Cricut Kit

Welcome to the Georgia Public Library Service (GPLS) Cricut Kit page. This kit allows you to create custom designs on various materials, from vinyl and paper to fabric and wood. It’s ideal for crafting workshops, maker spaces, and other creative projects at the library.

What's in the Kit?

• Cricut Maker 3 Machine

• Power Adapter: For powering the machine.

• USB Cable: For connecting the Cricut to a computer.

• Fine-Point Blade and Housing: For cutting a wide range of materials.

• LightGrip and FabricGrip Mats: Adhesive mats to hold materials in place during cutting.

• Sample Materials: For a test project.

• Carrying Case: For safe storage and transport.

Setup and Usage Instructions

1. Unpacking the Kit

   • Carefully remove the Cricut machine, mats, cables, and accessories from the carrying case. Ensure all components are present and undamaged.

2. Setting Up the Cricut Maker 3

   • Place the machine on a stable surface.

   • Connect the power adapter and plug the machine into an outlet.

   • Connect the USB cable from the machine to a computer if not using Bluetooth.

   • Register the machine at cricut.com/setup if it’s your first time using it.

3. Installing and Connecting to Design Space

   • Download the Design Space software from the Cricut website or app store.

   • Open Design Space and sign in or create an account.

   • Pair the machine via USB or Bluetooth (if Bluetooth-enabled).

   • Design Space will automatically detect the machine and guide you through your first project setup​.

4. Creating a Project in Design Space

   • Choose a Ready-to-Make Project: Select from thousands of pre-designed projects or start a new design from scratch.

   • Upload Custom Designs: You can upload images (e.g., SVG, PNG) for personalized projects.

   • Select Materials and Tools: Based on your material choice, Design Space will recommend the appropriate tool and mat.

5. Loading Materials and Mats

   • Place your material onto the appropriate adhesive mat:

     • LightGrip Mat for lighter materials (e.g., paper, vinyl).

     • FabricGrip Mat for fabric projects.

   • Load the mat by positioning it under the mat guides and pressing the Load button.

   • Select your material settings in Design Space, and ensure the correct blade is installed in Clamp B​.

6. Starting Your Cut

   • When the machine is ready, press the Go button to start cutting.

   • Design Space will show a progress bar during the cut.

   • Once complete, press the Unload button to release the mat and carefully remove the material from the mat to avoid curling.

7. Additional Tips for Using the Cricut Maker 3

   • Smart Materials: The Cricut Maker 3 can use Smart Materials for matless cutting, which is useful for longer projects.

   • Changing Blades and Tools: The machine supports various blades, including the Knife Blade for thicker materials and the Rotary Blade for fabrics.

   • Writing and Drawing: Insert Cricut pens in Clamp A to add writing or drawing elements to your projects.

Example Use Cases

• DIY Décor: Make custom vinyl wall decals, iron-on designs, or labels.

• Craft Workshops: Teach patrons to create custom greeting cards, stickers, or stencils.

• Educational Programs: Use the machine to create models, lettering, or cutouts for visual aids.

• Support Local Businesses: Use the machine to cut window decals, hours of operation, vehicle logos and more!

Tutorials and Resources

• Getting Started with Cricut Maker 3: Watch here.

• How to Use Design Space: Read here.

• Working with Different Materials: Read here.

• Read the guide to get started: Read here.

Safety Precautions

• Keep hands away from the blade while the machine is operating.

• Handle sharp tools carefully when changing blades or clearing the mat.

Maintenance Tips

• Clean the mats with a scraper to remove excess material residue and prolong mat life.

• Update the Design Space software regularly for new features and compatibility.

• Store the machine and accessories safely in the carrying case when not in use.

Checklist for Returning the Kit

• Verify that all items (machine, mats, blades, cables) are returned to the carrying case.

• Remove all materials and residue from the mats.

• Complete the post-use survey to share feedback on the kit.

Buy here at $299.00