How to Make SVG Files for Cricut in Illustrator: 7 Easy Steps

As a graphic designer, you may need to create files in a format suitable for use with a Cricut machine. The open SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) file format is one of the best formats to create content for a Cricut. So how do you make SVG files for Cricut in Adobe Illustrator?

You first need to open Illustrator and start a new document. After this, you should add text, create outlines and unite the text. When you’re done, save the SVG file and after that, you should upload it to your Cricut design space.

In this tutorial, I will walk you through creating an SVG file from scratch using Illustrator. Once you have completed this tutorial, you can create svg images for any project you want.

How to Make SVG Cut Files for Cricut in Illustrator

Here is a step-by-step guide to creating an SVG file in Illustrator:

Open Illustrator

The first step is to open Illustrator. You can choose File > New to create a new document or open up an existing one. Once your file is open, you can start creating your design.

The new file should be a 12″ x 12″ square canvas with a resolution of 300 dpi. This will give you the optimal size and quality for your final vector image.

Add Text

Once your canvas is open, you can begin adding text to it. You can use any font or style that you want for this step. Adobe will use your system fonts but you can also upload a fancy cursive font.

When creating an SVG file, the most important thing is to make sure that your text is editable. This means it must be converted to outlines.

Create Outlines

To convert the text to outlines, you can select it and then choose “Create Outlines” from the Type menu. Alternatively, you can press Command + Shift + O on a Mac or Ctrl + Shift + O on Windows. This will ensure that your text is editable as a vector object in the SVG file.

Unite Text

The next step before saving your SVG file is to unite the text. The unite tool is the first top-left option under shades modes. This step is important because it will ensure that all text is combined into one object. This will help to keep your final SVG file organized and clean.

Save Your File

Now you’re ready to save your file as an SVG. To do this, choose “File > Save As…” from the top menu bar. Then, select “SVG” from the list of formats and save your file.

Upload to Cricut Design Space

Once you have saved your SVG file, you can upload it to your Cricut Design Space. This will allow you to use your design in any projects you create with a Cricut machine.

Using this method you’ll be able to create text cut files. But, you can use these same steps to create image files too.

I get commissions for purchases made through some of the links in this post. There is no extra cost to you. See my full disclosure here.

Different SVG Options

Adobe Illustrator is a popular design software but there are different ways to create digital files. For example, if you prefer to use a mobile device to design, you can see my post on 7 apps for making svg files for a variety of options.

There are even some online programs like Canva that let you save as an svg file type.

FAQ’s

Yield: 1

7 Simple Steps to Make SVG Cut Files for Cricut in Illustrator

No Ratings

Print

In this tutorial, I will walk you through the 7 steps to create an SVG file from scratch using Illustrator.

Once you have completed this tutorial, you can create SVG files for any Cricut project you want.

Instructions

1. Open Illustrator
2. Open the text box or select a simple shape
3. Write your text or adjust the shape to create a design
4. Create Outlines
5. Unite Text
6. Save as SVG
7. Upload svg file to Cricut Design Space

Notes

Once you start making lots of svg files, you'll want to save them to an external portable hard drive.

Recommended Products

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

• 
  Toshiba HDTB420XK3AA Canvio Basics 2TB Portable External Hard Drive USB 3.0, Black

Final Thoughts

Creating Cricut svg files in Illustrator is a great way to get started with designing. Once you start making your own designs for your cutting machine you’ll see how much fun it can be and want to make more.

The design process is not complicated at all. The vector file from start to finish will take only a few minutes if you use simple shapes or just the text button.

You now have the knowledge and tools to make your own cut files from scratch.

I hope this guide has been helpful and that you can successfully create SVG files for your Cricut projects.