{"article":{"id":26308155935895,"url":"https://cricut.zendesk.com/api/v2/help_center/en-us/articles/26308155935895.json","html_url":"https://help.cricut.com/hc/en-us/articles/26308155935895-Cricut-Joy-Xtra-Quick-Start-Guide","author_id":9520138245,"comments_disabled":false,"draft":false,"promoted":false,"position":5,"vote_sum":-1,"vote_count":727,"section_id":360002946713,"created_at":"2024-09-11T20:15:05Z","updated_at":"2026-07-29T17:52:44Z","name":"Cricut Joy Xtra Quick Start Guide","title":"Cricut Joy Xtra Quick Start Guide","source_locale":"en-us","locale":"en-us","outdated":false,"outdated_locales":[],"edited_at":"2026-05-26T15:32:04Z","user_segment_id":null,"permission_group_id":693934,"content_tag_ids":[],"label_names":["Public","facebook ad"],"body":"<p>More resources to get you started with Cricut Joy Xtra. Just select a link below.</p><p><img src=\"https://help.cricut.com/hc/article_attachments/26308155928599\" alt=\"joyxtra-closed.jpg\" width=\"304\" height=\"118\">     <img src=\"https://help.cricut.com/hc/article_attachments/26308167884823\" alt=\"joyxtra-open.jpg\" width=\"324\" height=\"119\"></p><ul>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"e0e90a76570d37a81d5c4fa5102612fc2\"><a href=\"#in-the-box\">What comes in the box</a></li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"e1dcb9fc05de569fc225932910f669005\"><a href=\"#machine-overview\">Machine overview</a></li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"e07537215d83cef2990dbc4091862fae0\"><a href=\"#compatible-machine-mats\">Learn about compatible machine mats</a></li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"eae3b4fb22fdd4f036258370863ac5014\"><a href=\"#compatible-blades-and-tools\">Learn about compatible blades and machine tools</a></li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"edc4344caa03389800b7727b6532a0319\"><a href=\"#compatible-materials\">Learn about compatible materials</a></li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"e734bcb4bfe3596bdf9b792ffc294dfbf\"><a href=\"#compatible-pens-and-markers\">Learn about compatible pens and markers</a></li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"ef8ed4d30a1ad7c08e9af1708ef361a87\"><a href=\"https://design.cricut.com/setup\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Register your machine</a></li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"e62618691d8ba619be7d5e1b15f1e451e\"><a href=\"https://help.cricut.com/hc/en-us/articles/360009378474\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">How to Download Design Space</a></li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"e3d010a730fdfcb7e6c58fc08d160c9b9\"><a href=\"https://help.cricut.com/hc/en-us/articles/6581830148759\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">How to connect to Design Space</a></li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"e120b67376c13860be1643380fd9903cf\"><a href=\"#faq\">FAQ</a></li>\n</ul><p> </p><h2 id=\"in-the-box\">What comes in the box</h2><ul>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"ea32f6dc561cdcc959a47dac61d8c722a\">Cricut Joy Xtra smart cutting machine</li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"e25f8220c5f4bd63e7b9e0d151ca1f018\">Blade + Housing</li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"ef672c9cd96c3c90dd6fe26102d4e7c98\">Mini Weeder</li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"e740ad7af315c00c6f7606f4665bac3f4\">Cricut Joy Fine Point Pen (0.4 mm)</li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"e7546452a3ff3a90d2a34dd7d12ba79d5\">Welcome Card</li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"e2a8c841e521cafb6f704c6ab03bedfc2\">User Guide</li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"e0b763a4021d6442a30b9485cfa3c127a\">Power adapter &amp; cord</li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"e1eac59be187297402c891b1ef20c8557\">Free trial membership to Cricut Access (new subscribers only)</li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"e5765b062ec83190f59d31d8c51ffb4e7\">50 