The Cricut cutting machine is a digital cutting tool used to precisely cut designs from materials like vinyl, paper, cardstock, and iron-on. You might choose a Cricut when you want to create custom decals, signs, labels, apparel designs, or project components with clean, professional results. It’s ideal for creative projects, class assignments, and prototypes where accuracy and repeatability matter.

This tutorial will help you get started with the Cricut machine. Follow the steps below to learn how to set up your design, load materials, and make your first cut.

1. Getting Started

• Power on the Cricut machine
• Connect it to a computer using USB or Bluetooth
• Open Cricut Design Space on the computer

Design Space is the software used to create and send designs to the machine.

2. Creating or Choosing a Design

• Start a new project or choose a ready-made design
• Add text, shapes, or images to your canvas
• Resize and arrange your design as needed

Keep designs simple when you’re first starting.

3. Preparing Your Design to Cut

• Click Make It in Design Space
• Select the correct material type (vinyl, cardstock, iron-on, etc.)
• Confirm your cut settings

Choosing the correct material ensures clean cuts and prevents damage.

4. Loading Materials and Tools

• Place your material on a cutting mat
• Align it with the grid and smooth it down firmly
• Insert the mat into the Cricut and press the Load button
• Make sure the correct blade is installed

Proper alignment helps prevent shifting during cutting.

5. Cutting Your Design

• Press the Go / Start button when prompted
• Stay nearby while the machine is cutting
• Do not remove the mat until the cut is complete

The machine will stop automatically when finished.

6. Removing and Finishing Your Project

• Carefully unload the mat
• Remove your cut design from the mat
• Weed, assemble, or apply the design as needed

Take your time removing delicate pieces.

Helpful Tips

• Always double-check material type and blade
• Use a test cut for unfamiliar materials
• Clean mats and blades regularly
• Don’t force materials—stop the machine if something looks wrong

For a video walkthrough, see the video below.