Trent University Library and Archives

Cricut Maker - How to Guide

A step by step guide on how to use the Odette Critical Making Studio's Cricut Maker.

Mat Selection

Mat size and grip strength – Squares available on display stand with extras and larger sizes in drawer 39.4 under Ultimaker S5.

  • LightGrip, StandardGrip, StrongGrip, and FabricGrip
  • Available in 30.5 cm by 30.5 cm, located by the Cricut maker, or 30.5 cm by 61 cm in storage

Material Preparation

Once the design is aligned with the mat, select the continue button to bring up the cut and print settings. 

Cricut Maker - Print Preparation

First, select the material that the project is using. Secondly, you will be prompted to select a cutting pressure. If the pressure for the cut needed is unknown, it is best to run a test sample. Once selected you will be automatically shifted to step 2.

Now that the base material has been selected, it is time to load the materials into the machine. First, if you are printing, the associated marker with the print will be placed into the A lablled slot on the left side of the cut/print unit. For cutting, the blade or accessory being used will be placed into the B slot on the right side of the cut/print unit. Third, once the cut/print unit is prepared, it is now time to load the pre-determined mat with the materials to be processed. Place the lip of the mat into the Cricut maker and then press the load/unload button. 

Once loaded, the cut/print unit will begin to move and calibrate. After that is complete and the Cricut button is flashing, press it to begin the process. 

Design Removal

Wait until the cutting process is complete and then press the load/unload button to release your project from the cricut.

There are tools available to remove your design from the mat such as:

  • Negative pressure tweezers
  • Spatula
  • Pick
  • Scraper
  • Rotary wheel (use off mat)
  • Scissors (use off mat)