How to Setup Cricut on Computer? (Complete Tutorial)

[Finn Allen]

If you recently got a new Cricut machine for crafting and want to learn ‘how to setup Cricut Machine on your computer‘, then you’re in the right place. This post will guide you through the setup with easy, time-saving steps – no need to deal with long or confusing tutorials.

The complete setup process includes downloading and installing Cricut Design Space, creating a Cricut ID, connecting your machine to your computer, and completing the setup by registering your crafting machine.

Step 1: Download Cricut Design Space

The process of downloading and installing Cricut Design Space is slightly different for Windows and macOS. Let’s discover how:

For Windows

1. Firstly, open your web browser and type Cricut.com/setup in the address bar.
2. After that, select your machine model from the options provided on the webpage.

3. Then, you’ll see options to download Cricut Design Space for Windows.
4. Choose the correct version that matches your computer’s operating system.
5. Now, click the Download button, and the installer file will start downloading on your computer.

6. Next, find the downloaded installer file (usually in your Downloads folder).

7. Double-click the file to open the installer.
8. After installation, launch the Cricut Design Space app.

For macOS

1. First, open your preferred web browser (e.g., Safari or Chrome) on your Mac.
2. Then, visit the official Cricut website, Cricut.com/setup.
3. Next, look for the download link or button for Cricut Design Space for macOS.
4. You may need to agree to Cricut’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
5. Now, click the Download tab to start downloading the Cricut Design Space file (usually a DMG file).
6. Once the download is complete, find the downloaded file in your Downloads folder and double-click on the .dmg file to open it.

7. Drag the Cricut Design Space application icon to your Applications folder.

8. Go to your Applications folder and double-click to open it.

9. Enter your password to authorize the installation.

Step 2: Create a Cricut Account ID

Now that you have downloaded the ‘Cricut Design Space Software‘ on your computer successfully, open the application on your device and then follow the instructions given below to create a Cricut ID:

1. After opening the Cricut software, you will see a page asking you to choose either ‘Create Cricut ID‘ or ‘Sign In‘ using your Cricut credentials.
2. Click the ‘Create Cricut ID’ or ‘Create Account’ button.
3. Then, you need to input your first name, last name, email ID, and a secure password.
4. Read the terms of use and privacy policy and check the box to agree.

5. Click the button to finalize your account creation.
6. You can now sign in to Cricut Design Space with your new ID and password.

Step 3: Connect Cricut Machine to Your Computer

Connection is an important step in the setup procedure. And when it comes to connecting, Cricut offers two methods. One is to connect instantly, that is, the wired method, and the other is called the wireless method, also known as the Bluetooth method.

Method 1: Wired Connection (USB)

1. Power on your Cricut machine.
2. Open the ‘Cricut Design Space software‘ on your computer.
3. Plug one end of the USB cable into your machine and the other into a USB port on your computer.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions within ‘Cricut Design Space‘ to select your machine and complete the setup process.

Note: Many devices will display a notification on the device screen indicating it is connected.

Method 2: Wireless Connection (Bluetooth)

1. Make sure your machine is plugged into a power source, and don’t forget to turn it on.
2. Position your machine within 10-15 feet of the device you’ll be connecting it to, a computer or phone.
3. Go to your device’s Bluetooth settings.
4. Turn on Bluetooth on your computer.
5. Click on Add Bluetooth or other device and choose Bluetooth from the list of options.

6. Select your ‘Cricut machine model‘ name from the list.

7. If prompted for a PIN during Bluetooth pairing, enter 0000 (common for older Cricut models).

Now, your Cricut machine should be all setup and ready to use for your next project – just open Cricut Design Space and start creating.

Step 4: Register Machine and Finish Setup

Registering your Cricut machine is crucial for setup as it unlocks access to the full range of features, including software updates, design resources, and the ability to connect with the Cricut community.

