear browsing history, cache and cookies

Step 1. Open Safari and click History from the top menu bar. Then, click Clear History and
Website Data

Section 7E Page 1

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac with Safari

Step 2. A new pop up window will open. In the Clear drop down menu, select all history. Dont
worry, this process wont hurt your computerit simply helps Firefox work from a clean slate.

Step 3. Click the Clear History button.

Section 7E Page 2

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac with Safari

Step 4. Once the browsing data has been cleared, the pop-up window will dismiss. Quit Safari by
clicking Safari in the upper left hand corner. Then click Quit Safari from the menu.

Stage 2 Download and install the Cricut plugin

Step 1. Enter this URL into the address bar of your browser:
https://us.cricut.com/Design/Data/Software/Plugin/CricutDesignSpace-2.0.0.2R.zip

Section 7E Page 3

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac with Safari

Step 2. From your computers desktop, click on the downloads folder.

Step 3. Click the Cricut Design Space file to open.

Section 7E Page 4

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac with Safari

Tip: Depending on your computers settings, you may be asked if you are sure you want to open this
application. If so, click Open.

Enter your password if prompted.

Step 4. The plugin installer will open. To set up Cricut Design Space, continue by clicking Next.

Section 7E Page 5

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac with Safari

Step 5. Review and accept the Terms of Use. Click Next to continue.

Step 6. If you are asked to specify the directory where Cricut Design Space will be installed,
choose a directory or use the default and click Next.

Section 7E Page 6

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac with Safari

Step 7. To confirm you want to install the Cricut Design Space browser plugin, click Next.

Step 8. You will need to close down all browsers. To proceed, click Next.

Section 7E Page 7

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac with Safari

Tip: When you quit, you may lose any unsaved work that is currently open in your browser unless it is
saved at this point. When you are ready to continue, click Yes.

Step 9. The installation process will then begin automatically.

Section 7E Page 8

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac with Safari

Step 10. The Cricut Design Space plugin has successfully installed. If you would like to
automatically launch Cricut Design Space into your default browser, leave the box checked
and clicked Finish.

Your Cricut plugin has been updated. When your browser reopens, you will be taken to Cricut
Design Space. You can also enter this URL into the address bar of your browser to go to Cricut
Design Space:
www.cricut.com/design

Section 7E Page 9

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac with Safari

Stage 3 Enable the Cricut plugin in Safari
Step 1. In Safari, click Safari from the top menu bar. Then click Preferences.

Step 2. A new pop up window will open. Select the Security tab from the top menu.

Section 7E Page 10

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac with Safari

Step 3. Next to the Internet Plug-ins option, make sure the Allow Plug-ins box is checked. Then,
click Website Settings

Step 4. In the list of Plug-ins, select Cricut. In the dropdown menu on the right side of the
window, select Allow Always.

Section 7E Page 11

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac with Safari

Step 5. Your Cricut plugin is ready to go, click Done.

Step 6. Now you can close the Preferences pop up window by clicking the X in the top left corner
of the window.

Section 7E Page 12

Section 7E
Cricut Plugin (Mac)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac with Safari

Step 7. You have completed the plugin process. If you need to return to Cricut Design Space enter this
URL into the address bar of your browser: www.cricut.com/design . Have fun creating!

Section 7E Page 13

Section 7G
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac

with Mozilla Firefox
In order to access all the creative features of Cricut Design Space, youll need to install the Design
Space plugin. As new features become available, from time to time youll be prompted to update the
plugin. Its installed on your computer and executed by your browser, so if you use Design Space on
more than one computer, youll need to install it on each device. However, it is not necessary to install
the plugin in order to use the Cricut Design Space app on iPad.
Updating the plugin is a 3 stage process.

Stage 1 Clear browsing history, cache and cookies

Stage 2 Download and install the Cricut plugin
Stage 3 Enable the Cricut plugin in Mozilla Firefox

Stage 1 Clear browsing history, cache and cookies

Step 1. Open Mozilla Firefox and click on the menu (3 stacked lines located in the upper right corner
of the browser).

Section 7D Page 1

Section 7G
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac

with Mozilla Firefox
Step 2. From the menu, select History.

Step 3. Your browsing history will be displayed. Click Clear Recent History

Section 7D Page 2

Section 7G
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac

with Mozilla Firefox
Step 4. A Clear All History pop up window will open. In the Time range to clear: drop down menu,
select Everything. Dont worry, this process wont hurt your computerit simply helps Firefox work
from a clean slate. Make sure at least the following boxes are checked if they are active:

Browsing & Download History

Form & Search History
Cookies
Cache

Section 7D Page 3

Section 7G
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac

with Mozilla Firefox
Step 5. Click the Clear Now button.

Step 6. Once the browsing data has been cleared, the pop-up window will dismiss. Quit Quit Mozilla
Firefox by clicking Firefox in the upper left hand corner. Then click Quit Firefox from the menu.

Section 7D Page 4

Section 7G
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac

with Mozilla Firefox
Phase 2 Download and install the Cricut plugin
Step 1. Enter this URL into the address bar of your browser:
https://us.cricut.com/Design/Data/Software/Plugin/CricutDesignSpace-2.0.0.2R.zip

Step 2. You will be prompted to save the file, click Save File.

Section 7D Page 5

Section 7G
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac

with Mozilla Firefox
Step 3. The file will download and can be accessed by clicking on the arrow on the top right of your
screen and then clicking on the file.

Step 4. This will open your downloads folder on your computer. Click the Cricut Design Space
file to open.

Section 7D Page 6

Section 7G
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac

with Mozilla Firefox
Tip: Depending on your computers settings, you may be asked if you are sure you want to open this
application. If so, click Open.

Enter your password if prompted.

Section 7D Page 7

Section 7G
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac

with Mozilla Firefox
Step 5. The plugin installer will open. To set up Cricut Design Space, continue by clicking Next.

Step 6. Review and accept the Terms of Use. Click Next to continue.

Section 7D Page 8

Section 7G
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac

with Mozilla Firefox
Step 7. If you are asked to specific the directory where Cricut Design Space will be installed, choose a
directory or use the default and click Next.

Step 8. To confirm you want to install the Cricut Design Space browser plugin, click Next.

Section 7D Page 9

Section 7G
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac

with Mozilla Firefox
Step 9. You will need to close down all browsers. To proceed, click Next.

Tip: When you quit, you may lose any unsaved work that is currently open in your browser unless it is
saved at this point. When you are ready to continue, click Yes.

Section 7D Page 10

Section 7G
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac

with Mozilla Firefox
Step 10. The installation process will then begin automatically.

Step 11. The Cricut Design Space plugin has successfully installed. If you would like to automatically
launch Cricut Design Space into your default browser, leave the box checked and clicked Finish.

Section 7D Page 11

Section 7G
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac

with Mozilla Firefox
Your Cricut plugin has been updated. When your browser reopens, you will be taken to Cricut Design
Space. You can also enter this URL into the address bar of your browser to go to Cricut Design Space:
www.cricut.com/design

Stage 3 Enable the Cricut plugin in Mozilla Firefox

Step 1. In Mozilla Firefox, click on the menu (3 stacked lines located in the upper right corner of
the browser).

