Are you trying to learn everything about Cricut Design Space and you don’t even know where to start?
Learning a new hobby or skill can be intimidating at first. I get it; sometimes we don’t even know where to start because there’s so much information out there and it’s just overwhelming.
For me, the best way to learn and master Cricut Design Space is from the beginning!
You see, when you have a clear concept of what every icon and panel is for, then you can truly dig in and start exploring further and further.
Sometimes we are quick to jump from project to project – Hey That’s ok too! BTDT – But I think that knowing your work area will help you to take your creativity to a whole new level.
The purpose of this article is to teach you and show you an overview of every Icon, and Panel of the Cricut Design Space Canvas Area.
As time goes, I will be creating more complex tutorials for EVERY single icon and, or function. So if you want to learn more about an icon or skill, I encourage you to click the available links.
Before we dig in, let’s learn what the Cricut Design Space Canvas Area is.
The Cricut Design Space Canvas Area is where all of the magic happens before you cut your projects.
Design Space is where you touch up and organize your creations. In this space, not only you can use and upload your fonts and images, but you can also use Cricut’s premium images and fonts via individual purchases, Cricut Access, and Cartridges.
Now, That we got that definition out of the way, let’s get started!
Note: If you are still learning what a Cricut is and which one you should get; I highly recommend you to read this post where I walk you through 50+ questions before and after I got the Cricut. FYI I spent multiple hours of research and a whole week to put together this ultimate guide.
Cricut Design Space Canvas Tutorial For Beginners – What’s everything for?
Investing in a Cricut is futile if you don’t learn how to master Design Space because you will always need this software to cut any project.
In my opinion, Cricut Design Space is an excellent tool for beginners, and if you have no experience with any other Design programs like Photoshop or Illustrator, you will find that although it looks overwhelming, it’s quite easy.
You guys, if I can do it, you can too!
On the other hand, if you have preview experience with any of the Adobe Creative Cloud apps or Inkscape. You will see that this program is just a breeze. Design Space, it’s mainly to touch up your projects and create minimal designs with Shapes and Fonts.
If you want something more sophisticated, you are going to need your own designs or Cricut Access. That’s a membership where you get access to their supergiant library. Learn more about it in this article and guide I put together.
When you log into your Cricut Design Space account and want to start or edit a new project, you will do everything from a window called CANVAS
The Canvas Area in Cricut Design Space is where you do all of your editings before you cut your projects.
I get it!
There are so many buttons, options, and things to do that you might feel lost. Don’t worry, I am here along the way, cheering you up and encouraging you to keep going.
On this Post, you are about to learn what EVERY SINGLE ICON on the Canvas area is for. To keep everything in order and easy to understand, we are going to divide the canvas into four areas and four colors:
- Top Panel Yellow – Editing Area
- Left Panel Blue – Insert Area
- Right Panel Purple – Layers Panel
- Canvas Area Green
Tip: This is not a short post, so I encourage you to get a cup of coffee with some donuts or cookies if possible.
Top Panel Cricut Design Space
The top panel in the Design Space Canvas area is for editing and arranging elements on the canvas area. From this panel, you can choose what type of font you’d like to use; you can change sizes, align designs, and more!
This panel is divided into two sub-panels. The first one allows you to save, name, and finally cut your projects. And the second one will enable you to control and edit things on the canvas area.
Sub-panel #1 Name Your Project and Cut it
This sub-panel allows you to navigate from the Canvas to your profile, projects, and it also sends your completed projects to cut.
Toggle Menu
When you click on this button, another whole menu will slide open. This menu is a handy one. But it’s not part of the Canvas, and that’s why I won’t be going into a lot of detail.
Basically, from here you can go to your profile and change your photo.
There are other useful and technical things you can do from this Menu like calibrating your machine, blades; also updating the Firmware – Software – of your device.
You can also manage your subscriptions from Cricut Access, your account details, and more.
I recommend you to click on every link so that you explore everything that Cricut Design Space has for you.
Note: On the settings option, you can change the visibility and measurements of the Canvas; this is explained better at the end of this post when I explain all about the canvas area.
Project Name
All projects start with an *Untitled “title,” you can only name a project from the canvas area after you’ve placed at least one element (Image, shape, etc.).
My Projects
When you click on my projects, you will be redirected to your library of things you have already created; this is great because sometimes you might want to re-cut a previously created project. So, there’s no need for you to recreate the same project over and over.
Save
This option will activate after you’ve placed one element on your canvas area. I recommend you save your project as you go. Although the software is on the cloud, if your browser crashes, there goes your hard work with it!
Maker – Explore (Machine)
Depending on the type of machine you have you will need to select either the Cricut Joy, Maker or the Cricut Explore Machine; this is very important because on the Cricut Maker you will find 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.
The different options are for linetype. (I will be covering on this tutorial)
Make it
When you are done uploading your files, and ready to cut click on Make it!
Down below there’s a screenshot of what you would see. Your projects are divided by mats according to the colors of your project.
From this window, you can also increase the number of projects to cut; this is great if you are planning on creating more than one cut.
Subpanel #2 – Editing Menu
It’s extremely useful, and it will help you to edit, arrange, and organize fonts and images on the Canvas Area
a. Undo & Redo
Sometimes while we work, we make mistakes. These little buttons are a great way to correct them.
Click Undo when you create something you don’t like, or make a mistake. Click Redo when you accidentally delete something you didn’t want to delete or modify.
(If only there were something similar for life itself lol)
b. Linetype and Fill
This option will tell your machine what tools and blades you are going to use.
Keep in mind that depending on the Machine you have selected on the top of the window (Maker, Explore, or Joy), you will have different options.
Linetype
This option will tell your machine when you are cutting your project, what tool you will be using. Right now, there are eight options (Cut, Draw, Score, Engrave, Deboss, Wave, Perf, and Foil).
If you have a Cricut Maker, all options will be available; if you have an Explore, you will be able to Cut, Draw, Score, and foil; last, if you have a Cricut Joy, only Cut and Draw will be available.
Here is a more in-depth explanation of each tool.
Cut
Unless you uploaded a JPEG or PNG image to the Canvas; “Cut” is the default linetype that all of your elements on your canvas will have; this means that when you press MAKE IT, your machine will cut those designs.
With the Cut option selected, you can change the fill of your elements, at the end of the day, this translates in the different colors of materials you will use when you cut your projects.
If you need help with learning about the Cricut Blades and the differences, I recommend you this ultimate guide and tutorial I put together. It’s the best on the web, just like this tutorial 🙂
Draw
If you want to write on your designs, you can do it with your Cricut!
When you assign this linetype, you will be prompted to choose any of the Cricut Pens you have (You need specific pens, unless you have a 3rd party adapter). When you select a particular design, the layers on your canvas area will be outlined with the color of the pen you picked.
With this tool, when you click Make it, instead of cutting, your Cricut will write or draw. Note: This option DOESN’T color your designs.
Score
Score is a more potent version of the Scoring line located on the left panel. When you assign this attribute to a layer, all of the designs will appear scored or dashed.
This time, when you click on Make it. Your Cricut won’t cut, but it will score your materials.
For these types of projects, you will need the scoring stylus or the scoring wheel. However, keep in mind The wheel only works with the Cricut Maker.
If you have doubts about what materials you need, I suggest you read this article. It’s the ultimate guide for you to learn, what accessories and materials you genuinely need.
Engrave
Allows you to engrave different types of materials. For instance, you can create monograms on aluminum sheets or anodized aluminum to reveal the silver beneath.
Deboss
This tip will push the material in, and it will create beautiful and detailed designs. The debossing tip will allow you to costumize your designs to a whole new level.
Just imagine debossing a beautiful gift box with flowers, hearts, stars, etc.!
Wave
Instead of cutting on straight lines like the rotary or fine point blade, this tool will create wavy effects on your final cuts.
Getting curved lines in Design Space is quite complicated, so this tool will come in handy if you like these sorts of effects.
Perf
The Perforation Blade is a tool that allows you to cut your materials in small and uniform lines to create perfect and crisp tear effects like the ones you see in raffle tickets, coupons, tear-out cards, etc.
Learn how to use the perforation blade
Foil (New)
Foil is the newest Cricut tool and it allows you to make beautiful foil finishes on your projects with the Cricut foil transfer kit.
When using this linetype you have the option to choose between fine, medium, and bold finishes.
Fill
The fill option is mainly to be used for printing and patterns.
It will only be activated when you have Cut as a “linetype.” No Fill means that you won’t be printing anything.
Print is by far, one of the best features Cricut has because it allows you to print your designs and then cut them; this is fabulous, and honestly, it’s what motivated me to get a Cricut in the first place.
I design tons of printables for kiddos and adults, and for taking photos – for my posts – I had to cut every single little thing!
Ahhhgggg, I seriously wanted to cry every time. I am a lefty, and scissors really make my hands hurt. So the Cricut is a live saver for me.
