How Does The Cricut Designstudio Software Work?

How does the Cricut DesignStudio Software work?

Lauren - posted on 01/26/2010 ( 2 moms have responded )

I am a beginner with the Cricut. I just got my Cricut Expression this past weekend. I just purchased the Cricut DesignStudio Software online because I have been hearing about programs that use fonts and images off your computer with no cartridges. Does this software do that? I am beginning to think it doesn't...but I really hope it does!! Thanks for any info you can give me. Also any tips for the Cricut are appreciated as well!! :)

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Lauren - posted on 01/26/2010

Thanks for the tips! I will have to check out the cricut community. I am def. up for new ideas, projects, and tips! Thanks again! :)

Karen - posted on 01/26/2010

Cricut Design studio does NOT allow you to import free fonts and images. It will ONLY work with the cartridges in the ProvoCraft library.

FOr third party software (which will void your warranty) check out Sure Cuts A Lot and Make the Cut.

If you want to design items with the carts you already have, then CDS is the right tool for you. I use CDS alot - minimally to search for images and to understand how an image will cut (orientation) and how it will scale. Also, I use it to tweak shapes that I'm interested in. For example, Doodlecharms has a grouping of fall leaves with an acorn too. If I only want the oak leaf to cut out, I can select the other images and use the "hide contour" to save paper. I also use CDS alot to rotate items to enlarge them (like favor boxes), as well as fitting lots of the same images on the mat and save paper (like cutting leaves for a preschool class).

Best tip - join the cricut.com/community. You will find lots of people (like me) who can answer questions as well as post projects that will inspire you. Don't worry about buying every little thing right now. Break open your Expression and take some junk paper and just start pushing buttons to see how things work. You'll have a blast!

Hope this helps,

~craftykaren~ cricut mb name