Cricut Explore Air
This page is currently under construction.
Description
The Cricut Explore Air is a quality machine that allows cutting, writing, and scoring of a variety of materials including paper, cardstock, and vinyl. Using Bluetooth technology the Cricut Explore Air provides easy access to cut designs. Designs can come from the Cricut website or they can be originals uploaded by the user.
Safety Concerns
Although there are no major safety concerns for this machine, it is important to practice safe habits when working with any of the blades for this machine.
Training
We are currently building our training module for this tool. In the meantime, there are some very helpful videos that can help you familiarize yourself with the machine.
Self-training via this wiki, user manuals, or other sources is encouraged but does not substitute for the online training module. Students found using this tool without completing the Canvas training module are subject to disciplinary action which may include termination of Sandbox access.
Learning Adobe Illustrator
One important skill needed to master the Cricut (and many other makerspace tools) is the ability to create vector graphics While you can get started by downloading files you find online or buying pre-prepared files, at some point you'll want to create something not available online (or modify a file you have) and for this understanding a vector drawing program such as Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape is important
There are countless Adobe Illustrator tutorials on YouTube, so many that it can be hard to locate the exact information you need to learn
We've organized a set of these to give you a starting point
Adobe Illustrator for Beginners by Cory George
June Escalada at IllustratorHow
Trained Managers
The managers that have adopted this tool and can help you with using. Keep in mind these are not the only managers that know how to use this tool, feel free to ask any. Full list of adopted tools can be found here here.
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Tips & Tricks
- To use the Cricut Explore Air you must make an account on the Cricut website to access the design center
- None so far but if you learn any, be sure to let us know!
Accessories
- Power cord
- USB cable
- Pen
- Blade
- Cutting mat
Manuals
The manual for this machine can be found on the Cricut website
Manufacturer's Web Site
Specifications
Dimensions
- Cricut Explore Air Exterior: 25.4″ x 10″ x 9.2″ (645.16mm x 254mm x 233.68mm)
Work Area
- Cutting mat dimensions: 12" x 12" (304.8mm x 304.8mm)
Material Capability
Can safely cut on regular paper, vinyl, fabric, poster board, and cardstock that can fit on the cutting mat.
Mechanicals
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Requirements
- Electricity/working electrical outlet
- All accessories
- Paper
Miscellaneous
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