How to Setup Cricut Explore Air 2? [Full Guide]

Don’t know how to setup Cricut Explore Air 2? You’re not alone! I can relate to your situation. It was in 2017 when I got my first cutting machine to create some fun home decor projects. It seemed daunting at first, but I got used to it in a couple of days. Having used this machine for over 7 years, I know its ins and outs, how it works, and how long it takes to set it up completely.

From unboxing to finally creating a user account, that’s what a Cricut Explore Air 2 setup looks like; however, that’s not the end. In this simple guide, I will show you how to setup your new machine on a desktop and get started with your first project. I will begin with unboxing and finish with a small, fun project. Through this guide, I will assist you with every step. Let’s get started now!

Step 1: Unbox Your Cricut Machine

In this first step of learning how to setup Cricut Explore Air 2, I want you to ensure all items are included. Verify your package contents using the following list:

• Explore Air 2 machine

• Silver pen and accessory adapter

• Cardstock and vinyl samples

• A manual guide

• Cutting mat

• Cutting blade attached to the machine

• Power and USB cords

Step 2: Check System Requirements

Whether you are a Mac or a Windows user, you need to ensure the system requirements before setting up your machine. Below are the basic system requirements your computer must meet:

• Operating System: Windows 10 or later/macOS 12 or later

• CPU: Intel Dual-Core or equivalent AMD® processor for PC and 1.83 GHz for Mac

• RAM: 4GB

• Disk Space: 2 GB

• USB port or Bluetooth connection

• Display: Minimum 1024px x 768px screen resolution

Step 3: Download & Install Design Space

Once you have confirmed your system compatibility, you must download and install the Cricut Design Space. It is a companion software required for your desktop. You will use this software to create your design. Have a look at the following steps to learn how to setup Cricut Explore Air 2 on Mac and Windows.

Note: The downloading steps are the same for both Mac and Windows. However, the installation processes are different and are explained below individually.

Download on Mac/Windows

1. Open any browser window and navigate to this site: design.cricut.com.

2. Next, enter the Cricut Explore Air 2 model in the Search Products bar.

3. After that, click the I agree checkbox to accept the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and begin downloading.

4. Go to the folder where you downloaded your setup file and begin installation as per the instructions in the next section.

Install on Mac

1. Go to the file location where you downloaded your .dmg file. Double-click on it to begin the installation.

2. In the next window, drag the Cricut icon to the Applications folder icon to add the software to your Applications folder.

3. The Cricut Design Space software is now installed on your MacBook.

Install on Windows

1. Go to the file location where you downloaded your .exe file. Double-click on it to begin the installation.

2. If you are asked to trust the application, click Yes to trust the application.

3. Next, an installation progress bar will appear.

4. Finally, the installation of Cricut Design Space software is done for the PC.

Once you have downloaded the application, follow the on-screen instructions to setup your account. Once you have created an email ID, you can start crafting.

Step 4: Create Your First Project

Congratulations, you did it! You have learned how to setup Cricut Explore Air 2 from scratch. Now, it’s time to use it and create a fun project. Follow the steps given below to create stickers as your first project:

1. Launch Cricut Design Space software on your computer.

2. Choose any ready-to-make project, create your own, or customize an existing design.

3. Then, click the Make It button in the upper right corner.

4. Next, choose the required material.

5. Now, select the settings for the printable material that you have chosen.

6. Load the material onto your correct mat and load it into the machine.

7. After that, start cutting the material.

8. Once done, weed out the design, and your first project will be ready!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to Setup Cricut Explore Air 2 user account?

Follow these steps to create a Cricut user account:

1. Turn on the machine.

2. Connect the machine to the USB cord or pair it using Bluetooth.

3. Open your browser and visit Cricut.com/setup.

4. Download and install the Cricut Design Space for your device.

5. Perform the steps shown on your screen to Sign in or create your new user account.

6. After that, setup your machine.

How to Register Cricut Explore Air 2 on iOS/Android?

Below are the steps to register your machine on a mobile device:

1. Plug all the Cricut machine cables into the power outlet.

2. Turn on Bluetooth on your phone and pair it with your machine. 

3. Download the Cricut Design Space app.

4. After installation, sign in or create a user ID.

5. Next, click on the menu and select the option: Cricut Machine Setup.

6. Select your machine model and follow the on-screen steps to finish the Cricut Explore Air 2 setup.

How to Connect Cricut Explore Air 2 to Computer?

Follow the steps simplified below to connect your machine to your computer wirelessly:

1. Turn on the machine and place it within 10 to 15 feet of the computer.

2. Go to your Start menu.

3. Navigate to Settings and open the Devices option.

4. After that, turn on the Bluetooth and pair it with your computer.

Source: How to Setup Cricut Explore Air 2