Ready-To-Make projects online</li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"e19c28f5a2ad23c3a9a9e152461b43e94\">Materials for practice cut</li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"e57b6a079b8f4564a2885d2e4982600ab\">Bonus materials</li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"ebb88ab88e072bb9b56e886ac884536ad\">Warranty document</li>\n</ul><p> </p><h2 id=\"machine-overview\">Machine overview</h2><p><iframe src=\"https://www.youtube.com/embed/URjkJERVnIk?si=jCSP6_Kh2Mc_7nL4\" width=\"560\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\"></iframe></p><p> </p><h2 id=\"compatible-machine-mats\">Learn about compatible machine mats</h2><p>Cricut Joy Xtra machines can cut Smart Materials without a machine mat, but they can also cut a variety of other materials using a machine mat. Cricut Joy Xtra machines can use a Light Grip Mat, Standard Grip Mat, and Cricut Joy Xtra Card Mat. <a href=\"https://help.cricut.com/hc/articles/360009373414-Which-mats-can-I-use-with-my-Cricut-machine#joy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Learn more about machine mats</a>.</p><p><img src=\"https://help.cricut.com/hc/article_attachments/26308735653143\" alt=\"MicrosoftTeams-image (5).png\" width=\"227\" height=\"330\">  <img src=\"https://help.cricut.com/hc/article_attachments/26308735656855\" alt=\"MicrosoftTeams-image (7).png\" width=\"225\" height=\"331\">  <img src=\"https://help.cricut.com/hc/article_attachments/26308741477911\" alt=\"MicrosoftTeams-image (42).png\" width=\"228\" height=\"205\"></p><p> </p><h2 id=\"compatible-blades-and-tools\">Learn about compatible blades and machine tools</h2><p>Cricut Joy Xtra comes with a Cricut Joy blade + housing (pictured below) to cut a wide variety of popular materials like vinyl, iron-on, and cardstock. <a href=\"https://help.cricut.com/hc/articles/360009432294-All-About-Cricut-Blades-and-Machine-Tools#joy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">See compatible blades and machine tools</a>.</p><p><img src=\"https://help.cricut.com/hc/article_attachments/26308773264023\" alt=\"joy-fine-point-blade.jpg\" width=\"48\" height=\"134\"></p><p> </p><h2 id=\"compatible-materials\">Learn about compatible materials</h2><p>Cricut Joy Xtra works with 50+ materials, including popular materials like vinyl, iron-on, and cardstock. <a href=\"https://help.cricut.com/hc/articles/360009504773-Which-materials-can-I-cut-with-my-Cricut-smart-cutting-machine#joy-machines\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">See all 50+ materials.</a> </p><p> </p><h2 id=\"compatible-pens-and-markers\">Learn about compatible pens and markers</h2><p>Cricut Joy can write and draw with Cricut Joy Pens and Markers to add a variety of colors, line weights, and effects to your projects. <a href=\"https://help.cricut.com/hc/articles/360009382574-Which-pens-and-markers-can-I-use-with-my-Cricut-machine#joy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">See compatible pens and markers</a>.</p><p> </p><h2 id=\"faq\">FAQ</h2><div class=\"toggle\">\n<h3 id=\"01H8Y4D0GA9QNZDYX7ZK5GEEFJ\">Do I need software to use Cricut Joy Xtra machines?</h3>\n<div class=\"toggle-content\"><p>Yes. Cricut Joy Xtra machines are used with the <a href=\"https://design.cricut.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">free Design Space software</a> on Android and iOS. They will also work with <a href=\"https://design.cricut.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Design Space for Desktop</a> on Bluetooth-enabled Windows or Mac computers. Design Space is installed on your mobile device or computer when you set up your new machine.</p></div>\n</div><div class=\"toggle\">\n<h3 id=\"01H8Y4D9E4V4Z9V1AQJ2BESQ3J\">Do Cricut Joy Xtra machines work with my mobile device and computer?</h3>\n<div class=\"toggle-content\"><p>Yes. Cricut Joy Xtra machines have built-in Bluetooth and are ready to pair with your compatible mobile device or Bluetooth-enabled Windows or Mac computer.