How to Connect Cricut Joy to Computer? (Easy Steps)

connect cricut joy to computer

If you've just received your new Cricut Joy machine and don't know where to begin, this guide will help you through the entire process. In this blog, we'll teach you how to connect Cricut Joy to computer without any hassle. It covers every important detail that a beginner needs to know, from basic system requirements to downloading Design Space and connecting their crafting machine to a computer.

Before connecting your machine to the computer, you need to set it up and find a device compatible with Design Space. Cricut offers two methods of connection: USB or Bluetooth. However, Cricut Joy and Joy Xtra only connect via Bluetooth. They do not come with a USB cable.

Cricut Design Space: System Requirements

Before connecting the crafting machine to your computer, ensure your system meets the basic requirements to run the Design Space software. Let’s take a look at these system requirements:

Operating System: Windows 10 or later (64-bit) and Windows 11 are also compatible.

Hardware:

CPU: Intel Dual-core or equivalent AMD processor
Storage: 2 GB free disk space.
Display: Minimum 1024px x 768px screen resolution.
RAM: Minimum 4 GB.
Connection: An available USB port or Bluetooth connection

Internet Connection: A broadband connection is suggested for optimum performance.

Minimum 2-3 Mbps download
1-2 Mbps upload speeds are recommended

How to Set Up Cricut Joy on a Computer?

Follow these easy steps to set up your cutting machine for a computer. This makes the process simple and hassle-free for beginners.

Step 1: Prepare Your Machine and Device for Setup

Power on your computer and the crafting machine, ensuring they are within 10-15 feet for pairing.
After that, go to your web browser and type design.cricut.com/setup.

Step 2: Select Your Cricut Model

Open Design Space and it will ask you to enter your machine model.
Enter your machine model in the search box and select Cricut Joy.

Step 3: Download & Install Design Space

On the following screen, click on the tick box to agree to the terms and conditions at the bottom.
Next, the website will guide you through downloading the installer file.
Once you're done with the downloading process, double-click the .exe file to start the installation.
A setup window will appear, displaying the installation process.

Tip: To access the Design Space more easily, click "Pin to taskbar" or right-click the icon on your desktop. If you're using iOS or Android, you must download Design Space from the App Store or Google Play Store.

Step 4: Sign In With Your Cricut ID

After the installation process, the software will guide you through either signing in if you already have a Cricut ID or creating a new one.

Step 5: Create a Cricut Account

If you create a new account, you'll be prompted to enter your first name, last name, country, and email address. Fill out the form carefully with your details.
Recheck everything twice.
You must agree to the Terms of Use before creating your account.
Choose a password for your new Design Space account.
Once your Cricut ID is created, you'll be guided through connecting your machine to Design Space.
The setup is complete when you are prompted to perform a test cut.

The next step is to connect your machine to a computer to receive commands from the Design Space software.

How to Connect Cricut Joy to Computer?

Follow the steps in the section below to easily connect your machine to the computer and start creating with Design Space in just a few simple steps.

Step 1: Open Design Space Settings

Open Design Space and click on your name in the top right corner of the home page.
Then, a drop-down menu will appear; click "Settings."
On the next window, click on "Machines".
After that, click the Start button next to "New Product Setup".

Step 2: Choose Your Machine

Select your machine model from the options available.
Now, it prompts you with a basic setup guide.

Step 3: Connect Both Devices via Bluetooth

Before connecting via Bluetooth, first turn off your Bluetooth device and then turn it back on, and follow the instructions listed below:

Press the Start menu and then select Settings.
After that, select the Devices tab.
Then, click "Add Bluetooth or other device."
Select Bluetooth and let your computer detect your machine. Your machine should appear in the list of available devices. Select it.
You may need to enter a pairing code or confirm the connection between the computer and the machine. If asked to enter a PIN, then enter 0000.
After that, tap on the Connect button.

Note: The PIN for all Cricut machines is universal: 0000. Once connected, your machine will appear on your computer. If you're using Windows 11, ensure Bluetooth settings are set to "Advanced" to avoid device discovery issues.

Congrats! You've successfully learned how to connect Cricut Joy to computer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why isn’t Cricut Joy connecting to computer?

Below are some key points that you can try when your machine won't connect to your computer:

Ensure your machine is turned on and in Bluetooth discoverable mode.
To update, go to the Help menu in Design Space and check for updates.
Update your computer's Bluetooth drivers.
Turn off other Bluetooth devices, and if issues persist, try unpairing and re-pairing your machine in Bluetooth settings.
Turn off your machine, unplug it, and plug it back in to resolve the issue.

Why is my Cricut not finding my device?

If Design Space is unable to locate your machine, the issue is likely a connection problem, either Bluetooth, USB, or software.

Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your device.
Clear the cache or offload the app (for iOS) or clear the cache (for Android).
You may need to unpair and re-pair your machine in your device's Bluetooth settings.
Check if your USB cable is securely connected to both your computer and the machine.
Try to use a different or new USB port on the operating system.
If you have an Explore, ensure the wireless Bluetooth adapter is inserted.

Can Cricut Joy print pictures?

No, the standard Cricut Joy does not allow you to print directly from the machine. This machine is designed for cutting and drawing various materials, including vinyl, cardstock, and paper. It can be used to create stickers, cards, and other craft projects.

It can cut and draw but is not equipped with a printer. However, you can use a standard printer with a "Print Then Cut" feature with other machines and then use your Joy to cut the printed image.