How to Pair Cricut Machine With a Computer? (Full Guide)
- marcoblaze7676
- 3 minutes ago
- 5 min read
Last week, I helped my neighbor set up her brand-new Cricut machine. She had recently taken up card making and was excited to start her first project. But the moment she opened the box, her smile turned into confusion.
She wanted to make birthday cards and asked if I knew how to pair her Cricut machine with a computer or mobile device so she could get started. We took a break, sat down together, and looked up the steps online. That’s when I realized there’s no need to feel overwhelmed; it’s just about following a simple, step-by-step guide.
So, if you’re like her, excited about crafting but unsure how to pair your Cricut machine, keep reading this post for a complete solution.
How to Pair a Cricut Machine With Your Computer?
Pairing your crafting machine to your computer might seem tricky, but it’s quite easy, especially if you follow the instructions carefully. Using Cricut Design Space with Windows offers several benefits, including access to a user-friendly interface for creating and customizing designs, the ability to import or use pre-made designs, and the option to save projects and share them with the Cricut community.
Cricut offers two methods for connecting your machine to a computer:
Bluetooth (Wireless connection)
USB (Wired connection)
Let’s take a look at both:
Method 1: With Bluetooth
Bluetooth enables wireless connectivity without the need for additional cables, making it ideal for those who prefer a cleaner, cord-free setup.
Step 1: Plug your crafting machine into a power outlet and press the power button.
Step 2: Navigate to Settings by clicking the Start button and then selecting the gear icon.
Step 3: After that, go to the Devices section.
Step 4: Next, select Bluetooth & other devices and enable Bluetooth.
For Mac: In the top-left corner, click the Apple icon. Open System Preferences and then click on Bluetooth to enable it.
Step 5: Look for a device starting with “Cricut,” such as Cricut Explore, Maker, or Joy, within the list of available devices.
Step 6: If asked for a PIN, enter 0000.
Step 7: Once connected, the machine should appear Connected in your Bluetooth list.
Step 8: Go back to Design Space and complete the setup of your new product.
Tip: Cricut Joy, Maker, and Explore series all support Bluetooth. Older machines, such as the Cricut Explore One, may require a Bluetooth adapter for connectivity.
Method 2: Using a USB Cable
If your computer doesn’t have Bluetooth or you prefer connecting through a USB cable, follow these steps:
Step 1: First, power on both your machine and computer.
Step 2: Now, connect one end of your USB cable to the machine and the other to the computer.
And that’s it. You’re all done. Your computer should now automatically recognize and connect to the Cricut machine.
Note: The Bluetooth method works only with the Cricut Maker series, Explore series, and Venture. Cricut Joy and Joy Xtra do not support USB. They can only be paired via Bluetooth.
How to Pair Your Cricut to Mobile Devices?
If you prefer working from your phone or tablet, Cricut has made it easier for you to connect your crafting machine to your Android and iOS devices. It offers portability and convenience, enabling users to create projects from virtually anywhere.
Follow these steps to pair your machine to your mobile device:
Step 1: Download the Cricut App
Open your App Store or Play Store from your device’s home screen and search for Cricut Design Space.
Then, click on the Get or Install button.
Step 2: Turn on Bluetooth
For iOS, open the Settings app on your device. If you’re using Android, you can swipe down from the top of your screen to reveal the Quick Settings panel.
Tap on Bluetooth and toggle the switch to turn it on.
Step 3: Pair From Within the App
Open the Cricut Design Space software on your device.
Ensure your machine is powered on and within the range of 10-15 feet.
Log in or create an account.
Now, locate the Settings menu.
Within Settings, locate the ‘Machine Setup’ button and click on it.
The app will now search for the available devices and select your machine from the list.
If prompted for a PIN, enter the pairing code 0000.
Your Cricut machine is now paired and ready to use with the app on your mobile phone.
Mistakes to Avoid While Pairing Your Cricut Machine
These are some common errors that you must avoid while pairing your machine to any device:
Not turning on Bluetooth before opening Design Space.
Trying to connect on both phone and PC at the same time.
Skipping firmware updates while setting up.
Using a damaged USB cable.
Having a weak or unstable internet connection.
Install Design Space only after ensuring your machine is ready to pair.
Should You Use Cricut Design Space on a Computer or Phone?
One of the most common questions beginners have is: Which is better for using Design Space, my phone or computer?
If you’re a beginner who prefers a bigger screen and full access to features, starting on a computer is a better choice.
However, if you prefer simplicity and portability, your phone or tablet will work just fine, especially for basic projects.
Pro Tip: You can switch between devices at any time. You can start making a design on your phone or tablet and finish it on your computer (or vice versa), as long as you’re logged into the same Cricut account.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why Is My Cricut Not Connecting?
If your crafting machine is not connecting, follow the steps listed below to get it working again.
Check if your machine shows up in your device’s Bluetooth list.
Try to unpair your machine from the Bluetooth settings and then re-pair it.
Ensure your machine is within the range of your device (within 15 feet).
Ensure you’re using the latest version of Cricut Design Space. Outdated software can cause connection problems.
Confirm whether the device you’re using meets the minimum system requirements for Design Space.
Check the USB cable for damage and replace it if needed.
How to Put Your Cricut Machine in Pairing Mode?
To pair your machine, you can opt for any of the following methods:
USB: Plug one end of your USB cable into the machine and the other into your computer.
Bluetooth: Ensure your machine is plugged in and the power button is on. Place your machine within 10 to 15 feet of your device. On your device, navigate to the Bluetooth settings and enable Bluetooth. Your machine model will appear in the list of available devices. Select it to begin the pairing process. If asked, enter 0000 to complete the pairing.
Can you use a smartphone with a Cricut machine?
Yes, you can use a smartphone to connect to a Cricut machine via Bluetooth using the Cricut Design Space app. However, some features may be limited compared to using a desktop or laptop.
While you can access and edit existing projects, upload images, and resize designs, some advanced features, such as the Offset tool, are not available on mobile devices. Advanced tools, such as the Knife blade, are only available when using a desktop.
Visit: cricut.com/setup
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