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Instructions for our Vinyl Cutter Cricut Maker 3.

Before You Start

1. Make sure the Cricut Maker 3 machine, power cord, and USB or Bluetooth connection to the computer/phone/tablet is ready.
   
2. Open Cricut Design Space (the software required for all Cricut projects).

1. Connecting the Machine

A. USB Connection

In Makerhörnan the USB cable is connected to the Cricut Maker 3.

B. Bluetooth (Optional)

• Turn on Bluetooth on the device.
• Select Cricut Maker 3 → If prompted for a PIN, enter 0000.

2. Choosing Your Material

The Cricut Maker 3 can cut 300+ materials, including:

• Vinyl (adhesive or heat transfer)
• Paper & cardstock
• Fabric (with certain blades)
• Leather, chipboard, and more

3. Prepare Your Material

A. Using Smart Materials (No Mat Needed)

The Maker 3 can cut Smart Vinyl without a mat by feeding it directly under the guides.

B. Using a Cutting Mat

1. Select the correct mat type (LightGrip, StandardGrip, StrongGrip, FabricGrip).
2. Place your material in the top-left corner of the mat and press it down.
3. Remove the clear plastic mat cover.

4. Creating Your Design in Cricut Design Space

1. Open Cricut Design Space and start a New Project.
2. Add shapes, text, or Upload your own image (PNG, SVG, JPG, GIF, DXF).
3. Set the operation (Cut, Draw, etc.).
4. Resize your design as needed.
5. Click Make It.

5. Loading Material into the Cricut

1. Align the material (or mat) with the machine guides.
2. Press the Load/Unload button until rollers grab the material.
3. Wait until the machine confirms it is ready.

If using vinyl:

• Ensure it is flat and not wrinkled.
• For Smart Vinyl, keep at least 6–7 cm extra length for feeding.

6. Cutting Your Design

1. Confirm material type in Design Space (e.g., “Smart Vinyl – Permanent”).
2. Insert the correct tool/blade into Clamp B, if required.
3. Press the Go button to start cutting.
4. Wait for the machine to finish cutting, then press Load/Unload to release the mat/material.

7. Finishing the Cut

A. Weeding

Remove excess vinyl using a weeding tool (small hook).

B. Applying Transfer Tape (for adhesive vinyl)

1. Place transfer tape on top of your weeded design.
2. Rub firmly.
3. Peel backing off and apply the design to your surface.

Safety and Good Practice

✔ Keep fingers away from the rollers during loading.
✔ Do not place objects behind the machine while cutting (material feeds forward/backward).
✔ Always unload mats carefully to avoid curling paper or vinyl.

Troubleshooting