</p></div>\n</div><div class=\"toggle\">\n<h3 id=\"01H8Y4DCRCG3AQJM3M3326VSYQ\">Do Cricut Joy Xtra machines require an internet connection?</h3>\n<div class=\"toggle-content\"><p>You'll need to be online initially to install the software and complete the machine setup. If using Design Space for Desktop or for iOS, you also have the option to work offline. If using Design Space for Android mobile an internet connection is required.</p></div>\n</div><div class=\"toggle\">\n<h3 id=\"01H8Y4DGYFNB53C2S0GZ954BKJ\">Do I need a USB cable to connect my Cricut Joy Xtra machine to my computer?</h3>\n<div class=\"toggle-content\"><p>Nope! Cricut Joy Xtra machines connect using Bluetooth. <a href=\"https://help.cricut.com/hc/en-us/articles/6581830148759\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Learn how to pair your machine to your device.</a></p></div>\n</div><div class=\"toggle\">\n<h3 id=\"01H8Y4EGCYDEMMY61QZW2K4Y3C\">Do Cricut Joy Xtra machines come with any free images or fonts?</h3>\n<div class=\"toggle-content\"><p>Yes! Your machine comes with 50 ready-to-make projects to get you started. Plus, all Design Space users have access to additional fonts, images, and ready-to-make projects at no charge. To find your free projects in Design Space, select My Stuff &gt; Projects, then apply the “Purchased” filter. </p></div>\n</div><div class=\"toggle\">\n<h3 id=\"01H8Y4EMVSJC9PB8XW3JXQVRRM\">What are Smart Materials?</h3>\n<div class=\"toggle-content\"><p>These clever crafting materials work without a cutting mat, so you can just load the material directly into your machine and go. Smart Materials come in a variety of material types, including Smart Vinyl, Smart Iron-On, Smart Label Paper, and Smart Label Vinyl.</p></div>\n</div><div class=\"toggle\">\n<h3 id=\"01H8Y4WC3KF9Z53Q0N2P2DTJJF\">Why does my machine leave space at the top and bottom of my Smart Materials?</h3>\n<div class=\"toggle-content\">\n<p>Cricut Joy series machines need a little space above and below your cuts for the rollers to grip and load your material, for the sensors to sense that the material is loaded, and to feed material back and forth without ejecting the material from the machine. This space is about 1 in (2.5 cm) above the design, and 0.5 in (1.2 cm) below the design.</p>\n<p><strong>Note:</strong> Smart Materials must be at least 6 in (16 cm) to use without a mat for Cricut Joy Xtra. You can use shorter by placing them on a machine mat.</p>\n</div>\n</div><div class=\"toggle\">\n<h3 id=\"01H8Y4WT1MM2975ZGZCVYXRQ2X\">Why does my machine make a small cut in Smart Materials?</h3>\n<div class=\"toggle-content\"><p>For all Cut projects, the blade will lower and make a small cut to align the blade. Not to worry, the machine will never make this small cut over your design.</p></div>\n</div><div class=\"toggle\">\n<h3 id=\"01H8Y4X1HDZVSDJ1FZYCG7892H\">What makes Cricut Joy machine tools and accessories different from those used with other Cricut machines?</h3>\n<div class=\"toggle-content\"><p>Cricut Joy series machines are compact and portable, and the machine tools and accessories are designed to fit that smaller scale. Other than the size, there's no difference at all.</p></div>\n</div><div class=\"toggle\">\n<h3 id=\"01H8Y4XH1DBDNZWPGWXZ7AHGNH\">How do I know if I'm using the right projects with the right machine?</h3>\n<div class=\"toggle-content\"><p>Be sure to select your machine model in Design Space to customize your session with all the latest options and features for your machine.</p></div>\n</div><div class=\"toggle\">\n<h3 id=\"01H8Y4XQAMX6B1BW8HQDCSFRN1\">Can I use Cricut Explore and Cricut Maker blade housings, mats, pens, and other accessories in Cricut Joy Xtra machines?</h3>\n<div class=\"toggle-content\"><p>No. The compact size of Cricut Joy Xtra machines requires smaller accessories to fit the machine. When purchasing machine tools and accessories, look for Cricut Joy or Cricut Joy Xtra in the machine compatibility section. However, while many Cricut materials are conveniently sized to fit on Cricut Joy Xtra cutting mats, you can also trim larger versions of these materials to fit on Cricut Joy Xtra mats.