So you got a Cricut.. now what? You’re probably excited to get started, but you aren’t sure where to begin. Maybe all you’ve done is just stare at the box (cause lets get real, the box has probably been sitting there for a while). I’m here to tell you that you are not alone! Your Cricut cutting machine is going to change your life for the better! And even though it can feel intimidating, this guide will help you get started with your Cricut cutting machine in 5 simple steps!
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Step 1: Open the Box to your Cricut!
This one may seem a little ridiculous, but if you are like me, sometimes that is the hardest part! Or maybe you opened the box and set it on a table, but it’s just been sitting there. Just get out the Cricut machine, set it up, and plug it in. I know you can do it!
Step 2: Sign Up for a Cricut Account
You’ll be prompted to sign up for Cricut Design Space once you download Cricut Design Space. Cricut Design Space is the free software that comes with every Cricut machine and is cloud based. This means that you have an account where you can login from any computer or device that has the Cricut Design Space software or app. You’ll be able to access all of your projects where ever you are logged in.
There are three types of Cricut accounts. A free account and two different paid account levels. For now, you can sign up with a free account and wait to sign up with the Cricut Access paid subscription plan. There are plenty of elements in Cricut Design Space that are free to use when you get started. As you start to use it more, then you can decide if you want to sign up for a subscription.
Also, be sure to follow the “New Machine Setup” helper in Cricut Design Space to get your Cricut setup.
Step 3: Find Beginner Cricut Classes
Try to find beginner classes that are held in person near where you live. You can look for classes at craft stores, like Michaels or JoAnns, or a local scrapbook shop. If you don’t have a craft store nearby, you can always check out classes online.
My favorite place to find classes online is SkillShare. I’ve found tutorials on everything from Smartphone Photography to Photoshop to Beginner Watercolor classes. Right now they have a free trial and you can take as many classes as you want. It’s a good place to start for FREE!
Step 4: Get to Know the Cricut Design Space Lingo
Sometimes the most intimidating part of using the Cricut is learning the lingo. Now that all your projects are made using the Cricut Design Space program, you have more options to customize your projects. But that means learning the lingo and what each function can do for you.
Weld, Attach, Slice, Group.. what does it all mean? I made a Quick Reference cheat sheet that can help you remember what each function does. You can get access to it and other freebies that are in my free resource library at the bottom of this post.
Step 5: Make Your First Cricut Project
Now it’s time to make something! You can make the first basic project by following the tutorial in Cricut Design Space to get started. This will also help you learn the basics of the Cricut Design Space. Make sure to follow the “New Machine Setup” guide and it will prompt you to make your first project.
Now, take it a step further and get started on some great beginner projects. You can check out my Cricut Project Pinterest board to get more ideas. I have a post of my favorite beginner projects for the Cricut. Pick one of these projects and make one today! Now you are ready to conquer your Cricut machine for all your crafting projects.
Learn Advanced Cricut Skills
If you are looking to take your Cricut game to the next level or are looking to create a little crafting side business, I know a course that can help you get there. The Cut Above SVG Design Course is outstanding. JenniferMaker teaches you how to create your own Cut Files that are the basis for creating projects on a Cricut cutting machine. By the end of the course you will know how to create 3D designs from scratch. This course is only open a couple times a year (usually in the Spring and Fall), so get on the waitlist to get notified when it opens.
Get Started With Your Cricut
With these 5 steps you can start using your Cricut to create beautiful projects. Now is the time to make time in your life to be creative and start using the Cricut in your everyday crafting adventures!
Don’t Forget to Sign Up to Get the Cricut Quick Reference Sheet
Just fill out the form below and you’ll get access to my FREE resource library that has tons of goodies made just for my readers.
Share your favorite beginner projects with me in the comments below. Also, let me know if you have any questions or tutorials you would like to see.
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