TheultimateguidetoCricutDesignSpace AwesomeAlice

The Ultimate Guide to
CRICUT
DESIGN
SPACE Go from Cricut Confused
to Cricut Confident
How to Align Items

in a Perfect Row
Step 1: Add two or more items to your canvas Step 2: Select all items that you wish to align by
that you want to align or distribute evenly. clicking & draging a selection box around the items.
The bottom line is now aligned. Now let’s space

Step 3: Click on the Align tool in the them evenly.
toolbar and choose Align Bottom.
Step 4: Click on the Align tool in the toolbar again The items are now in a perfect row with equal
but this time, choose Distribute Horizontally. spacing between them.
2 | DESKTOP | PYSSLA MED VIKTORIA
Viktoria Andersson
Awesome Alice
VIKTORIA ANDERSSON
AWESOME ALICE
Table of contents DESKTOP iOS ANDROID
How to Connect to Cricut via Bluetooth 3-4 35 63
How to Install Cricut Design Space 5 36 64
Cricut Design Space Canvas 6 37 65
Cricut Design Space Right Panel 7 - -
Cricut Design Space Left Panel 8 - -
Cricut Design Space Top Panel 9-10 38 66
Cricut Design Space Bottom Panel - 39-40 67-68
How to Start a New Project 11 41 69
How to Upload an Image or SVG-File 12 42 70
How to Group and Ungroup 13 43 71
How to Change Font & Font Size 14 44 72
How to Change Colors or Patterns 15 45 73
How to Weld 16 46 74
How to Slice 17 47 75
How to Remove Parts with Contour 18 48 76
How to Curve Text 19 49 77
How to Align Items 20 50 78
How to Kern & Change Letter Space 21 51 79
How to Attach 22 52 80
How to Color Sync 23 53 81
How to Erase a Background 24 54 82
How to do Knockout Text with an Image 25 55 83
How to do Knockout Text with Text 26 - -
How to Use Templates 27 - -
How to Flatten an Image 28 56 84
How to Change Operation & Tools 29 57 85
How to Print Then Cut 30 58 -
How to Use Pens 31 59 86
How to Work Offline 32 60 -
How to Find Free Images 33 61 87
What is Cricut Access 34 62 88
2 | AWESOME ALICE
How to Pair a Mac to
Cricut via Bluetooth
You can cut wirelessly using Cricut Maker and Cricut Explore machines via Bluetooth. Follow the steps
below to pair them with your Mac.
Step 1: Ensure your Cricut Explore or Cricut Maker
machine is powered on and within 10-15 feet of your
computer. If you have a Cricut Explore or Cricut
Explore One, ensure that your Wireless
Bluetooth Adapter is inserted.
Step 2: Most computers are Bluetooth enabled.

However, to determine whether your Mac is Blue-
tooth enabled, open Apple Menu > System
Preferences and look for the Bluetooth option.
Step 3: If Bluetooth is off, click Turn Bluetooth On. Step 4: Locate a device that starts with “Cricut”
and click Pair. If you do not see it listed, make sure
your Cricut is turned on and no other Bluetooth
device is connecting to it.
Step 5: If you get a pairing request, type 0000 (that’s four zeros) as the passcode and click Pair.
Note: The Mac computer will not always show

“Connected” unless the program is communicating with
the machine during a cut.
3 | DESKTOP | AWESOME ALICE

How to Pair a PC to
below to pair them with your PC.
Step 1: Ensure your Cricut Explore or Cricut Maker machine is powered on and within 10-15 feet of your
computer. If you have a Cricut Explore or Cricut Explore One, ensure that your Wireless Bluetooth Adapter is
inserted.
Step 2: Most computers are Bluetooth enabled. However, to determine

whether your computer is Bluetooth enabled, open the Control Panel app by
y typing “Control Panel” into the search bar at the bottom of your window.
Step 3: Click on Add a Device under Hardware. Step 4: Locate a device that starts with “Cricut”
and click Pair. If you do not see it listed, make sure
your Cricut is turned on and no other Bluetooth
device is connecting to it.
Step 5: If you get a pairing request, type 0000 (that’s four zeros) as the passcode and click Pair.
Note: The steps might look different on your PC if you

have a different Windows OS.

How to Install Cricut
Design Space (Desktop)
Cricut Design Space is the free software you’ll use to make amazing things on your Cricut. To install
Cricut Design Space on your Windows desktop or laptop computer, go to https://design.cricut.com and
click the Download button. Design Space for Desktop will allow you to work both online and offline.
Follow the directions below to install it on your PC.
Step 1: Open an internet browser and go to Step 2: Open the downloaded file and wait for it to
https://design.cricut.com. Click the download install onto your hard drive.
button.
Step 3: Sign in with your Cricut account email and Step 4: If this is your first time using Design Space,
password. If this is your first time using Design you’ll be guided through a welcome sequence to
Space, start by creating a free account. cut your first project. If you’d like to revisit this, click
the menu icon in the upper left corner and choose
New Machine Setup from the drop-down menu.
Once Cricut Design Space is installed on your PC, an icon will appear on your desktop as
well as in your taskbar. Just double-click the icon to go to Cricut Design Space again. If you
cannot find the icon for Cricut Design Space, click the bottom-left Start button on your
desktop, tap “All Apps” in the menu and look for Cricut Design Space.

Cricut Design Space
Canvas
All the designing starts here, on the Cricut Design Space Canvas. The canvas area is where your designs can
be edited and perfected before cutting them.
Top Panel
Left Right
Toolbar Toolbar
Canvas Area
Canvas Area The Canvas Area is the workspace where you’ll

create and edit designs. It resembles the cutting
mat, which therefore gives you the feeling of design-
ing on your actual cutting mat on the screen. In your
settings, you can turn on/off gridlines and choose
between inches or centimeters.
Gridlines - The lines that cover your Canvas Area

and divide the are into small squares.
Zoom - Zoom in or out by using the buttons in the

lower left corner to expand or reduce the focus of a
design or element.
Selection - Whenever you select a layer, a rectangle

will surround the layer and the four corners sur-
rounding it enable you to adjust or delete the layer.

Cricut Design Space
Right Panel Type your text
The right panel enables the creation and management of layers when a degisn is being made. All of the
Type your
images and texts you add when creating a design will show up in this panel.
These tools enable the moving around
of different designs on the Canvas area.
Group: This tool permits you to join or group different layers.

When there’re many layers that need to come together to form
a design, then you can use the “Group” tool to bring everything
together.
Ungroup: This tool does the opposite of what “Group” does, it

detaches a design that is made up of many layers.
Duplicate: This tool duplicates whichever layer you choose on

the Canvas.
Blank Canvas: Enables you to modify the current canvas

color. If you’re trying out different looks on your
design, this option can be used to place your
design against numerous backgrounds.
Layer Visibility: This icon can be found on all layers and

indicates the visibility of the layer. Click on the icon to hide
or show a layer without deleting it.
Color Sync: Color Sync synchronizes the colors and can be used
to change diverse shades of a design color to a
single color.
Slice: Use this tool to carve out shapes, texts, and diverse
elements from an entire design.
Weld: Use this tool to merge shapes to form a new one.
Attach: This tool joins shapes and modifies their colors to fit the background color you’re
using. These changes will still be in effect even after you’re done cutting.
Flatten: This tool turns any image into a printable image, merging all selected layers into a
single image.
Contour: Use this tool to hide an entire layer or a small part of a layer of design.

Cricut Design Space
Left Panel
Type your text
The left panel consists of every option needed to insert everything you want to cut.
New: This tool creates a new page that’s different from the page that
you’re designing with. Make sure to save the design you’re working on
before clicking this button or previous designs will be lost.
Templates: A template allows you to preview what your design is go-

ing to look like after cutting it. If you’re making a bag with an iron-on
design, it’ll show you an image of your bag, and the design can now
be placed on that template so that you can start planning the appear-
ance of the bag in reality. Templates will not cut out a real bag for you,
but they’ll give you a clue of what the designs look like when they are
cut out.
Projects: Browse through your own projects and thousands of ready

to make projects. Choose your project, make edits, modify it to suit
your taste, and then click the “Make It” option.
Images: Insert images that are provided on the Design Space to spice
up your designs by adding a personal touch.
Text: The text tool enables you to include texts to your designs or
simply on the Canvas area. Clicking the “Text” tool opens a little win-
dow, indicating that you should add your text. You can add text and
also customize the color and font.
Shapes: This tool is used when you wish to add a shape to your Can-
vas area. The Design Space provides some shapes; square, circle, tri-
angle, diamond, hexagon, pentagon, heart, star, and octagon. You’ll
also find the “Score Line” tool located under the “Shapes” option.
You can utilize this tool for folding these shapes to form other diverse
shapes, particularly when you’re making cards.
Upload: Upload your own images, patterns and SVG-files made by

other crafters.

