How to Setup New Cricut Machine: Beginner’s Guide

[Finn Allen]

Buying a new Cricut machine is exciting, but when you unbox the package, it can also feel confusing. There are so many cables, materials, tools, and instructions that don’t clearly explain what to do first. Because of this, many beginner crafters worry about connecting the Cricut machine incorrectly, installing the wrong ‘Cricut Design Space Software‘ on their device, or getting stuck before they can even make their first design cut. Don’t worry – this blog will guide you through the complete setup process in the right order with easy-to-follow steps. You are going to learn how to turn on your machine, download the correct app, connect it to your operating system (whether it is a computer or a mobile device), and confirm everything is working so you can go from unpacking to registering your machine model without any trouble.

What Comes Inside the Cricut Machine Box

When you open your new machine box, you will find everything you need to get started with your first project.

• Cricut cutting machine (Explore, Maker, Joy, or Venture)
• Power adapter
• USB cable
• Fine-point blade + housing
• Adapter for Cricut pens
• Cutting mats
• Sample materials, such as vinyl or cardstock
• Welcome book or quick start guide

Minimum System Requirements Before Setup

It is important to check that your device meets the minimum system requirements before you begin setting up a new Cricut machine. This helps avoid connection problems and keeps the setup process trouble-free later on.

For computers

• Windows 10 or newer and macOS 10.15 (Catalina) or later.
• Dual-core processor
• 4GB of RAM (8GB is better for larger projects)
• Free storage space
• A USB port or Bluetooth
• Internet connection

For mobile devices

• iOS and Android phones or tablets that meet the minimum version requirements.
• Bluetooth is required for wireless connections
• Internet connection

Important note: Keep in mind that Chromebooks are not supported for the Cricut machine setup.

How to Download & Install Cricut Design Space?

To set up your new crafting machine, the first thing you need is Cricut Design Space. This free software program lets you create, customize, and send designs to your machine.

1. Open a web browser on your computer and visit the official setup page at design.cricut.com/setup.
2. From there, select your machine’s name from the list.

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3. After that, agree to the ‘Cricut terms‘ of use and privacy policy.
4. Choose the download option for your device. If you use a Windows PC or a Mac, then click the Download button.

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5. Once the file finishes downloading, open it to begin installation.
   • On Windows, double-click the file and perform the steps displayed on your computer’s screen.
   • On a Mac, open the downloaded file and drag the ‘Cricut Design Space icon‘ into your Applications folder.

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6. After installation, open the software and ‘Sign In‘ with your Cricut account ID or create a new account if you are a first-time user.

7. If you want to use a mobile or tablet, then open the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and search for “Cricut Design Space.”
8. Next, install the app, and sign in or create your account.
9. After signing in on any device, the software will guide you through selecting your machine model and completing the setup so you can start crafting right away.

Connect Your Cricut Machine to Your Device

After installing the ‘Cricut Design Space app‘, the next step is connecting your machine to your operating system, whether it is a computer or a smartphone.

1. Plug the power adapter into your crafting machine and a wall socket.
2. Afterward, press the Power button to turn the machine on.
3. You should see indicator lights or hear a small startup sound, which means the machine is ready.

You can pair your Cricut machine in 2 different ways: with a USB or Bluetooth.

Method 1: Using a USB Cable

1. Plug one end of the USB cable into the machine and the other end into your PC.
2. Make sure the machine is powered on.
3. Once connected, ‘Cricut Design Space‘ detects the machine automatically and guides you through the setup process.

Method 2: Through Bluetooth

1. Keep the machine within 10 to 15 feet of your device.
2. Turn on Bluetooth in your computer or phone settings, then look for your machine model in the list of devices.

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3. Select it and enter the PIN code – 0000 if prompted.
4. After pairing, open Cricut Design Space and follow the on-screen steps to complete the wireless connection.

Tip: If the Cricut machine does not connect right away, then try to restart the machine and your device, and repeat the steps.

Complete the ‘Cricut Machine Setup‘

1. Once your machine is connected, open Cricut Design Space to finish the setup.
2. The app will ask you to select your Cricut model, such as Maker, Explore, or Joy, so it can apply the correct settings.
3. Choose the model that matches your Cricut machine and continue.
4. Next, Cricut Design Space may prompt you to update the firmware.
5. Keep the Cricut machine powered on and connected while the update runs, and do not unplug it until the process is complete.
6. Finally, you will be asked to register your machine.
7. Sign in with your Cricut ID and follow the steps to add the machine to your account.
8. Once registered, your Cricut cutting machine is ready for projects.

 

Source: Setup New Cricut Machine