</p></div>\n</div><div class=\"toggle\">\n<h3 id=\"01H8Y4XYG5EGMCZHSR929218E6\">Do I need an adapter to use a pen with Cricut Joy Xtra machines?</h3>\n<div class=\"toggle-content\"><p>Nope! Cricut Joy Pens are sized to fit directly into the Clamp - no adapter needed.</p></div>\n</div><div class=\"toggle\">\n<h3 id=\"01H8Y4Y1S1ENRG4BWJKNKMFRXR\">Can I use other Cricut pens in my Cricut Joy Xtra machine?</h3>\n<div class=\"toggle-content\"><p>No. Cricut Joy Pens are compact, sized perfectly for your machine.</p></div>\n</div><div class=\"toggle\">\n<h3 id=\"01H8Y4Y6SKPPBX0G3TQEK5MPH3\">Can I use any other Cricut power cord with my Cricut Joy Xtra machine?</h3>\n<div class=\"toggle-content\"><p>The power cord for Cricut Joy may be used with Cricut Joy Xtra, and vice versa, but no other machine power cord may be used.</p></div>\n</div><div class=\"toggle\">\n<h3 id=\"01H8Y599FHW4V1FQZ5H702T4K4\">What are the dimensions and weight of Cricut Joy Xtra?</h3>\n<div class=\"toggle-content\"><ul>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"e3ec4af1052dd798773ecef6f4dc8ad67\">Dimensions (Width x Length x Height): 12.48 in x 4.46 in x 5.87 in (31.71 cm x 11.32 cm x 14.91 cm)</li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"ea54cf5a10255d99dbde4c20fa2c8d2a2\">Weight: 6.03 lbs (2.73 kg)</li>\n</ul></div>\n</div><div class=\"toggle\">\n<h3 id=\"01H8Y59K6W04C3YV4QGECRDQ18\">What is the difference between Cricut Joy and Cricut Joy Xtra?</h3>\n<div class=\"toggle-content\">\n<p>Cricut Joy Xtra features all the convenience and portability of Cricut Joy but adds versatility you need to create more projects you love!</p>\n<figure class=\"wysiwyg-table wysiwyg-table-align-left\" style=\"width: 100%;\"><table style=\"border-collapse: collapse;\"><tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\"> </td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\"><strong>Cricut Joy</strong></td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\"><strong>Cricut Joy Xtra</strong></td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">Smart Materials</td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">5.5 in (13.97 cm) wide </td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">9.5 in (24.1 cm) wide </td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">Cutting Width</td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">4.5 in (11.43 cm)</td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">8.5 in (21.59 cm)</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">Print Then Cut capability</td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\"> </td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">✔</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">What can I make?</td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">\n<p>Cards</p>\n<p>Tag</p>\n<p>Labels</p>\n<p>Decals</p>\n</td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">\n<p>Stickers</p>\n<p>T-shirts</p>\n<p>Wider: </p>\n<ul>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"eda7fec247c32fae3a564897dab9f3880\">Cards</li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"e690428a685bcef5304b4611a6545b9dd\">Tags</li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"e63d7d890f2d5c9bbf0397ddd2983500f\">Labels</li>\n<li data-list-item-id=\"ea639189eb1c68b5f3f20fdc5d1be77bf\">Decals </li>\n</ul>\n</td>\n</tr>\n</tbody></table></figure>\n</div>\n</div><div class=\"toggle\">\n<h3 id=\"01H8Y5MR8CP7YMW9MW7WKTX6YE\">Are Cricut Joy blades, tools, and accessories compatible with Cricut Joy Xtra?</h3>\n<div class=\"toggle-content\"><p>Cricut Joy pens and markers, Cricut Joy blades, and Cricut Joy Foil Transfer System are all compatible with Cricut Joy Xtra. However, you will need to use the wider Cricut Joy Xtra machine mats and Smart Materials with your Cricut Joy Xtra machine.