Cricut Design Space
Top Panel
The Top Panel is for organizing and making general editing on layers of design and elements.
Subpanel: In the subpanel (see above), you’ll find the Toggle Menu to the left. This option
enables you to perform account and subscription management.
Next, you’ll se your Project Name, before you save your project, it’ll be called Untitled.
If you click My Projects, the library for all your saved projects will open.
The Save button saves your project into the Design Space library.
Optimize your experience by choosing the machine you’re working with, in this case it’s the
Maker, from the dropdown menu.
Click Make It when you’re ready to start cutting your design.
Second Subpanel: The second subpanel is a menu for editing. It enables you to arrange,
organize, and edit fonts and images on the canvas area.
Undo & Redo: Clicking “Undo” will revert a recent activity or action, and “Redo”
brings back a deleted or reverted activity or action.
Operation: This option will tell your machine what tools and blades you are
going to use.
Select All: Click Select all to select all of the elements from the canvas.
Edit: This icon will allow you to cut (remove from the canvas), copy (copy the
same item, leave original intact), and paste (insert copied or cut elements on
the canvas area) items from the canvas.
Offset: A tool that allows you to create a proportional outline inside and out-
side of text, images, and shapes.

Cricut Design Space T
Top Panel
Align: Align or distribute youru layers to the left, center or right (see more on
page XX).
Arrange: This function enables you to arrange layers to the back or front of
eachother.
Flip: This function allows you to see the reflection or your design.
Size: Modify the size of an element. Click on the small lock to keep the same
dimensions.
Rotate: Rotate layers to your desired angle.
Position: This box shows you where your items are on the canvas area and you
can move your elements around by specifying where you want that element to
be located on the canvas areas.
Font: Select any font you want to use for your projects. You can filter them and
search for them on the top of the window. If you have Cricut Access, you can use
any of all the fonts that have a little green A at the beginning of the font title.
Style: Make your font thicker, tilt or thicker and tilt.
Font Size: This enables you to either decrease or increase your font size.
Letter Space: This option will allow you to reduce the space between letters.
Line Space: This option will tackle the space between lines in a paragraph.
Alignement: Align your paragraph to the left, center or right.
Curve: This option will allow you to curve your text.
Advance: This tool allows you to Ungroup to Letters (separate each letter, into
a single layer), Ungroup to Lines (separate a paragraph on individual lines) or
Ungroup to Layers (only available for Multi-Layer fonts; these kinds of fonts are
only available for individual purchases and, or Cricut Access).

How to Start a
New Project
Step 1: Click the New Project icon on the left side or the New Project button in the upper right corner (they do
the same thing).
Step 2: A new canvas will open, ready for you to start adding images, shapes, text, and projects.

How to Upload
an Image or SVG-File
Step 1: Click Upload. Step 2: Click Upload Image.
Step 3: Click Browse and locate your image or SVG Step 4: Change the image name and add a word
file and click Open. as a tag to make it easier to identify the file. Click
Upload.
Note: Be sure you select the SVG file, not the ZIP file. If you only see the ZIP file, you’ll need
to first decompress the ZIP file.
The image appears on your canvas and you can

Step 6: Select the image and click Insert Image. now modify or make it.

How to Group
and Ungroup
Grouping lets you resize or move multiple objects on the canvas (you’ll need to use the Attach
function to keep things together on the mat). The group tool works by combining the layers of your
designs into a single group. Projects and uploaded images will sometimes be grouped when you
open/insert them and you’ll need to ungroup them to make changes.
How to Group
Step 1: Mark all the object you want to group by Step 2: When you’ve selected all the objects you
selecting each layer in the Layers panel or click and want to group, click the Group button at the top of
drag a rectangle on the canvas to select objects. the Layers panel. The objects will be nested
under a new line item in your Layers panel
called “Group”.
How to Ungroup
Step 1: To ungroup, start by looking for the word Step 2: With the group selected, click the
Group in your layers panel and click it. Ungrouping button at the top of the
Layers panel.

How to Change Font
and Font Size
Step 1: Open your project and double-click the Step 2: Click the drop-down font menu in the
text you want to change the font for, or click on the upper left corner.
Text tool and type in your words.
Step 3: Choose a new font from the list that Step 4: Make your text larger or smaller by
appears. Uncheck the “Only Kerned Fonts” box to adjusting the font size by clicking the up and down
see ALL fonts available. arrows.
Tip: You can’t change a font you’ve welded

(unless you’re able to Undo and unweld it),
but you can tell which font you’ve used so
you can re-create it by right-clicking on the
layer name, and choose Image Info at the
very bottom. A box will appear that shows
you what font was originally used (the
text is grey and pretty hard to read so look
closely).

How to Change
Colors or Patterns
Color
Step 1: Select the layer you want to change color Step 2: Click the colored square to the right of the
of, like the middle flower. Once it is selected, it Operation menu and click a new color or click
turns into a darker gray in the Layers panel. Advanced to choose a custom color.
Pattern
Step 1: Select the layer you want to change, then Step 2: Click the colored square to the right of the
click Operation and change it to Print Then Cut. Operation menu and change the Print Type to
Pattern. Select a pattern from the list.
Tips: You can scale, rotate, and edit

the orientation of the pattern by
clicking Edit Pattern.

How to Weld
to Unite Shapes into One
The Weld tool allows you to join elements to create a new image. This can be a great way to simplify a
design, keep the letters of a word connected, or combine shapes to create new designs.
Step 1: Make sure the images you would like to Step 2: Click Weld in the lower right corner.
weld overlap with each other and select all images
that will be welded together by clicking on their
names in the Layers panel while holding down the
Shift key.
Step 3: You will know that your images are welded Note: Weld is like permanent glue and there is no
when they change to the same color and the new “unweld” button. You can only unweld if it is the
image appears in the Layers panel. current project on your Canvas and you recently
welded it. In this case, you can click the Undo
button until you unweld the image(s). Otherwise
you’ll have to start over, or work with the design
as-is.

How to Sliceto
toCut
CutOne
One
Image Out of Another
The slice tool lets you cut out parts of another object to make custom designs. Slice creates new cut
paths from two images, resulting in three or more completely new shapes.
Step 1: Arrange the images on your Canvas so that Step 2: Select all of the images you want to
they are overlapping. slice, click the Slice button in the lower
right corner.
The new layers called “Slice Result” will appear in Step 3: Separate the layers to review your new
the Layers panel. shapes. Move, hide, or delete the layers you do
not want. Continue to layer and slice the images
until you reach your desired design.
Tips:
• You can Slice both images and text.
• When using Slice with images, you can only work with two layers at one time.
• Layers in groups can be Sliced if you select just the individual layers, not the entire groups.
• When the Slice function is performed with hidden layers, all hidden layers will be removed.
• If the text is multilayered and one layer is hidden, you can use the Slice tool. However, if you
ungroup text from its shadow layer, it becomes an image and will no longer work with the
Slice tool unless the text is ungrouped to individual letters.

How to Remove Parts
with Contour
The Contour tool allows you to remove existing parts from projects. It allows you to hide a portion of an
image layer by removing any unwanted cut lines.
Step 1: Select the layer for which you want to hide Step 2: The Hide Contour window will appear.
cut lines, and then click Contour in the lower right The lines on the image represent individual cut
corner. lines. Click on the elements you want to remove on
the image itself, or select the contour to be hidden
from the menu at the right of the window. If you
want to remove all elements (contours), click the
Hide All Contours button.
Step 3: The hidden contour will change to a lighter Step 4: If you need to make more changes, just
shade indicating that it will no longer show as part click the Contour tool again. If you wish to restore
of the image. When your image looks the way you a hidden contour, just click on the hidden cut lines
want it to, click the X in the upper right hand corner and they will reappear on the Canvas.
to return to your canvas.
Tips: Contour isn’t permanent so if you decide lateron that you want a Contoured image to
go back the way it was or want to edit it further, all the hidden parts are retained.

