How to use Cricut Design Space

What’s the easiest way to make crafts from home? If you’re big into making crafts as a hobby then you’re probably no stranger to Cricut Design Space.  It’s a software program that lets you get all those fun designs and images to your cutting machine.

If you’re just starting out, don’t know what is or just need some Design Space help, then you’re in the right place. Read on for my easy guide to download and use design space.

What is Cricut design space?

Cricut design space is a die cutting machine software program.  Simply put, it’s a program that lets you get images from your computer to your Cricut machine.

After you send the image to the Cricut cutting machine, then you can get to the fun parts like editing, drawing and cutting the image onto paper, vinyl and other materials.

The images can be from the Cricut library or svg files that you buy or make yourself.

Want to make your own designs and use them in design space? Learn how to make svg files, in my So Simple SVG Files course. You’ll learn the basics of how to use graphics software and how to draw basic designs. 

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.

Think about it like this, the Cricut machine scans the image and then cuts it. Instead of using scissors, the machine will cut the design into almost any material or fabric.  

With design space, you can save time by letting the software do the heavy lifting.  This lets you skip all sorts of steps in the design process.

How cool is that? No more cramped hands from cutting thick fabric, paper, or vinyl sheets! It can even cut thicker material like leather and corkboard. 

It’s important to know what type of materials the machine can cut when comparing die cutters. 

Choosing the best cutting machine will largely be based on your skill level and the type of crafts you like to make.

How do I get Cricut design space?

To get design space, you simply search for the words “Cricut Design Space” in your browser. The company webpage should be at the top of the page of results. 

Head over to the website and you should see the sign up page. There is a button on the page to create a new account.

Pro Tip: Cricut design space and Cricut Access are not the same thing. I’ll explain more about that later. For now, just remember to click on the Design Space option.

Using Cricut Design Space on Windows or Mac

The good news is that design space is compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems.

So if you have more than one computer, a Mac and a Windows at home that you switch back and forth on, you can log in to your account and use design space with no problem. 

Even better news, there are mobile applications for iOS and Android users. Let’s say you have an iPhone but a Windows computer at home.

No, problem! You can still access your design space account! I love having options, don’t you?!

Pro Tip: Ok, you know how they say you can’t have it all, well, it’s sort of true here too. Cricut Design Space doesn’t work on Chromebook. You’ll have to opt for either a Mac or Windows computer.

How much does Cricut design space cost?

You’re probably wondering how much does Cricut Design Space cost. Would you believe me if I told you that the software is free? Yes, you heard right. Free99!

You can download the program straight from the Cricut website. No credit card needed, no free trial, just completely free. 

This gives you access to the canvas and the templates in Cricut.

Now you’re wondering what’s the catch. Well, if you want to use images from the Cricut library, you’ll have to pay per image. However, there is another option.

Cricut Access

Cricut Access is a subscription program that gives you access to all of the images in design space for a monthly or yearly fee.

They have over 50,000 designs and fonts.  There are three options, monthly, yearly or premium.

Of course, the premium option will give you a few more perks like free shipping.

Can I use Design Space without a computer?

You can use design space without a computer. Well, sort of. Remember how I mentioned earlier that there are mobile options.

You can use either one of their mobile apps to access design space.

There is an iOS app for iPhone and iPad users and an Android app for Android phone and tablet users.

Once you download whichever app is best for you, you can view and design your projects just like you would on a computer.

And, if design space is down, there is even limited access offline with the iOS app.

That’s great for those times you find yourself without internet, but you still want to work on your crafts.

The desktop version requires an internet connection. So you need to have an internet connection to be able to use design space on your computer.

Can you use Cricut without design space?

Lastly, let’s talk about whether you need design space to use Cricut.  The truth is yes, you need design space in order to use a Cricut machine. 

There really is no way of getting around it. 

Whether you use images from the Cricut library or your own custom designed images, you need to upload the images to design space so that the die cutting machine can scan and cut it.

Remember that you have the option to use design space for free or to subscribe to Cricut Access.

It all depends on whether or not you will use images from another source or from the Cricut library.

If you want to learn how to make your own svg files, check out my So Simple SVG Files course!

You should feel pretty confident about using design space now. Let me know what ideas for a first Cricut project you have and you want to try.

Feel free to pin this Cricut design space guide to your favorite Cricut board on Pinterest for later.

FAQ: How to use Cricut Design Space

1. What is Cricut Design Space?

Cricut Design Space is a design and layout software used with Cricut cutting machines. It allows you to create and customize designs for various craft and DIY projects.

2. How do I install Cricut Design Space?

To install Cricut Design Space, visit the Cricut website, download the software, and follow the installation instructions provided for your operating system.

3. What can I create with Cricut Design Space?

You can create a wide range of projects with Cricut Design Space, including custom cards, vinyl decals, iron-on transfers, paper crafts, and more. The possibilities are endless!

4. How can I import my own designs into Cricut Design Space?

You can import your own designs into Cricut Design Space by using the “Upload” feature. Simply upload your image or design file, and then you can edit and cut it using the software.

5. Is Cricut Design Space free to use?

Cricut Design Space offers both a free and a paid version. Some features are available for free, while a Cricut Access subscription is required for full access to premium content and features.