Are you an arts and crafts person? Do you want to enter the world of Cricut machines but are confused by so many options out there? Cricut Explore Air 2 is an ideal option for you if you are entering the world of crafting for the first time.
You might think, Why? It is cheaper than the latest model of the Explore series and comes with a refurbished model, making it much more affordable than the original one.
Once you have got your cutting machine, the next crucial aspect is to set it up. To do this, one needs to have Cricut’s exclusive application, ‘Design Space,’ installed on your phone or computer. This blog will delve into how to do a Cricut Explore Air 2 setup. So, let’s get started and enter into the world of this amazing product of craft production.
What Does Cricut Explore Air 2 Do?
Cricut Explore Air 2 is a fast-edge-cutting machine that lets you easily cut more than hundreds of materials. This amazing product has 6 different kinds of tools for varying purposes, from cutting, writing, and engraving to foiling and many more. It can even cut through popular materials like paper, vinyl, cardstock, iron-on, etc. It can also work with cork, infusible ink, and glitter paper.
You might wonder why the machine setup process is so important. Why the fuss? Well, the answer is that setting up this machine is the only way to use it. This is the second most crucial aspect after downloading and installing the Cricut Design Space software and creating a Cricut account ID (If you do not have one). So, let’s start the setup process with your Windows computer below:
Cricut Explore Air 2 Setup on Your Computer
With the machine, you can make your crafting even simpler. You can set up the machine on a computer and phone. You can even explore the app offline on most devices (except for Android, which currently does not support the offline version). Let’s start with setting up your product. There are two options for it. You can set it up on either a Mac or a Windows computer. Let’s look at the steps for Windows:
For Windows
To run the Design Space on Windows and set up your product, you need a minimum of Windows 10 or later. The CPU should be an Intel Dual-Core or equivalent AMD processor. One also needs 4GB RAM, 2 GB free disk space, a USB port or Bluetooth connection, and 1024 x 768 pixels for display resolution. Once you have downloaded and installed the app, follow these necessary steps to set up your machine:
Step 1: From the Home window, tap the Windows icon (the four squared skies blue colored icon), and it opens a search bar. In the search bar, type in ‘Settings’ (wheel-shaped icon).
Step 2: In the top left side of the page, you will find the Bluetooth & other devices option. Hit that option, and you will be prompted to go to the Devices page.
Step 3: Under the Devices section, you will find the option ‘Add a device’; tap on it.
Step 4: Under the ‘Add a device’ page, you will find Bluetooth; click on it to initiate the scan for your machine.
Step 5: If your device is visible, select it, and it will be successfully paired with your machine.
Following these steps, one can complete their product setup and enjoy creating their designs for their creative craft projects.
Note: You can also set up and connect your crafting machine using a USB cable.
For Mac
To complete the process of setting up your machine on your Mac, you will also have to download Design Space, the exclusive app for controlling all your cutting and heat press machines. Follow these basic steps to do the same:
Step 1: First, make sure that your machine is on (the white light shows that it is on), and then insert the wireless Bluetooth adapter for your machine. If your Mac is Bluetooth off, then go ahead and turn it on.
Step 2: To do this, go to your Apple menu, then to System Preferences, and then to Bluetooth.
Step 3: Open the Bluetooth window, turn it on by clicking the toggle button, and select your adapter module name from your list of devices.
Step 4: Also, click on it to pair, and if a password is asked for, enter 0000 and then pair.
Finally, your pairing is now complete. Go ahead and Cricut log in to the app and start designing. Your machine is finally set up.
Note: You can also connect your machine through a USB cable. Also, the Bluetooth device name will sometimes be visible as Audio in the list.
Cricut Explore Air 2 Setup on Your Mobile Phone
You can also set up your machine from your mobile devices. To do this, you need to connect your machine to your mobile device via Bluetooth. You can do it either with iPhones or Android devices. To do this, follow the steps in the section below:
Step 1: Go to Bluetooth settings and turn it on.
Step 2: Also, insert your machine’s Bluetooth adapter and wait for its name to be shown in the list of devices.
Step 3: Once you get the name, click on it and wait for a few seconds to pair up.
Step 4: After the connection is made, you need to go to the App Store to download the app and sign in with your username and password.
Step 5: If you don’t have one, you can always create an account by following the on-screen steps on the sign-up page.
Step 6: Once you log in and make the Bluetooth connection, the product is finally ready to pair.
Final Words
This blog has successfully explored various ways for the Cricut Explore Air 2 setup to simplify your crafting journey. With this step-by-step guide, one can download and install the Design Space and set up the machine without any hassle. Knowing the proper way to set up this machine gives one the flexibility to bust out their DIY dreams and create fresh styles for their T-shirts, home decor, and many other creative pursuits. So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and buy this amazing product right away!
FAQs
Is a Cricut Account Required for Setup?
Yes! You cannot use your machine until and unless you have an account on the Design Space app. So, this is a must. Also, all the designs you create or edit will be available only through this account. You must know that the software works with every type of device, be it Windows, Mac, Android, or iOS.
Why Can’t I Set Up My Cricut Explore Air 2?
Some of the main reasons your machine is not able to connect to your device include the range factor, the Bluetooth adapter of your product, the compatibility issue of your device, internet connectivity, and the corrupt setup file. Therefore, make sure that your device is within 10-15 feet, the Bluetooth adapter is properly inserted, and that you have the correct setup file and a stable internet connection while logging in.
What Are the System Requirements for Cricut Setup on Mac?
For setting up on a Mac, the minimum requirements include an operating system of macOS 11 or later, a CPU of 1.83 GHz, 4 GB of RAM, 2 GB free disk space, a USB port or Bluetooth-enabled connectivity, and 1024 x 768 pixels for display resolution and an internet connection with a downloading and uploading speed of 2-3 and 1-2 Mbps receptively.
Source: Cricut Explore Air 2 Setup