Cricut Explore 5 features a simplified button interface and load process, so it’s easier than ever to start making! Explore the information below to learn more about your machine.
1. Tool Clamp
Used with: Cricut Premium Fine-Point Cutting Tool (pre-installed),* Scoring Tool, Deep Cutting Tool, and Foil Transfer Tool. Tools can remain installed in the clamp until Design Space prompts you to change tools (i.e., for projects that contain score lines or foil effects).
*Tool shown may differ in the box. All machines include a pre-installed cutting blade - either with metal housing or new Cutting Tool.
2. Pen Holder
Use with Cricut pens. Cricut Explore 5 is compatible with Cricut pens that are marked with this symbol: . These pens click solidly into place when properly inserted in the Pen Holder. Make sure you push the pen down until it clicks into place.
To understand more about working with pens and other tools in your machine, visit this help article.
To learn about pens you can use with your machine, visit this help article.
3. Indicator Light
Cricut Explore 5 powers on as soon as you plug it in, and this indicator light helps you understand machine status:
- Solid: Ready to use
- 50% Brightness: Idle
- Slow Pulse: Activate machine (proceed to Cricut.com/setup to activate your machine)
- Flashing Color: Error; see Design Space for error message and troubleshooting tips.
4. Go/Pause Button
When instructed in Design Space, this is the button you press to load your materials into the machine. With just one button press, the machine automatically checks your materials and starts drawing, scoring, or cutting your project. If your project has multiple operations (i.e., draw, score, cut), Design Space will prompt you when it’s time to swap tools. When you’re ready, just press this button to begin the next step.
You can also press this button to pause / resume the current step as needed.
Button Lights:
- Solid: Ready to use
- Flashing: Waiting on user interaction
5. Unload Button
Press this button to unload mat / materials when finished.
Button Lights:
- Solid: Ready to use
- Flashing: Waiting on user interaction
6. Material Guides
When it’s time to load your mat or Smart materials into the machine, insert mat/materials under guides until it touches the machine rollers. The guides help ensure your mat and materials are properly aligned while feeding through the machine.
7. Star Wheels
These small rings on the roller bar help keep materials from shifting during cutting, especially when using the Print Then Cut feature. However, when working with some specialty materials – like Foil Transfer Sheets, cards on Card Mat, or thicker materials like craft foam – star wheels can be moved so they don’t leave track marks on those materials.
8. Material sensors
These sensors aid in measuring materials to ensure the right mat/amount of material has been loaded for your project.