Importing and Cutting SVG Files for Cricut – A Beginner Scrapbooker’s Guide

With many paper crafters opting to use digital die cuts to create scrapbook pages, cards, and decorations. The urge to learn how to import and cut SVG files on a Cricut digital die cutting machine is also increasing. Even beginner scrapbookers need not feel terrified by digital die cuts. The process of downloading, importing, preparing, and cutting the designs is in fact a simple one.

Moreover, with two high-end third-party software programs on the market – Sure Cuts a Lot (SCAL) and Make the Cut! (MTC). Each with active message boards and support forums, any hurdles can be resolved easily.

The Requirements For Using Cutting Files SVG

In the beginning, anyone intending to use cutting files SVG should have three things – a Cricut machine (either the original Personal “Baby Bug,” the Cricut Create, or the 12-by-12-inch efficient Expression). Combined with a basic printer cable and either Sure Cuts a Lot or Make the Cut.

Sure Cuts a Lot (SCAL) and Make the Cut (MTC) are offered on the market through their respective manufacturers. SCAL is compatible with Mac as well as PC. MTC on the other hand was designed for PCs.And will only work with a Mac that is running Boot Camp or Parallels.

Finding And Downloading SVG Cut Files

While certain websites make files available for purchase, there are tons that are free. In fact, SVGs are available in a variety of themes, from animals to holidays to toys. A lot of images are alike in quality to the designs available on the Cricut cartridges sold by Provo Craft.

Once you come across cutting files SVG you like, download them to your laptop. It’s absicallyaneffortless process of clicking on a download button or link. Then “unzipping” a compressed file by double-clicking on the file name after downloading. And then selecting Extract. It’s smart to organize your SVG “collection” into folders by topic, or through another system.

The Nutshell

No matter which program Cuts a Lot, or Make the Cut, in either one, once you have the elements of the image arranged exactly how you want.Usually by color and maximizing paper use. Organize your cardstock or paper in the matching areas of the sticky Cricut mat. Save your project, and ensure the Cricut mat is loaded into the machine (examine blade pressure and speed). Following that select the “Cut” command. If faced with any trouble, do remember, that both SCAL and MTC have active support communities.