You just got a Cricut machine and you’re so excited to use it, but you are feeling overwhelmed and a little bit lost. Cricut is one of the most popular cutting machines in the whole world, and this is one of the best, most user-friendly options available out there. So before you make your first cut, here is a beginner’s guide to help you get started.

A Beginner's Guide to Using Your Cricut

How exactly do Cricut machines work?

Regardless of what kind of Cricut machine you own, they all do a few basic things. Some will have more features than others, but at their core, they all cut, write, and score materials. Using materials such as cardstock, paper, vinyl, or fabric, you can create fun projects using your die-cutting machine.

Want to know which is better the Cricut or the Silhouette? I own both and I'm sharing my thoughts!

Cricut Design Space

Cricut Design Space is the app you will use for everything you create with your Cricut. You will use this to get pre-made designs, make your own designs, and send your designs to your Cricut to be cut. There is a bit of learning curve, but you can get the hang of it after a few designs. Make sure you play around with the app before you start doing any intense projects.

I HIGHLY recommend subscribing to Cricut Access. This makes designing and creating so much easier. Try it for a month and see what you think! 

Haven't bought a Cricut yet? What are you waiting for? Go buy one! You have my permission!

What can I make with a Cricut?

When it comes to a Cricut, the sky is the limit so to speak. It can effortlessly do everything from cutting fonts on vinyl to drawing with your Cricut. To get started, take a look on Pinterest, your favorite crafting blog {do a little search on my blog for DIY Cricut tutorials}, or Cricut Design Space to get some ideas on what to make.

Check out a few of my popular Cricut posts:

How to make custom pet face pajamas

Updating school supplies

How to make your own vintage-style varsity sweatshirt with the Cricut

How to make stickers using the Cricut Joy

Personalized holiday gift using handwriting

What is an SVG file?

If you are using a Cricut, then you might be hearing the term SVG a lot. This is because this is the file that gets sent to your Cricut machine. An SVG file could also be referred to as a cut file for these purposes. While you will be able to use materials from the Cricut Design Space, you can find more designs on the internet. These SVG files are what you send to your Cricut machine.

Making your first cut

A great way to ease yourself into the Cricut crafting space is by making the “enjoy Card” project that comes with the machine when you purchase. This will ease you into the crafting space and expose you to different parts of using the machine. All you have to do is follow the instructions that pop up on the screen when you link your computer to the Cricut.

Once you follow that first tutorial, you'll feel confident tackling the next project. 

Final thoughts

When it comes to designing things with your Cricut, it’s best to remember that there are some accessories and things you’ll need to make projects.

• Blanks: these are things like plain t-shirts, mugs, or whatever you want to cut with or print on. If you're following a tutorial, don’t forget this important part! If you want to use my favorite Infusible Ink, you will need to purchase the Cricut blanks made just for this. They have a special material that enables them to work better.
•  Blades: this can be used to cut out designs and fine-tune your projects. 
• This starter tool set is my favorite to use with vinyl. It's a necessity.
• The Cricut EasyPress is hands down my favorite tool if I'm using heat transfer vinyl for making clothing, hats and accessories. 

Do you need a Cricut EasyPress if you have an iron? Yes, and I'm telling you why!

The Cricut is a great machine for crafters of all skill levels, but before you dive in, keep this guide handy to walk you through what to do.

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