Are you looking to create some awesome cut file designs for your Cricut machine? GIF files are a great option that you should consider. But how do you make GIF files in Canva for Cricut? Don’t worry, it’s actually quite easy!
If you’re into crafts and love using your cutting machine, you’ll definitely want to try out this method. And in just a few simple steps, you’ll be on your way to making GIF files in Canva to turn into amazing cut file designs for Cricut.
Let’s dive right in! Here’s how you can make GIF files in Canva for Cricut:

WATCH this video to turn a Canva gif file into a Cricut file
Why Use a GIF for Cricut?
While Cricut has a big collection of designs, it’s fun to be able to use other designs too. It’s even better if you can turn those designs into gif files.
In case you’re wondering, gifs are graphics. The GIF stands for graphics interchange format. They are usually animated images but you can use them as still graphics too, which is perfect for Cricut crafting. It’s an easy way to use a funny GIF or meme to put on your own custom shirt.
Supplies Needed for GIF
You can use a free Canva account to make a GIF but you may have to pay for the design depending on which one you choose. If you have a Canva Pro account then you have access to all of the designs, photos, and videos in Canva.
I recently upgraded to the pro account because I use Canva a lot! So it was worth it for me. You can try Canva Pro free for 3 days.
I have a yearly plan. Since I use Canva every day, it saves me more money than the monthly subscription option.
Step by Step Instructions to Use Canva to Make GIF Files
- Open a new template in Canva, I suggest using the T-shirt template
- Click on Elements from the left side menu panel
- Search for an image, I searched for “cupcake” or you can upload your own design
- Click on the Download arrow
- Select the file type as “GIF”
- Open Cricut Design Space
- Upload the saved gif file into Design Space.
That’s it! You’ve now created a GIF file in Canva that’s perfect for use with your Cricut machine. Simply upload the file to your Cricut design software and start cutting!
Pro Tip: Choose a simple design. Complex designs won’t work as well.
Edit GiF Designs in Canva
Once you upload your gif file to Canva you may have to do some minor editing to get it the way you want. Cricut will give you a few options to edit the design further.
Some of these options include
- Image type
- Background remover
The image will upload a single layer and you can choose to upload it as a simple, moderately complex or complex type image.
Basically, the more stuff you have going on in the design then, the more it will be seen as a complex image.
Removing the background is another thing that you can do to the gif. You can do this step in Canva with Canva Pro or you can do it after you upload it to Design Space. The background removal feature is free if you have Cricut Access.
Conclusion
In conclusion, creating GIF files in Canva is a simple way to make quick cut files. By following the steps above, you’ll be able to make your own designs to make t-shirts with Cricut in no time at all.
Want more easy tips for Cricut projects like this? Check out these 7 easy apps to make cut files for Cricut beginner craft projects.


