How to Use Print Then Cut in Cricut Design Space (Step-by-Step Tutorial)
Introduction
The Print Then Cut feature in Cricut Design Space is a game-changer for DIY lovers. It allows you to print your custom designs with a printer and then cut them precisely using your Cricut machine.
Whether you’re making stickers, labels, tags, or custom crafts, mastering this feature helps you achieve professional-quality results every time.
In this guide, Siapgraph will walk you through how to use Print Then Cut effectively — including the setup, design process, and common troubleshooting tips.
What Is Print Then Cut in Cricut Design Space?
Print Then Cut lets you print your design on your home printer first, and then your Cricut machine cuts around it accurately.
This is perfect for projects like:
- Custom stickers and planner sheets 🩷
- Personalized labels and product packaging 🏷️
- Decorative tags and greeting cards 🎁
- Scrapbooking elements and small paper crafts ✂️
What You’ll Need
Before you start, make sure you have:
- A Cricut Explore, Maker, or Joy Xtra machine
- A home printer (inkjet recommended)
- Printable materials (such as sticker paper or printable vinyl)
- A Cricut Design Space account
- A cutting mat (LightGrip or StandardGrip)
💡 Pro Tip: For vibrant results, always use high-quality printable vinyl or sticker paper from trusted brands.
Step-by-Step: How to Use Print Then Cut in Cricut Design Space
Step 1: Open Cricut Design Space
Launch Cricut Design Space on your computer or tablet and click “New Project.”
Step 2: Upload or Create Your Design
You can:
- Upload your own image (PNG, JPG, or SVG)
- Or create a design using Cricut’s shapes and text tools
visit Siapgraph — they offer stunning fonts perfect for Print Then Cut projects.
Step 3: Set the Image Type to “Print Then Cut”
Once your image is uploaded, select it and look at the Operation dropdown at the top.
Change it from “Cut” to “Print Then Cut.”
This tells Cricut to print the design first before cutting around it.
Step 4: Adjust the Size
Cricut’s Print Then Cut feature has a maximum size limit of 6.75” x 9.25” (for most printers).
Resize your image within these dimensions to avoid errors during printing.
Step 5: Click “Make It”
Once your design is ready, click “Make It.”
Design Space will display a black registration box around your design — this is used by the Cricut sensor to cut accurately.
Step 6: Print Your Design
- Click “Send to Printer.”
- Turn off “Add Bleed” for clean edges (or keep it on if you prefer an overlap).
- Use your home inkjet printer to print your design on printable vinyl or sticker paper.
💡 Pro Tip: Use high print quality and set your printer to “photo paper” mode for sharp, vibrant prints.
Step 7: Load and Cut
After printing:
- Place your printed sheet on a LightGrip cutting mat.
- Load it into your Cricut machine.
- Click “Continue.”
Your Cricut will scan the registration box and precisely cut around your design.
Step 8: Peel and Apply
Once the cut is done, carefully peel the stickers or designs from the mat.
You can use a weeding tool or scraper for easier removal.
Now your Print Then Cut designs are ready to use — perfect for planners, journals, cards, and packaging!
Common Print Then Cut Problems (and Fixes)
Problem
Possible Cause
Solution
Cricut can’t read registration marks
Poor lighting or glossy paper
Use matte materials and bright light
Colors look faded
Printer ink or settings issue
Use high-quality paper and adjust printer mode
Cuts are off-center
Misalignment or skewed mat
Recalibrate your Cricut machine
Error: “Image too large”
Design exceeds size limit
Resize within 6.75” x 9.25”
For a deeper calibration guide, visit Cricut Help Center.
Creative Project Ideas Using Print Then Cut
- Planner Stickers: Organize your day with colorful designs.
- Product Labels: Add a professional touch to homemade goods.
- Gift Tags: Customize each one with names or holiday messages.
- Business Branding: Print and cut your logo stickers for packaging.
- Scrapbooking: Add layered, detailed graphics for beautiful layouts.
If you need fonts,Siapgraph is the perfect creative library for you.
Additional Helpful Resources
- Cricut Design Space Official Guide
- Design Bundles Print Then Cut Tutorials
- Siapgraph — tutorials, fonts, and free resources for creators
Pro Tips for Best Results
✅ Always calibrate your Cricut machine before Print Then Cut projects.
✅ Store printed sheets flat to avoid curling.
✅ Use bright, even lighting when cutting.
✅ Let ink dry completely before loading into Cricut.
✅ Use Siapgraph’s awesome fonts for perfect cuts every time.
Conclusion
Using Print Then Cut in Cricut Design Space opens endless possibilities for DIY enthusiasts. You can now create personalized stickers, product labels, and custom décor with professional precision — right from your home.
For more design resources, guides, and fonts collections, visit Siapgraph — your go-to hub for Cricut and digital crafting inspiration.
So, grab your printer, load up Cricut Design Space, and start printing and cutting your creative magic today! 🎨✨