Excited to start crafting with your new Cricut Joy? You’re in the right place! In this updated and beginner-friendly guide, we’ll walk you through the complete Cricut Joy setup process.

This machine is easy to use to create stickers, greeting cards, personalized apparel, labels, and more. Yes, it's small, and it sets up instantly. You can operate the crafting machine using any compatible phone, tablet, or laptop. Let Cricut Joy measure and cut while you tend to other matters.

Here's a quick preview: Connect it with Bluetooth, and you’re ready to start crafting! Once the cut or drawing is finished, remove it from the machine and personalize it. Cricut Joy can cut any image—pick from thousands of images or design your own. Simply load your chosen material into the machine, and let it handle the cutting or drawing for you!

Tools and Compatibility Requirements for Cricut Joy Setup

The Cricut Joy machine can cut smart materials without a machine mat, but other materials may require a mat.

1. Mats - Cricut Joy can use a LightGrip mat, a StandardGrip mat, and a card mat.

2. Blades and machine tools - From vinyl and cardstock to iron-on materials, Cricut Joy works seamlessly with over 50 types of crafting materials.

3. Pens and markers - It can write, draw, and create designs using its compatible pens and markers. It adds a variety of colors, effects, and line weights to your projects.

4. Connection - There are two options to connect your device to your machine. You can use:

   1. Bluetooth (Wireless connection)

   2. USB cable (Wired connection)

Important Note: Cricut Joy and Joy Xtra can be connected through Bluetooth only.

Cricut Joy Setup Instructions for Windows

To set up your cutting machine with a Windows computer, download and install the Cicut Design Space software, connect your machine via bluetooth, and then follow these steps to complete the setup.

Step 1: Plug Your Machine Into the Power Outlet

1. Connect your machine to a power outlet using the provided power cord.

2. Then, press the power button to turn on the machine.

Step 2: Connect Cricut Machine via Bluetooth

Ensure your crafting machine is within 10-15 feet of your computer.

1. First, go to the Start menu and then select Settings (gear icon).

1. Then, open the Devices option.

1. Turn on your Bluetooth and click Add Bluetooth or other device.

1. Select Bluetooth and wait for the computer to detect your machine.

2. After that, click on your machine model from the list available.

Your Cricut cutting machine is now paired for Bluetooth connection.

Step 3: Download and Install Design Space

You can download Design Space to your mobile device or tablet by visiting the Apple App Store (for iOS) and Play Store (for Android), which you'll usually find within your apps.

1. Open your web browser and go to design.cricut.com.

2. Then, enter your machine model in the search field.

1. Select the checkbox to agree to the Cricut Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

1. Now, double-click the file that you have just downloaded to begin the installation process.

1. A setup window will appear, showing the installation progress.

Finally, you have installed the Design Space application on your device.

Note: It's not compulsory for you to have a Cricut machine to download Design Space. You can simply create your profile, save endless designs, and get to know your way around the app before you open your machine if you want to.

Step 4: Sign In to Your Account

Now, you have successfully installed the Design Space on your device.

1. After the installation is complete, open the software and sign in with your email address and password.

1. You can right-click on the Design Space icon on your PC and choose "Pin to taskbar" for easier access.

Step 5: Set Up and Register Your New Cricut Product

Now, it's time for your Cricut Joy setup.

1. Open the Design Space software.

2. Then, navigate to the top-right menu near your profile icon and select Settings.

1. Then, tap on the Machines section.

1. Select New Product Setup and then Cricut Joy from the options available.

2. Now, proceed through the on-screen prompts to finalize the setup.

3. Once setup is complete, your machine will automatically be registered to your account.

4. Now, your machine will show up as connected during setup.

You will know when the setup is complete when you are prompted to make a test cut.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Setup Cricut Joy on Mac?

Follow these steps to set up the machine on your Mac:

1. Ensure your machine is powered on and within the range of 10-15 feet of your Mac.

2. Now, navigate to the Apple menu and select System Preferences.

3. Find the Bluetooth option and enable it, or turn it on. Your machine will be paired to connect to Bluetooth.

4. Return to your Design Space and navigate to Settings.

5. Select cricut new Product Setup and then the machine model from the options available.

6. Now, proceed through the on-screen prompts to complete the setup.

Do You Need Software for Cricut Joy?

Yes, you need the free Design Space software to use Cricut Joy machines, which are available for computers (Windows/Mac) and phones (iOS/Android). It is free to use, so you won't need to pay extra for the software. You can use Design Space to create your own designs or browse the library of ready-made projects. Once you've designed your project, you can send it to your crafting machine and start making it.

Can a Cricut Joy Engrave?

Yes, with the right tools, you can engrave with a Cricut Joy using an engraving tip specifically designed for the machine and compatible materials. This engraving tip works beautifully on Cricut Joy & Joy Xtra machines. You can engrave on materials like soft metals, brass, leather, acrylic, and plastic. Use Design Space to upload your design and prepare it for engraving.

Visit: cricut.com/setup

Source: https://cricutdesigncom.wordpress.com/2025/06/23/cricut-joy-setup-a-stepwise-guide-for-beginners/