How to Use Cricut Explore 3: Get Started With Your First Craft

My childhood friend Emma recently purchased a Cricut Explore 3 to start crafting. Like you, she was confused about how to use Cricut Explore 3. We keep in touch, so she calls me for help. I’m always eager to help; I teach her everything from setting up and connecting the Cricut machine to downloading Cricut Design Space. I also enjoyed her first project; it was fun.

If you have left your machine untouched since buying and are wondering how to get started, I will guide you through it step-by-step, just like I did for Emma. I was once a beginner like you, but with continuous learning, I have done many projects with my Cricut machine. Follow the instructions in this blog, and you will feel comfortable in no time. Let’s get started!

HOW TO SETUP A CRICUT EXPLORE 3 ON YOUR DEVICE?

Now that you have your Explore 3, before you learn how to use Cricut Explore 3, it must first be set up properly so you can start crafting.

STEP 1: UNPACKING THE MACHINE AND TURN IT ON

If you haven’t opened the box yet, open it up and locate the power cable and the Cricut Explore 3 machine.

After this, place the machine on a clean and flat surface and ensure that there is 2 feet of free space behind the machine.

This time, plug the round end of the power cable into the back of the Cricut Explore 2 machine and the other end into a power source.
Turn on the machine and the power button simultaneously.

STEP 2: CONNECTING CRICUT EXPLORE 3 TO A COMPUTER

The Cricut Explore 3 comes with a USB port and also supports Bluetooth connectivity. We can use any method for connection.

For a USB connection, plug one end into the computer and another one at the back of the Explore 3 around the power cord.

STEP 3: DOWNLOAD CRICUT DESIGN SPACE

Installing Cricut Design Space is essential when you first start learning how to use Cricut Explore 3, as it is integral to the setup.

Open the computer and go to the cricut.com site; it will automatically recognize the computer, whether it is a Mac or Windows or not.
After that, tick the box to agree to Cricut’s terms and conditions and click “Download.”

Moreover, open up the downloaded file, follow the on-screen prompts, and install the Cricut software.
Next, launch the Cricut application and create a Cricut profile. If you have already done so, simply log in.

STEP 4: NEW MACHINE SETUP IN DESIGN SPACE

No matter which Cricut machine you have, it needs to be set up in the Cricut application before use.

Once the Cricut applicationis installed, click the Menu icon.
Next, click New Product Setup and select the Cricut cutting machine.

Now, a new page will open that asks you to select the machine and tap on the Cricut Explore 3.
Follow the on-screen steps, then update if there is any new update, and click Continue to complete setup.

HOW TO USE A CRICUT EXPLORE 3 TO MAKE A MUG?

Finally, the setup for the Cricut Explore 3 is complete, and it is connected. Now, let’s dive into how to use Cricut Explore 3 by creating a project.

STEP 1: SUPPLIES AND TOOLS REQUIRED

Given below are the essential Cricut tools and materials you will need to get started with your project.

Cricut vinyl
Cricut Explore 3
Weeding tool
Transfer tape
A blank item (I choose a mug)

STEP 2: USE THE CRICUT SOFTWARE AND CREATE A DESIGN

Open the Cricut app, click on the New Project, and look for the “Bee Kind” design in the search bar. Since it is your first project, I recommend skipping any customization. Simply drag and resize the design, then click Make It.

STEP 3: SELECT YOUR MATERIAL

Now, the Cricut software will ask you to choose the load type “Without Mat” and click done.

Also, insert the smart vinyl into the machine, ensuring the fine point blade is installed in clamp B.
Then, return to the Cricut app and click the Continue button.

STEP 4: START CUTTING YOUR DESIGN

When your design and all the settings are complete in Design Space, it is time to click the Go button and start cutting. Once the machine finishes cutting, hit the Load button to remove the smart vinyl.

Next, trim and weed out the excess vinyl that is not required.
Then, cut the transfer tape to fit the size of the design you have cut out. Peel the white backing away from the transfer tape and place the sticky side down on your vinyl decal.
Finally, peel back the transfer tape and apply it to the blank object (mug) to lift it up; it’s as simple as that.

FINAL WORDS

The Cricut Explore 3 is a popular machine capable of cutting over 100 materials, making it ideal for various projects like t-shirts, vinyl decals, stickers, cards, and more. Before diving into any projects post-purchase, it’s crucial to understand how to use the Cricut Explore 3. I have provided all the information from setup to the first DIY project, assuming you have completed it and are now comfortable using your machine.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT CAN I MAKE WITH MY CRICUT EXPLORE 3?

The following projects are beginner-friendly, stunning, and easy to make with the Cricut Explore 3.

Labels
Decals
Personalized apparel
Mugs
Wooden sign
Banners
Bookmarks
Frame
Cupcake toppers
T-shirt
Coasters

HOW TO USE CRICUT EXPLORE 3 WITHOUT A MAT?

You can follow these simple instructions to use the Cricut Explore 3 without a mat:

First, create a design in the Cricut app and select the load type “Without Mat.”
After that, load the material onto your machine and press the Start button.
Finally, complete the on-screen instructions to complete the vinyl cutting process.

HOW TO CONNECT CRICUT EXPLORE 3 TO A COMPUTER OR MOBILE PHONE?

Follow the steps below to connect the Cricut Explore 3 to a computer or mobile phone:

Ensure that the Explore 3 is turned on.
Open the Bluetooth settings on your computer or mobile phone.
Wait for your system to detect the Explore 3.
Select the machine, and if asked for a PIN, type 0000, then select Connect.

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