Shaun Goyal

Author: Shaun Goyal

  • DIY 2025 Stacked Calendar Tutorial Using Cricut Joy Xtra

    DIY 2025 Stacked Calendar Tutorial Using Cricut Joy Xtra

    If you’re looking for a unique and functional craft to brighten up your desk or give as a gift, this DIY stacked calendar is perfect! With a pre-made design available in Cricut Design Space, creating this project is quick and easy. Each month is beautifully layered in a floral design, with both the calendar and backing cut and drawn by your Cricut Joy Xtra. Follow this step-by-step guide to bring your project to life.

    Materials Needed:

    • Cricut Joy Xtra (or other compatible Cricut machine)

    • Cardstock in your preferred colors

    • Cricut StandardGrip mat

    • Cricut Pen (fine-point for drawing)

    • Glue or double-sided adhesive

    • Optional: Ribbon, magnets, or a small stand for display

    Step-by-Step Instructions:

    Step 1: Access the Pre-Made Design

    1. Open Cricut Design Space on your device.

    2. Search for a stacked calendar template in the design library. Look for one featuring a floral or scalloped edge, similar to the style shown here.

    3. Customize the design if desired (e.g., change font styles or colors).

    Step 2: Load Your Cricut Mat

    1. Place a piece of cardstock onto your Cricut StandardGrip mat, ensuring it is securely adhered.

    2. Load the mat into your Cricut machine.

    Step 3: Cut and Draw

    1. The pre-made design will already include the drawing operation for the calendar dates and the cutting operation for the scalloped edges.

    2. Insert the Cricut Pen into the machine for drawing, then press “Go.”

    3. Once the machine finishes drawing, it will automatically switch to cutting. Repeat this process for all 12 months.

    Step 4: Create the Backing

    1. Cut an extra scalloped shape from a thicker piece of cardstock to use as the calendar backing.

    2. If desired, glue multiple layers together to add more stability.

    Step 5: Assemble the Calendar

    1. Stack the months in chronological order, starting with January on top and December on the bottom.

    2. Attach the stack to the backing using glue, a brad, or ribbon to make it easy to flip through the months.

    Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

    • Add embellishments like stickers, metallic accents, or ribbon to make your calendar stand out.

    • If gifting, consider adding a magnet or stand for easy display.

    Enjoy Your Calendar!

    Your 2025 stacked calendar is now ready to display or gift. Thanks to Cricut Design Space’s pre-made designs, creating this beautiful and functional project has never been easier.

    Share your finished projects with us—we’d love to see your creativity! Happy crafting!

  • How to Make a Watercolor Birthday Card with Cricut

    How to Make a Watercolor Birthday Card with Cricut

    Creating a beautiful watercolor birthday card with your Cricut is a fun and unique way to send a heartfelt message. With Cricut’s Watercolor Markers and the Freehand Watercolor Brush, you can achieve a stunning blend of machine precision and artistic creativity. Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide!

    Materials Needed:

    • Cricut Joy Xtra (or another Cricut machine)
    • Cricut Design Space app
    • Cricut Watercolor Markers
    • Freehand Watercolor Brush
    • Cricut Watercolor Cards (pre-folded)
    • Cricut Card Mat
    • Water container and paper towel (for cleaning the brush)
    • Optional: Weeding tool for intricate designs

    Step 1: Design Your Card

    1. Open Cricut Design Space: Start a new project and search for a birthday card design or create your own.
    2. Incorporate Watercolor Elements: Add text, shapes, or images that you want the Cricut to draw with the Watercolor Markers. Keep the design simple for the best results.
    3. Size Your Design: Adjust the design to fit your Cricut Watercolor Card dimensions. A standard size like 5×7 inches works well.
    4. Assign Marker Lines: In the Layers panel, set your design elements to “Draw” and choose “Watercolor Marker” as the tool.

    Step 2: Set Up Your Cardstock

    1. Prepare the Mat: Place the Cricut Watercolor Card on the Standard Grip mat, ensuring it’s smooth and aligned.
    2. Load the Mat: Insert the mat into your Cricut machine.

    Step 3: Draw the Design

    1. Select the Material: In Design Space, choose the material setting compatible with your Cricut Watercolor Card.
    2. Load the Watercolor Marker: Insert the desired Watercolor Marker into your Cricut’s pen holder.
    3. Start the Draw: Click “Go” in Design Space, and the Cricut will draw the design onto the card.
    4. Unload the Mat: Once completed, carefully remove the mat and card.

    Step 4: Blend with the Freehand Watercolor Brush

    1. Prepare the Brush: Dip the Freehand Watercolor Brush into clean water and blot off excess moisture on a paper towel.
    2. Blend the Colors: Gently run the brush over the drawn lines to activate and blend the watercolor ink. Work in small sections for better control.
    3. Layer Colors (Optional): Add depth by layering additional colors with the markers and blending them again.

    Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

    1. Add a Message: Write your personal message inside the card using a pen or marker.
    2. Embellish (Optional): Add extra decorations like stickers, glitter, or ribbon for a more festive look.

    Step 6: Present Your Card

    Your watercolor birthday card is now complete! Pair it with an envelope and give it to your loved one to brighten their special day.

    Tips for Success

    • Use light, even pressure when blending with the brush to avoid tearing the cardstock.
    • Test your markers on a scrap piece of watercolor paper before starting.
    • Clean the brush between colors to prevent muddy blends.

    This project is a perfect way to combine technology and artistry for a truly unique creation. Happy crafting!

  • How to Make a January Calendar with Cricut

    How to Make a January Calendar with Cricut

    Creating a custom calendar for the new year is a fun and practical project, especially with the help of your Cricut machine. In this guide, we’ll show you how to design and make a January calendar where the month and grid boxes are drawn by the Cricut, and the numbers are added by hand for a personal touch.

    Materials Needed:

    • Cricut Joy Xtra (or another Cricut machine)
    • Cricut Design Space app
    • Cricut-compatible pen (fine tip, your choice of color)
    • Cardstock or thick paper (12×12 or 8.5×11 inches, depending on your desired calendar size)
    • Ruler (optional for alignment)
    • Pencil or pen for hand-drawn numbers

    Step 1: Design Your Calendar

    1. Open Cricut Design Space: Start a new project.
    2. Create the Grid:
      • Use the “Shapes” tool to draw a rectangle for the overall calendar size.
      • Add smaller rectangles to represent the calendar boxes (7 columns for days of the week and 5 rows for weeks).
      • Align and distribute the rectangles evenly using the “Align” tool.
    3. Add the Month Title:
      • Use the text tool to type “January” at the top of your calendar.
      • Select a font that pairs well with your calendar’s style.
    4. Group and Attach:
      • Group all grid elements and the month title together.
      • Attach them to ensure they draw as one piece on your Cricut.

    Step 2: Prepare Your Cricut

    1. Select the Material: In Design Space, choose the material setting that matches your cardstock.
    2. Load the Pen: Insert the Cricut-compatible pen into your machine’s pen holder.
    3. Position the Cardstock: Place your cardstock onto the standard grip mat and ensure it’s smooth and aligned.

    Step 3: Draw the Calendar

    1. Load the Mat: Insert the mat into your Cricut machine.
    2. Start Drawing: Click “Go” in Design Space. The Cricut will draw the month title and grid boxes on your cardstock.
    3. Unload the Mat: Once completed, remove the mat and carefully peel off the cardstock.

    Step 4: Add the Numbers by Hand

    1. Mark the Days: Use a ruler or the drawn grid lines to guide you.
    2. Write the Numbers: With your preferred pen or pencil, handwrite the numbers 1–31 in the appropriate boxes. This adds a personalized and creative touch to your calendar.

    Step 5: Finishing Touches

    1. Decorate (Optional): Add stickers, stamps, or doodles to embellish your calendar.
    2. Display: Hang your calendar on the wall, pin it to a corkboard, or place it in a frame for a polished look.

    Tips for Success

    • Test your pen on a scrap piece of cardstock to ensure smooth writing.
    • Use light pencil marks to draft the numbers before committing to ink.
    • If using a smaller Cricut machine, adjust the calendar size to fit your mat.

    Creating a January calendar with Cricut is a great way to stay organized while expressing your creativity. Happy crafting!

  • How to Make a Happy Birthday Cutaway Card with Cricut

    How to Make a Happy Birthday Cutaway Card with Cricut

    If you’re looking to create a custom and thoughtful birthday card, a Cricut machine is your perfect crafting companion. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making a happy birthday cutaway card using your Cricut.

    Materials Needed:

    • Cricut Joy Xtra (or another Cricut machine)
    • Cricut Card Mat (specific to your machine)
    • Cutaway card kit (includes card base and adhesive backer)
    • Cricut Design Space app
    • Fine-point blade (included with most Cricut machines)
    • Weeding tool (optional)
    • Scraper tool (optional)

    Step 1: Prepare Your Design

    1. Open Cricut Design Space: Launch the app and sign in.
    2. Search for a Design: Type “Happy Birthday Cutaway Card” in the projects search bar. You can also create your own design using text and images.
    3. Select the Card Size: Choose a pre-made design that matches the size of your cutaway card base or adjust the canvas to match your card’s dimensions.
    4. Customize (Optional): Modify the design by adding names, icons, or special details. Ensure all elements fit within the card base dimensions.