Section 7D Page 12

Section 7G
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac

with Mozilla Firefox
Step 2. From the menu, select Add-ons.

Step 3. In the list of Plug-ins, locate Cricut. In the dropdown menu on the left side of the screen, select
Always Activate.

Section 7D Page 13

Section 7G
Cricut Plugin (PC)

Updating the Cricut Plugin on a Mac

with Mozilla Firefox
Step 4. Your Cricut plugin is ready to go, close the browser tab.

Step 5. You have completed the plugin process. If you need to return to Cricut Design Space enter this
URL into the address bar of your browser: www.cricut.com/design . Have fun creating!

Section 7D Page 14

Section 8A
Cricut ID

Creating a Cricut ID
You only need one account with Cricut. Your Cricut ID is the email address you use to sign in to:

design in Cricut Design Space for PC, Mac, or iPad

design in Cricut Craft Room
shop on Cricut.com
register products
post on Cricut message boards, or
share projects on Project Center

If youve ever done any of these things, youve already created a Cricut ID. If youve forgotten or lost
your password, youll find a link on the sign in page to help you retrieve it.

Creating a Cricut ID
If this is your first time signing in, youll be creating a Cricut ID. Enter your email address and choose
a password. You will need to provide your first and last name and specify the country you live in.
Step 1: Click Sign in under the account menu on the top left corner of the screen. You can access the
account menu from the projects screen as well as when you are designing on the design screen.

Section 8A Page 1

Section 8A
Cricut ID

Creating a Cricut ID
Step 2: You will be directed to the sign in page. Click Create a Cricut ID in the blue box in the middle
of the screen.

Step 3: Fill in the information including first name, last name, country, email address, and password.
You also will need to review and accept the Cricut Terms of Use to proceed. Once you are done filling
in the required information, click Create Cricut ID in the green box.

Section 8A Page 2

Section 8A
Cricut ID

Creating a Cricut ID
Your account will be created, and you now will be logged into Cricut Design Space. When you return,
simply select sign in under the account menu and then sign in with your email address and
password.
Tip: Your Cricut ID allows you access all of your purchased, subscribed and free images across devices.
You also can access your saved projects from any compatible computer or through the Cricut Design
Space iPad app.

Section 8A Page 3

Section 8B
Cricut ID

Signing in with your Cricut ID

You only need one account with Cricut. Your Cricut ID is the email address you use to sign in to:

design in Cricut Design Space for PC, Mac, or iPad

design in Cricut Craft Room
shop on Cricut.com
register products
post on Cricut message boards, or
share projects on Project Center.

If youve ever done any of these things, youve already created a Cricut ID. If youve forgotten or lost
your password, youll find a link on the sign in page to help you retrieve it.
When you sign in on Cricut Design Space, you will be able to do the following:

Access all of the images you have purchased, subscribed to or received for free.
Open projects that you have created and saved using Cricut Design Space on the computer or
the iPad app.
Save projects while you are designing.
Access additional features under the Account menu including calibration, firmware updates,
cartridge linking and custom material settings.

Signing in with your Cricut ID

Step 1: Click Sign in under the account menu on the top left corner of the screen. You can access the
account menu from the projects screen as well as when you are designing on the design screen.

Tip: Sign in when you first start creating and edit a project. This will allow you to save your project
along the way.
Section 8B Page 1

Section 8B
Cricut ID

Signing in with your Cricut ID

Step 2: You will be directed to the sign in page. Fill in your email address and password and then click
sign in, the green box in the middle of the screen.

Your name will appear on the Account menu, indicating that you are now signed in to your account.

Tip: Your Cricut ID allows you to access all of your purchased, subscribed and free images across
devices. You also can access your saved projects from any compatible computer or through the
Cricut Design Space iPad app.
Section 8B Page 2

Section 8C
Cricut ID

Editing your account details

You can update your Cricut ID account information through Cricut Design Space for PC and Mac.
Step 1: Click Sign in under the account menu on the top left corner of the screen. You can access the
account menu from the projects screen as well as when you are designing on the design screen.

Step 2: You will be directed to the sign in page. Fill in your email address and password and then click
Sign in, the green box in the middle of the screen.

Section 8C Page 1

Section 8C
Cricut ID

Editing your account details

Step 3: You will be returned to the screen you started from (in this case the projects screen). Click
Account Details under the account menu on the top left corner of the screen.

Step 4: Click Edit account to change your account information or edit/add your billing information.

Section 8C Page 2

Section 8C
Cricut ID

Editing your account details

Step 5: A new tab opens on your browser. Use the navigation bar on the left to view the information
associated with your Cricut ID. Each section has links that allow you to update your info.

Step 6: When you have finished editing your Cricut ID account information, you can close the tab. In
Design Space, close the Account Details screen by clicking X.

Section 8C Page 3

Section 9A
First Project

Cricut Explore first project

Use the materials found in the box to complete this Thank You card and watch as your Cricut Explore
machine writes and cuts all in on step.

Step 1. Remove the black and jade cardstock from your Project Materials envelope and your pen from
the box.

Section 9A Page 1

Section 9A
First Project

Cricut Explore first project

Step 2 Remove the plastic cover from the mat.

Tip: Set this cover aside while you cut, but be sure to replace to protect the mats adhesive during the
times it is not is use.
Step 3 Smooth the black cardstock onto the cutting mat in the top left corner inside the grid.

Section 9A Page 2

Section 9A
First Project

Cricut Explore first project

Step 4 Position the mat underneath the mat guides. Keeping the mat pushed firmly against the
machines rollers, press the Load/Unload button.

Tip: You will know the mat is loaded correctly when the Cricut logo on the mat is directly under the
machine rollers. Note that you can use the entire surface of the mat evenly by alternating which end of
the mat you load into the machine first.
Step 5. Turn the Smart Set dial to Cardstock.

Section 9A Page 3

Section 9A
First Project

Cricut Explore first project

Step 6 To insert the pen, open accessory clamp A.

Step 7. Remove the cap from the pen.

Section 9A Page 4

Section 9A
First Project

Cricut Explore first project

Step 8. Position the pen so the gray arrow is facing towards you. Hold the accessory clamp up while
pushing the pen down into the housing until the arrow disappears.

Step 9. Close the clamp.

Section 9A Page 5

Section 9A
First Project

Cricut Explore first project

Step 10. Click Go on your computer or iPad to begin the cutting process.

Tip: The first project is also available as a Make It Now project so you can make it as many times as you
want. To find the project, start at the project screen and select Free from the Categories menu. Scroll
through the photos of the free projects until you locate the Thank You card. When you click on the image,
you will be taken to the project details screen. Click Make It Now to start the
cutting process.
Step 11. Follow the onscreen prompts to cut and write your Thank You card all in one step.

Section 9A Page 6

Section 9A
First Project

Cricut Explore first project

Step 12. Once your Cricut Explore machine has finished cutting and writing, unload the mat by
pressing the flashing Load/Unload button.