Anyway, we are getting back to the Printing option. When this Fill option is active, after you click Make it; first, you’ll send your files to your home printer and then have your Cricut do all the heavy lifting. (Cutting)
Another excellent option for the Print Type is Patterns!!! You guys, this is so cool. Use Cricut’s choices, or upload your own; you can add a pattern to pretty much any kind of layer.
The imagination is your limit!
Let’s say it’s Valentine’s Day. You can make a beautiful card with an already created pattern from Cricut Access (Membership, not free), or your own. Then print and cut at the same time.
Thank you, Cricut!
Fill for Print then Cut ONLY works with the Cricut Maker and any of the Explore Family Machines (it’s not compatible with Cricut Joy).
c. Select All
When you need to move all of your elements inside the canvas area, you may struggle to select them one by one.
Click Select all to select all of the elements from the canvas.
d. 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.
The Edit Icon has a drop-down menu.
The cut and copy option will be activated when you use have a selection of one or more elements from the canvas area. The Paste option will be enabled once you copy or cut something.
e. Align
If you have previews experience with other graphic design programs, most likely you’ll know how to use this menu.
If you aren’t familiar with the Align Tools, let me tell you something; the Align Menu is something that you want to master to perfection.
I will be creating a full tutorial for this, but while it comes out; here’s what every align function means:
Align: This function allows you to align all of your designs, and it’s activated when selecting two or more elements.
– Align Left: When using this setting, all of the elements will be aligned to the left. The furthest element to the left will dictate where all of the other elements will move towards.
– Center Horizontal: This option will align your elements horizontally; this will entirely center text and images.
– Align Right: When using this setting, all of your elements will be aligned to the right. The furthest element to the right will dictate where all of the other elements will move.
– Align Top: This option will align all of your selected designs to the top. The furthest element to the top will dictate where all of the other elements will move.
– Center Vertically: This option will align your elements vertically. It’s handy when you are working with columns, and you want them organized and aligned.
– Align Bottom: This option will align all of your selected designs to the bottom. The furthest element to the bottom will dictate where all of the other elements will move.
– Center: This option is a very cool one. When you click on “center,” you are centering, both vertically and horizontally, one design against another one; this is particularly useful when you want to center text with a shape like a square or a star.
Distribute: If you want the same spacing between elements, it’s very time consuming to do it all on your own, and it’s not 100% right. The distribute button will help you out with that. For it to be activated, you must have at least three elements selected.
– Distribute Horizontally: This button will distribute the elements horizontally. The furthest left and right designs will determine the length of the distribution; this means that the items that are in the center will be distributed between the most distant left and right designs.
– Distribute Vertically: This button will distribute the elements vertically. The furthest top and bottom designs will determine the length of the distribution; this means that the items that are in the center will be distributed between the most distant top and bottom designs.
f. Arrange
When you work with multiple images, text, and designs, the new creations you add to the canvas will always be in front of everything. However, some of the elements of your design need to be in the back or front.
With the arrange option, you can organize the elements very easily.
Something great about this function is that the program will know what item is on the front or back and, and when you select it, Design space will activate the available options for that particular element. Cool right?
These are the options you get:
– Send to back: This will move the selected element all the way to the back.
– Move Backward: This option will move selected the item just one step back. So if you have a three-element design. It will be like the cheese in a cheese sandwich.
– Move Forward: This option will move the element just one step forward. Typically, you would use this option when you have four or more items you need to organize.
– Sent to front: This option will move the selected element all the way to the front.
g. Flip
If you need to reflect any of your designs in Cricut Design Space, this is a great way to do it.
There are 2 options:
– Flip Horizontal: This will reflect your image or design horizontally. Sort of like a mirror; It’s handy when you are trying to create left and right designs. Example: You are building some wings, and already have the left side; with Flip, you can copy and paste the left wing, and voila! Now you have both (left and right) wings!
– Flip Vertical: This will flip your designs vertically. Kind of like you would see your reflection on the water. If you want to create a shadow effect, this option would be great for you.
h. Size
Everything you create or type in Cricut Design Space has a size. You can modify the size from the element in self (when you click on it). However, if you need an item to have an exact measurement, this option will allow you to do so.
Something essential is the little lock. When you increase or reduce the size of an image, the proportions are always locked. By clicking on the small lock, you are telling the program that you don’t want to keep the same dimensions.
i. Rotate
Just like size, rotating an element is something you can do very quickly from the canvas area. However, some designs need to be turned on a specific angle. If that’s the case for you, I recommend you to use this function. Otherwise, you will spend so much time fighting to get an element angled the way you want it to be.
j. Position
This box shows you where your items are on the canvas area when you click on a specific design.
You can move your elements around by specifying where you want that element to be located on the canvas areas. It’s handy, but it’s a more advanced tool.
Personally, I don’t use it that much because I can get around better with the alignment tools I mentioned above.
k. Font
When you click on this panel, you can 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.
However, if you don’t have Cricut access, Make sure you use your system’s fonts; otherwise you will be charged when you send your project to cut.
l. Style
Once you pick your font, you have the option to change its form.
Some of the options you have:
– Regular: this is the default setting, and it won’t change the appearance of your font.
– Bold: it will make the font thicker.
– Italic: it will tilt the font to the right.
– Bold italic: it will make the font thicker and tilt to the right.
m. Font Size, Letter & Line Space
I can’t express enough how AMAZING these options are. Especially the letter spacing.
Font Size: You can change it manually from here. I usually just adjust the size of my fonts from the canvas area.
Letter Space: Some fonts have a considerable gap between each letter. This option will allow you to reduce the space between letters very quickly. It’s seriously a game-changer.
Line Space: this option will tackle the space between lines in a paragraph; this is very useful because sometimes I am forced to create a single line of text because I am not happy with the spacing between lines.
n. Alignment
This Alignment differs from the other “alignment” I explained above. This option is for paragraphs.
These are the options you have:
– Left: Align a paragraph to the left
– Center: Align a paragraph to the center
– Right: Align a paragraph to the right.
o. Curve
This option will allow you to get extra creative with your text!
With this function, you can curve your text — the best way to learn it’s by playing with the little slider.
When you move the slider to the left, it will curve the text upwards; and when you move it to the right, it will bend the text inwards.
Note: if you move the slider entirely to the left, or right; you will form a circle with your fonts.
p. Advance
Advance is the last option on the editing panel.
Don’t be intimidated by the name of this drop-down menu. Once you learn what all of the options are for, you will see they are not that hard to use.
– Ungroup to Letters: This option will allow you to separate each letter, into a single layer (I will explain more about Layers down below); use this, if you have plans to modify every single character.
– Ungroup to Lines: This option is exceptional, and it will allow you to separate a paragraph on individual lines. Type your paragraph, then click on ungroup to lines and there you have it; a separate line that you can now modify.
– Ungroup to Layers: This one is the trickiest of all of these options. This option is only available for Multi-Layer fonts; these kinds of fonts are only available for individual purchases and, or Cricut Access.
A multi-layer font is a type of font that has more than one layer; these fonts are great if you want to have some shadow or color around it.
What if you like a font that is multi-layer and you don’t want the added layer? Just select your text and then click on ungroup to layers to separate every single layer.
Learn how to Edit Text in Cricut Design Space
A quick pause to invite you over on my Instagram! Tag me and let me see all of your beautiful creations. I am so happy when I see people are using my tutorials!
Left Panel – Insert Shapes, Images & More
With the top panel (that I just explained to detail) you are going to edit all of your designs.
But where do they all come from? They all come from the Cricut Design Space Left Panel.
This panel is all about inserting shapes, images, ready to cut projects, and more. From here you are going to add all of the things you are going to cut.
This panel has seven options:
– New: to create and replace a new project in the canvas area.
– Templates: this allows you to have a guide on the types of things you are going to cut. Let’s say you want to iron on vinyl on a onesie. When you select the template, you can design and see how the design would look like.
– Projects: Add ready to cut projects from Cricut Access.
– Images: Pick single images from Cricut Access, and cartridges to create a project.
– Text: Click here to add text on your canvas area.
– Shapes: Insert all kinds of shapes on the canvas.
– Uploads: Upload your images and cut files to the program.
There’s something fundamental that you need to consider on this panel; unless you have Cricut Access, Cricut Images, ready to cut projects, and Cricut fonts cost money. If you use them, you will have to pay before you cut your project.
If you still have doubts about Cricut Access. Do yourself a favor and read this ultimate guide I put together for you to find out whether you need it or not. It’s seriously a lifesaver.
Now, that we saw a little preview of what everything was for on this panel. Let’s see what happens when you click on each of those buttons.
a. New
When you click on NEW, and if you are already working on a project, you will receive a warning on top of the window asking you whether you want to replace your project or not.
If you want to replace your project, make sure to save all the changes from the current project; otherwise, you will lose all that hard work. After you save, a fresh new and empty canvas will open up for you to get started.
b. Templates
Templates help you to visualize and see how your project will fit on a particular surface. I think this feature is just out of this world.
If you want to personalize fashion items, this tool is marvelous because you can select sizes and different types of clothing. Plus they also have a lot of various categories that you can choose from.
