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Getting Started with Cricut Maker
November 12, 2018 Dean Duehring

Getting Started with Cricut Maker

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If you just got a brand new Cricut Maker machine, this is a great place to start!  Learn exactly how to unpack your machine and get it set up.

Note that the contents of the box may vary, especially if you've selected a bundle. Our warehouse might occasionally open the box to include bundle components, and the box's contents can change over time. If your machine doesn't include exactly what's shown in this post, it doesn't necessarily mean it's used or returned. If you have any questions, please contact us.

Let’s take a look at what is included in the box with the machine:

Let’s unbox the machine, step-by-step, and get it all set up.  Your Cricut Maker machine will come in a brown shipping box with a white Cricut box tucked snug inside. Both boxes will say Cricut on them. This is important to note if you are shipping this as a surprise gift or if you have shifty neighbors. The box completely gives away the contents of the box. 

Separate the two boxes. Our warehouse often tucks bundle components between them. I recommend holding onto both the brown shipping box and the white Cricut box in which the machine is nestled. Bundle components may be tucked between them, and these boxes can be useful if you need to return the machine for repairs or if you plan to store or move the machine. If storage space is limited, you can flatten the boxes.

Inside the Cricut box, you'll find the "Let's get started" box, materials for your first project, the Maker machine, the power cord, and cutting mats. Remove the packaging and "Let's get started" box to access the Maker machine. The LightGrip Cutting Mat (blue) and FabricGrip Cutting Mat (pink) may be under the bottom piece of the box. The mats may be slightly bent, but they will flatten over time.

Remove the white foam sheet and the shrink-wrapped plastic from around the machine. To open the machine, simply lift the lid; no buttons are necessary. Inside, you'll find one last piece of packing material under the blade carriage.

You'll notice that the white accessory holder is pre-installed in Clamp A (for Accessories), and the blade with blade housing is installed in Clamp B (for Blades).

Now, you're ready to set up your machine. Locate the power and USB cords. The USB cord has a square end; plug it into the back of your machine on the left-hand side with the Cricut Logo pointing downwards. The power cord has two pieces that should come preassembled; if not, connect them. The round end of the power cord plugs into the back of the machine on the right-hand side. The other end of the power cord has a standard, 2 prong, US power supply cord. Plug it into an outlet or a power strip.

Note: While Cricut Maker is Bluetooth compatible, the initial setup requires a USB connection. You can explore Bluetooth connectivity once your machine is up and running. Read all about how to pair your machine with Bluetooth here.

Here is a helpful diagram with all the pieces of the Cricut Maker machine labeled:

Software Setup: Now that you've successfully unboxed and set up your Cricut Maker, the next step is to set up a Design Space Account.. Install Cricut Design Space on your computer, create an account, and connect the machine to the software. Happy crafting!

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Join the Craft-e-Corner Cricut Community on Facebook for more inspiration and tips!

Filed in: Cricut - Beginner
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