Step 13. Remove the pen by opening accessory clamp A and pulling the pen straight up. Replace the pen
cap and close the accessory clamp.

Section 9A Page 7

Section 9A
First Project

Cricut Explore first project

Step 14. Remove your card by gently bending the mat until one edge of the card releases.

Step 15. Turn the mat over onto a flat surface and then slowly pull the mat away from your material
until the card releases.

Tip: The Cricut scraper can be used to easily remove excess material from the cutting mat.

Section 9A Page 8

Section 9A
First Project

Cricut Explore first project

Step 16. Line up the corners of the card and fold it in half horizontally.

Step 17. Insert the liner into the four slits on the card.

Section 9A Page 9

Section 9A
First Project

Cricut Explore first project

Step 18. Your project is complete!

Section 9A Page 10

Section 9B
First Project

Cricut Explore Air first project

Use the materials found in the box to complete this Hello card and watch as your Cricut Explore Air
machine writes and cuts all in on step.

Step 1. Remove the gray and blue cardstock from your Start Here envelope and your pen from the box.

Gray and blue

Cricut Cardstock

Pen and accessory adapter

(adaptor pre-installed)

Section 9B Page 1

Section 9B
First Project

Cricut Explore Air first project

Step 2. Remove the plastic cover from the mat.

Step 3. Smooth the gray cardstock onto the cutting mat in the top left corner inside the grid.

Section 9B Page 2

Section 9B
First Project

Cricut Explore Air first project

Step 4. Position the mat underneath the mat guides. Keeping the mat pushed firmly against the
machines rollers, press the Load/Unload button.

Tip: You will know the mat is loaded correctly when the Cricut logo on the mat is directly under the
machine rollers. Note that you can use the entire surface of the mat evenly by alternating which end of
the mat you load into the machine first.
Step 5. Turn the Smart Set dial to Cardstock.

Section 9B Page 3

Section 9B
First Project

Cricut Explore Air first project

Step 6. To insert the pen, open accessory clamp A.

Step 7. Remove the cap from the pen.

Section 9B Page 4

Section 9B
First Project

Cricut Explore Air first project

Step 8. Position the pen so the gray arrow is facing towards you. Hold the accessory clamp up while
pushing the pen down into the housing until the arrow disappears.

Step 9. Close the clamp.

Section 9B Page 5

Section 9B
First Project

Cricut Explore Air first project

Step 10. Click Go on your computer or iPad to begin the cutting process.

Tip: The first project is also available as a Make It Now project so you can make it as many times as you
would like. To find the project, start at the project screen and select Free for Cricut Explore Air from
the Categories menu. Scroll through the photos of the free projects until you locate the Hello card. When
you click on the image, you will be taken to the project details screen. Click Make It Now to start the
cutting process.
Step 11. Follow the onscreen prompts to cut and write your Hello card all in one step.

Section 9B Page 6

Section 9B
First Project

Cricut Explore Air first project

Step 12. Once your Cricut ExploreAir machine has finished cutting and writing, unload the mat by
pressing the blinking Load/Unload button.

Step 13. Remove the pen by opening accessory clamp A and pulling the pen straight up. Replace the pen
cap and close the accessory clamp.

Section 9B Page 7

Section 9B
First Project

Cricut Explore Air first project

Step 14. Remove your card by gently bending the mat until one edge of the card releases.

Step 15. Turn the mat over onto a flat surface and then slowly pull the mat away from your material
until the card releases.

Tip: The Cricut scrapper can be used to easily remove excess material from the cutting mat.

Section 9B Page 8

Section 9B
First Project

Cricut Explore Air first project

Step 16. Line up the corners of the card and fold in half horizontally; repeat process with liner.

Step 17. Place the liner in the card; adhere if desired.

Section 9B Page 9

Section 09B
First Project

Cricut Explore Air first project

Step 18. Your project is complete!

Section 9B Page 10

Section 9C
First Project

Cricut Explore One first project

Use the material found in the box to complete this vinyl sticker.

Step 1. Remove the silver vinyl from your Start Here envelope.

Section 9C Page 1

Section 9C
First Project

Cricut Explore One first project

Step 2. Remove the plastic cover from the mat.

Step 3. Smooth the silver vinyl onto the cutting mat in the top left corner inside the grid.

Section 9C Page 2

Section 9C
First Project

Cricut Explore One first project

Step 4. Position the mat underneath the mat guides. Keeping the mat pushed firmly against the
machines rollers, press the Load/Unload button.

Tip: You will know the mat is loaded correctly when the Cricut logo on the mat is directly under the
machine rollers. Note that you can use the entire surface of the mat evenly by alternating which end of
the mat you load into the machine first.
Step 5. Turn the Smart Set dial to Vinyl.

Section 9C Page 3

Section 9C
First Project

Cricut Explore One first project

Step 6. Click Go on your computer or iPad to begin the cutting process. Follow the onscreen prompts
to cut your Create vinyl sticker.

Tip: The Cricut Explore One first project is also available as a free Make it Now project, so you can
make it as many times as you would like. To find the project, start at the project screen and select Free
for Cricut Explore One from the Categories menu. Scroll through the photos of the free projects until
you locate the Create vinyl sticker. When you click on the image, you will be taken to the project details
screen. Click Make It Now to start the cutting process.

Section 9C Page 4

Section 9C
First Project

Cricut Explore One first project

Step 8. Once your Cricut Explore One machine has finished cutting, unload the mat by pressing the
blinking Load/Unload button on the machine.

Step 9. Remove the vinyl from the mat by gently bending the mat until one edge of the material releases.

Section 9C Page 5

Section 9C
First Project

Cricut Explore One first project

Step 10. Turn the mat over onto a flat surface and then slowly pull the mat away from the material.

Step 11. Peel vinyl sticker from the backing.

Section 9C Page 6

Section 9C
First Project

Cricut Explore One first project

Step 12. Remove unwanted pieces from the design.

Step 13. Place vinyl sticker on project as desired.

Section 9C Page 7

Section 10A
Firmware Update

Required Firmware Update

Firmware is essential for your Cricut machine to operate properly and communicate with your
computer. On occasion, firmware updates may be required to enable new features and improve
performance.
Tip: During the firmware update process, the power button is red, indicating that the update is in
progress. If the update process is interrupted or unsuccessful, the power button will stay red and
prevent you from turning your machine off. In the unlikely event that this happens, restart the
firmware process manually.
Step 1: Should your system require a firmware update, you will be prompted to do so once your project
is complete and you are proceeding through the mat preview. Power on your Cricut machine and
connect it to your computer.

Cricut Explore machines must be connected via USB; firmware update is not available
over Bluetooth
Cricut Explore Air machines can be updated update via Bluetooth or USB

Step 2: Click Update to begin.

Section 10A Page 1

Section 10A
Firmware Update

Required Firmware Update

Step 3: Your Cricut machines firmware will begin the updating process. A progress bar will appear on
the screen and your machines power button will turn red, indicating that an update is in progress.
Please do not disconnect the machine.