How to
Curve Text
The Curve tool allows you to easily bend text into a circular shape. Curving text allows you to design
even more unique phrases in the Cricut software.
Step 1: Click the Text tool in the Design panel to the Step 2: Choose your font and add some text.
left of the Canvas.
Step 3: Select the text and click the Curve tool at Step 4: Drag the slider to the right to curve the
the top. The slider allows you to adjust the curve up text downward. The more you slide, the tighter the
or down. curve. Drag the slider to the left to curve the text
upward.
Tips: You can continue to adjust letter spacing, rotate, edit the actual text, and change the
font type and style after curving your text as long as you don’t weld or flatten the text.

How to Align Items
in a Perfect Row
Step 1: Add two or more items to your canvas Step 2: Select all items that you wish to align by
that you want to align or distribute evenly. clicking & draging a selection box around the items.
Step 3: Click on the Align tool in the The bottom line is now aligned. Now let’s space
toolbar and choose Align Bottom. them evenly.
Step 4: Click on the Align tool in the toolbar again The items are now in a perfect row with equal
but this time, choose Distribute Horizontally. spacing between them.

How to Kern
& Change Letter Space
Kerning is the spacing between individual letters or characters. Kerning saves you time by
automatically adjusting the spacing between letters. There are already many kerned fonts within
Design Space (but not all of them are kerned). Here’s how to identify which fonts will kern for you auto-
matically and what to do when you need to fix a font that is not kerned.
Kerned
Not kerned
Step 1: Select the Text tool or an existing text box, Step 2: Type your kerned text.
then select the font drop-down. By default, the font
list is filtered by fonts with kerning.
Tip: Kerned fonts are automatically welded after you click Make It, so there is no need to
weld manually unless you ungroup your text.
If the Text Isn’t Kerned
Step 3: Mark the text, click Advanced and then Step 4: Select the letters individually and freely
click Ungroup to Letters. move them closer to each other while holding down
the Shift key to keep them in line. When you are
happy with your kerning, select all letters and click
Attach to cut them together. If your letters touch,
click Weld instead.

How to Attach
to Hold Things Together
The Attach tool has two functions in Design Space: It helps to hold your cuts in the same position
relative to each other on the cutting mat as in the Canvas. It also also helps you affix a write or score
layer to a cut layer. If you don’t use the attach tool, all of your elements might be re-ordered and out of
place as you click the Make It button.
Step 1: Add all of your images, text and other Step 2: Select any layers (two or more) you want
elements to Cricut Design Space and arrange as to attach together (hold down the Shift key
desired. while you click to select multiple layers), then
click Attach in the lower right corner.
Tip: If you are having a problem attaching layers, try ungrouping layers first.
Step 3: You’ll know your images are attached Step 4: When you are ready to begin cutting, click
because they are now labeled Attach in the Layers Make It.
panel.
Note: Attached layers will take on the same color so only attach layers that you
really want to be the same color.

How to Color Sync
to Get the Same Colors
Color Sync allows you to easily change and match colors in your Cricut Design Space projects. This new
feature saves you time and wasted materials!
Step 1: Start by adding your shapes or open the Step 2: Click the Color Sync button in the upper
template you want to use. right corner.
Step 3: Drag and drop each shape into the layer When you’re done, all your shapes should be the
you want to sync to. same exact color.

How to Erase a Background
from an Image
Step 1: Upload a JPG, PNG, GIF, or BMP file that you Step 2: Click the Select & Erase tool.
want to use. Click Complex and then click
Continue.
Step 3: Click anywhere on the background around Step 4: Click Preview to see the cut lines of the
your image to erase it. You may need to click in object remaining. If it looks good, click Continue, if
several areas to remove all of the background. you need to remove more, click Hide Preview.
Step 4: Decide if you want to save it as a Cut Once uploaded, you can use the image by selecting
Image or Print Then Cut Image. Click Upload. it and clicking Insert Image.

How to do Knockout
Text with an Image
Knockout designs are where you combine two different designs into one. You can knockout an image to form
parts of the text.
Step 1: Click Text, use a bold font (i.e. Impact), and Step 2: Upload your image & size it to fit your text.
type in your words. Resize it until you’re happy Select everything and click the Slice tool
with the result. Select your text and click the on the bottom right toolbar.
Weld button on the right toolbar.
You will see the results of the slice in the layers

menu. By using slice we are cutting the image of the
heart out of the words ‘I love you’. Step 5: Remove the part of the heart that is outside
of the text by clicking on the top slice result in the
layers menu and hitting the delete button.
Your design should now look like this and you can
continue by clicking Make it.

How to do Knockout
Text with Text
Step 1: Click Text, use a bold font (i.e. Impact) Step 2: Click Text, type an accent word in a
and type in your words. Resize it, select your script font (i.e. I Love Glitter). Adjust
text and click Weld. lettering as needed, and click Weld.
Step 3: Select the accent word layer, click on Step 4: Position the offset layer over your main
Offset, and slide the distance bar until you’re word. Select the accent word anc offset layer,
happy with how the blue line around your text click Slice.
looks. Click Apply.
Step 5: Select the sliced out layers by and click Step 6: Click and drag the accent word inside the
Delete. Move the layers if you need to see better. empty space sliced out of the main word. Change
the colors of the words if desired, click Make It.

How to Use Templates
and Rezise It
Use one of the pre-designed templates to help you figure out what size you need for your project.
Step 1: Click the Templates tool in the Design panel Step 2: Scroll through the different templates, select
to the left of the Canvas. a category to filter the templates and choose a
template that best fits your project.
The template will be added to your Canvas and an Step 3: Use the Type, Size and Color options in the
alert will appear, stating that Templates are Template Edit bar to select a version of the template
intended for reference only. that is closest to the item you will be using.
Note: When you hit Make It for your project,

it will just cut your design—not the template.
Tip: Can’t find a template that looks like

your project? Upload your own
Step 4: Create your own design using shapes and image (see page 12), resize it and click
text, select a design from the Cricut Image Library, Arrange > Send to Back. Remember to
or upload your own design. hide the layer (click the eye icon) before you
cut it to avoid cutting out the template.

How to
Flatten an Image
The Flatten tool takes a multi-layer project and flattens down all the selected layers into one layer that
can be printed on your home printer then cut on your Cricut machine with the Print then Cut feature.
Step 1: Add two or more items to your canvas that Step 2: Select all objects you want to flatten
you want to flatten. and click the Flatten icon in the bottom
right corner.
All your items are now on one layer and will only Tip: If you decide this isn’t what you wanted
work for Print Then Cut. to do, click the Unflatten button right away.
Note: Flatten is used only for print.

How to Change
Operation & Tools
The Operation menu lets you change a layer’s type. You will only see the machines operation choices of the
machine you’ve choosen.
Step 1: Click the dropdown menu Step 2: Select a layer and click on Choose Basic Cut for fine point,
to the left of the green Make It the Operation menu at the top deep cut, fabric, knife (Maker),
button and choose your machine. to see the options. or rotary (Makers) blades.
Choose Wavy to use Choose Perforate to Choose Pen to write Choose Foil to use the
the Wavy Edge Tool use the Perforation Tool with pens & markers. Foil Transfer Tool, then
(Maker). (Maker). Click the box to the chooose the tip size
right to choose color & (Explore and Maker).
thickness.
Choose Score to score Choose Deboss to use Choose Engrave to Choose Print Then Cut
with the Stylus (Explore the Debossing Tool use the Engraving Tool Standard to use the
and Maker) or Scoring (Maker). (Maker). Print Then Cut feature
Wheel Tools (Maker). (Explore & Maker).

How to Print Then Cut
from an Image
Print your images on your home printer (inkjet) and then cut them out with your Cricut Explore or Maker.
Step 1: Find or upload a printable image by Step 2: Once you’ve inserted the image onto your
uploading a PNG with a transparent background or Canvas, click Make It.
by searching for printable images in Design Space
(check the box “Print then Cut” under Operation
Type).
Note: The maximum image size for Print Then

Cut is 9.25” x 6.75”.
Step 3: Make sure you see “Print Then Cut”, then

click Continue.
Step 4: Select your Cricut (if necessary) then click Step 5: Select your printer, turn on Bleed, and click
Send to Printer. Print. Select your material, place your printed
page on your cutting mat, load it, and click Go.