Note: templates are just for you to visualize. Nothing will be cut when you finish designing and send your project to be cut.
c. Projects
If you wish to cut right away, then Projects is where you want to go! Once you select your project, you can customize it; or click on make it, and follow the cutting instructions.
Tip: Most of the projects are available for Cricut Access members, or you can purchase them as you go. However, there are a handful of projects FREE for you to cut, depending on the machine you have. Just scroll to the bottom of the categories’ drop-down menu and select the device you own.
No excuses!
d. Images
Images are perfect when you are putting together your own projects; with them, you can add an extra touch and personality to your crafts.
You can search by keyword, highlighted categories, themes, people, places, occasions
Cartridges are a set of images that you need to purchase separately; some of them come with Cricut Access, and some not. (Brands such as Disney, Sesame Street, Hello Kitty, etc. are not part of Cricut Acces)
Under “Highlighted Categories” Cricut has FREE images to cut every week.
Anytime you click under any category a more powerful filter will appear. With this filter you can narrow your search even further.
I suggest you play with these filters so you find images more efficiently.
e. Text
Anytime you want to type on the Canvas Area, you will need to click on Text; then, a little window that says “Add text here” will open on the canvas.
Learn how to edit text like a pro on this great guide I put together!
f. Shapes
Being able to use shapes, it’s essential! With them, you can create simple and less complicated, and (also) beautiful projects.
There’re nine shapes you can choose from:
– Square
– Triangle
– Pentagon
– Hexagon
– Star
– Octagon
– Heart
The last option is not a shape, but an amazing and powerful tool called Score Line. With this option, you can create folds and score your materials.
If you want to create boxes or love everything about card making, the Score Line will be your best friend!
Learn how to edit shapes like a Pro!
g. Upload
Last, but not least!
With this option, you can upload your files and images. The internet is filled with them; there are tons of bloggers that create projects for free.
Oh! And just so you know, I also have a FREE growing library with tons of printables and SVG files ready to be cut.
I would love for you to be able to get access to all of them. It’s 100% Free for my daydreamers (aka subscribers) check out a live preview here, or get access here.
Note: The uploads you see on the image right down below are inside my fantastic library!
Right Panel – Learn All about Layers
To set you up for success and before I explain to you what every icon is all about on the Layers Panel, let me give you a little introduction of what a layer is.
Layers represent every single element or design that is on the canvas area.
Think of it like clothing; when you get dressed, you have multiple layers that make up your outfit; and depending on the day, or time of year, your outfit can be simple or complex.
So, for a freezing day, your layers would be underwear, pants, shirt, jacket, sock, boots, gloves, etc.; and for a day at the pool, you would only have one layer, a Swim Suit!
The same happens with a design; depending on the complexity of the project you are working on, you’ll have different types of layers that’ll make up your entire project.
For example, let’s pretend that you are designing a Christmas Card.
What would this card have?
Maybe a text that says Merry Christmas, a tree, the card itself, perhaps an envelope as well?
My point is that all of the little designs and elements that are part of that project are layers.
Some layers can be modified; However, other layers, like JPEG and PNG images, can’t; this is because of the nature of the file or the layer itself.
For instance, a text layer can be converted into other types of layers; but, when you do that, you’ll lose the ability to edit that text.
As you go, you will learn more about what can or can’t do with layers.
I hope that gave you a good idea of what a layer is! Now let’s learn what every single icon is for on this right panel.
a. Group, Ungroup, Duplicate and Delete
These settings will make your life easy when moving things around the canvas area, so make sure to play around with them.
Group: Click here to group layers. This setting is handy when you have different layers that make up a complex design.
Let’s say you are working on an elephant. Most likely (and if this is an SVG or cut file) the elephant will be composed of different layers (the body, eyes, legs, trunk, etc.); If you want to incorporate, extra shapes, and text; most likely is that you will be moving your elephant across the canvas area a lot.
Therefore, by grouping all of the elephant layers, you can make sure that everything will stay organize and nothing will get out of place when you move them around then canvas.
Ungroup: This option will ungroup any grouped layers you select on the canvas area or layers panel. Use this option if you need to edit (size, type of font, etc.) a particular element or layer from the group.
Duplicate: This option will duplicate any layers or designs you have selected on the layers panel or canvas.
Delete: This option will delete any elements you have selected on the canvas or layers panel.
b. Linetype/Fill
Every item on the Layers Panel will show what Linetype or Fill you are using (Cut, Write, Score, Perf, Wavy, Print, etc.).
c. Layer Visibility
The little eye that appears on every layer on the layers panel represents the visibility of a design. When you are not sure whether an element looks good, instead of deleting it, click on the little eye to hide that design. Note: When you hide an item, the eye will have a cross mark.
Tip: By clicking on a layer and dragging it, you can move a particular design on top or under; you could say that this works like the Arrange option (sent to the front, back, etc.).
d. Blank Canvas
This “layer” allows you to change the color of your canvas; if you are trying to see how a particular design looks with a different color. The power of this setting is unleashed when you use it along with the Templates tool because you can modify the color and the options of the template itself.
e. Slice, Weld, Attach, Flatten and Contour
These tools you see here are incredibly important! So make sure you master them to perfection. I won’t go into a lot of detail on them because they deserve tutorials on their own.
However, I will give you a brief explanation of what they are all about by using the graphic down below.
Slice, Weld, Attach, Flatten, and Contour Info-Graphic
As you can see in the graphic, the original design is a pink circle and a teal square. Now let’s see what happens when I use all of these options.
Slice
The slice tool is perfect for cutting out shapes, text, and other elements, from different designs.
When I selected both shapes and clicked on slice, you can see that the original file got all cut up; to show you what the final outcome was, I copied and pasted the “slice result” and then separated all of the pieces that resulted from slicing.
Learn more about the slice tool
Weld
The welding tool allows you to combine two or more shapes in one.
When I selected both shapes and clicked on Weld, you can see that I created a whole new shape. The color is determined by the layer that is on the back, that’s why the new shape is pink in color.
Attach
Attach works like grouping layers, but it’s more powerful.
When I selected both shapes and clicked on attach, you can see that the layers just changed color (determined by the layer that is on the back). However, the shapes are connected, and this attachment will remain in place, even after I send my project to be cut.
Learn more about Weld and Attach
Flatten
This tool is extra support for the Print then Cut Fill setting; when you change the fill from no fill to print, that applies to just one layer. But what if you wish to do it to multiple shapes at the time?
When you are done with your design, select the layers you want to print together as a whole, and then click on flatten.
When you are done with your designed (you can’t reverse this after exiting your project), select the layers you want to print together as a whole, and then click on flatten.
In this case, the element became a print then cut design, and that’s why it isn’t showing a black edge (where the blade will go through) anymore.
Learn more about Flatten and Print then Cut
Contour
The Contour tool allows you to hide unwanted pieces of a design, and it will only be activated when a shape or design has elements that can be left out.
For this example, I combined the original design in one shape with the weld tool; then I typed in the word contour and sliced it against the new shape, and used the Contour tool to hide the inner circles of the two letters O and the inner part of the letter R.
Learn more about the contour tool
f. Color Sync
Color Sync is the last option of the layers panel.
Every color on your canvas area represents a different material color. If your design has multiple shades of yellows or blues; are you sure you need them?
If you only need one shade of yellow, like this example. Just click and drag the tone you want to get rid of and drop it on the one you want to keep.
Canvas Area
The canvas area is where you see all of your designs and elements. It’s very intuitive and effortless to use!
a. Canvas Grid and Measurements
The canvas area is divided by a grid; this is great because every little square you see on the Grid helps you to visualize the cutting mat. In the end, this will help you to maximize your space.
You can change the measurements from inches to cm and turn the grid on and off when you click on the top panel toggle and then select Settings. (You can see this toggle menu, right in the beginning of this tutorial)
A window will pop up with all of the options.
b. Selection
Anytime you select one or more layers, the selection is blue, and you can modify it from all of the four corners.
The “red x” is for deleting the layers. The right upper corner will allow you to rotate the image (although if you need a specific angle, I recommend you to use the rotate tool on the editing menu).
The lower right button of the selection, “the small lock,” keeps the size proportional when you increase or decrease the size of your layer. By clicking on it, you are now able to have different proportions.
c. Zoom In and Out
Last but not least. If you want to see in a bigger or smaller scale (without modifying the real size of your designs), you can do it by pressing the “+ and -” signs on the lower-left corner of the canvas.
That’s it – You are not a beginner anymore!
I hope this tutorial was useful for you! If you read it and studied it consciously, let me tell you something that you are not a beginner.
You have graduated!
Do you know that it takes me around 15 hours of work to complete a single Cricut article? I know, it’s crazy! But I like to make sure that you understand EVERYTHING!
I would appreciate your support on Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Facebook as I am trying to grow my audience so I can keep producing great content!
If I am missing something, please let me know in the comments below so I can add the information to this tutorial, and have it to be the most complete on the Internet.