Tip: If the connection with your machine is lost during a firmware update, make sure your machine is
still connected to your computer and powered on. You many need to restart the process by manually
updating the firmware in Design Space.
Step 4. Once the update is completed, your machine will automatically turn off and back on. Now that
your machine has been updated, you can begin right where you left off.

Section 10A Page 2

Section 10B
Firmware Update

Manual Firmware Update

Occasionally, firmware releases are planned or the process may get interrupted. Rather than waiting
for the system to prompt the firmware update, you may choose to do the update at your own
convenience.
Tip: During the firmware update process, the power button is red, indicating that the update is in
progress. If the update process is interrupted or unsuccessful, the power button will stay red and
prevent you from turning your machine off. In the unlikely event that this happens, restart the
firmware process manually.
Step 1: After youve logged in with your Cricut ID, select Update Firmware from the Account menu.

Step 2: Power on your Cricut machine and connect it to your computer.

Cricut Explore machines must be connected via USB; firmware update is not available
over Bluetooth
Cricut Explore Air machines can be updated update via Bluetooth or USB

Section 10B Page 1

Section 10B
Firmware Update

Manual Firmware Update

Step 3: Click Update to begin.

Step 4: Your Cricut machines firmware will begin the updating process. A progress bar will appear on
the screen and your machines power button will turn red, indicating that an update is in progress.
Please do not disconnect the machine.

Tip: If the connection with your machine is lost during a firmware update, make sure your machine is
connected to your computer and powered on. You may need to restart the process by manually
updating the firmware in Design Space. Click Retry to start the process again.

Section 10B Page 2

Section 10B
Firmware Update

Manual Firmware Update

Step 5: Once the update is completed, your machine will automatically turn off and back on. Click
Close when this process is complete.

Tip: Should you cancel the firmware update in the middle of the process, you will be prompted to
perform the update when you proceed to the cut screen. Your machine should have the most up-to-date
firmware to complete a project.

Section 10B Page 3

Section 11A
Bluetooth

Determining if your PC has Bluetooth

Step 1. From your computers home screen, open the start menu.

Step 2. Use the start menu search to find Device Manager.

Section 11A Page 1

Section 11A
Bluetooth

Determining if your PC has Bluetooth

Step 3. Open the Device Manager. If your PC has Bluetooth, there will be a section for Bluetooth
Radios listed.

Section 11A Page 2

Section 11B
Bluetooth

Pairing a PC with Cricut Explore Air

via Bluetooth
Step 1. Power on your Cricut Explore Air machine.

Step 2. From your computers home screen, open the start menu and select the Devices and Printers.

Section 11B Page 1

Section 11B
Bluetooth

Pairing a PC with Cricut Explore Air

via Bluetooth
Step 3. Click on Add a device.

Step 4. Once your system has located your Cricut machine, it will be displayed in the window. Select
your Cricut machine from the list and click Next to continue.

Section 11B Page 2

Section 11B
Bluetooth

Pairing a PC with Cricut Explore Air

via Bluetooth
Step 5. Select Enter the devices pairing code.

Step 6. Enter the pairing code 0000, and click Next.

Section 11B Page 3

Section 11B
Bluetooth

Pairing a PC with Cricut Explore Air

via Bluetooth
Step 7. Your PC and Cricut machine are now connected. Click Close to close the window. Enjoy the
wireless connection with your machine!

Section 11B Page 4

Section 11C
Bluetooth

Pairing a Mac with Cricut Explore Air

via Bluetooth
Step 1. Power on your Cricut Explore Air machine.

Step 2. Determine whether your Mac has Bluetooth by opening System Preferences and looking for
the Bluetooth option.

Section 11C Page 1

Section 11C
Bluetooth

Pairing a Mac with Cricut Explore Air

via Bluetooth
Step 3. Double click to open the Bluetooth window.

Step 4. Once your system has located your Cricut machine, it will be displayed in the window under
Devices. Select your Cricut machine from the list.

Section 11C Page 2

Section 11C
Bluetooth

Pairing a Mac with Cricut Explore Air

via Bluetooth
Step 5. Click Pair to connect your Mac to your Cricut machine; enter the pairing code 0000
if required.

Tip: If the pairing fails, click the Options button.

Your Mac and Cricut machine are now connected. Click Close to close the window. Enjoy the
wireless connection with your machine!

Section 11C Page 3

Section 11D
Bluetooth

Pairing an iPad with Cricut Explore Air

via Bluetooth
Step 1. Power on your Cricut Explore Air machine.

Step 2. On your iPad, open Settings.

Section 11D Page 1

Section 11D
Bluetooth

Pairing an iPad with Cricut Explore Air

via Bluetooth
Step 3. Select Bluetooth and ensure Bluetooth is turned on.

Step 4. Under Devices, select your Cricut machine.

Section 11D Page 2

Section 11D
Bluetooth

Pairing an iPad with Cricut Explore Air

via Bluetooth
Step 5. Enter this PIN 0000, and tap Pair.

Your iPad and Cricut machine are now connected. Enjoy the wireless connection with your machine!

Section 11D Page 3

Section 11E
Bluetooth

Pairing a PC with Cricut Explore via

Bluetooth adapter
Step 1. Power on your Cricut Explore machine.

Step 2. Remove the cap from the Cricut Explore Wireless Bluetooth Adapter.

Section 11E Page 1

Section 11E
Bluetooth

Pairing a PC with Cricut Explore via

Bluetooth adapter
Step 3. Insert the adapter into the utility port on the right side of your Cricut Explore machine.

Step 4. From your computers home screen, open the start menu and select the Devices and Printers.

Section 11E Page 2

Section 11E
Bluetooth

Pairing a PC with Cricut Explore via

Bluetooth adapter
Step 5. Click on Add a device.

Step 6. Once your system has located your Cricut machine, it will be displayed in the window under
Devices. Select your Cricut machine from the list and click Next to continue.

Section 11E Page 3

Section 11E
Bluetooth

Pairing a PC with Cricut Explore via

Bluetooth adapter
Step 7. Select Enter the devices pairing code.

Step 8. Enter the pairing code 0000, and click Next.

Section 11E Page 4

Section 11E
Bluetooth

Pairing a PC with Cricut Explore via

Bluetooth adapter
Step 9. Your PC and Cricut machine are now connected. Click Close to close the window. Enjoy the
wireless connection with your Cricut Explore machine!

Section 11E Page 5

Section 11F
Bluetooth

Pairing a Mac with Cricut Explore

via Bluetooth
Step 1. Power on your Cricut Explore machine.

Step 2. Remove the cap from the Wireless Bluetooth Adapter.

Section 11F Page 1

Section 11F
Bluetooth

Pairing a Mac with Cricut Explore

via Bluetooth
Step 3. Insert the adapter into the utility port on the side of your Cricut Explore machine.

Step 4. Determine whether your Mac has Bluetooth by opening System Preferences and looking for
the Bluetooth option.

Section 11F Page 2

Section 11F
Bluetooth

Pairing a Mac with Cricut Explore

via Bluetooth
Step 5. Double click to open the Bluetooth window.

