Cricut Design Space is a software used with Cricut machines for creating and customizing designs. It provides a canvas area where users can organize and modify their creations before cutting.
The software offers various features, including the new Guides feature, which allows users to turn shapes, text, and images into guides to help with layout and design.
Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out, this guide will unlock the full potential of your Cricut machine.
Cricut Design Space is more than just software; it’s a gateway to transforming your ideas into stunning real-world designs. From the simplicity of installation to mastering advanced features, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the most of this powerful tool.
Join us as we explore the ins and outs of Cricut Design Space, uncovering tips, tricks, and project ideas that will elevate your crafting journey to new heights.
Installation and setup on various devices
Desktop or Laptop (Windows or Mac)
How to Use Cricut Design Space in 2022 on Desktop or Laptop!
- Go to the official Cricut website or use the link provided in the Cricut machine’s setup instructions.
- Download and install Cricut Design Space for Desktop by following the on-screen instructions.
- Sign in or create a Cricut ID to access the software.
- Once installed, open the application and follow any additional setup prompts.
iOS Device
Download – Install – Setup Cricut Design Space App on New iPad
- Visit cricut.com/setup on your iOS device.
- Sign in using your Cricut ID.
- Choose the “Create a new account” option if you don’t have an account.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to download and install Cricut Design Space for iOS.
For more detailed instructions, refer to the official Cricut setup guide.
Overview of the free version of Design Space and its features
The free version of Cricut Design Space offers a range of features for users to create and customize designs for their Cricut machines. Here’s an overview of the free version and its features:
Design Space Software: The full-featured design app, Design Space, is free and connects to any Cricut smart cutting machine.
Access to Basic Features: Users can access basic design features such as uploading and editing images, using a wide range of fonts, and creating projects without the need for a subscription.
Free Trial of Cricut Access: New users can take advantage of a free 30-day trial to Cricut Access, which provides access to an ever-growing library of projects, fonts, and images, along with other exclusive features and savings on Cricut products.
Platform Compatibility: Design Space is available for Windows, Mac, and iOS devices, allowing users to create and modify designs across different platforms.
Tutorials and Support: There are numerous tutorials and resources available online, including video tutorials on platforms like YouTube, to help users learn and master the features of Cricut Design Space.
The free version of Cricut Design Space provides a robust set of tools and features for users to unleash their creativity and create personalized projects without the need for a subscription.
Cricut Access: Benefits, Costs, and Subscription Options
2023 Update Do You NEED Cricut Access? What Is It? Is It Worth It?
Cricut Access is a subscription service that provides users with access to a vast library of fonts, images, and projects in Cricut Design Space, along with exclusive member perks and savings on Cricut products. Here’s an overview of the benefits, costs, and subscription options based on the provided sources:
Benefits of Cricut Access:
- Unlimited Content: Access to a growing library of over 200,000 to 500,000 images, 700+ fonts, and thousands of ready-to-make projects.
- Exclusive Features: Subscriber-only features in Design Space, such as the Automatic Background Remover and other design enhancements.
- Savings and Discounts: Subscribers receive 10% off on Cricut.com purchases, including machines, accessories, and materials, with additional subscriber-only discounts and offers.
- Priority Member Care: Priority support for Access subscribers, providing faster assistance and support.
Subscription Options and Costs:
- Standard Plan: Includes unlimited use of 200,000+ images, 700+ fonts, and offers a 10% discount on images and fonts not included in the subscription, as well as on product purchases. The standard plan can be billed monthly or annually, with monthly costs ranging from $7.99 to $9.99, and annual costs providing savings of up to $24.
- Premium Plan: Offers everything included in the standard plan, along with unlimited use of 500,000+ images, and additional savings and benefits. The premium plan can be billed monthly or annually, with monthly costs ranging from $9.99 to $12.99, and annual costs providing savings of up to $24.
User Feedback:
- Users find that Cricut Access easily pays for itself, especially for those who craft routinely and appreciate the freedom of having numerous options for their projects.
- The subscription is valued for its extensive content, time-saving benefits, and extra savings on Cricut products.
Navigating the Design Space Canvas
How to Navigate Cricut Design Space on PC
The Canvas in Cricut Design Space is the primary workspace where users design and arrange their projects. It offers various functionalities and tools to facilitate the design process. Here’s an overview of the Canvas and its functionalities based on the provided sources:
Canvas Functionalities: Design and Arrangement: The Canvas is where users can add and edit projects, images, and text.
Editing and Arranging Elements: The top panel in the Canvas area allows users to edit and arrange elements on the canvas, including choosing fonts, changing sizes, aligning designs, and more.
Insert Area: The left panel in the Canvas area provides options to insert shapes, images, text, phrases, editable images, uploads, and monograms onto the canvas.
Layers Panel: The right panel in the Canvas area displays the layers of the design, allowing users to manage and organize the different elements of their project.
Color and Templates: The Canvas area includes tools to change the color of the canvas and utilize templates for design purposes.
What File Types Are Supported For Images in Cricut Design Space?
Which file is best for Cricut or Silhouette: SVG, DXF, or PNG?
Cricut Design Space supports various image file types, including:
- .jpg
- .bmp
- .png
- .gif
- .svg
- .dxf
These file types allow users to upload and work with both raster and vector images within the software. When uploading images, it’s important to consider the file type and its compatibility with Cricut Design Space to ensure a smooth importing process.
What is the Maximum File Size for Images in Cricut Design Space?
The maximum file size for images in Cricut Design Space varies depending on the specific use case. When working with Print Then Cut projects, the maximum print area size is 9.25″ x 6.75″.
Additionally, Cricut Design Space automatically resizes all uploaded SVG files that are over 23.5″ down to a maximum of 23.5″.