</p></div>\n</div><div class=\"toggle\">\n<h3 id=\"01H8Y5S0G25XPT9407SA4MFGVS\">How large of a design can Cricut Joy Xtra cut?</h3>\n<div class=\"toggle-content\">\n<p>Cricut Joy Xtra can cut single images up to 48 in (121.92 cm) long, or repeated images up to 20 feet (6 m) long on Smart Materials.</p>\n<figure class=\"wysiwyg-table wysiwyg-table-align-left\" style=\"width: 100%;\"><table style=\"border-collapse: collapse;\"><tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\"><strong>Material/Mat Type</strong></td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\"><strong>Material size</strong></td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\"><strong>Cut size maximum</strong></td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\" rowspan=\"7\">\n<strong>Smart Materials</strong> (rolls)</td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">9.5 in (24.1 cm) wide</td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">8.5 in (21.59 cm) wide</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">12 in (30.48 cm) long</td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">10.5 in (26 cm) long</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">13 in (33 cm) long</td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">11.5 in (29 cm) long</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">19 in (48.3 cm) long</td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">17.5 in (44 cm) long</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">24 in (61 cm) long</td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">22.5 in (57 cm) long</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">3 feet (0.9 m) long</td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">34.5 in (87 cm) long</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">20 feet (6 m) long</td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">\n<p>48 in (121.92 cm) long</p>\n<p>(can do repeated cuts for full length of roll)</p>\n</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">\n<p><strong>Mat</strong> - 8.5 in x 12 in</p>\n<p>(21.59 cm x 30.48 cm)</p>\n</td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">\n<p>Up to 8.5 in x 12 in</p>\n<p>(21.59 cm x 30.48 cm)</p>\n</td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">\n<p>8.25 in x 11.75 in</p>\n<p>(20.9 cm x 29.8 cm)</p>\n</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\"><strong>Card Mat</strong></td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">Cuts all available Cricut card sizes</td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">Cuts all available Cricut card sizes</td>\n</tr>\n</tbody></table></figure><p><strong>Note:</strong> Print Then Cut size maximums vary based on your design.</p>\n</div>\n</div><div class=\"toggle\">\n<h3 id=\"01H8Y65J2KN25MEJWYSYDGARTW\">Why do I need to move the star wheels for card and foil projects?</h3>\n<div class=\"toggle-content\"><p>This prevents the star wheels from leaving track marks on your project.</p></div>\n</div><div class=\"toggle\">\n<h3 id=\"01H8Y677P8J4NDKXCS7ENT5BYR\">Do the star wheels need to be spaced back out for non-card/non-foil projects?</h3>\n<div class=\"toggle-content\"><p>Yes, for other projects, and particularly those with long cuts on Smart Materials, star wheels prevent bowing and keep materials from shifting. Don’t worry – no need for them to be precisely positioned, just evenly spaced.</p></div>\n</div><div class=\"toggle\">\n<h3 id=\"01H8Y67JZNKQK0ASB14PHG718X\">Does it matter which side the star wheels are pushed to when loading a foil or card project on Cricut Joy Xtra?</h3>\n<div class=\"toggle-content\"><p>No, just move them far enough to either side that they don’t roll over your material. You may wish to leave a little space between star wheels and the rubber rollers, though, so it’s easier to spread the star wheels back out for Print Then Cut projects.</p></div>\n</div><p> </p><div class=\"facebook-group-ad\"><p>Facebook banner ad placeholder text.</p></div>","user_segment_ids":[]}}