Step 6. Once your system has located your Cricut machine, it will be displayed in the window under
Devices. Select your Cricut machine from the list.

Section 11F Page 3

Section 11F
Bluetooth

Pairing a Mac with Cricut Explore

via Bluetooth
Step 7. Click Pair to connect your Mac to your Cricut machine; enter the pairing code 0000
if required.

Tip: If the pairing fails, click the Options button.

Your Mac and Cricut machine are now connected. Enjoy the wireless connection with your machine!

Section 11F Page 4

Section 11G
Bluetooth

Cricut Explore Bluetooth Adapter Pairing, iPad

Step 1. Power on your Cricut Explore Machine.

Step 2. Remove the cap from the Wireless Bluetooth Adapter.

Section 11G Page 1

Section 11G
Bluetooth

Cricut Explore Bluetooth Adapter Pairing, iPad

Step 3. Insert the adapter into the utility port on the side of your Cricut Explore machine.

Step 4. On your iPad, open Settings.

Section 11G Page 2

Section 11G
Bluetooth

Cricut Explore Bluetooth Adapter Pairing, iPad

Step 5. Select Bluetooth and ensure Bluetooth is turned on.

Step 6. Under Devices, select your Cricut machine.

Section 11G Page 3

Section 11G
Bluetooth

Cricut Explore Bluetooth Adapter Pairing, iPad

Step 7. Enter this PIN 0000, and tap Pair.

Step 8. Your iPad and Cricut machine are now connected. Enjoy the wireless connection with
your machine!

Section 11G Page 4

Section 12

Download the iPad App

Install the iPad App

Download and install the Cricut Design Space app for iPad to experience crafting anytime, anywhere.
Tip: Anyone can design and save projects on an iPad; however, in order to cut from your iPad, you
must have Bluetooth on your Cricut machine. Cricut Explore Air machines have built-in Bluetooth.
All other Cricut Explore machines require the addition of the Cricut Bluetooth adapter.
Step 1. On your iPad, tap App Store.
Step 2. In the search box, enter Cricut to find the app.
Step 3. Install the Cricut Design Space app for iPad from the App Store.
Step 4. Open the Cricut Design Space app.
Step 5. If you are not automatically taken to setup, tap the Account menu and select Machine Setup &
App Overview.
New machine setup - tab to set up your machine.
App overview - tap to learn about the app.

Tip: If you dismiss any of the screens and would like to revisit the overview, you can return to it by
selecting Machine Setup & App Overview in the Account menu.

Section 12 Page 1

Section 13A
Smart Set Dial

Setting up
Section 2A Using Smart Set dial settings
The Smart Set dial is a material selection dial that offers pre-defined settings to get the best results
on paper, vinyl, iron-on, cardstock, fabric, poster board, and more. The Smart Set dial eliminates the
need to make manual pressure, depth, and speed adjustments. Additional materials can be found
under the Custom setting.

Tip: The Smart Set dial has been calibrated to work best with Cricut branded products. If settings
dont cut all the way through the material or if the blade is cutting too deeply into your mat, use the half
settings located between the material markings on the dial, to increase or decrease the pressure.
Paper: Use for text-weight papers such as common computer paper.
Vinyl: Use for adhesive vinyl. Produces a kiss cut. (A kiss cut is when the blade just cuts the top layer
of material and leaves the backing sheet uncut. This makes it easier to weed out leftover pieces after
the cut, and then use transfer tape to apply.)
Iron-on: Use for heat transfer vinyl. Produces a kiss cut. (A kiss cut is when the blade just cuts the top
layer of material and leaves the backing sheet uncut. This makes it easier to weed out leftover pieces
after the cut, and then use transfer tape to apply.)
Light Cardstock: Use for paper rated at 60 65 lb. weights, a little heavier than text-weight papers
often found in patterned, printed or decorative papers.
Cardstock: Use for paper rated at 80 90 lb. weights, such as playing cards or most solid-colored
crafting papers.

Section 13A Page 1

Section 13A
Smart Set Dial

Setting up
Fabric: Use for light-weight cotton or cotton/polyester fabrics which have been backed with an
iron-on adhesive interfacing. (Fabric backing required to cut fabrics.)
Fabric +: (The setting on the dial between fabric and poster board) Use for mid-weight fabrics which
have been backed with an iron-on adhesive interfacing. The setting will perform a multi-cut, meaning
it will cut more than once along the same lines.
(Fabric backing required to cut fabrics.)
Poster board: Use for heavier materials, such as display board used for signs or school projects.
Poster board +: (The setting on the dial between poster board and custom) Use for heavier display
boards. The setting will perform a multi-cut, meaning it will cut more than once along the same lines.
Tip: For an optimal cutting experience, we recommend using the Cricut Deep Cut Blade when cutting
thicker materials such as heavy fabric, poster board, chipboard, magnet board, and leather. The deep
cut blade can cut most materials up to 2mm in thickness using the multi-cut feature.

Section 13A Page 2

Section 13B
Smart Set Dial

Previewing custom material settings

Besides choosing from the seven preset material settings on the Smart Set dial, you can also take
advantage of the Custom setting for even greater flexibility with various materials. When your Smart
Set dial is turned to Custom, you can access a large variety of material settings in Cricut Design
Space. Each one is set up with a pre-determined cut pressure and multi-cut setting. To preview
custom material settings prior to starting a project, follow the steps below.
Step 1 Plug in your machine and turn it on. Settings are specific to the machine so it needs to be
connected to your computer to view details.

Step 2 Sign into with your Cricut ID in the Account drop down menu.

Section 13B Page 1

Section 13B
Smart Set Dial

Previewing custom material settings

Step 3 Select Manage Custom Materials in the Account drop down menu.

Step 4 Scroll the list to view custom materials along with their settings. You can add new materials or
edit the current list of materials from this screen.

Tip: You can also access material setting on the Load, Set, Go screen.

Section 13B Page 2

Section 13C
Smart Set Dial

Using preset custom settings

Besides choosing from one of the seven preset material settings on the Smart Set dial, you can also
take advantage of the Custom setting for even greater flexibility with various materials. When your
Smart Set dial is turned to Custom, you can access a large variety of material settings in Cricut
Design Space.
Step 1 Once your project in Cricut Design Space is ready to cut, click the Go button at the top of the
design screen. If youre not already signed in, youll need to do that now. Review the mats for your
project and click the Go button at the bottom of the screen.

Step 2 Turn the Smart Set dial on the machine to the Custom setting.

Section 13C Page 1

Section 13C
Smart Set Dial

Using preset custom settings

Step 3 Place material on the cutting mat. Keeping the mat pushed firmly against rollers, press the
flashing Load/Unload button.

Step 4 Select one of the materials in the menu and then press Go on your Cricut machine.

Section 13C Page 2

Section 13D
Smart Set Dial

Creating your own custom settings

There are over 50 pre-loaded custom materials in Cricut Design Space. If you have a material you
would like to cut and it is not on the list, you can add it by creating your own custom setting.
Step 1 Begin by inserting a simple image to use as a test cut while you identify the setting.

