How to Set Up My Cricut Explore Air 2
Are you excited to start crafting with your new Cricut Explore Air 2 machine? Setting up your Cricut Explore Air 2 is a straightforward process that will have you cutting and crafting in no time. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to set up your Cricut Explore Air 2, ensuring that you are ready to create beautiful projects.
Unboxing Your Cricut Explore Air 2
First, unbox your Cricut Explore Air 2 and take inventory of all the included items. You should have the following:
– Cricut Explore Air 2 machine
– Power adapter and cable
– USB cable
– Cricut cutting mat (blue for standard materials and green for more delicate materials)
– Scissors
– Spatula
– Cricut Accessory Knife
– Cricut EasyPress (optional, for iron-on projects)
– Cricut EasyPress mat (optional, for iron-on projects)
– Cricut Explore Air 2 software CD
Connecting Your Cricut Explore Air 2 to Your Computer
To connect your Cricut Explore Air 2 to your computer, follow these steps:
1. Insert the Cricut Explore Air 2 software CD into your computer’s CD/DVD drive.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the Cricut Design Space software.
3. Once the software is installed, open it and connect your Cricut Explore Air 2 to your computer using the USB cable provided.
Calibrating Your Cricut Explore Air 2
Before you start cutting, it’s important to calibrate your Cricut Explore Air 2 to ensure accurate cuts. To calibrate your machine, follow these steps:
1. Open the Cricut Design Space software.
2. Click on the “Machine” button in the upper-left corner of the screen.
3. Select your Cricut Explore Air 2 from the list of available machines.
4. Click on the “Calibrate” button and follow the on-screen instructions.
Setting Up Your Cutting Mat
Now that your Cricut Explore Air 2 is calibrated, it’s time to set up your cutting mat. Follow these steps:
1. Place your cutting mat on a flat, stable surface.
2. Remove the protective liner from the cutting mat.
3. Load your cutting mat into the Cricut Explore Air 2 by sliding it into the machine with the back side facing the machine.
Creating Your First Project
With your Cricut Explore Air 2 set up and ready to go, it’s time to create your first project. Here’s a simple project to get you started:
1. Open the Cricut Design Space software and select a project from the library or upload your own design.
2. Adjust the design to fit your cutting mat and click “Make It.”
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to load your material onto the cutting mat and load the mat into the Cricut Explore Air 2.
4. Click “Go” to start cutting.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully set up your Cricut Explore Air 2 and are ready to start crafting. Enjoy your new crafting adventure!