How to Use Pens
to Write or Draw
Use Cricut pens or marker to have your Cricut Maker, Explore or Joy write or draw for you.
Step 1: Click Text, click the Font menu, click Filters, Step 2: Select the font you want to use, click the
and select Writing to see only the writing fonts. Style menu, choose Writing, and type your text.
Uncheck the “Only Kerned Fonts” box if you don’t
see the font you’re looking for.
Step 3: Click Operation, select Pen. Then click the Step 4: Adjust the Font Size and Letter Space
square to the right of Operation, and select the as necessary so it looks the way you want it to
color and type of pen you want to use. look, then click Make It.
Step 5: Click and drag the text to the exact spot you
want it to be written on your material on the on the
machine mat. Then click Continue and insert the pen
in your Cricut’s accessory clamp (clamp A), position
your material on the cutting mat, load your mat, and
press the flashing Go button.

How to Work
Offline
Cricut Design Space allows you to design, edit, and cut projects without an internet connection.
Save for Offline: Click the menu in the upper left, Save Individual Projects for Offline: Click on My
choose Settings, and select Cloud & Computer. Projects and click on the three dots on the upperri-
Check the box “Cloud & Computer” and click ght of a project.
Done.
Step 2: Make sure that the black dot on the button When you lose Internet access, you are notified and
is to the right. After you do this, confirmation that the “Offline” indicator stays lit for the whole time
your project saved succesfully should appear at the you’re offline.
top of the screen.
Note:
- You must click and select “Save for Offline” for each project individually that you want to
save for offline.
- You can not sign in to your Design Space when you’re offline.
- If you are not connected to the internet when you save a project, it will not be available on
other devices until you re-connect to the internet and sync to the cloud.
- Any images you have in a project from Cricut Access will expire after 30 days if you do not
go online at during those 30 days. Set a reminder to go online at least once a mont
- You cannot upload anything new while offline and you’ll only be able to browse through
images, fonts, and projects you have saved to your computer for offline use.

How to Find Free
Images
to Use to Use
Once you have completed the New Machine Setup, the free digital content that came with your
machine will automatically be added to your account.
Step 1: Click the Images tool in the Design panel to Step 2: Click on the plus sign next to Ownership to
the left of the Canvas. expand the menu Select the Free box under
Ownership. This will bring up all the images that will
cut for free at this time. At the time I’m writing this,
there are 8,720 free images available.
Step 3: You can also search within the free images. The image will be loaded onto the canvas.
Click the image you want to use and click the green
Insert Images button.
Note: You can save a free image in a project in your Design Space account. If the image is
no longer free when you go to cut it, you will have to purchase it or subscribe to Cricut
Access in order to cut it. If it is still being offered for free, you can cut it for free.

What is Cricut Access
& Do You Need It?
Cricut Access is a paid membership that gives you instant access to an amazing and giant library filled
with over 150.000 images, hundreds of fonts, and ready to cut projects. Depending on the plan you
have you can get other benefits like discounts on licensed images, fonts, and physical products.
Available to purschase separately

and with Cricut Access.
Only available to purschase

separately and is not included with
Cricut Access.
Everything that is Marked with a Green A is Some fonts are included with Cricut Access while
available in Cricut Access. other licensed fonts need to be purchased
separately.
Pros of Having Cricut Access:

- You get access to over 150,000 images for a
relatively low price. And images are added weekly.
- You have access to 500 fonts, including WRITING
fonts.
- It encourages you to use your machine more
often.
- Find pretty much anything you want for any occa-
sion, any time of the year.
- If you ever buy images or fonts from Design Space,
Even if you don’t have a Cricut Access membership an Access subscription pays for itself very quickly.
you are able to see and use all of the graphics and - Faster member support. You get priority support
fonts that they offer inside Cricut Design Space. over those who do not have Access.
However, you will need to pay for those digital files - 10% savings on all product purchases on cricut.
when you send your project to be cut. com — machines, accessories, materials, and more
– including sale items!
- Exclusive discounts and product offers — some
Cons of Having Cricut Access: products can only be purchased by Access mem-
- It’s a recurrent expense. When you stop paying bers.
you won’t have Free access to any of the previews - Craft faster because you don’t have to buy or hunt
used fonts or graphics. for free stuff or make it yourself!
- You can only use them within Cricut Design Space.
(you can’t integrating those fonts and images with Get Your Cricut Access Subscription Here!
other programs like Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape).

How to Connect iOS to
below to pair them with your iOS.
device. If you have a Cricut Explore or Cricut Explore One, ensure that your Wireless Bluetooth Adapter is
inserted.
Step 2: Tap the Step 3: Tap

Settings app. Bluetooth.
Step 4: Make
sure the
Bluetooth is
turned on. Tap
on the name of
your machine
to connect it to
your device.
Note: If you
get a pairing
request, type
0000 (four
zeros) as the
passcode and
tap Pair.
35 | iOS | AWESOME ALICE

Design Space (iOS)
Cricut Design Space is the free app you’ll use to make amazing things on your Cricut. Follow the
directions below to install it on your iPhone or iPad.
App Store icon on the Search
your iPhone or icon and type
iPad. in Cricut, then
tap Cricut
Design Space.
Step 3: Tap Step 4: Sign in

Download to to your Cricut
download and account or tap
install Cricut Machine Setup to
Design Space. create a free
account if this is
your first time
using Design
Space.

Cricut Design Space
Canvas
Top The Canvas Area is the workspace

Panel where you’ll create and edit designs.
It resembles the cutting mat, which
therefore gives you the feeling of
designing on your actual cutting
mat on the screen. In your settings,
you can turn on/off gridlines and
Canvas Area choose between inches or
centimeters.
Gridlines - The lines that cover your

Canvas Area and divide the are into
small squares.
Zoom - Zoom in and out by using

your thumb and index finger.
Selection - Use a single tap to

select an image or layer. If you need
to select more than one image,
swipe your finger on your screen to
select all the ones you need.
Bottom
Toolbar

Cricut Design Space
Top Panel
The top panel allows you to navigate from the Canvas to your profile, projects, and it also allows you to
expand the Canvas Space to the max.
Profile picture: When you tap your profile picture, a
menu will slide open.
Machine Selection: Make sure to choose the machine
you’re working with. The Cricut Maker has options that
are only available to that particular machine. So, if you
have a Maker and you are designing with the Explore
option ON you won’t be able to activate the tools that
are for the maker.
Machine Setup: Allows you to connect your phone to
your machine using Bluetooth.
This menu also allows you to sign up for Cricut Access,

calibrate your machine for Print then Cut, access the
Cricut help center and sign out from your account.
Save: This option will activate after you’ve placed one element on your canvas area. Make
sure to save your project as you go so you don’t loose your hard work if you run out
battery ort he App crashes.
Home/Canvas/Make: These buttons are shortcodes, and they represent the different views
you will have while using the App.
Home: will take you right at the beginning if you wanted to replace your
current project and add a new one-tap here.
Canvas: is the place where you design and organize a project before
you cut it.
Make: tap here if you want to cut your project. First, you need to tap
Make it on the Bottom Panel.

Cricut Design Space
Bottom Toolbar
The bottom toolbar enables the creation and management of layers when a degisn is being made. All of the
Image: This tool allows you to insert images. You can
search by keywords, categories, themes, occasions,
and also find images you have previously uploaded
to your computer or your device.
Text: The text tool enables you to include texts to your

designs or simply on the Canvas area. After you tap
the text tool, you will be prompted to choose the
font you want to work with and then a little box will
appear on the canvas area for you to type in your text.
Shapes: This tool is used when you wish to add a shape to

your Canvas area. The Design Space provides some
shapes; square, circle, triangle, diamond, hexagon,
pentagon, heart, star, and octagon. You’ll also find
the “Score Line” tool located under the “Shapes” option.
You can utilize this tool for folding these shapes to form oth-
er diverse shapes, particularly when you’re making cards.
Upload: Upload your own images, patterns and SVG-files

made by other crafters.
Actions: The Actions tool opens up a new menu with a bunch of tools you can use to
change your design:
Group: This tool permits you to join or group different layers. When there’re many layers that
need to come together to form a design, then you can use the “Group” tool to bring every-
thing together.
Ungroup: This tool does the opposite of what “Group” does, it detaches a design that is
made up of many layers.
Detach: This tool does the opposite of what “Attach” does

Cricut Design Space
Bottom Panel
Slice: Use this tool to carve out shapes, texts, and diverse elements from an entire design.
single image.
Unflatten: This tool does the opposite of what “Flatten” does
Advanced: This tool allows you to Ungroup to Letters (separate each letter, into a single
layer), Ungroup to Lines (separate a paragraph on individual lines) or Ungroup to Layers
(only available for Multi-Layer fonts; these kinds of fonts are only available for individual
purchases and, or Cricut Access).
Hide Contour: The Contour tool allows you to hide unwanted pieces from a design, and it
will only be activated when a shape or design has elements that can be left out.
Edit: The Edit Menu allows you to modify your text or object even further. You can change
font, color, size, align, arrange, and organize all of the elements you have on the
canvas area.
Sync: The Color Sync panel allows you to sync up layer colors to reduce the number of
different material colors you plan to use in this project. Sync layer colors by
dragging a layer and dropping it on another layer whose color you want to match.
Layers: When you tap on the layers icon, a panel will slide open on the right. From here, you
can see all the different fonts and images of your design.
Undo & Redo: Clicking “Undo” will revert a recent activity or action, and “Redo” brings back
a deleted or reverted activity or action.
Camera: The Camera tool is a visual aid that allows you to see what your design is going to
look like on the real thing (a card or mug for example).
Settings: The Settings tool allows you to choose whether you want to use metric units or not,
if you want gridlines to show or not and if you want the Smart Guides to be turned on
(Smart Guides help you align new objects to objects already on the canvas).
Make it: Make it is the last icon of the Cricut Design Space App; tap on it once you finish with
your design, and you are ready to cut it.