Tip: A heart is a good shape to test with because the image has both curves and points that will need to
be cut.
Step 2 Set the image size in the Edit panel to about 2.5. This is a good test size for most materials.

Section 13D Page 1

Section 13D
Smart Set Dial

Creating your own custom settings

Step 3 When you are ready to begin your cut, click Go.

Step 4 If youre not already signed in, youll need to do that now. Review the mat for your cut and click
the Go button at the bottom of the screen.

Section 13D Page 2

Section 13D
Smart Set Dial

Creating your own custom settings

Step 5 Click Custom Materials in the Cut Preview screen.

Tip: You can also access the custom materials page from the account menu.
Step 6 Click the Add New Material button. From here, youll be able to edit the settings for the
new material:

Name the material.

Adjust the pressure by dragging the slider or clicking the (-) and (+) buttons. The lower the
number, the lighter the pressure. The higher the number, the more pressure is applied.
Select the number of times the cut should be repeated (multi-cut).

Section 13D Page 3

Section 13D
Smart Set Dial

Creating your own custom settings

Tip: Use settings from similar materials as a reference for your new custom setting.
Step 7 Once youre done adjusting the details, click Save. If you dont want to add the material,
click Cancel.

Step 8 A message will confirm the update to your settings was successful. Once you are finished adding
materials, click Done to close the Custom Materials screen.

Section 13D Page 4

Section 13D
Smart Set Dial

Creating your own custom settings

Step 9 Load your mat into the machine, turn the Smart Set Dial to Custom, choose your new
material setting and press Go on your machine.

Tip: You will know the setting is good if the machine cuts completely through your material and does
not cut too deeply into the mat. If the test cut requires additional adjustments, see adjusting
material settings.

Section 13D Page 5

Section 13E
Smart Set Dial

Adjusting custom material settings

You have the option to adjust the custom material settings, whether they are preset or you have
added them on your own.
Step 1 Start from the mat preview. If youre not already signed in, youll need to do that now. Review the
mats and click the Go button at the bottom of the screen.

Tip: If you are refining a setting, adjust the placement of your cut on the mat preview so you can continue
testing without taking the material off and on the mat.
Step 2 Click Custom Materials in the Cut Preview screen.

Tip: You can also access the custom materials page from the account menu.
Section 13E Page 1

Section 13E
Smart Set Dial

Adjusting custom material settings

Step 3 Click on the name of the material you would like to update. Make the changes by adjusting
the pressure and multi-cut options and then click Save. If you decide not to adjust the settings,
click Cancel.

Step 4 A message will confirm the update to your settings was successful. Click the Done button to
close the Custom Materials window.

Section 13E Page 2

Section 13E
Smart Set Dial

Adjusting custom material settings

Step 5 Load your mat into the machine, turn the Smart Set Dial to Custom, choose your new
material setting and press Go on your machine.

Tip: You will know the setting is good if the machine cuts completely through your material and does not
cut too deeply into the mat. If the cut requires additional adjustments, repeat the process.

Section 13E Page 3

Section 13F
Smart Set Dial

Deleting a custom material

If you have added any custom settings, you have the option to delete them.
Step 1 Start from the mat preview. If youre not already signed in, youll need to do that now. Review
the mats and click the Go button at the bottom of the screen.

Step 2 Click Custom Materials in the Cut Preview screen.

Section 13F Page 1

Section 13F
Smart Set Dial

Deleting a custom material

Step 3 Click on the name of the material you would like to delete, and then click on the trash icon. The
material will be removed from your Custom Materials list.

Step 4 A message will confirm the update to your settings was successful. Click the Done button to
close the Custom Materials window.

Section 13F Page 2

Section 14A
Using cartridges

Linking Cartridges
Cricut Explore machines are compatible with Cricut cartridges. To use cartridges with your
machine, youll need to link them to your Cricut ID. If you have already linked your cartridges to the
Cricut Craft Room design software, or linked your cartridges to your Cricut Gypsy device and then
linked your Gypsy to your Cricut.com account, you have permanent digital access to those images.
If youve not yet linked your cartridges to your Cricut ID, you can link them using the port on your
Cricut Explore machine and Cricut Design Space for PC and Mac. Once theyve been linked to your
Cricut ID, they are available on the iPad app as well as your computer.
Havent linked yet? Heres how.
Step 1 Open your web browser to www.cricut.com/design. Open the green Account menu and sign in
to Cricut Design Space using your Cricut ID.

Section 14A Page 1

Section 14A
Using cartridges

Linking Cartridges
Step 2 Once youve logged in, open the green Account menu again and select Link cartridges from
the menu.

Step 3 The Link Cartridges screen will open. Power on the machine.

Section 14A Page 2

Section 14A
Using cartridges

Linking Cartridges
Step 4 Insert the Cricut cartridge, label facing forward, firmly into the port on the Cricut
Explore machine.

Step 5 Once the cartridge is detected by the machine, you will be prompted to link the cartridge to
your Cricut ID. Click Link Cartridge.

Section 14A Page 3

Section 14A
Using cartridges

Linking Cartridges
Step 6 Youll receive confirmation on the screen when the cartridge has been linked successfully.
Once your cartridge is linked, you are free to remove it from the machine.

Tip: Repeat the process to link additional cartridges.

Section 14A Page 4

Section 14B
Using cartridges

Finding a linked cartridge in Design Space

Once your cartridges are linked to your Cricut ID, you have full access to them in Cricut Design Space
on your computer or iPad. There are three ways to locate your linked images in the Cricut
Image Library:
1. View all your images with filters
2. Search for cartridge by name
3. Browse for cartridge

Option 1: View all your images with filters

Step 1 Sign in to Design Space with your Cricut ID. In the design screen, click the Insert
Images button.

Section 14B Page 1

Section 14B
Using cartridges

Finding a linked cartridge in Design Space

Step 2 Click on the Filters menu to show the different filter options. Select the Ownership
filter Purchased.

Step 3 You can now view the images from cartridges youve linked as well as digital images and digital
cartridges you have purchased.

Tip: View all images on a cartridge related to a specific image by clicking on the Information icon and
then the name of the cartridge.

Section 14B Page 2

Section 14B
Using cartridges

Finding a linked cartridge in Design Space

Option 2: Search for cartridge by name
Step 1 Sign in to Design Space with your Cricut ID. In the design screen, click the Insert
Images button.

Step 2 Click Cartridges to view a list of cartridges in alphabetical order. Cartridges youve linked and
digital cartridges youve bought will be labeled Purchased.

Section 14B Page 3

Section 14B
Using cartridges

Finding a linked cartridge in Design Space

Step 3 In the search field, type the name of the cartridge you have linked.

Bits and Pieces

Step 4 Click View all to see all the images on the cartridge.

Section 14B Page 4

Section 14B
Using cartridges

Finding a linked cartridge in Design Space

Option 3: Browse for cartridge
Step 1 Sign in to Design Space with your Cricut ID. In the design screen, click the Insert
Images button.