Marian says
This is a fantastic tutorial ! I purchased my Maker about 18 months ago, excited that it could cut fabric. Wow, I was totally blown away. I am not at all computer savy, I had no idea it was sooo involved. So, I put it away, having know idea what I was suppose to do and how to do it. Well, I finally decided to bring it back out, more determined this time, to try and understand how this machine operates. After reading and watching several articles and videos, I was still confused. I thought I had wasted my money. Then I saw this tutorial and the title is what caught my attention. I started reading and low and behold, I started to understand. Thank you so much for breaking it down step by step.
Catalina says
I am happy I was able to help! Determination is key 🙂
Tammy says
Thank heavens I found you!! My sister just bought me a cricut and I am totally lost. I have read part of your instructions and am so relieved to find someone willing to explain in such detail. I am a visual learner so this is fantastic. I am so grateful. Thank you !
Catalina says
You’re very welcome! I am very happy I can help.
Samiah Mansour says
Thank you SO much for this post! I’m a newbie, and find there is so much information but i couldn’t find a place to start UNTIL I found this post! It must have taken you a long time, I really appreciate it!
Catalina says
So happy I was able to help!
Sherry Ferrell says
Your post was very helpful. I just started using my cricut maker this month, so I am still learning.
I am having problems with printing and cutting a family photo with the shape icon. I can print my image but when the machine cuts the image it cuts it in a square. Is there away where you can cut a photo in a heart shape.
I am also having trouble with the top panel, it does not show all the features, for example the curve icon does not appear all the time. Is there a reason for this.
I sure appreciate any help you may have.
Thank you
Catalina says
Check out my “Slice” tutorial where I show how to crop images in different shapes.
Robbie Greenfield says
Hi
How do I get a copy of this awesome information about Cricut.
Bless you
Catalina says
Working on an ebook!
Marie says
Yes!! Still learning about the Cricut and deciding if I would use it often enough to warrant the cost. I have 3 great grands so I’m sure I’d figure out something! How will you let us know when its available?
Catalina says
You need to check every day. Sometimes they come out, but the run out pretty much the next day.
Chris says
Catalina,
I am new to the Cricut family and want you to know how much your blog has helped me.
I was getting very frustrated trying to add tex to an already design and it wasn’t working until I read this blog. You made it so easy and my project came out beautiful.
Than you again and keep up the great blog for all of unbees.
Catalina says
You’re very welcome! I am glad I can help.
FRANCISCA Hill says
Thank you so much for your tutorial I’m still a newbie with my Cricut Maker. I have been making Christmas cards and would like to add text inside. I have prepared all of my greetings on one canvas to save myself time by using the duplicating icon and adding my appropriate name Gramma, mom etc. Now I’ve been trying to figure out how I can cut each saying and put it onto a new canvas so that I can put it on to individual cards. Thank you in advance for your help.
Regards Francisca
Catalina says
Unfortunately, at this time you can’t copy from one project to another one. You can, however, save the same project as a different one (creating a copy) and delete what you don’t need.
Maria V Rodriguez says
Hi – I just purchased my Cricut Air 2 – used but it is in great condition, I am planning to purchase the Bluetooth flash drive so I can use my iPad, however, I was looking at your Article and you did say that the Software for Designing on a Windows Laptop was free and I am also hoping it is free also for the iPad. But I noticed you did not say much on how to download the software and from where? Or did I miss that information… Also does Cricut make that software? and does other software programs do the same or better and do you know what they are? Lots of questions toward this subject… 🙂
Please let me know… where I can get the software program for my Windows Laptop, and the Apple iPad
Catalina says
If you have an Air 2 you shouldn’t need the Bluetooth adapter because that one is Bluetooth capable. Also, for the iPad is free as well you just need to download the app (read my iPad tutorial). To learn how to install and pair your Cricut, check out this article.
Deborah says
Very helpful! Could you please tell me how to change the default print page size? It defaults to Letter, but I live in Australia, so we print on A4 paper. There’s no way to change the material size on the page where you see the preview and select the number of project copies. Very frustrating!!!! Thank you, Deb.
Catalina says
As far as I know, You can only print then cut on Letter size. You can still use A4, Cricut will read the black guidelines as a reference, just make sure that your design will fit your A4 paper.
Elisabwth says
I have used design space for years since I got my Explore about 4-5 years ago. I just got the maker and I’m super excited to start making more stuff. We used it so much for my daughters wedding. It was great. The tutorial seems very thorough. I would like to dive in completely but for now I just skimmed.
One comment I would like to make is that it looks very different on the IPad or IPhone. It is way easier to use on a computer. Also there r things that I haven’t figured out how to do on iPad or iPhone like download fonts for use. I used a bunch of fonts for my daughters wedding from dafont and it worked great on the laptop but I can’t add a font on my iPad. So if anyone else is having this type or issue or are having problems with iPad use know u aren’t alone. They menu of edits and alignment and such are in very different places and many are hidden.
Catalina says
I agree things change when going from PC to App! I have an iPad tutorial too that shows where every icon is!
Elisa says
I would like to know if I can purchase a ebook or book from you.
Catalina says
I am trying to work on it! I just keep getting insecure about it lol. It’s coming soon, though!
Mel Montalvo says
Thank you for this tutorial,it was very informative , I plane on checking out the other ones as well . This is my first cricut machine .
Catalina says
You’re very welcome! I am happy to hear you like this tutorial!
DreJa says
This tutorial was very helpful, but the one thing I DIDN’T see mentioned was how to utilize all my paper – for instance on a 12 x 12 sheet. I may cut out a few things and then have plenty of paper left over. Instead of completely removing the sheet and then replacing it on the ‘unused’ part – is there a way to set it up on my canvas for it to cut in that unused area???
Catalina says
Yes! You do this when you are on the mat preview you can move things around so can cut wherever you want.
Linda says
Oh yes!! How’s your Ebook coming along? I would do better with that! 🤗 Will you have an Ebook for all your tutorials? Thanks for your hours & hours of work!
Catalina says
I don’t know if it will have all the tutorials, but it will for sure empower you to tackle most projects!
Kathy Loessberg says
I started to look at your tutorial on using design space for beginners. It looks like it would be very helpful but your icon panels on your computer don’t look anything at all like mine. I am using an apple I pad with my cricut maker. I don’t have as many icons as you have and I don’t have a template icon. I am also using safari. What am I doing wrong?
Catalina says
You’re looking my desktop tutorial! Checkout my phone app tutorial!
Elisabeth says
U aren’t doing anything wrong but I will tell u it is by far easier to work on a desktop than an iPad or iPhone. I do both but the more technical things I try and use a computer for that reason. Things are more offensive on the ipad
Bev says
Catalina, are your ebooks for this available yet?
Catalina says
Not yet :/ I get so overwhelmed that they won’t be good enough lol. I really have to work on them!
Ellie says
I am a brand newbie and your tutorial was very helpful to clarify some of the ideas I thought I understood just checking out the tools. One thing I can’t figure out is how to make the font draw in a solid line instead of being outlined. Thanks.
Catalina says
Check out my Cricut Pen tutorial! It will show you how to do it.
grace denton says
Tks for the tutorial very helpful
Becky Wilson says
This is very helpful and easy to understand. Thank You
Catalina says
You’re very welcome 🙂
Cristella Henderson says
I just purchase my Cricut Maker v5.98 and I do not see the layers options? I only see cut and it does not appear like your colored circles in your layered right side?
Catalina says
What colored circles?
Natalie says
Thank you so much for this project it was very comprehensive and so useful as a cricut newbie. Thank you so much for putting it together. I have subscribed to your page.
Catalina says
You’re very welcome! I am glad I was able to help.
Junell says
Looks like this is just what I need! Starting today to learn how to use Maker. Been years since i had the original cricut. Quick question I know you generate your income from the ads (I read all the disclosure info) & I can appreciate that. However the ads keep popping up & with my ADHD it is totally braking my concentration….they seem to come from everywhere & it is killing my senses. Can I pay you for a version that I can download??? Not to insult but this info is so important & I am ready to embrace all of your hard work but can’t seem to move ahead with all the distractions. Name your price! Thx for any consideration.
Catalina says
Hi Junell. Ads should load within the content. Not pop up. In the future, I’ll have an ebook coming! I know ads are annoying, they are for me too! But it’s the only way I am able to provide these tutorials.
Cristina says
Hello there! 🙋♀️
My daughter and I are very new to Cricut and we are trying to get familiar with Design Space. Can you please tell us how to delete uploaded patterns? We accidentally uploaded the same pattern multiple times and would like to delete the extras. We cannot figure this out.
Thank you! 💜
Catalina says
I’ve been wondering this myself! I don’t think you can right now 🙁
Sanjana says
If you go to the upload panel, every design has a small (i) icon. Click on that, then you can see an option for delete!
