Published: January 1, 2026
Covers any of the Cricut Explore, Cricut Maker, Cricut Joy & Cricut Venture cutting machines
Do you feel overwhelmed about getting started with your Cricut? You are not alone!
The biggest challenge for most of us is actually pulling the Cricut out of the box to give it a try.
We already know we want to make amazing things with our cutting machine, but how do we get there?
Do you know that Cricut has fantastic resources to help you? This article will help you find them so you can start creating exciting projects on your cutting machine!
Whether you are unboxing a new machine, setting up a used machine, or need to know where to find answers, you will find information in this article to help you find the Cricut resources you need. Get ready to successfully set up your machine and download Cricut Design Space.
So, go for it! Pull your machine out and give it a try!
Let's get started!
Setting up a New Cricut
Good news: If you are unboxing a new machine, Cricut has included everything you need to get started. Cricut will walk you all the way through the process from plugging it in to your first test cut! Simply follow the directions that come in the box with your machine.
You can also refer to the 'Cricut Resources' section below to help you through the set-up process or if you have additional questions.
Be sure to check out the Cricut Cutting Machine page and select your machine to learn more about your machine!
Setting up a Used Cricut
Cricut has great instructions, photos and videos to get you up and running! Follow the steps listed in the 'Cricut Resources' section below to set up your cutting machine.
Cricut Resources
Getting Started with your Cricut Machine + Learn About your Machine
- Visit the Cricut Cutting Machines help page.
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Select the Cricut machine that you want to connect.
Here you will find useful resources for your machine including 'Getting Started' and 'How To' information. - Drop down the 'Getting Started' menu and select the 'Quick Start Guide'.
This guide is full of resources specific to your machine, including a machine overview, Design Space information, FAQs, and compatible mats, blades, tools, pens, markers & materials. - Watch the short video in the 'Machine Overview' section.
Downloading Cricut Design Space
You need to download Cricut Design Space to use your machine. It is available for Windows, Mac, IOS and Android.
- View the Design Space Download and Installation Instructions page and click on the tab for your device to see the instructions.
- Download Cricut Design Space at: design.cricut.com
Add a Cutting Machine to Design Space
- Open Design Space on your device.
- Select the 'Canvas' tab (on a computer it is on the top left).
- Click on the machine icon (on a computer it is on the top right).
- Select 'Set Up Machine' and follow the prompts to connect your machine.
Connecting or Troubleshooting Bluetooth and USB
If you still need to connect your machine to your device with Bluetooth or USB (not available for all devices) or need to troubleshoot you can find Bluetooth and USB Connection Help for Windows, Mac, IOS or Android on the Cricut website.
Summary of Steps to Get Started
In summary, follow these steps to set up your Cricut cutting machine:
- Go to the Cricut Cutting Machines help page.
- Select the machine you want to connect.
- Drop down the 'Getting Started' menu and select 'Quick Start Guide'.
- Watch short 'Machine Overview' video for your machine.
- View the Design Space Download and Installation Instructions for your device.
- Go to design.cricut.com in an internet browser and follow the Design Space Download and Installation Instructions.
- Add your machine to Design Space by opening the Canvas, clicking the machine icon, selecting 'Set Up Machine', and following the prompts.
- Find additional Bluetooth and USB Connection Help.
More Help
If you have further questions about Cricut, visit help.cricut.com to search for a topic.
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