    Step 2: Set Up the Card on the Mat

    1. Place the Card: Remove the adhesive liner from the back of the card base. Stick the adhesive backer onto the inside of the card base, ensuring it’s smooth and aligned.
    2. Position on the Mat: Place the prepared card onto the Cricut Card Mat, ensuring it’s properly aligned and secured.
    3. Load the Mat: Insert the card mat into your Cricut machine.

    Step 3: Cut the Design

    1. Select the Material: In Design Space, choose the material setting for “Cutaway Card” or “Cardstock.”
    2. Load the Blade: Ensure the fine-point blade is installed in your Cricut machine.
    3. Start the Cut: Press “Go” in Design Space, and the Cricut will begin cutting your design.

    Step 4: Weed the Design

    1. Remove Excess Material: Use the weeding tool to gently remove the negative spaces from the design.
    2. Inspect the Design: Ensure all intricate details are cleanly cut and free of debris.

    Step 5: Add Final Touches

    1. Decorate (Optional): Add embellishments like stickers, glitter, or hand-drawn details to personalize the card further.
    2. Write a Message: Use Cricut-compatible pens to write a heartfelt message inside, or do it by hand for a personal touch.

    Step 6: Present Your Card

    Your Happy Birthday Cutaway Card is now ready to impress! Hand it over or send it in the mail for a unique, handmade way to celebrate someone’s special day.

    Tips for Success

    • Test the design on scrap material if you’re trying something new.
    • Ensure your fine-point blade is sharp for clean cuts.
    • Keep your Cricut Card Mat clean and free of debris for better adhesion.

    Happy crafting!

  • Make this Awesome Bookmark with Cricut!

    Make this Awesome Bookmark with Cricut!

    Hey there, crafters! 🎨 Looking for a fun and creative project? Today, we’re making an awesome custom bookmark with our Cricut! ✂️ Perfect for gifting or adding a personal touch to your favorite reads. Let’s get started!

    Supplies

    • Foil tranfer kit
    • Cricut
    • Laminator
    • Lamination sheets
    • Other (blade, pen)

    Step 1: Design

    You can design your own bookmark or use my template.

    Step 2: Follow the Prompts on Design Space

    Design Space will give you prompts on how to make your design. These may include things like cutting, drawing, and foiling.

    Step 3: Laminate

    Laminate and cut out the design to protect it and make it more sturdy.

    Step 4: Add String/Tassel

    Hole punch your bookmark and add string or tassel to accessorize it.

    That’s it! Your custom bookmark is ready to use or gift. 🎉 Let me know in the comments what design you chose or if you have any tips for personalizing bookmarks. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for more creative Cricut projects. Until next time, happy crafting! ✨

  • Make a 2025 T-Shirt with Cricut

    Make a 2025 T-Shirt with Cricut

    Ready to start 2025 in style? Whether you’re celebrating the new year or creating something unique, making a personalized shirt with your Cricut is a fun and creative way to show off your design skills. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, from setting up your design to transferring it flawlessly onto your shirt. Let’s make something amazing!

    What You’ll Need

    • Cricut machine
    • HTV Iron-On
    • Cricut Design Space app
    • Additional tools like a weeder or scraper

    Step-by-Step Guide

    1. Prepare Your Design

    Open Cricut Design Space and select or customize your design. Choose a pattern or text suitable for the project.

    2. Cut the Design

    Follow the prompts in Design Space and cut the design.

    3. Heat the Shirt

    Use the Circut Heat to find the ideal setting for your material.

    4. Peel the Plastic

    Wait for the design to cool, then peel slowly.

    And there you have it—your very own custom 2025 shirt! With just a few tools, a Cricut machine, and a bit of creativity, you can craft wearable art that’s uniquely yours. Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family, or even start on your next Cricut project. Happy crafting! 🎉

  • Make a Calendar with Cricut

    Make a Calendar with Cricut

    Welcome to this step-by-step tutorial on creating a custom calendar with your Cricut! Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned crafter, this project is perfect for adding a personal touch to your desk or gifting something unique. In this tutorial, I’ll walk you through everything you need, from preparing your design to assembling your final masterpiece. Let’s dive into it!

    What You’ll Need

    • Cricut machine
    • Cardstock
    • Cricut Design Space app
    • Additional tools like a weeder or scraper
    • Printer

    Step-by-Step Guide

    1. Prepare Your Design

    Open Cricut Design Space and select or customize your design. Choose a pattern or text suitable for the project. I used https://design-beta.cricut.com/landing/project-detail/66b57aa9e75bc5edb00d3147 by Vanessa from DIY Craft Tutorials.