However, there are no specific details available regarding the maximum file size for general image uploads. It’s important to note that members with a paid Cricut Access plan have unlimited uploads, while those without a paid plan are allowed to upload up to 20 personal images and/or patterns per calendar month.
If you encounter issues with uploading images, it’s recommended to check the file size and dimensions to ensure compatibility with Cricut Design Space.
How to import images into the Cricut design space?
To import images into Cricut Design Space, follow these steps:
- Open the Cricut Design Space software and start a new project.
- Click the “Upload” button, and select the image file you want to upload.
- Select the image type and remove the background with the various eraser tools (for raster images only).
- Name the image, add tags, and click “Upload” to complete the process
Guide on using the left menu of Design Space for creating new projects, finding templates, etc
The left menu in Cricut Design Space provides various functionalities for creating new projects, finding templates, and more. Here’s a guide on using the left menu based on the provided sources:
Accessing Ready-to-Make Projects:
- When you first open Cricut Design Space, you will automatically see a menu of Ready-to-Make projects along the bottom of your screen.
- You can also access the vast collection of projects at any time by clicking the “Projects” button along the left side toolbar.
- The Ready-to-Make Projects menu along the top toolbar allows you to narrow your search or browse by category, providing countless designs for inspiration.
My Stuff and Account Information:
- The left menu of the Home page provides access to “My Stuff,” which contains all your bookmarks, projects, and uploads, making it easily accessible for managing your designs.
- The left menu also includes account information and settings, such as updating your profile, changing notifications, new product setup, calibration, and accessing help resources.
Customizing Ready-to-Make Projects:
Once you locate a Ready-to-Make project you want to try in the Design Space library, you can click on the picture to access a pop-up window with useful information and the option to customize the project.
Editing Tools and Features
The editing tools and features in Cricut Design Space allow users to manipulate and customize their designs. Here’s an overview of the editing tools and features based on the provided sources:
Editing Tools and Features:
Canvas Editing: Users can add and edit projects, images, and text directly on the Canvas in Cricut Design Space.
Customization of Ready-to-Make Projects: Ready-to-Make projects can be edited and customized by changing sizes, deleting elements, moving details, or swapping out phrases and imagery.
Filter and Effects: Some editing tools include the ability to add filters to images, adjust sharpness, grayscale, and apply effects such as sketch, comic, and embossment.
Cropping, Splitting, Trimming, and Resizing: Traditional editing tools allow users to crop, split, trim, and resize images and videos to meet their design needs.
Bitmap Image Editing: Bitmap image editing tools provide additional functionalities for editing and customizing images within the software.
Tips and Tricks for Effective Use
The editing tools and features in Cricut Design Space enable users to personalize their designs, whether they are working on their own projects or customizing Ready-to-Make projects. The availability of filters, effects, and traditional editing tools provides users with a wide range of options to enhance and modify their designs.
Here are some tips and tricks for effective use of Cricut Design Space:
Mastering the Software: Spend time familiarizing yourself with Cricut Design Space to understand its features and functionalities. There are numerous tips and tricks available to help you navigate the software effectively.
Organizational Hacks: Utilize organizational hacks such as using IKEA plastic bag storage for vinyl, cleaning your blade with tin foil, and using a nail polish holder for collecting tiny vinyl pieces when weeding.
Cricut Guides: Learn about Cricut Guides, a new feature added to Cricut Design Space, by watching tutorials and guides available on platforms like YouTube.
Video Tutorials: Explore video tutorials on platforms like YouTube to learn extra tips and tricks for using Cricut Design Space effectively.
Design Space Pro Tips: Check out tips and tricks provided by Cricut to enhance your skills and efficiency in using Design Space.
By incorporating these tips and tricks, you can enhance your proficiency in using Cricut Design Space and make the most of its features for your crafting and design projects.
Cricut Project ideas for new and experienced users
Here are some Cricut project ideas for both new and experienced users:
For New Users:
Ready-to-Make Projects: Explore the vast collection of Ready-to-Make projects available in Cricut Design Space. These projects provide a great starting point for new users to get familiar with the software and the capabilities of their Cricut machine.
Basic Customization: Start by customizing Ready-to-Make projects to get a feel for the editing tools and features in Cricut Design Space. This allows new users to experiment with design elements and gain confidence in using the software.
Utilize Cricut Access: Consider subscribing to Cricut Access to gain access to a wide range of images, fonts, and ready-to-make projects. This can provide new users with an extensive library of design resources to kickstart their crafting journey.
For Experienced Users:
Advanced Customization: Challenge yourself to take Ready-to-Make projects to the next level by heavily customizing and personalizing them. This can involve intricate design modifications and creative alterations to existing projects.
Exploring New Techniques: Experiment with different materials and techniques, such as infusible ink, fabric cutting, or advanced vinyl applications. This allows experienced users to expand their skills and create more complex and unique projects.
Designing Original Projects: Use Cricut Design Space to design and create original projects from scratch. This can involve creating personalized gifts, home decor, or intricate paper crafts using the software’s design tools.
By exploring these project ideas, both new and experienced users can make the most of Cricut Design Space and their Cricut machines, unleashing their creativity and crafting unique and personalized projects.
Conclusion:
As we conclude our comprehensive guide to Cricut Design Space, it’s clear that the possibilities are as boundless as your imagination. With its user-friendly interface, extensive library of resources, and versatile features, Cricut Design Space is an indispensable tool for both novice and expert crafters.
Whether you’re designing intricate home décor, personalized gifts, or unique fashion statements, this software has everything you need to bring your visions to life.
Embrace the power of creativity with Cricut Design Space and watch as your crafting dreams turn into reality. Remember, every project is an opportunity to express yourself and create something truly special. Happy crafting!