Step 2 Click Cartridges to view a list of cartridges in alphabetical order.

Section 14B Page 5

Section 14B
Using cartridges

Finding a linked cartridge in Design Space

Step 3 Scroll to find the cartridge you have in mind, or scan to find cartridges labeled Purchased.
Click View all to see all the images on a cartridge.

Section 14B Page 6

Section 15

Print then Cut Calibration

Print then Cut Calibration

The Print then Cut feature of Cricut Design Space for PC and Mac allows you to print your images
from your home printer and then cut them out with high precision on your Cricut machine. Print then
Cut calibration is a series of simple cuts, questions, and answers designed to help your Cricut machine
cut exactly along the edge of your printed image.
Cricut Explore Air machines are pre-calibrated.
Cricut Explore machines require calibration if using the Print then Cut feature for the first
time; you will be prompted to calibrate when you start the cutting process. (If youve printed
your project prior to calibration, set it aside - youll be able to use it after calibration is
complete.)
If you need to calibrate your machine for Print then Cut, you will be prompted to do so. You can also go
through the calibration process at any time if you are experiencing any inaccuracies when cutting out
printed images.
Follow these steps to initiate the process yourself: (If you are prompted to calibrate, start at step 2.)
Step 1 Once you have signed in with your Cricut ID, select Calibration from the Account menu.

Section 15 Page 1

Section 15

Print then Cut Calibration

Print then Cut Calibration

Step 2 Click the Continue button to begin.

Step 3 Load white 8 " x 11" paper into your printer for the calibration sheet and then
click the Continue button.

Tip: The Print then Cut feature should always be used with white materials. Colored
materials may prevent your machine from accurately reading the cut sensor marks.

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Section 15

Print then Cut Calibration

Print then Cut Calibration

Step 4 In the print dialogue box that appears, check that the destination is your printer and
then click Print.

Tip: The look of the print dialog screen may differ based the type of computer you are using.
Step 5 Make sure your Cricut machine is powered on and connected to your computer. Once
your machine has been detected, place the printed calibration sheet on the cutting mat as
indicated on the screen and load it into your Cricut machine. Turn the Smart Set dial to the
Paper setting and then press Go on your machine.

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Section 15

Print then Cut Calibration

Print then Cut Calibration

Step 6 Your machine will detect the cut sensor marks around the images and then make a test cut
around the small center square. When it is finished cutting, DO NOT unload the cutting mat. While the
mat is still loaded into the machine, take a look at the cut lines around the small square in the middle.
Click Yes and then Continue if the cut line touches the printed line all the way around the
small box.
Click No and then Continue if the cut line does not match up with the printed line around the
small box. In order to get everything just right, youll walk through the same steps we covered here.

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Section 15

Print then Cut Calibration

Print then Cut Calibration

Step 7 Your Cricut machine will make a series of horizontal and vertical cuts on the calibration
sheet. Once your machine is done cutting, DO NOT unload the cutting mat. Look at the lines on the top
and along the right side of the test print page. Determine which cuts are centered on or closest to the
print line.
Select the corresponding number or letter in the drop-down menus. Click Continue after you have
made your selections.

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Section 15

Print then Cut Calibration

Print then Cut Calibration

Step 8 The machine will cut the larger rectangle. When it is finished cutting examine the cut line.
Click Yes and then Continue if you are satisfied with the accuracy of the large box cut.
Click No and then Continue if you feel the cut could be improved. Youll be prompted to repeat
the process to improve the calibration of your machine.

Step 9 Youre done! Your machine is calibrated; simply click Save and Close to proceed.

Section 15 Page 6

Section 16A
Accessories

Cutting mats
Cricut Explore machines use 12" x 12" and 12" x 24" Cricut adhesive cutting mats. With the
precision of Cricut Explore, you can cut basic shapes as small as a 1/4" by 1/4" and as large as 1/2"
less than the size of your cutting mat (i.e., on a 12" x 12" cutting mat you can cut as large as 11.5" x
11.5" and on a 12" x 24" cutting mat you can cut up to 11.5" x 23.5").
Cricut 12" x 12" mats are available in three varieties:
LightGrip mats are specially formulated so you can easily cut and remove lightweight materials
such as office printer or copy paper, vellum, light cardstock, and more.
StandardGrip mats are perfect for a wide range of medium-weight materials, including
patterned paper, vinyl, iron-on, and cardstock.
StrongGrip mats offer a strong hold surface perfect for heavyweight materials such as specialty
cardstock, glitter cardstock, chipboard, and fabric backed with interfacing. These are our
longest lasting mats, featuring double life adhesive technology.
Cricut 12" x 24" mats are available in StandardGrip only.
Follow the steps below to place material on the mat and load it into the machine.
Step 1: Position the machine on a flat surface with at least 10" of space behind it so your mat can move
through the machine. (More space is required for 12" x 24" mats.)

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Section 16A
Accessories

Cutting mats
Step 2: Remove the clear plastic cover from the mat and save it. This cover keeps your mat clean
during storage.

Step 3: Smooth the material you will use onto the mat in the top left corner inside the grid.

Tip: You can use the scraper from the Cricut Basic Tool Set to smooth the material onto the mat for a
stronger grip.

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Section 16A
Accessories

Cutting mats
Step 4: Position the mat underneath the mat guides on the machine.

Tip: You can load the mat with the Cricut logo toward the rollers or in the opposite direction. To
lengthen the life of your mat, alternate between the two.
Step 5: Keeping the mat pushed firmly against the rollers, press the Load/Unload button on
the machine.

Step 6: When the cut is complete, press the Load/Unload button again and remove the mat from
the machine.

Section 16A Page 3

Section 16B
Accessories

Cricut Cutting Blades

Cricut Explore machines can use a German carbide premium blade for typical cuts or a deep cut
blade for thicker or heavier materials. German carbide premium blades fit the housing included with
the Cricut Explore machine, while deep cut blades have a different housing. German carbide
premium blades should be used to cut most materials, such as cardstock, vinyl, iron-on, poster board
and light-weight fabrics. Deep cut blades provide better cutting results for thicker or heavier
materials such as chipboard, magnet sheets, leather, stiffened felt, foam sheets, cardboard, and fabric
backed with interfacing.
After continued usage, the blades will wear out and should be replaced. The number of cuts each blade
can make varies depending on the material used. You will know when your blades are getting dull
because your cuts will not be as crisp. Replacement blades are available in three varieties:
German carbide premium blades fit the standard blade housing included with your Cricut machine.
This blade is designed to work with the Cricut Explore family of machines and are recommend
to create the most precise cuts. The blade also resists wear and breakage for a longer life.
Deep cut blades require the deep cut housing. These blades have a steeper blade angle (60 vs.
45) of harder more durable steel.
Standard blades fit the standard blade housing. While these blades are compatible with the
Cricut Explore family, they will not give the same precision of cut nor last as long as the German
carbide premium blades.
To replace blades, follow the steps below. The process is the same whether you are using a standard or
deep cut housing.
Step 1: Open blade clamp B.