Sarah says
In the uploaded section, where the picture of your upload is, on the bottom right hand corner of the white box you will see a “i” in a circle. Click on that and it gives you the option to delete. Hope that helps!
jane says
You click on the image you want ton delete and on the top left corner of the image there is an x in a red circle and you click that and it will get rid of it for you.
Ann says
There isn’t a way to do it. Design space is not a very good tool from what I have seen, but it does the job. All these suggestions are for deleting images.
Megan says
Do you have this available in a PDF?
Catalina says
An Ebook is coming soon!
Kenya says
OMG this is so perfect. I just got my Explore Air 2 and Design Space is so intimidating lol. Your tutorial has eased my mind and help me gain confidence that I can concur this! Thanks a ton!
Catalina says
You will conquer for sure! I am glad I was able to help!
Sunshine Shirley says
Thank you so much!! You have been a GOD SEND!! Not even sure how I stumbled upon your blog! But you tube videos weren’t cutting it. They are too long with useless dialogue. I hope that didn’t sound mean!! I just don’t want to sit through over an hour long tutorial. I don’t have the attention span!! Thank you again for taking the time to explain The Cricut!!
Catalina says
You’re very welcome. We all learn differently.
Amanda2.0 says
With the newest update (v5.8.15) they changed image search filters and I can’t figure out how to access my linked cartridges anymore. Have you had any better luck than I have in finding specific cartridges?
Catalina says
They did. I have to update this article. I don’t know how the cartridges will look in the search. I own 0. I am sure customer service can help.
Allie says
Please help! I have updated Design Space and now can’t find the option to search in images. They didn’t really take it did they?!
Catalina says
Hi Allie it’s still working but the window changed. You just need to play around. I am planning on updating this tutorial soon.
Sam says
I am struggling with this same issue right now. Any luck figuring out how to access linked cartridges in this new version (v.5.8.15)?
Catalina says
Not really, I don’t own cartridges. :/
Monica says
Cartridges are now called “image sets”. Click on image sets and then use the filter for ownership and select purchased. This should pull them up. I recently stumbled on this so I understand.
J. Taylor says
So helpful! Thank you for taking the time to create this Tutorial!
Catalina says
You’re very welcome 🙂
Nik says
Fantastic Tutorial! Thank you so much for your time putting it together xx
Catalina says
You’re welcome 🙂
Norma Beale says
Hi Catalina I have a question that I haven’t seen addressed in your tutorials. How can I tell Design Space that I will be using the l1 x 24 inch mat?
Catalina says
When you click on “make it;” on the mat preview there’s a drop-down menu that says “Material Size,” click there, and select the 11x24in mat. I hope this helps 🙂
Cheryl says
I have a cricut maker. I have the cricut design space app loaded on my iPad and on my computer. If I create something on my computer and save it or upload something I can’t ever get to it on my iPad. Can you help with this? And for some reason if I create a project and save it on my computer and have no way to access it from my iPad. There is no place to click “my projects or saved” on my iPad…..please help.
Catalina says
Check out my how-to open and edit projects in Cricut Design Space. I think you’ll find the answer there.
Melody says
Please I would want to learn about the Cricut machine but I don’t know how to go about it
Catalina says
This is a great article to get started.
Ainsley Jane says
Catalina this is just fantastic!
I have had my Cricut for around a year now, and honestly after feeling so overwhelmed in the beginning I gave up! I watched so many Youtube videos that claimed to be for beginners, but none that really were!
Thank you so much for this, I have had my Cricut out again for a couple of weeks and your tutorial helped me so much!
Catalina says
You’re very welcome! 🙂
Ginny says
A great read and I’m sure it is going to be a great learning tool for me.
Julia says
I’m exploring shadowing , added bleed but I can’t “save image as” to my MacPro. I try right-clicking on the image but nothing happens. Please advise.
Catalina says
Unfortunately, Cricut disabled the “Save as” option. I have a tutorial on how to make outlines in Design Space.
Amanda says
Julia you have to go into setting on your Mac Pro and change the right click option on the mouse or keyboard pad.
Cheryl says
Thank You for this VERY helpful tutorial. I am brand new to Cricut Maker and this has helped me immensely.
Catalina says
Happy to hear!
Emma says
When uploading images, we have the choice to trim around them if we like. I have a Bamboo Ink Pen, that goes with my computer. I can not get it to work with My Cricut Design. Any ideas? I don’t mind using my finger, but i would like to use the pen to make it easier.
Catalina says
Hi Emma, Cricut doesn’t work with these types of pens. (Wouldn’t it be awesome?). If you have more questions about Cricut Pens, I have a handy tutorial.
Tracy J says
Hi –
I got my cartridges transferred but not everything from each cartridge is there. Example – Hello Kitty Font cartridge (there are some some characters too). Only the characters are on cricut design space under my cartridges, not the fonts. When I look up the cartridge, it shows the alphabet, and characters, then says the number of images transferred. I can’t remember off the top of my head, but it’s just a handful. Not even enough to be a full alphabet let alone the upper, lower and variety of styles that were on this cartridge. The fonts were the reason I bought it to begin with. They are not listed under fonts either, I double checked there.
Not really a “how to use your cricut” question, but hoped maybe you’d know the answer.
Catalina says
Hi Tracy! I am sorry about this. I got in the Cricut world after physical cartridges were discontinued. I suggest you call customer service. They are very helpful!
Anna says
I was hoping for a tutorial on the new 2020 features.
Catalina says
Hi Anna. This tutorial is up to date (I checked today). As new things come around I am committed to keeping this article up to date. It may take a little time while I edit it. May I know what is missing?
I know Cricut is changing from web to desktop, but the program looks the same, and this is not the article to learn how to install DS, I’ll be working on it. Trying to get my hands on a Mac PC so I can offer both ways.
Have a lovely day!
Missy says
Do you have an updated tutorial on how to upload jpeg’s to the cricut design space and convert them to SVG’s? I just did a project and it was VERY time consuming to do it their way and not all of my layers matched despite my careful editing. Suggestions?
Catalina says
Not at the time 🙁 I’ll have it on my list of projects to write.
Marci Hays says
Your tutorials are an immense help! I do have one basic question. I add a sentiment text to the Canvas, placing it so that it would be drawn in the appropriate place on an imagined card base. (My card base is already cut and ready to put on my mat, so I don’t need to create a card base in Canvas.) If I was cutting a card base along with the sentiment, I would simply attach the text to the underlying card. Without it, however, when I click on “Make It”, the text jumps to the upper left corner. How can I keep the text in its original placement?
Catalina says
You’re very welcome, Marci!
You need to make sure you attach your text to the underlying card. I have a nice Card tutorial if you still have doubts.
Brian Paul says
My wife just got her first cricut machine. The only thing I see a problem with is whenever we import a pic say of a coloring image and we click draw it will make double lines instead of a single outline. I tried thinning out the images before importing but it still does that. Even with their own images. I wish i could delete one outline , have a fill option or draw between the lines instead.
Catalina says
Hi Brian! The reason for this is because images are designed as vector shapes and they have a length and width. If you want single lines, you need to have a design that is in vector lines. But then you will run into another problem, you can only cut or draw on those lines.
Cricut’s library has multiple drawing images, though! I am sure that when they Design them, they only do the drawing in vector lines.
I hope I make sense.
Laurie Sundbo-Sather says
This is wonderful. Thank you so much! I have been trying to follow the tutorials and twice today I was instructed to press the color circle beside the blank canvas at the bottom of the layers column. I do not have a circle beside the blank canvas. I was trying to change the color of my mat for multiple layers. And earlier, same thing, told to press the color swatch circle to change colours of my registration marks. No color circle anywhere,. Has it been turned off??? How do I get it back?? Any ideas/recommendations?
Really appreciate your taking the time to help me with this. Thank you!!
Catalina says
Hi Laurie! I am glad I was able to help. Regarding your question I really don’t understand it very well. Where are you trying to change colors? On the Canvas are or after cutting? There are no circles colors that I am aware of.
Lisa says
Hi!! Simple question: can I do All of this with a Cricut Explore and a laptop/chrome book?
Catalina says
As far as I know, you can’t use Design Space on a Chrome book. It has to be a laptop or Desktop computer.
Patricia LeCates says
Lisa —
I am using DS on a Chromebook. I had to first install it on my phone running Android, then connect to laptop by way of Bluetooth. This is a work-around but I believe everything is working correctly and am creating my first design. I am still in the learning stage.
Catalina says
That’s awesome Patricia! Happy to hear 🙂
jan wene says
You are absolutely fantastic! Thank you so much for this tutorial! I also own a Zing cutter which has some easier features but also some that are many more difficult. My zing justdoent work like it used to. That’s why I got the Explore Air 2 for Xmas! I find some of the features confusing. I want to use HTV to print a design on a shirt for my son, but is requires 2 different colors. I don’t know how to move the 2 graphic elements to the second mat. Any help would be greatly appreciated. I am also older–65 years old! YOU ARE NEVER TOO OLD TO CRAFT is my mantra! I make a number of Xmas presents by myself. I was raised that a hand made present held much more meaning! Like the time I was 12 and made my Dad a set of PJs (with help from my Mom)–I sewed the cuffs on the wrong sleeves!! My Dad wore those PJs until they fell apart!! What a wonderful childhood memory. I am working hard to instill this same “handmade is better” to my children. They are getting it & enjoying it! Let us know when your E-Book is available–I definitely want to get one! THANKS AGAIN!!!