How to Start a
New Project Type your text
Step 1: Tap A new canvas

the New will open,
Project ready for you
button. to start
adding
images,
shapes, text,
and projects.
Note: If you don’t see any of your saved projects, it may be because you’re not signed in. If
you’ve recently updated the app, you can get signed out.

How to Upload
Step 1: Tap Step 2: Tap
Upload. Browse Files or
Select from
Photo Library,
depending
on where you
saved your
file.
Step 3: Tap the Step 4: Tap the

image file you uploaded
want to use. image and then
Give the image tap Insert.
a name and tap
Save.

How to Group
and Ungroup
How to Group
Step 1: Tap Layers and Step 2: When you’ve
select each layer you selected all the objects
want to group you want to group, tap
together or tap and Actions in the bottom
drag a rectangle to toolbar and then tap
select objects. the Group button.
How to Ungroup
Step 1: To ungroup, Step 2: Tap the layer
tap the Layers button titled Group, then tap
and look for the word the Actions button
Group. and tap the Ungroup
button.

How to Change Font
and Font Size
Step 1: Open your Step 2: Tap the
project and tap the Edit tool and then
text you want to the Font Name
change the font of, menu.
or tap the Text tool
and type in your
words.
Step 3: Choose a Step 4: Change

new font from the the text size by
list that appears. tapping the Size
button and
adjusting the font
size by clicking
the up and down
arrows.

How to Change
Colors or Patterns
Step 1: Tap Step 2: Tap Edit
Layers and and then tap the
select the layer colored circle.
you want to
change color
of. The choosen
layer turns into
a darker gray
in the Layers
panel.
Step 3: Select The object

(tap) the color changes to the
you want. color you
If you don’t see selected.
the color you
want, you can
choose any
custom color in
the color picker
below it. When
done, tap
Apply.
Note: You can’t set pattern fills in the iOS version of Cricut Design Space. If you need
to set pattern fills, use a desktop and follow the directions on page 15.

How to Weld
Step 1: Make sure Step 2: Tap and
the images you drag a selection
would like to weld box around all
overlap with each of the images
other. you want to weld
together, tap on
Actions, then tap
Weld.
Step 3: You will Note: Weld is like

know that your permanent glue
images are welded and there is no
when they change “unweld” button.
to the same color You can only
and the new unweld if it is the
image appears in current project on
the Layers panel. your Canvas and
you recently
welded it. In this
case, you can
click the Undo
button until you
unweld the
image(s).
Otherwise you’ll
have to start over,
or work with the
design as-is.

How to Sliceto
toCut
CutOne
One
Step 1: Arrange the Step 2: Tap the
images on your Layers icon to
Canvas so that they open the Layers
are overlapping. panel. Select the
layers you want to
slice (tap each
layer at the same
time to select both).
Step 3: Tap Actions,

then tap Slice.
Step 4: Separate the

layers to review your
The new layers called new shapes. Move,
“Slice Image” will hide, or delete the
appear in the Layers layers you do
panel. not want. Continue
to layer and slice
the images until you
reach your desired
design.
Tips:
• If the text is multilayered and one layer is hidden, you can use the Slice tool. However, if you ungroup text
from its shadow layer, it becomes an image and will no longer work with the Slice tool unless the text is
ungrouped to individual letters.

How to Remove Parts
with Contour
Step 1: Select the Step 2: The Hide
layer for which you Contour window
want to hide cut will appear.
lines, and then tap The lines on the
Actions, then tap image represent
Hide Contour in individual cut
the lower right lines. Tap on the
corner. elements you want
to remove on the
image itself.
Step 3: The
hidden contour
will change to a
lighter shade Step 4: If you need to
indicating that make more changes,
it will no longer just tap the Contour
show as part of tool again. If you
the image. When wish to restore a
your image looks hidden contour, just
the way you want tap on the hidden cut
it to, tap the Hide lines and they will
Contour icon reappear on the
again in the Canvas.
lower right hand
corner to return to
your canvas.
Tip: Contour isn’t permanent so if you decide
lateron that you want a Contoured image to go
back the way it was or want to edit it further, all the
hidden parts are retained.

How to
Curve Text
Text tool in the Shapes and add
lower left corner. a circle. Resize the
Choose your font cirlce to match the
and add some curve you want.
text.
Step 4: Move each

letter so it’s base lines
up with the circle
below. Rotate the
letters to match the
curve of the circle.
Delete the circle and
Step 3: Tap the group all letters so
text, tap Actions, they stay in place
tap Advanced, and can be moved
then tap Ungroup around.
to Letters.
Tips:
- You can continue to adjust letter spacing, rotate, edit the actual text,
and change the font type and style after curving your text as long as you
don’t weld or flatten the text.
- If you have difficulties moving the letters into position, it may be because
SmartGuides are turned on. To turn them off, tap Settings in the bottom
toolbar and toggle off SmartGuides.

How to Align Items
in a Perfect Row
Step 1: Add two Step 2: Tap
or more items on Edit, tap
to your canvas Align, and tap
that you want Align Center.
to align or
distribute
evenly. Tap and
drag a selection
box around
all items that
you wish to
align.
The bottom line The items are

is now aligned. now in a
Now let’s space perfect row
them evenly. with equal
spacing
between them.
Step 3: Tap on
the Edit tool
in the toolbar
again, tap
Distribute and
tap Distribute
Horizontally.

How to Change
Letter Space
Step 1: Tap Step 3: If you
the Text tool, want to move
choose a font individual
and type your letters, select
text. As you can the text layer,
see, the letters tap Action,
are too far tap Advanced,
apart. then tap
Ungroup to
Step 2: Select
Letters.
your text, tap
Edit, tap Letter
Space, and tap
the minus sign
to decrease the
letter spacing
until you’re
happy with the
way the letters
look.
Step 4: Select
just the letter
you want to
move, tap Edit,
then tap
H Position,
and tap the
+ symbol to
move it to the Tip: Don’t forget to group your
right and the letters when you’re done to keep
- symbol to them together.
move it to the
left.

How to Attach
Step 1: Add all of Step 2: Tap and
your images, text drag a selection
and other elements box around
to Cricut Design the layers you
Space and arrange want to attach
as desired. together, then
tap on Actions,
then tap
Attach.
To verify that
your layers are
attached, tap on
Layers and note
that they are now
grouped under
Layered Set.
Tip: If you are having a problem attaching
layers, try ungrouping layers first.
Note: Attached layers will take on the same

color so only attach layers that you

How to Color Sync
Step 1: Tap Step 2: Tap a

and drag layer and then
a selection drag and drop
box around it into the layer
all layers. you want to
Tap the Sync sync to.
button.
When you’re done, all

your shapes should
be the same exact
color.

from an Image
Step 1: Upload Step 2: Click
a JPG, PNG, GIF, anywhere on
or BMP file that the background
you want to use. around your
Tap the image to erase
Remove tool. it. You may
need to click in
several areas
to remove all of
the
background.
When it looks
good, tap Next.
If you need to
remove more
background,
tap Clean Up.
If it looks good,
tap Next.
Step 4: Save it Once saved,

as a Cut you can use
Image or Print the image by
Then Cut selecting it and
Image. Tap clicking Insert
Save. Image.

