Cricut Venture Setup: A Full Guide for Beginners

The Cricut Venture is a large-format, professional cutting machine known for its speed, size, and precise cutting capabilities. It is capable of cutting single images up to 12 feet and repeated images up to 75 feet in length. The machine handles intricate designs across over 100 materials like vinyl, iron-on, cardstock, bonded fabric, and leather.

In this guide, we provide a detailed overview of the Cricut Venture setup, offering easy, step-by-step instructions. Setting it up is crucial for maximizing its potential for large-scale crafting, allowing you to use it efficiently. Let’s get started.

Steps for Cricut Venture Setup

For the complete setup process, visit the official Cricut setup website, download Cricut’s software, and then follow the instructions to easily setup your machine.

Here’s your step-by-step guide for completing the setup process of your machine:

Step 1: Go to the Official Setup Page

1. Go to your web browser and type cricut.com/setup.
2. Then, click on the Cutting Machine option.
3. Check the box labeled “I agree to the Terms and Conditions” to continue.

Step 2: Download Design Space

1. Tap on the Download button.
2. Open the Design Space application on your device.

Step 3: Setup Your Cricut Machine

1. Then, you need to click on the Menu icon in the top-left corner, which appears as three horizontal lines, and select the Smart Cutting Machine option.
2. Click “New Product Setup” from the menu.
3. Next, select the Cricut Venture from the available options.

Step 4: Prepare Your Machine for Crafting

1. Place your machine over a sturdy table.
2. Lift the silver handle on the machine.
3. Remove all the protective packaging from the machine.
4. Insert the adjustable supports in the back of the machine.
5. Place the manual trimmer tool into the pocket located at the top left of the machine.

Step 5: Connect Machine to Your Device

1. Plug the power adaptor into your Cricut Venture and switch on the machine.
2. Choose your connection type.
3. Connect your machine via Bluetooth or a USB cable. For a USB connection, plug the USB cable into your machine and your computer. For a Wireless Bluetooth connection, go to your computer’s or device’s Bluetooth settings and turn Bluetooth on. Find the Cricut model in the list of available devices and select it.
4. Once it’s connected successfully, click on Continue.

Note: Some machines may require you to enter a PIN (often 0000) to complete the pairing.

Step 6: Activate Your Machine

1. On the Activate Cricut Venture page, check the 'I agree' box.
2. Click on "Activate" and then click the "Next" button.
3. Now, Cricut will start updating.
4. Once the update is complete, it will display 'Setup Complete.'
5. Click on Next to start crafting.

Troubleshooting Cricut Venture Setup

If you encounter the following problems while setting up your machine, don’t worry about them. I have mentioned the solutions as well.

Issue 1: Connection Issues

• Bluetooth: Unpair your machine from all the devices. Restart your device and try pairing again. Ensure Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled on your device.
• USB: Try a different USB cable. If that doesn’t work, disconnect the machine, restart your computer, and try reconnecting it again.

Issue 2: Software and Firmware Issues

• Make sure you’re using the latest version of Design Space. Check for updates in Design Space settings.
• Update the machine’s firmware if prompted within Design Space.

Issue 3: Calibration and Cutting Problems

• If your machine isn’t cutting correctly, use Design Space’s calibration feature.
• Adjust the cutting pressure in Design Space, especially for new materials or if you’re experiencing cutting issues.
• Ensure the material is compatible with your machine and that you’re using the correct blade for the material.
• Check for any obstructions within your carriage path or debris around the machine.

Frequently Asked Questions

How large can Cricut Venture cut?

The Cricut Venture cuts materials up to 24 inches wide, with single-image cuts up to 12 feet and repeated designs up to 75 feet. The machine is compatible with 25-inch-wide Smart Materials from Cricut. It also works with Cricut Performance Machine mats for the Cricut Venture (sold separately), which come in sizes such as 12 x 24 inches and 24 x 28 inches.

Can Cricut Venture cut foam?

Yes, Cricut Venture is capable of cutting thicker materials than the Explore and Maker series, including craft foam. The Deep-Point Blade is ideal for cutting craft foam and other thick materials. A StrongGrip mat is recommended for securing the foam during cutting. Design Space will provide material settings for Craft Foam, and it’s advisable to do a test cut to ensure optimal results. For thicker foams, you may need to experiment with settings and potentially consider taping the foam to the mat.

How to register Cricut Venture?

To register your machine, follow the instructions given below:

1. Power on your machine and then connect it via a USB cable or Bluetooth.
2. Open a web browser and go to design.cricut.com.
3. Select your Cricut model from the list of models.
4. Download and install Design Space for desktop. For a mobile device, you need to download the app from your App Store.
5. Sign in with your Cricut ID or create a new one to set up your machine.

Source: Cricut Venture Setup