1. Open Cricut Design Space software and click on the drop-down arrow beside your account name.
2. Next, you’ll see options like profile, notifications, settings, and help.
3. Then, click on the Machines tab along the top.
4. Now, you’ll find the New Product Setup option at the top, click Start.

5. Click the drop-down menu under ‘Machine Calibration’ and select your machine model.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why Can’t I Connect My Cricut to My Computer?

If you’re not able to connect your machine to your computer, follow these steps carefully:

• Power cycling both the Cricut machine and your computer can resolve temporary glitches.
• Ensure the machine is within the recommended range of 15 feet of the computer.
• If Bluetooth constantly fails, try using a USB cable connection as a reliable alternative.
• Make sure Cricut Design Space is updated to the latest version.
• Ensure your computer is fulfilling the basic system requirements for Cricut Design Space.
• Verify that Windows Firewall isn’t blocking the crafting machine or Cricut Design Space.

What Computer Is Not Compatible with Cricut Design Space?

Cricut Design Space software works on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices but is not compatible with Chromebooks or Unix/Linux-based systems. While the mobile versions (iOS and Android) provide a good user experience, the desktop versions offer more advanced features such as templates, patterns, and support for tools like the knife blade and foil transfer tool.

How Do I Make My Cricut Discoverable?

To make your crafting machine discoverable, you need to follow the following steps:

• Navigate to your computer’s Bluetooth settings and make sure Bluetooth is turned on.
• Make sure to power on your Cricut Machine.
• Make sure your machine is within 10-15 feet of your computer.
• In your computer’s Bluetooth settings, find your machine model within the list of available devices and select it to begin pairing.
• If prompted, enter the PIN (usually 0000 for older models) to complete the pairing process.
• Launch the Cricut Design Space software on your computer.

Why Can’t I use Cricut Design Space on Android?

Give a thorough recheck on the following points to get your Android phone operating again with Cricut Design Space:

• Ensure your Android phone meets the minimum system requirements for Cricut Design Space.
• Make sure you’re connected to a stable Wi-Fi network.
• If using mobile data, make sure it’s enabled and you have sufficient data.
• Make sure you have the latest version of the Cricut Design Space app installed or update it through the Google Play Store.

How to Update Cricut Design Space on Computer?

You can find an update prompt within the application or through your device’s app store to update Cricut Design Space.

• Open Cricut Design Space on your device.
• Click on the menu (usually represented by three horizontal dots) in the top-right side for Windows, tap the profile icon for mobile devices, and then select “Settings”.
• Choose the “General” tab within the settings menu.
• Look for the About Cricut Design Space section and click Check for Updates.
• You’ll see an option to install an Update if an update is available.

How Do I Refresh Cricut Design Space?

You can force-reload the application to refresh Cricut Design Space, especially if you’re encountering issues like fonts not displaying or problems saving.

• First, ensure the Cricut Design Space application is open.
• For Mac users, click the three dots in the top-left corner, while on a Windows PC, use the three dots in the top-right corner and choose “View.”
• Next, choose Force Reload from the drop-down menu.

Why Can’t I Use Cricut App on My Computer?

Here are some potential solutions to fix your issue:

• Ensure a stable internet connection.
• Verify your device meets the system requirements.
• Use the latest version of Cricut Design Space.
• Clear your browser’s cache, or if the issue continues, consider reinstalling the software.

Why Is My Cricut Not Connecting?

If your crafting Cricut machine is not connecting, follow the steps listed below to get it working again.

• Check if your Cricut Machine shows up in your device’s Bluetooth list.
• Try to unpair your Cricut Machine from the Bluetooth settings and then re-pair it.
• Ensure your Cricut machine is within the range of your device (within 15 feet).
• Ensure you’re using the latest version of Cricut Design Space. Outdated software can cause connection problems.
• Confirm whether the device you’re using meets the minimum system requirements for Cricut Design Space.
• Check the USB cable for damage and replace it if needed.

Source: Download Cricut Design Space