How to do Knockout
Text with an Image
parts of the text.
Step 1: Tap Step 2: Upload
Text, use a bold your image &
font, and type size it to fit your
in your words. text. Select
Resize it until everything and
you’re happy tap Actions
with the result. and then tap
Select your text Slice.
and tap
Actions, and
then tap Weld.
You will see Step 3: Remove

the results of the part of the
the slice in the heart that is
layers menu. By outside of the
using slice we text by clicking
are cutting the on the top slice
image of the result in the
heart out of the layers menu
words ‘I love and hitting the
you’. delete button.
Your design
should now
look like this
and you can
continue by
clicking Make
it.

How to
Flatten an Image
Step 1: Add All your items
two or more are now on
items to your one layer and
canvas that will only work
you want to for Print Then
flatten. Select Cut.
all objects
you want to
flatten and
tap Actions,
and then tap
Flatten.
Tip: If you Note: Flatten

decide this is used only for
isn’t what you print.
wanted
to do, click the
Unflatten
button right
away.

How to Change
Operation & Tools
Step 1:
Click the
dropdown
menu to
the left of
the green
Make It
button and
choose
your ma-
chine.
Step 3: Tap Cut then
choose the blade you
Step 2: Select a layer
want to use. You can-
and tap Edit, then tap
not use the knife blade
Linetype.
with the iOS version.
Choose Basic Cut for fine point, Choose Wavy Choose Perforate Choose Pen to write
deep cut, fabric, or rotary (Mak- to use the Wavy to use the Perfora- with pens & markers.
ers) blades. Edge Tool (Mak- tion Tool (Maker). Click the box to the
er). right to choose color &
thickness.
Choose Foil to use the Choose Score to score Choose Deboss to use Choose Engrave to
Foil Transfer Tool, then with the Stylus (Explore the Debossing Tool use the Engraving Tool
chooose the tip size and Maker) or Scoring (Maker). (Maker).
(Explore and Maker). Wheel Tools (Maker).

How to Print Then Cut
from an Image
Print your images on your home printer (inkjet) and then cut them out with your Cricut Explore or Maker.
Step 1: Find or Step 2: Make sure
upload a you see “Print,
printable image Cut”, then tap the
by uploading a Mat icon in the
PNG with a upper left corner.
transparent
background or
by searching for
printable images
in Design Space
(tap Filter and
check the box
“Print then Cut”
under Operation
Type). Insert the
image onto your
Canvas, then tap
Make It.
Step 3: Make sure Step 4: Tap

to turn on Bleed. Select Printer
Tap the mat icon and locate your
again and tap printer. Tap Print.
Print.
Step 5: Select
your material,
place your
printed page on
your cutting mat,
load it, and tap
Continue.
Note: The maximum image size for Print Then

Cut is 9.25” x 6.75”.

How to Use Pens
to Write or Draw
Step 1: Tap Text, Step 3: Tap Edit,
tap the Filter tap Style, then tap
icon, and select Writing to
Writing to see select the Writing
only the writing style of the font.
fonts.
Step 2: Select the

font you want to
use, and type your
text.
Step 4: Tap Step 6: Adjust

Linetype. the Font Size and
Letter Space
as necessary so it
looks the way you
want it to look.
Step 5: Select
Draw and select
the color and type
of pen you want to
use. Click Make It.
Step 7: Click and drag the text to the exact spot

you want it to be written on your material on the
on the machine mat. Then tap Continue and
insert the pen in your Cricut’s accessory clamp
(clamp A), position your material on the cutting
mat, load your mat, and press the flashing Go
button.

How to Work
Offline
Cricut Design Space allows you to design, edit, and cut projects without an internet connection.
Save for Name your
Offline: Tap project and
the Diskette, tap Save to
tap Save iPhone or
As. Save to iPad.
Design Space You can access

lets you your projects that
know if your has been saved for
project has offline by tapping
been saved the left panel
successfully. in the three-panel
icon
to take you Home,

then tap My Proj-
ects in the Cloud
and choose My
Projects on this
iPhone
(or iPad).
Note:
- You must click and select “Save for Offline” for each project individually that you want to
save for offline.
- You can not sign in to your Design Space when you’re offline.
- If you are not connected to the internet when you save a project, it will not be available on
other devices until you re-connect to the internet and sync to the cloud.
- Any images you have in a project from Cricut Access will expire after 30 days if you do not
go online at during those 30 days. Set a reminder to go online at least once a mont
- You cannot upload anything new while offline and you’ll only be able to browse through
images, fonts, and projects you have saved to your computer for offline use.

How to Find Free
Images
to Use to Use
Step 1: Tap the Step 2: Tap on

Images tool. Filters.
Step 4: You can

also search within
the free images.
Click the image
you want to use
Step 3: Tap on and click the
Filters, then tap green Insert
on Ownership to Images button.
expand the menu The image will be
Select the Free box loaded onto the
under Ownership. canvas.
This will bring up all
the images that will
cut for free at this
time. At the time
I’m writing this,
there are 3439 free
images available.
Note: You can save a free image in a project in your Design Space
account. If the image is no longer free when you go to cut it, you will
have to purchase it or subscribe to Cricut Access in order to cut it.
If it is still being offered for free, you can cut it for free.

& Do You Need It?
Everything Some fonts
that is Marked are included
with a Green A with Cricut
is available in Access while
Cricut Access. other
licensed
fonts need
to be
purchased
Available to purschase
separately and with Cricut separately.
Access.
separately and is not includ-
ed with Cricut Access.

Even if you don’t have a Cricut Access - You get access to over 150,000 images for a relatively
membership you are able to see and use low price. And images are added weekly.
all of the graphics and fonts that they offer - You have access to 500 fonts, including WRITING fonts.
inside Cricut Design Space. However, you - It encourages you to use your machine more often.
will need to pay for those digital files when - Find pretty much anything you want for any occasion,
you send your project to be cut. any time of the year.
- If you ever buy images or fonts from Design Space, an
Access subscription pays for itself very quickly.
Cons of Having Cricut Access: - Faster member support. You get priority support over
- It’s a recurrent expense. When you stop those who do not have Access.
paying you won’t have Free access to any of - 10% savings on all product purchases on cricut.com —
machines, accessories, materials, and more – including
the previews used fonts or graphics. sale items!
- You can only use them within Cricut - Exclusive discounts and product offers — some products
Design Space. (you can’t integrating those can only be purchased by Access members.
fonts and images with other programs like - Craft faster because you don’t have to buy or hunt for
Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape). free stuff or make it yourself!
Get Your Cricut Access Subscription Here!

How to Connect Android
to Cricut via Bluetooth
below to pair them with your iOS.
device. If you have a Cricut Explore or Cricut Explore One, ensure that your Wireless Bluetooth Adapter is
inserted.

Settings app. Connections.
Step 4: Make
sure the
Bluetooth is
turned on. Tap
on the name of
your machine
to connect it to
your device.
Note: If you
get a pairing
request, type
0000 (four
zeros) as the
passcode and
tap Pair.
63 | ANDROID | AWESOME ALICE

Design Space (iOS)
Cricut Design Space is the free app you’ll use to make amazing things on your Cricut. Follow the
directions below to install it on your iPhone or iPad.
Play Store icon on the Search
your Android. field and type
in Cricut, then
tap the
magnifying
glass.
Step 3: Tap Step 4: Sign in

Download (I’ve al- to your Cricut
ready downloaded account or tap
the app) to Machine Setup to
download and create a free
install Cricut account if this is
Design Space. your first time
using Design
Space.

Cricut Design Space
Canvas
Top The Canvas Area is the workspace

Panel where you’ll create and edit designs.
It resembles the cutting mat, which
therefore gives you the feeling of
designing on your actual cutting
mat on the screen. In your settings,
you can turn on/off gridlines and
Canvas Area choose between inches or
centimeters.
Gridlines - The lines that cover your

Canvas Area and divide the are into
small squares.
Zoom - Zoom in and out by using

your thumb and index finger.
Selection - Use a single tap to

select an image or layer. If you need
to select more than one image,
Bottom
Toolbar swipe your finger on your screen to
select all the ones you need.

Cricut Design Space
Top Panel
The top panel allows you to navigate from the Canvas to your profile, projects, and it also allows you to
expand the Canvas Space to the max.
Profile picture: When you tap your profile picture, a
menu will slide open.
Machine Selection: Make sure to choose the machine
you’re working with. The Cricut Maker has options that
are only available to that particular machine. So, if you
have a Maker and you are designing with the Explore
option ON you won’t be able to activate the tools that
are for the maker.
Machine Setup: Allows you to connect your phone to
your machine using Bluetooth.
This menu also allows you to sign up for Cricut Access,

calibrate your machine for Print then Cut, access the
Cricut help center and sign out from your account.
Save: This option will activate after you’ve placed one element on your canvas area. Make
sure to save your project as you go so you don’t loose your hard work if you run out
battery ort he App crashes.
Home/Canvas/Make: These buttons are shortcodes, and they represent the different views
you will have while using the App.
Home: will take you right at the beginning if you wanted to
replace your current project and add a new one-tap here.
Canvas: is the place where you design and organize a project before
you cut it.
Make: tap here if you want to cut your project. First, you need to tap
Make it on the Bottom Panel.