Catalina says
I am so happy to see you learning no matter the age! For Printable HTV Vinyl, you need to use Print then Cut, and use flatten. I’ll have a tutorial coming out soon for this, though!
Angela says
I have enjoyed your tutorials they are very easy to understand and a great education for us new Cricut users however I could not find how to find the name of the font I used in a previous project .. I love the font and want to use it again. I have Cricut access and a Cricut explore Air 2.. please help!
Catalina says
Hi Angela, to find the font. Open the project you used, then go to the layer where you used the font and right-click on it, then you’ll the info. You can also find it in “My projects” window, I cover this topic in this tutorial.
Sue Robbins says
My layers panel has gotten to large and takes up a good portion of my canvas, also can no longer move my canvas down to see the upload bottom. I don’t seem to have the arrows any more can you help me?
Catalina says
Hi Sue, I don’t know why this is happening to you. Did you try to Maximize your window? how big is your project? Will you send me a screenshot to daydreamintorealityblog@gmail.com
Sam Winfield says
Hello. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge in a very simple way. Now I can do a bit more with my new Maker. I do have a question, can I cut out a sentence as one piece instead of each individual letter if the font is not cursive?
Thank you
Sam
Catalina says
Yes, but you need to cut-out that sentence from a shape. Therefore the shape will contain that text. You can see this in my tutorial on how to edit shapes in Design Space.
JeanAnn says
Hi!
My kids gave me a Cricut for Christmas and now I am doing a deep dive
on Pinterest and found you ! Thank you for all the info. My daughter helped me yesterday
to set up and get my Cricut going and I just got back from Michaels. I hope I will be able to learn as I go
and will use you for a major resource!
Thanks
JeanAnn
Catalina says
You’re very welcome JeannAnn! I am so happy I can help you on your Journey.
Melissa says
Thank you for this awesome tutorial! I’ve only had my Cricut for one month and it can be a bit overwhelming. Everyone says “just look on YouTube for instructions” but that’s not always easy to do when you don’t know what your searching for. Your tutorial will definitely help me.
Catalina says
I am happy I can help! I agree Youtube can be overwhelming when you don’t know where to start. Plus I keep this article up to date, so win-win!
Margaux says
Every time I go to cut something it changes the order of everything. For instance, I was doing multiple monograms and it switch the order of letters when I went to make it. Any suggestions? I have to go to edit and move them back. Not sure why it changes how I laid it out?
Catalina says
Are you attaching your layers? Check out my Attach tutorial.
Lisa says
What great tutorials you have!! Your explanations are so easy to understand!! I see why each tutorial takes you 15 hours.
From a newbie, than you!!
Catalina says
You’re very welcome! I am glad I can help 🙂
Sharon Vincent says
Hi Catalina. Thank you so much for this wonderful tutorial!! I was trying a different tutorial and things be taught in that one just weren’t lining up for me. Your tutorial answered many of the questions I had swirling around in my little head. I have a little hint I hope might help others – when doing the tutorial, I had the tutorial up on my iPad, and had Design Space up on my laptop. That was I didn’t have to keep flopping back and forth. It made it much easier to follow. I am looking forward to going through all the tutorials you have a graciously made available to everyone!!
Catalina says
That’s awesome Sharon! Thank you for sharing how to be more efficient! I am glad I can help 🙂
Roxanne says
I am trying to find where the option to cut one color at a time is on my app. (Simple, moderate complex, complex). I have an iPad and an iPhone and i just can’t figure out how to get to that screen.
Any help would be appreciated!
Thank you
Catalina says
Hi Rosaxe, these options are when you upload an image in Cricut Design Space and it’s for Print then Cut. It won’t appear on your mat, but when you upload a JPEG or PNG image.
I hope this helps!
Jacquie Lentz says
I have been listening to many a tutorial on using the cricut. I found yours most useful and educational! Thank you!
Catalina says
You are very welcome! I am happy to help 🙂
Lucy says
Wow! This was exactly what I needed! I just unboxed my Maker a couple days ago. I have been “playing” but it is all pretty overwhelming as I’ve never used this kind of program before. THANK YOU for taking the time to post this element-by-element tutorial! Absolutely wonderful!
Catalina says
You’re very welcome Lucy! I am glad this helped you!
Magda van Spankeren says
hello and thank you for you great file here, do you know a way to download this tutoril, so I can see it if I have more time?
Catalina says
Hi Magda, at this moment there’s not a way to do it. I will have an ebook coming soon!
Shirley says
I added a cricut file into my favorites and added link under that so when ready to go over when I unbox my maker, I can easily access.
Elsie Blakley says
I really liked this totorial! I am a new cricket user. I am 83 years old, and just set up my craft room. Looking forward to using it! Is there a way I can get print out? I sat and used my phone and took pictures of everything. But, I don’t know how to Send it to the computer and printer. I have a new computer which is a 10. I would really appreciate your ideas for the information printed out. I am very new in the computer, I had a XP, but needs work on, but everyone tells me to throw it! I have saved all my information on a saving device, as all my embroidery designs and inventory information , can you help me to transfer your to my computer by message? If not I would be willing to pay for it. Loved all the work that you have done for all us newbies. Thank you very much for your help and time. I hope to hear from you when you have time. I live in Sebastian, Florida.
Catalina says
Hi Elsie, I am so happy you are learning how to use the computer and machine! You are the reason I make this tutorial. I don’t have my tutorials for printing right now 🙁 But there’s an ebook coming soon and I would love to print it and send it to you when it comes out.
Lucy says
Hi Elsie! How inspiring you are! Thank you! I am 57 and just beginning this adventure, too. If you are viewing this article on your new computer (not your phone), look to the bar on the very top of your screen and click on “File”. A drop-down menu will appear, and somewhere within that menu (on my Mac it is the bottom option) will be “Print.” As long as your new computer is paired with your printer, and your printer is turned on, you should be able to click on the print option, have the menu for your printer pop up, and you can select to print. I hope this helps!
Nadine says
Hi
Hope you can help me out. Small letters seem to be a challenge with cricut. They pull off as they get cut
Any ideas how to cut 1/4 any style letters?
Catalina says
Hi Nadine,
Small letters are a pain, I feel you! For best results make sure you are using a sharp blade and a new mat (Make sure your paper or vinyl has well adhered to the mat). If your machine is making to cuts change the pressure for more and pause the cut when the machine is done with the first pause.
I hope this helps.
Karen Massie says
Wow! I found you this morning and love this tutorial. I’m new to the cricut world and crafting. I was not blessed with creativity and need lots of help. Feeling overwhelmed with all the crafting possibilities. Your tutorial is going to be very helpful. The Weld & Attach file opens to the Contour Tool file. Is the Weld & Attach file available? I will definitely follow you. Thank you so much! 🙂
Catalina says
You are welcome, Karen. thank you for pointing out the mistake, I just corrected it!
Sheryl says
So glad I was given this site . Thank you I look forward to reading more.. thanks for all the help.
Catalina says
You’re very welcome 🙂
belle dele says
thank you so much!!! this is by far the most clear and informative information I have obtained pertaining to cricut!!! I can’t wait to see more!!!!
Catalina says
You’re welcome!
Karen says
Hi Catalina!
I was going through your Cricut Design Space Tutorial. I was able to open everything accept “Learn about Flatten and Print then Cut”. Is this no longer available?
Thanks!
Catalina says
Hi Karen! It’s still available.
Tonya says
Thank you!
Renata Pereira says
Hello Catalina! I really enjoyed your tutorial, Congratulations!
My name is Renata and I’m from Brazil, I recently bought a cricut, I’m researching a lot to use it and I’m slowly managing to do some projects. But, I still have a question, I’d like to know if I can do two types of cuts in the same project. For example, I have a sticker pack design, I want to make the half cut for the stickers and also the full cut for the carton sides and thus form the sticker pack. Can you tell me how to do it?
Catalina says
Hi Renata! Welcome to the Cricut world! So, you want to cut the same design on two different surfaces right? You can do this on the same step but you need to use different Mats because of the pressure the blade needs to do on each material.
Is this what you want to do?
I hope this helps!
ilovemygrands656 says
Hello Catalina,
I just came across your website. First I want to say I am a Christian also and I thank God that you were not a shame to let everyone know that fact! Your explanations on how to use the Cricut were great; I purchased one over a year ago and because I didn’t understand how to use it; it has seen been collecting dust. I like one of the other individuals who made a comment; I would also like to know how I could get this in a form where I can print it out and have access to it while trying again to use my machine. I would also be willing to pay for this. You have explain everything so good; I am now for sure I can master it.