Section 16B Page 1

Section 16B
Accessories

Cricut Cutting Blades

Step 2: Remove the blade housing by pulling up.

Step 3: Depress the plunger and carefully pull out the blade. Be sure to safely dispose of the blade.

Step 4: Drop a new blade into the opening. The sharp end will face you; use care to avoid injury.

Section 16B Page 2

Section 16B
Accessories

Cricut Cutting Blades

Step 5: Hold the blade clamp up while dropping in the housing. The blade housing should be flush
against the top of the blade clamp.

Step 6: Close the clamp.

Section 16B Page 3

Section 16C
Accessories

Pens
Choose from a variety of fine point pens in different colors or medium point pens featured in the
metallic set. Pen colors coordinate with Cricut Cardstock.

Cricut Explore Candy Shop

Pen Set, fine point
Features: Sour Apple, Candy
Corn, Blueberry, Candy
Crystal, Very Berry

Cricut Explore Wildflower

pen set, fine point
Features: Cactus Pink,
Bluebonnet, Lavender,
Honeysuckle, Sage

Cricut Explore Antiquity

pen set, fine point
Features: Midnight, Jade,
Gemstone Blue, Wine,
Crystal Pink

Section 16C Page 1

Section 16C
Accessories

Pens
Cricut Explore Southwest
pen set, fine point
Features: Armadillo, Geode,
Indian Red, Adobe Clay,
Moccasin

Cricut Explore Metallic pen

set, medium point
Features: Copper, Gold,
Silver, Blue, Violet

Cricut Explore One

Accessory adapter and pen
Features: Cricut Explore
One Accessory Adapter,
Cricut Explore Midnight
fine point pen

Section 16C Page 2

Section 16C
Accessories

Pens
Cricut Explore and Cricut Explore Air
Use Cricut Explore pens to write or draw with your machine. A wide variety of pen sets are available
so you can add the perfect touch of color to any project. Youll get beautiful results for invitations,
banners, cards, gift tags, and more. Pens are acid free, non-toxic, and permanent after drying. To insert
a pen into the machine, follow the steps below.
Step 1: Open accessory clamp A.

Step 2: Remove the cap from the pen.

Section 16C Page 3

Section 16C
Accessories

Pens
Step 3: Hold the accessory clamp up while pushing the pen down into the housing until the arrow on
the pen barrel disappears.

Step 4: Close the clamp.

Step 5: When writing is complete, open the clamp remove, and cap the pen.

Section 16C Page 4

Section 16C
Accessories

Pens
Cricut Explore One
Step 1. Remove the cap from the pen.

Step 2. Insert the pen into the accessory adapter until the arrow on the pen disappears.

Section 16C Page 5

Section 16C
Accessories

Pens
Step 3. Open the clamp.

Step 4. Hold the clamp up while pushing pen and adapter down into housing until adapter snaps
into place.

Tip: Holding the clamp up prevents the pen from marking your machine or, if you have already loaded
the mat, the material on it.
Section 16C Page 6

Section 16C
Accessories

Pens
Step 5. Close the clamp

Step 6. Once the machine has finished writing, open the clamp and pull the pen upward to remove both
the pen and the adapter.

Section 16C Page 7

Section 16C
Accessories

Pens
Step 7. Remove the pen from the adapter.

Tip: Store the accessory adapter in the storage compartments found in the door of the machine.
Step 8. Recap the pen to prevent it from drying out.

Section 16C Page 8

Section 16D
Accessories

Scoring stylus
Use the Cricut Scoring Stylus with your Cricut machine to score lines for easy folding on cards,
boxes, 3D projects, and more. Cricut Explore and Cricut Explore Air can house the scoring stylus
and a cutting blade at the same time, so you can cut and score in one step. Purchase the Cricut Explore
One accessory adapter and your Cricut Explore One machine can easily accommodate the scoring
stylus as well.

Section 16D Page 1

Section 16D
Accessories

Scoring stylus
Cricut Explore and Cricut Explore Air
Inserting the scoring stylus follows the same steps as inserting a pen. To insert the scoring stylus into
the Cricut Explore or Cricut Explore Air machines, follow the steps below.
Step 1. Open accessory clamp A.

Step 2. Hold the accessory clamp up while pushing the stylus down into the housing until the arrow
on the stylus disappears.

Section 16D Page 2

Section 16D
Accessories

Scoring stylus
Step 3. Close the clamp.

Step 4. When scoring is complete, open the clamp and remove the stylus.

Section 16D Page 3

Section 16D
Accessories

Scoring stylus
Cricut Explore One
To insert a scoring stylus into the Cricut Explore One, follow the steps below.
Tip: The Cricut Explore One accessory adapter is required to use the scoring stylus with the Cricut
Explore One machine. The accessory adapter comes with a black fine point pen and is sold separately.
Step 1. Insert the scoring stylus into the accessory adapter until the arrow on the stylus disappears.

Step 2. Open the clamp

Section 16D Page 4

Section 16D
Accessories

Scoring stylus
Step 3. Hold the clamp up while pushing the scoring stylus and adapter down into the housing until it
snaps into place.

Step 4. Close the clamp

Section 16D Page 5

Section 16D
Accessories

Scoring stylus
Step 5. When scoring is complete, open the clamp and pull the scoring stylus upward to remove both
the stylus and the adapter.

Step 6. Remove scoring stylus from the adapter.

Section 16D Page 6

Section 16E
Accessories

Tools Basic Set

Cricut Tools help you get the most out of your Cricut machine. The Cricut Tools Basic Set includes
five handy tools for using your Cricut machine.

Cricut Tools Scissors have hardened stainless steel blades for durability and
smooth, even cuts. The micro-tip blade gives you greater precision on all materials. A removable cover protects the blades.

Cricut Tools Tweezers lift and secure in one step with their reverse grip
designsqueeze the handle together to open, and release pressure to clamp
together. Smooth interior points help prevent tearing or marring your materials.

Section 16E Page 1

Section 16E
Accessories

Tools Basic Set

The Cricut Tools Scraper is custom designed to clean unwanted scraps

from the Cricut cutting mats, contributing to a longer lasting mat. It can
also be used to smooth materials onto the mat or burnish materials such as
vinyl to remove air bubbles or wrinkles.

The Cricut Tools Spatula precisely lifts images from the Cricut cutting
mat, preventing intricate images from tearing or curling. The angled head of
the spatula allows it to slide underneath the material with ease.

Section 16E Page 2

Section 16E
Accessories

Tools Basic Set

The Cricut Tools Weeder is for weeding, or removing negative pieces

around a cut image. When working with iron-on or vinyl images, it helps
you precisely remove everything that isnt part of your design from the
carrier sheet. Its also great for poking out tiny negative pieces from a
cut cardstock image.

Section 16E Page 3

Section 16F
Accessories

Carry bag
The Cricut Explore Carry Bag protects your machine during storage and lets you easily take it on the
go. You can store and transport accessories in the pockets. The secure drawstring and hook-and-loop
closure keep your machine safely secured but offer easy access.

The carry bag is also sold separately in these stylish colors.

Dark Grey

Denim

Section 16F Page 1