Cricut Design Space
Bottom Toolbar
The bottom toolbar enables the creation and management of layers when a degisn is being made. All of the
Image: This tool allows you to insert images. You can
search by keywords, categories, themes, occasions,
and also find images you have previously uploaded
to your computer or your device.
Text: The text tool enables you to include texts to your

designs or simply on the Canvas area. After you tap
the text tool, you will be prompted to choose the
font you want to work with and then a little box will
appear on the canvas area for you to type in your text.
Shapes: This tool is used when you wish to add a shape to

your Canvas area. The Design Space provides some
shapes; square, circle, triangle, diamond, hexagon,
pentagon, heart, star, and octagon. You’ll also find
the “Score Line” tool located under the “Shapes” option.
You can utilize this tool for folding these shapes to form oth-
er diverse shapes, particularly when you’re making cards.
Upload: Upload your own images, patterns and SVG-files

made by other crafters.
Actions: The Actions tool opens up a new menu with a bunch of tools you can use to
change your design:
Group: This tool permits you to join or group different layers. When there’re many layers that
need to come together to form a design, then you can use the “Group” tool to bring every-
thing together.
Ungroup: This tool does the opposite of what “Group” does, it detaches a design that is
made up of many layers.
Detach: This tool does the opposite of what “Attach” does

Cricut Design Space
Bottom Panel
Slice: Use this tool to carve out shapes, texts, and diverse elements from an entire design.
single image.
Unflatten: This tool does the opposite of what “Flatten” does
Advanced: This tool allows you to Ungroup to Letters (separate each letter, into a single
layer), Ungroup to Lines (separate a paragraph on individual lines) or Ungroup to Layers
(only available for Multi-Layer fonts; these kinds of fonts are only available for individual
purchases and, or Cricut Access).
Hide Contour: The Contour tool allows you to hide unwanted pieces from a design, and it
will only be activated when a shape or design has elements that can be left out.
Edit: The Edit Menu allows you to modify your text or object even further. You can change
font, color, size, align, arrange, and organize all of the elements you have on the
canvas area.
Sync: The Color Sync panel allows you to sync up layer colors to reduce the number of
different material colors you plan to use in this project. Sync layer colors by
dragging a layer and dropping it on another layer whose color you want to match.
Layers: When you tap on the layers icon, a panel will slide open on the right. From here, you
can see all the different fonts and images of your design.
Undo & Redo: Clicking “Undo” will revert a recent activity or action, and “Redo” brings back
a deleted or reverted activity or action.
Settings: The Settings tool allows you to choose whether you want to use metric units or not,
if you want gridlines to show or not and if you want the Smart Guides to be turned on
(Smart Guides help you align new objects to objects already on the canvas).
Make it: Make it is the last icon of the Cricut Design Space App; tap on it once you finish with
your design, and you are ready to cut it.

How to Start a
New Project
Step 1: Tap A new canvas
the New will open,
Project ready for you
button. to start
adding
images,
shapes, text,
and projects.
Note: If you don’t see any of your saved projects, it may be because you’re not signed in. If
you’ve recently updated the app, you can get signed out.

How to Upload
Step 1: Tap Step 2: Tap Se-
Upload. lect from Photo
Library.
Step 3: Tap the Step 4: Tap the

image file you uploaded
want to use. image and then
Give the image tap Insert.
a name and tap
Save.

How to Group
and Ungroup
How to Group
Step 1: Tap Layers and Step 2: When you’ve
select each layer you selected all the objects
want to group you want to group, tap
together or tap and Actions in the bottom
drag a rectangle to toolbar and then tap
select objects. the Group button.
How to Ungroup
Step 1: To ungroup, Step 2: Tap the layer
tap the Layers button titled Group, then tap
and look for the word the Actions button
Group. and tap the Ungroup
button.

How to Change Font
and Font Size
Step 1: Open your Step 2: Choose a
project and tap the new font from the
text you want to list that appears.
change the font
of, or tap the Text
tool.
Step 3: Type your Step 4: Change

text. the text size by
tapping Edit, and
then the Size
button and
adjusting the font
size by clicking
the up and down
arrows.

How to Change
Colors or Patterns
Step 1: Tap Step 2: Tap Edit
Layers and and then tap the
select the layer colored circle.
you want to
change color
of. The choosen
layer turns into
a darker gray
in the Layers
panel.
Step 3: Select The object

(tap) the color changes to the
you want. color you
If you don’t see selected.
the color you
want, you can
choose any
custom color in
the color picker
below it. When
done, tap the
Checkmark.
Note: You can’t set pattern fills in the Android version of Cricut Design Space. If you
need to set pattern fills, use a desktop and follow the directions on page 15.

How to Weld
Step 1: Make sure Step 2: Tap and
the images you drag a selection
would like to weld box around all
overlap with each of the images
other. you want to weld
together, tap on
Actions, then tap
Weld.
Step 3: You will Note: Weld is like

know that your permanent glue
images are welded and there is no
when they change “unweld” button.
to the same color You can only
and the new unweld if it is the
image appears in current project on
the Layers panel. your Canvas and
you recently
welded it. In this
case, you can
click the Undo
button until you
unweld the
image(s).
Otherwise you’ll
have to start over,
or work with the
design as-is.

How to Slice to Cut One
Step 1: Arrange the Step 2: Tap the
images on your Layers icon to
Canvas so that they open the Layers
are overlapping. panel. Select the
layers you want to
slice (tap each
layer at the same
time to select both).
Step 3: Tap Actions,

then tap Slice.
Step 4: Separate the

layers to review your
The new layers called new shapes. Move,
“Slice Image” will hide, or delete the
appear in the Layers layers you do
panel. not want. Continue
to layer and slice
the images until you
reach your desired
design.
Tips:
• If the text is multilayered and one layer is hidden, you can use the Slice tool. However, if you ungroup text
from its shadow layer, it becomes an image and will no longer work with the Slice tool unless the text is
ungrouped to individual letters.

How to Remove Parts
with Contour
Step 1: Select the Step 2: The Hide
layer for which you Contour window
want to hide cut will appear.
lines, and then tap The lines on the
Actions, then tap image represent
Hide Contour in individual cut
the lower right lines. Tap on the
corner. elements you want
to remove on the
image itself.
Step 3: The
hidden contour
will change to a
lighter shade Step 4: If you need to
indicating that make more changes,
it will no longer just tap the Contour
show as part of tool again. If you
the image. When wish to restore a
your image looks hidden contour, just
the way you want tap on the hidden cut
it to, tap the X icon lines and they will
again in the reappear on the
lower right hand Canvas.
corner to return to
your canvas.
Tip: Contour isn’t permanent so if you decide

lateron that you want a Contoured image to go
back the way it was or want to edit it further, all the
hidden parts are retained.

How to
Curve Text
Text tool in the Shapes and add
lower left corner. a circle. Resize the
Choose your font cirlce to match the
and add some curve you want.
text.
Step 4: Move each

letter so it’s base lines
up with the circle
below. Rotate the
letters to match the
curve of the circle.
Delete the circle and
Step 3: Tap the group all letters so
text, tap Actions, they stay in place
tthen tap Isolate. and can be moved
around.
Tips:
- You can continue to adjust letter spacing, rotate, edit the actual text,
and change the font type and style after curving your text as long as you
don’t weld or flatten the text.
- If you have difficulties moving the letters into position, it may be because
SmartGuides are turned on. To turn them off, tap Settings in the bottom
toolbar and toggle off SmartGuides.

How to Align Items
in a Perfect Row
Step 1: Add two Step 2: Tap
or more items Edit, then tap
to your canvas Distribute.
that you want
to align or
distribute
evenly. Tap and
drag a selection
box around
all items that
you wish to
align.
Step 3: Tap Step 4: Tap

Distribute Align, and
Horizontally in then Align
the toolbar. Bottom.
The stars are
spaced evenly. The items are
Now let’s align now in a
them. perfect row
with equal
spacing
between them.