    2. Print the Paper

    Follow the prompts in Design Space and print the design.

    3. Cutting the Design

    The Cricut will scan and cut the paper according to the marks on the paper.

    4. Assemble the Project

    Fold the stand, and place the months in order. Use the video for further instructions.

    And there you have it—your custom Cricut calendar, ready to showcase all year long! This project is a fantastic way to combine creativity and functionality, and I hope you had as much fun making it as I did sharing the process with you. Don’t forget to share your creations in the comments or tag me on social media. Until next time, happy crafting!

  • Custom Canvas with Cricut

    Watch my YouTube video, or use the steps below for an in-depth guide.

    Discover how easy it is to create stunning projects with the Cricut Joy Xtra! In this quick tutorial, we’ll guide you through a simple yet impressive design that can be completed in under a minute. Perfect for beginners and experienced crafters alike, this project showcases the versatility of Cricut’s compact yet powerful machine.

    What You’ll Need

    • Cricut machine

    • Iron-on (I used Cricut Smart Iron-On)

    • Cricut Design Space app

    • Additional tools like a weeder or scraper

    Step-by-Step Guide

    1. Prepare Your Design

    Open Cricut Design Space and select or customize your design. Choose a pattern or text suitable for the project.

    2. Load Your Materials

    Insert your material into the Cricut Joy Xtra, ensuring it’s aligned properly. Use a mat if required.

    3. Cutting the Design

    Let the Cricut work its magic. Within moments, your design will be precision-cut, ready for assembly.

    4. Assemble the Project

    Use transfer tape, adhesive, or other tools to complete your project as demonstrated in the video.

    In just under a minute, you’ve created something truly unique and beautiful. Cricut Joy Xtra is an amazing tool for quick projects that don’t skimp on quality. Stay tuned for more tutorials and creative ideas!

  • How to Etch Glass Mugs with Cricut: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

    How to Etch Glass Mugs with Cricut: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

    Looking to add a personal touch to your glassware? Glass etching is a fun and easy way to customize mugs, wine glasses, or any glass surface with your own designs! Whether you want to create a funny gift, a stylish décor piece, or something uniquely yours, this guide will walk you through the process using etching cream and a Cricut machine.

    With just a few supplies and some creativity, you’ll have a stunning etched mug that looks professionally made. Let’s dive in and transform plain glass into something extraordinary!

    Jump to:

    Supplies Needed
    Step 1 – Create Your Design
    Step 2 – Cut Your Design
    Step 3 – Apply the Stencil
    Step 4 – Apply the Cream
    Conclusion

    Supplies Needed:

    • Etching Cream (I recommend Armour Etch)
    • Brush
    • Gloves
    • Removable Vinyl
    • A Cricut
    • Transfer Tape
    • Painter’s Tape
    • A Glass

    (Make sure to clean the glass prior)

    Step 1 – Create Your Design

    Open Cricut Design Space on your computer or mobile device. I recommend to use a computer for the best experience.

    After, click on “Canvas”.

    Canvas tab on Cricut Design Space on MacOS

    Use the icons on the left to create your design. Get creative by adding things such as shapes, images, and text.

    Measure your glass and select your icons, make sure they are an appropriate size.

    Attach your items so they cut together.

    Step 2 – Cut Your Design

    Tap “Make” and follow the steps on the screen. Make sure to use any type of removable vinyl. This is your stencil that will be removed after etching.

    My Cricut Joy Xtra cutting the stencil

    After, remove your stencil, and weed out the negative pieces.

    My stencil after weeding

    Step 3 – Apply the Stencil

    Stick the transfer tape to your vinyl. Use the scraper tool and press hard to ensure the design adheres. After, peel the design off the vinyl backing.

    My stencil on the transfer tape

    Carefully adhere the vinyl to the glass. Slowly peel off the transfer tape.

    My stencil on the glass

    Apply painter’s tape around the vinyl to make sure the cream doesn’t leave unwanted marks.

    The glass with my stencil and painter’s tape

    Step 4 – Apply the Cream

    Follow the instructions for your etching cream. Make sure to wear gloves and do not touch the cream with your skin. For Armour Etch, apply a thick layer for 1-3 minutes.

    My glass with the etching cream on

    After the time is up, rinse the cream off and remove the vinyl and painter’s tape.

    My glass without the painter’s tape
    The finished result

    Conclusion

    Etching glass with your Cricut and etching cream is a rewarding and creative way to personalize your glassware. With just a few simple tools and a bit of creativity, you can create custom mugs, wine glasses, and more—perfect for gifts or home décor. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to design and etch your own unique pieces, adding a personal touch to any occasion. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, the process is straightforward and fun. Happy etching!