Catalina says
Thank you so much! I am glad you found this tutorial helpful! I will be creating an ebook at some point! God bless you too!
michelle says
this is such a great tutorial. thanks for taking the time to help others. I read the whole thing but I will be referring back to it often when my project requires one of the features. and you covered EVERY feature. I look forward to others as well. I am making my Christmas cards this year and they look so professional.
Catalina says
You’re welcome. Yep, this tutorial will be up here whenever you need it!
Carol Anderson says
Hi Catalina,
Thank you so much for taking the time and effort to share your knowledge of the cricut machines and instructional programs and especially the Design Space information. I do have one question and I did look at all the instructions but I guess I must have missed it so my question is, How do you know the size to make an image when you are making a card or working on any project? and how do you adjust the size?
Also I want to thank you for giving your testimony about being a Christian. I am too and I do appreciate you sharing that.
Catalina says
Hi Carol!
Thank you for your kind comment! The size is on the top panel area. However, I have a really cool tutorial on how to make cards that explains all of that as well!
I hope this helps! Happy cutting:)
God bless you
sarah jane says
What a great teacher you are! I will read this and the others again and again as I continue my journey in Maker Land. As amazing as the Cricut Maker is, it is not available on all platforms. For example, I want, REALLY WANT, snap mat, but the laptop camera is a stranger to Cricut. Argh! The argument in my head is do I wait for Cricut software engineers fix that lapse? or do I go out and buy a smart phone? Any advice?
Thanks again for splendid tutorials!
Catalina says
Hi Sarah!
Unfortunately, there’s no Snap Mat on the computer. Only the phone App. I don’t think they will add it to desktop. Maybe buy a very cheap smartphone? Preferably Apple because the Android app doesn’t have all options.
Betsy says
What a wonderful tutorial! Thank you so much. I’ve been using Cricut Design Space for quite awhile and I still found your tutorial very helpful.
Catalina says
You are welcome Betsy – I am happy I can help!
April says
Wow I just found you and your explanations are spot on Nice Job being a caring sharing person!
Catalina says
Of course April!
It’s my joy to teach you everything 🙂
Cheryl says
Wow! What an undertaking. Thank you so much for taking the time to explain in detail each piece of the Cricut Design Space. I am feeling a little less intimidated – and so much more excited to get started. I am looking forward to checking out a few more of your tutorials and to subscribing!
Catalina says
Thank you Cheryl for your kind words. Welcome to the Daydreamer Family!
Cynthia says
I have had my Cricut Maker for 2 days and have not yet been able to figure out what you mean by cut & print or print & cut. What the heck does print mean. This machine is not a printer. Does print just mean what I have on the canvas?
Catalina says
Hi Cynthia!
I understand your frustration. Print then Cut is an option for you to print your designs and then cut them.
Check out my Print then Cut tutorial if you want to understand this better!
Pamela says
Glad I found your site. I’ve had the machine for 2 weeks and was having no luck finding instructions I understand. Was beginning to think I made a mistake. Thank you!
Catalina says
This is the reason why I spent almost 15 days writing this article! I am so happy you feel comfortable to use your machine 🙂
Andi says
I’m not sure if this question has already been asked and I missed it or if I’m the only person who has not yet figured it out. I’m relatively new to Cricut. I really want to have multiple layers using fonts and someone said buying Cricut’s Plantin Schoolbook will give me the the option to do that but it seems as though other fonts should be able to do the same thing. All the other tutorials I have watched show a different design space screen then what I have and it gets very confusing. Do you have any pointers or a tutorial on how to have multiple layers with font?
Catalina says
Hi Andi. Do you mean a multilayered font? If that’s the case I do have a tutorial about text and it’s updated to the earliest Design Space version.
Let me know if that helps 🙂
Karen says
Hi
Thank you so much for this tutorial it’s amazing. I’ve been looking for something that is easy to read and understand. I’m in the UK and only got my explorer at the beginning of April 2019 and have been slightly intimidated by it. I had a lovely lady visit me in my home from a Facebook group who lives 5 minutes from me, and I was amazed at what the cricut can do. I’ve only done a couple of basic cuts and made a birthday card for my sister in law. I now feel that if I struggle with anything I can look here for some answers. So thank you very much I’m going to have a think what I want to do. Karen xx
Catalina says
I am so happy I am able to help in your Cricut Journey!
Feel free to check all of my tutorials, All of them are very meaty and easy to follow!
Miriam says
Hello Catalina,
Thank your your generosity in putting together this tutorial. I do not have a machine yet, but I am trying to learn more about the Design Space and see if the machine would be the best investment for me. I like to cut image that either I create or stamped. I am not sure if I can do that at all, and want to ask you if you have any tutorial for using the contour tool to cut images uploaded to the app.
Again thank you. Your tutorial is really awesome and I have already learned few things.
Thanks again. Be well
Miriam
Catalina says
Hi Miriam I am very happy I could help put! I will be creating a post about Contouring very soon… About images you can upload your own as well and edit them. There are a lot of tools that will allow you to make pretty much anything!
Tonja Carter says
Oh, my!!!! Found THE perfect woman to teach me! Godly and knowledgeable about all things Cricut!! What a powerful combo! I’d like to print your e-book, if you’ve created it. Could you direct me as to where I could find it? Or send me a link to download this whole tutorial so I can print it out?! I am so amazed at how thorough you are. The detail you’ve put into this, for the least of us. Sure would love to meet you, chick. God bless you, woman.
Catalina says
Thank you Tonja! That’s so sweet of you! I haven’t created the final Ebook, but I hope to do it soon!
Den L says
I have a Cricut Maker that makes me a prisoner of frustration.
By far your site (found on a random Pintrest post) are the best Cricut tutorial ever.
Clear, precise not wordy.
Thank you so much.
Catalina says
Hi Den!
Thank you so much. I know it can be frustrated at times. That’s why I am here to help.
Kimberly Davies-Prine says
Dear Catalina,
Hi, I’ve e-mailed you last year in hopes to get a copy of your circuit “what is everything”. My husband have tried numerous ways but have had zero luck. I have Windows 10 if that helps. I was hoping to put it on a thumb drive and take it to a office supply store to have it printed and put in a spiral binder. I really need it to reference back to. I’m so impressed with all your hard work and wit. My offer still stands to pay you for the copies and shipping. Is there anyway you can please help me out. There are other tutorials out there but to be honest they don’t compare to yours. Thank you for your time.
Fondly Kim
Catalina says
Hi Kim! I sent you an email!
Pammy says
Catalina – I am also having a hard time learning this wonderful machine after over a year and because I’m using a iPad and iPhone it seems like this all applies to everyone but us iPad users. How can I get a copy also of your instructions I have spent months nights days trying to research and I also learn by reading and then applying it to what I have in front of me. U tube is not working for me. Could you pm me as I’m just lost but your detailed instructions have kept my attention and you may be the person I will finally understand and become friends with my cricut.
Just read more comments and am wondering since tonight is the very first time I have what feel like found a “cricut angel” in you and your ebook do you have any other info I can buy or download to even start to learn step by step anything using a iPad or iPhone . Thank you I’ll keep reading and hope to hear from you.
Thank you so much pammy
Catalina says
Hi Pammy! I am so sorry to hear! I have this tutorial on Iphone and Ipad too! Just as complete 🙂
I hope this helps! I know tutorials from phones are harder to find. However, if you read my tutorial the one I just linked and then try to apply that to other tutorials that will help a lot too. On that article I also explain what things you won’t find on your iPhone because are only on Desktop (so you don’t loose your mind trying to figure it out lol)
I hope you become best friends with your machine. Gosh… I got into a fight with mine today, but after amazing results I am still faithful to my Cricut!
Nancy Morales says
hi,
thanks for this tutorial I’m a dog lover. I rescue dogs from the streets in Mexico and I have too much ideas to do. because rescue dogs is VERY expensive, I already have my cricut explore2 and my easy press too and I can wait to start… you’re the best
Catalina says
Hi Nancy!
I am very happy to hear this tutorial has helped you. That’s so sweet of you that you rescue dogs from the street!
Sue says
I read some of your message. I’m a newbie to Cricut. I was totally intimidated by it until I took a class. The one thing most of you people don’t tell newbies IS You can learn faster with a laptop or desktop. Maybe I’m just old and not tech savvy. Remember nothing is gonna to be perfect the first time you try it.
Catalina says
Hi Sue! I totally agree with you. I think learning on Desktop is so much easier than learning from my phone.
Kim says
I am running out of patience. I am new at this and I do not feel that it is user-friendly. I’m 62 years old and want to make my own cards for people I love. I have selected an envelope that I like and feel I can use it over and over. What I am not able to do is change the address on the envelope. I am very frustrated. Can you point me in the right direction? Thank you very much for your time. Kim Schott
Catalina says
Hi Kim! I am sorry you are feeling frustrated. I do have a very complete tutorial on how to make a card.
I don’t know what design you are using? Try double clicking the text (only) and the type it again.
Most likely is that the envelope and the text layer arr attached and that’s why you can’t edit them.