How to Change
Letter Space
Step 1: Tap Step 3: If you
the Text tool, want to move
choose a font individual
and type your letters, select
text. As you can the text layer,
see, the letters tap Action,
are too far then tap
apart. Isolate.
Step 2: Select
your text, tap
Edit, tap Letter
Space, and tap
the minus sign
to decrease the
letter spacing
until you’re
happy with the
way the letters
look.
Step 4: Select
just the letter
or letters you
want to move,
tap Edit, then
tap H Position,
and tap the
+ symbol to
move it to the Tip: Don’t forget to group your
right and the letters when you’re done to keep
- symbol to them together.
move it to the
left.

How to Attach
Step 1: Add all of Step 2: Tap and
your images, text drag a selection
and other elements box around
to Cricut Design the layers you
Space and arrange want to attach
as desired. together, then
tap on Actions,
then tap
Attach.
To verify that
your layers are
attached, tap on
Layers and note
that they are now
grouped under
Layered Set.
Tip: If you are having a problem attaching
layers, try ungrouping layers first.
Note: Attached layers will take on the same

color so only attach layers that you

How to Color Sync
Step 1: Tap Step 2: Tap a

and drag layer and then
a selection drag and drop
box around it into the layer
all layers. you want to
Tap the Sync sync to.
button.
When you’re done, all

your shapes should
be the same exact
color.

from an Image
Step 1: Upload Step 2: Click
a JPG, PNG, GIF, anywhere on
or BMP file that the background
you want to use. around your
Tap the image to erase
Remove tool. it. You may
need to click in
several areas
to remove all of
the
background.
When it looks
good, tap Next.
If you need to
remove more
background,
tap Clean Up.
If it looks good,
tap Next.
Step 4: Save it Once saved,

as a Cut you can use
Image or Print the image by
Then Cut selecting it and
Image. Tap clicking Insert.
Save.

How to do Knockout
Text with an Image
parts of the text.
Step 1: Tap Step 2: Upload
Text, use a bold your image &
font, and type size it to fit your
in your words. text. Select
Resize it until everything and
you’re happy tap Actions
with the result. and then tap
Select your text Slice.
and tap
Actions, and
then tap Weld.
You will see Step 3: Remove

the results of the part of the
the slice in the heart that is
layers menu. By outside of the
using slice we text by clicking
are cutting the on the top slice
image of the result in the
heart out of the layers menu
words ‘I love and hitting the
you’. delete button.
Your design
should now
look like this
and you can
continue by
clicking Make
it.

How to
Flatten an Image
Step 1: Add All your items
two or more are now on one
items to your layer and will
canvas that only work for
you want to Print Then Cut.
flatten. Select
all objects Note: the
you want to warning symbol
flatten and appears
tap Actions, because Print
and then tap Then Cut is not
Flatten. available
on Android
devices, so you
can only
design your
image but you’ll
have to use
desktop to cut.
Tip: If you Note: Flatten

decide this is used only for
isn’t what you print.
wanted
to do, click
the Unflatten
button right
away.

How to Change
Operation & Tools
Step 1: Tap
your profile
picture and
choose
your
machine.
Step 3: Tap the linetype

you want to use and
Step 2: Select a layer
then tap the
and tap Edit, then tap
checkmark.
Linetype.
Choose Cut to use the fine point, Choose Wave Choose Perf to Choose Draw to write
deep cut, fabric, or rotary (Maker) to use the Wavy use the Perforation with pens & markers.
blades. You cannot use the knife Edge Tool (Mak- Tool (Maker). Then choose color &
blade with Android. er). thickness.
Note: You cannot use

the Knife or Foil
Transfer tools from
Android devices.
Choose Score to score Choose Deboss to use Choose Engrave to

with the Stylus (Explore the Debossing Tool use the Engraving Tool
and Maker) or Scoring (Maker). (Maker).
Wheel Tools (Maker).

How to Use Pens
to Write or Draw
Step 1: Tap Text, Step 2: Tap Edit,
and select a tap Regular, and
Writing font. choose Writing to
Type your text. select the Writing
style of the font.
Step 3: Tap Step 5: Adjust

Linetype. the Font Size and
Letter Space
as necessary so it
looks the way you
want it to look.
Step 4: Select
Draw and select
the color and type
of pen you want to
use.
Step 6: Click Make It and drag the text to the ex-

act spot you want it to be written on your material
on the on the machine mat. Then tap
Continue and insert the pen in your Cricut’s ac-
cessory clamp (clamp A), position your material
on the cutting mat, load your mat, and press the
flashing Go button.

How to Find Free
Images to Use
Step 1: Tap the Step 2: Tap on

Images tool. Filters.
Step 4: You can

also search within
the free images.
Click the image
you want to use
Step 3: Tap on and click the
Filters, then tap green Insert
on Ownership to Images button.
expand the menu The image will be
Select the Free box loaded onto the
under Ownership. canvas.
This will bring up all
the images that will
cut for free at this
time. At the time
I’m writing this,
there are 3439 free
images available.
Note: You can save a free image in a project in your Design Space
account. If the image is no longer free when you go to cut it, you will
have to purchase it or subscribe to Cricut Access in order to cut it.
If it is still being offered for free, you can cut it for free.

& Do You Need It?
Everything Some fonts
that is Marked are included
with a Green A with Cricut
is available in Access while
Cricut Access. other
licensed
fonts need
to be
purchased
Available to purschase
separately and with Cricut separately.
Access.
separately and is not includ-
ed with Cricut Access.

Even if you don’t have a Cricut Access - You get access to over 150,000 images for a relatively
membership you are able to see and use low price. And images are added weekly.
all of the graphics and fonts that they offer - You have access to 500 fonts, including WRITING fonts.
inside Cricut Design Space. However, you - It encourages you to use your machine more often.
will need to pay for those digital files when - Find pretty much anything you want for any occasion,
you send your project to be cut. any time of the year.
- If you ever buy images or fonts from Design Space, an
Access subscription pays for itself very quickly.
Cons of Having Cricut Access: - Faster member support. You get priority support over
- It’s a recurrent expense. When you stop those who do not have Access.
paying you won’t have Free access to any of - 10% savings on all product purchases on cricut.com —
machines, accessories, materials, and more – including
the previews used fonts or graphics. sale items!
- You can only use them within Cricut - Exclusive discounts and product offers — some products
Design Space. (you can’t integrating those can only be purchased by Access members.
fonts and images with other programs like - Craft faster because you don’t have to buy or hunt for
Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape). free stuff or make it yourself!
Get Your Cricut Access Subscription Here!

How to Print this Guide
Use this guide electronically on your computer or mobile device to make search easier and to
save paper.
If you prefer to have a printed hard copy, you can follow these steps:
1. Download the book
2. Open the PDF using Adobe Reader. You can get Adobe Reader free at
https://get.adobe.com/reader
3. Print a test page from inside Adobe Reader using a desktop (don’t print all paper at once
to make sure you have ink in your printer)
4. Decide if you want to print the entire guide or just the section for desktop, iOs or android.
5. Print the whole guide or just the specific pages for desktop, iOs or android.
6. Put the pages in clear protective sleeves in a binder or have the pages bound
You can also send the PDF to Staples for printing.
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The Ultimate Guide to

How to Align Items

The bottom line is now aligned. Now let’s space

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Step 2: Most computers are Bluetooth enabled.

Note: The Mac computer will not always show

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Step 2: Most computers are Bluetooth enabled. However, to determine

Note: The steps might look different on your PC if you

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Canvas Area The Canvas Area is the workspace where you’ll

Gridlines - The lines that cover your Canvas Area

Zoom - Zoom in or out by using the buttons in the

Selection - Whenever you select a layer, a rectangle

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Group: This tool permits you to join or group different layers.

Ungroup: This tool does the opposite of what “Group” does, it

Duplicate: This tool duplicates whichever layer you choose on

Blank Canvas: Enables you to modify the current canvas

Layer Visibility: This icon can be found on all layers and

Weld: Use this tool to merge shapes to form a new one.

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Templates: A template allows you to preview what your design is go-

Projects: Browse through your own projects and thousands of ready

Upload: Upload your own images, patterns and SVG-files made by

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Step 1: Click Upload. Step 2: Click Upload Image.

The image appears on your canvas and you can

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Tip: You can’t change a font you’ve welded

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Tips: You can scale, rotate, and edit

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If the Text Isn’t Kerned

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You will see the results of the slice in the layers

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Note: When you hit Make It for your project,

Tip: Can’t find a template that looks like

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Note: Flatten is used only for print.

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