Cathie Rigby - Cricut Expression: A Comprehensive Guide to Creating with Your Machine

Whether you just purchased your Cricut Expression or you purchased it when it was first released almost 5 years ago, you are undoubtedly anxious to make the best use of this amazing technology. You have made a wise choice because, unlike so many of the crafting tools we buy in the hopes of creating amazing works of art, that wind up stored in a closet or collecting dust on a shelf, this tool can be used over and over again with new and inventive results each and every time you plug it in.

Whether youre a card maker, a scrapbooker, a teacher, an artist, a quilter, a weekend-only hobbyist, or an enthusiastic grandparent wanting new ways to entertain those grandkids, this machine helps you evolve your creative side. I started scrapbooking and card making when the newest tool available was shaped edge scissors. I quickly discovered that just owning new tools wasnt enough to improve my creative side. I only experienced real creative growth when I understood how to use a tool and how to make the new tool work with the other products I already owned. As a Cricut instructor, that is what I try to teach.

This machine performs specific functions, but it also does so much more. Once you understand the technical portion of just how to use it, you will begin to develop the real knowledge of creating. You can start with simply cutting letters and basic shapes in any size you wish. Then with just a few more easy techniques, you can quickly move to creating cards and shapes with layered texture and dimension. You'll find yourself inspired to decorate your home or make that special one-of-a-kind project to give a loved one. Eventually you will find that the possibilities are endless and this one machine with its cutting-edge technology will quickly become the most essential tool in your creative evolution.

You did it! You purchased this machine with all of its potential, but now you have to take that first step and get it out of the box. This will be the hardest part of getting started. Once you make the commitment to get creative, dont be intimidated by the big machine. It may be the biggest crafting tool you will ever buy, but dont let that scare youanyone can operate the Cricut Expression; anyone can create right out of the box with just the touch of a few buttons.

1. After taking your Cricut Expression out of the box, remove all tape, packaging, and plastic.

2. Attach your power cord to the adaptor and insert the cord into the back right side of your machine.

3. Firmly pull up on the hood and open the Cricut Expression door on the front.

4. Check the area directly behind your machine and clear all cords or obstacles. Once you begin to use your machine, the cutting mat will pass from the front to the back as it cuts.

There are 3 main components to your Cricut Expression that will work together to produce amazing images: your blade, cutting mat, and cartridge. These supplies come with every Cricut Expression, and they allow you to begin creating right away. Each Cricut Expression comes with two cartridges, and additional cartridges can be purchased later as your creativity grows.

The Cricut blade is the item that will require the most frequent replacement. A typical blade is meant to make anywhere from 500 to 1,500 cuts. How often you replace a blade depends on how often you are cutting and the types of materials you are cutting.

Lets start by getting to know your blade assembly:

1. Rotate the top of the unit from the number 1 to the number 6.

Notice when the number 1 is over the small arrow, your blade does not extend past the base of the assembly. As you move to the number 6, your blade descends further out from the bottom. This blade setting number controls how far down the chamber your blade will go.

2. Now turn your assembly upside down and press the spindle.

This will extend the blade completely and will allow you to see when there are paper fibers left behind from previous cuts.

When your blade becomes worn, this is also how you will replace blades. Replacement blades come two to a package with a red plastic coating over the blade. Be sure you are careful when replacing blades because they will need to be inserted uncovered with the blade edge exposed. Whenever your cuts appear to be ragged or not going through the paper properly, the blade should be checked before being replaced. Even the smallest fuzzy paper fibers left behind can interfere with the rotation of the blade, causing your blade to appear dull. The best way to maintain the sharpness of your blade is to expose the blade and blow away any fuzzy material that has collected around it.