I address this on the following tutorial. Don’t get frustrated. You got this!
This is the link: https://daydreamintoreality.com/make-card-cricut-maker-explore/
Please Let me know if you were able to figure it out!
Kim says
For responding so quickly. Tomorrow I will attempt this and get back with you. Have a blessed evening, and again thank you for responding so quickly.
Catalina says
You’re very welcome Kim! I am happy to help you on your Cricut Journey.
I know it’s hard I understand. I am here to help!
Pam D says
Thanks for a great tutorial! My one question at this time is: is there an erase tool that can be used to erase a portion of an image or design? Example I print and cut out some text and somehow lost the dot for the letter i when I was weeding it. I want to print and cut just the letter i again so I can fix my project. There would be other reasons to have this capability. Help please!
Catalina says
Hi Pam I am happy I can help! This happens so often lol! You can use the countour tool on the layers panel.
Or open a new proyect and just type the letter i (same size and type of font) and then print the cut!
I hope this helps
Stacey says
I love how in-depth this post is. Thank you so much for this. I bought my cricut last year and did a few projects…got sidetracked and started again. I was trying to remember what I had learned, but found your post ad it brought everything back to me, except for flatten. I never had a clue what that was even for. LOL
Catalina says
You are more than welcome Stacey, I am really glad I can help. I will be posting about flatten sometime soon.
Have a great day!
Vicki Roberts says
Oh dumb me I didn’t have my text up on my canvas. LOL
Vicki Roberts says
Hi I received my cricut maker for Christmas and have been having a lot of fun with it. I love your tutorials, however I am stumped. On your tutorial you have a second line in your edit bar. I can’t find where one can resize the fonts and other things in this line. I guess it is updating the tutorial space. How do I do this. I have gone into a place where it says it will up date my machine and it says my machine is up to date. But nothing has changed since I got my machine in December. What do I do to update the tutorial space.
Catalina says
I see you already found out how to solve this. To have the Text options activated you need to have – and select – text on your canvas area
Flo Puckett says
Thanks for the great tutorial, it explains a lot to me. But, problem is that I only have a Chromebook and small Android tablet, not realizing Design will not work on these! Do I have to go buy a new laptop now, since I have invested in Explore Air 2 machine, tools and supplies? Help, I could just cry!
Catalina says
Hi Vicki! Unfortunately Design Space doesn’t work on Chromebooks. Have you tried downloading the app on your Android Tablet? Also if you have an Iphone or Android phone you can install the app as well. I hope this helps.
Margaret says
Hi
Did I miss something in your post on how to select then attach?
I want to put text in a square but don’t know how to select both images then attach
Catalina says
Hi Margaret. Click on one shape and the press control or cmd key at all times and click on the other shapes you want to select. I hope this helps 🙂
Shannon says
Thank you, thank you, thank you. You are the first person I have found that has been able to explain the design space in a complete and organized way. I finally understand the correct way to create a project! I was almost ready to throw in the “Cricut” towel but this tutorial has given me the answers I was looking for! Again, thank you for creating this post.
Catalina says
Hi Shannon I am so thrilled and happy that this tutorial was useful for you! I am sure you will be making beautiful projects! Thank you for taking the time and commenting as it encourages me to write more!
Jan Anderson says
This is an awesome tutorial with everything that I have been trying to figure out all in one. Making cards to learn how to do things but still questioning myself. Printed this out so I can refer to it as I am learning since I need to have it in front of me as I learn along with hands on. The last few days I keep having questions and they were all answered in this tutorial.
I don’t like YouTube – I need written instructions. So many of the YouTube videos are outdated so glad to have an up to date tutorial.
THANKS!!
Catalina says
Hi Jan! I am so happy yo hear this…. I also needed to learn and couldn’t find many answers, I will always have this tutorial updated! Happy Cutting 🙂
KL Lykins says
Do you know why my Design Space does not have the “Curve” edit option for lettering etc? I would so love to have that option! Mine looks a lot difference than yours. (Using an iPad.)
Catalina says
Hi KL! Ipad doesn’t have the curve option! As I reply to this I am also working on the Ipad/Iphone tutorial! It’s been such a big request. It’s going to be as complete as this one! It will go life Next Wednesday at the latest!
Susan says
THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!! Is there a way to print all these wonderful explanations without all the advertisement?
Catalina says
Hi Susan!
I am glad this tutorial is helpful for you. Right now there’s no way to print it without Ads, as they allow me to bring this sort of content for free. However, I will be working on an Ebook where I will cover more in depth everything.
Have a lovely day
PaO Rodríguez says
Wow!!! Few people in the ciber world like you!!! What organization and clarity!!! Thanks a lot for this!!! God bless you!!
Catalina says
That’s so sweet of you! Thank you so much Pao! Have a lovely day and blessings to you too!
Jennifer says
I would love to print this out can you sent it to my email?
Catalina says
Hi Jennifer, in the next couple of months I may work on a little E-book!
Have a lovely day 🙂
maria ortiz says
Ebook would e wonderful
Catalina says
Will be working on it soon!
Heidi Perkins says
Hi, I just subscribed to your page and confirmed my email but I do not know what password to use to access the images.
Thank you for putting this page togwther to help us newbies!?
Catalina says
Did you check the Spam box? It could’ve gone there!
Ramona Pickett says
Thank you so much for taking the time to help us
Catalina says
Ramona you are very welcome! We are in this together.
Happy cutting 🙂
Holly says
Catalina,
What a blessing this tutorial has been. I’m a new Cricut user, and an excited one at that! I was ready to just “dive right in” the moment I opened the box. And I did… I made a t-shirt on the first day. (I followed the set-up instructions that came with the Cricut. It advised me to do the project they included in the box…(check); my daughter was reading a book and said, “Make me a bookmark” (check); then on to a t-shirt design I went! I must say, God’s grace WAS sufficient! All three projects came out perfect! However, I know that there are so many things I need to learn if I’m going to truly get the most out of this great machine. And while on my 1st favorite hobby (Pinterest), I ran across you!
Thank you for taking the time to do this for people like me. I can’t wait to use my machine on a regular basis without being nervous (LOL). Thank you, also, for your relaxed spirit. I love to read serious things that are intertwined with humor! So… with all that being said, I subscribed to your site and can’t wait for updates! Blessings to you and your family!
~ Holly (Huntsville, AL)
Catalina says
Hi Holly! Amen, I am so glad that everything is going well, I went for it too!
I am so happy that my tutorial has helped you, I literally worked on it for like 2 weeks and I am about to update as well! I truly appreciate your comment! It encourages me to keep going God bless you!
Jan Bradfield says
Will this be updated with the new January 2019 update?
Catalina says
Hi Jan! Yes I will updated in the next couple of weeks! I want to keep everything up to date!
Sandra says
Thank you so much for this, it a lot and i still have questions.
Catalina says
Hi Sandra! I am glad it was helpful
Let me know your questions. I want to create more tutorials 🙂
Genelle Trombley says
Wish I had this when I first got my Cricut a year ago 🙂 Found some things in this tutorial that I didn’t know. Thanks so much for sharing this. Great job!
Catalina says
You are so welcome Genelle! Stay tune for more tutorials 🙂
Cathy Rowe says
Catalina, thank you for taking the time to put this tutorial together. I am sure it will be of great help to me as I start to create new projects. Have a great Vacation.
Catalina says
You are more than welcome Cathy! I am sure all of your projects will look lovely 🙂
Jessica says
Great tutorial. I do have a question since I have been using my iPad to create my projects. The canvas area is totally different. Am I missing something? Their is no template option and I can’t find the zoom in/zoom out +/- .
Please help.
Jessica
Catalina says
Hi Jessica! I am on vacation right now, but once I return I will put a whole tutorial for Cricut Design Space on Ipad and Iphone! It’s a little bit different. I just recommend you to play with it and have fun! I’ll personally email you when the tutorial is ready! Happy new year!
Nadeen says
I desperately need this too! Thanks
Catalina says
It’s coming soon!!
Moira says
I’m looking forward to this tool too for my ipad. I’ve just through all your helpful blog above and looking forward to getting started.
Catalina says
I am glad I was able to help on you on your Cricut journey
Sonia says
Glad I found your website❣Thank you for this detailed post and also for including images which is a plus! My husband recently bought me the Cricut Maker with a few supplies ( so excited)…I’m a bit hesitant to use it but after reading your post I think I will give it a try.
Catalina says
Sonia, you just made my day!
I am so happy to hear that this post is going to help you on your Cricut Journey… I know it seems complicated a little bit, but once you get going there’s no coming back lol! I have tons of other tutorials, plus a growing library of SVG files and other printables.
Thank you for commenting too! it makes me feel I am not just talking to the wall!
Have a lovely day 🙂
Kim says
I tried several times to subscribe but I’ve had no luck.
Catalina says
Hi Kim! I am sorry to hear this. Have you checked your SPAM inbox? I will send you the passwoord from my email 🙂 I want you to have access.