How to change the machine blade and pens - Cricut Joy series machines

Edited: September 30, 2024

To change the machine blade or install a pen or marker, follow the steps below. 

How to change the blade

1. Open the clamp and remove the blade housing.
2. Gently push the plunger on the top of the housing and carefully pull out the blade from the bottom.
3. Remove the protective cover from the new blade.
4. Insert the new blade into the housing so that the sharp side of the blade points out of the housing. The magnet in the housing will hold the new blade in place.
5. Return the blade housing to the clamp and close it.

How to install a pen or marker

1. Open clamp. 
2. Remove Blade Housing and set aside in a safe place. 
3. Remove cap from Cricut Joy pen or marker*.
4. Insert pen in clamp and allow it to drop into place. No press or click needed! 
5. Close clamp.
6. The machine is ready to draw! 

Tip: Place cap on end of pen/marker while drawing to keep track of it. Replace cap on tip of pen/marker when not in use.

*Important: The compact size of Cricut Joy machines requires smaller accessories to fit the machine. When purchasing pens and markers, look for Cricut Joy or Cricut Joy Xtra in the machine compatibility section.