Cricut Maker Block of the Week - Week 1, Intro! 

Oh yay! Congrats on your new machine! I have mostly quilting related stuff here. If you want to see other fun stuff you can do with your Cricut, you should also check out Angie Holden here on RU-vid!

Holly Allison - Piecing a quilt is most often just straight lines. In this one it is all straight lines, we won't be working on curves in this quilt. I'm glad you enjoy my teaching style... I love teaching quilting!

Welcome to the wonderful world of the Cricut Maker! It really is an amazing machine! I hope you do follow along to make a mini quilt. I have been quilting for more than 2/3 of my life at this point, and really love working with beginners. If you have any questions, let me know!

You can absolutely pre-starch your fabrics if you prefer. ❤

You don’t want to use starch if you are doing fusible appliqué. The starch will block the fabrics from bonding together.

I HEAVILY starch my fabrics, and haven't had an issue. But really, you don't usually need both starch and fusible adhesive. The fusible adhesive provides the stiffness that the starch would ... so you can skip the step of starching. But, if your fabric is already starched from a previous project, don't sweat it. 🥰

Teriesl thank you! I try to anticipate every question y'all could have as I go through and teach! I'm glad it helps! ♥️

Mary-Faye Kecko Yay! I am so glad you found me, and I hope you fall in love with quilting! ❤️❤️❤️ Also, thank so much for sharing! 😍😍😍

@@CarolinaMoore I was a handquilter years ago, the cricut will help me quilt again! Can I ask about the Design Space links for the different squares you cut? I am not seeing them in your descriptions on the videos. Or can you direct me to where I can find them? Again, THANK YOU for these wonderful videos !!

@@MaryFayeKecko the design space links are short links in each description. You should find them each there. You can also find absolutely everything about the series at www.AlwaysExpectMoore.com/CricutMakerBOTW

You can absolutely iron if that makes you happier. But I don't think it is absolutely needed here. The mat holds the fibers flat. If you're having problems with lifting on the edges, you can trim the fabric. The machine cuts a maximum of 11.5" wide, because it won't cut that last 1/4" on either side. So, if you can get the fabric centered within the 1/4" mark on each side, you'd be fine with trimming.

S Ann Walton Yay! Sounds like you have a fun weekend planned! 😍

I can understand! But it is okay. 🥰

Paula Keeton I'm happy to help! But remember that it is only the Maker, not the Explore series of machines, that has a rotary blade.

Yay!! There is a really fun cross section of quilter/cricuters 🥰🥰🥰

Katy Hooper yay!! It is so much fun! Feel free to ask questions in the comments... I try to check in and answer questions. :)

Jeannie Saunders Thanks!! I love teaching!! ❤️

YAY!! Once you have your Maker and a sewing machine, you're nearly halfway there! Can't wait to see your blocks as you put it all together!

Jill Hampton yes! I have some more complicated projects in the works that I cannot wait to share! ❤

Ya, the precision is nice, but I think the real benefit would be the appliqué pieces

Christie Anderson I'm a pattern designer and digital influencer, so they sent it to me so I would make and share with others. It is a marketing thing. Provo Craft is a great company... I'm sure they would love to send all their lovely customers a new machine. Unfortunately, they wouldn't be able to stay in business!

Yay! So glad you found me! 🥰🥰🥰

I don't think I have? While I'm still active on RU-vid, I'm not actively creating Cricut tutorials anymore. I have this whole series, but don't plan to add to them beyond what I have already...

I do have affillisted links that give me a commission when you click them. But I understand that people won't always know to click them. That is okay. ❤

I’ll write it down for my next purchase. Thank you:)

@@triciamcfarland8823 that is very sweet! But if you forget, don't worry about it. ❤

pixisister yay! Can't wait to see what you make! If you share photos on Social media, please tag me! ❤

I watched a video and the person used alcohol free baby wipes in circular motions. She left it for 10 minutes and the stickiness was back

I’ve heard from many people that the pink fabric mats are not washable. To keep them clean, put a layer of clear contact paper or transfer tape (sticky side up) on your mat before attaching your fabric. When you have too many threads or too much lint you simply pull it off and put on a clean sheet.

I am so glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for the thanks! ❤

Steam ironing can help!

Congrats on your new Maker! I haven't done it myself, but I see no reason the Maker's rotary blade would have an issue with bonded lace. You might need to play around to find the right setting, though.

Yay! Perfect! 🥰

Thanks for your thoughts! I've heard this as well... but it doesn't bear out. I have quilts from my childhood that are worn through... and the fabric always wears out first, regardless of the thread used to make it. My general philosophy is to use what you have, and use what you love. I really think it is that simple. 🥰

Hey there! Hi and welcome!! Yes, I totally am still here, and the likns should still work. Look in the description box of each video, and it should have everything you need. Or, you can find everything all in one place here: alwaysexpectmoore.com/cricutmakerbotw

@@CarolinaMoore ok I'm feeling really dumb but I can't figure out how to get the file from the computer to the Cricut . Can you help me?

Don't feel dumb! The first is always the hardest! Let's figure out which step you're stuck at? 1. Were you able to click on my link to open up design space on your computer? 2. If yes on #1, do you have your computer and Cricut connected? Either using the cord or connecting via Bluetooth? 3. If yes to 1 and 2 were you able to click "Make it" and see the color-coded mats come up? Once we know where in the process you're stuck, I can know how to guide you.

Christina's Collections yay! I am so glad you like it! I am actually finishing up a sequel to this series!

Carolina Moore I just subscribed looking forward to both series! You rock!!

Christina's Collections yay!! It has been so crazy here... have just a few tweaks to make on the new series before I can share it. Want to make sure I work out any bugs before I release it. ♥️

Yes. You can only cut one layer of fabric at a time. And yes, I also have an Accuquilt (and a Sizzix Fabi). The Accuquilt and Sizzix cut multiple layers very quickly. And it is easier to line up scrappy bits to cut them into usable pieces on those dies than it is on the Cricut mat. The benefit for the Cricut is that you can cut any size you want without needing to purchase a new die each time. And, you can walk away and allow it to cut while you throw a load of laundry in the wash, snuggle with kiddos, or take a walk around the block. Each machine has its pros and cons, and so work better in different circumstances. I am hoping to film a comparison video later this year to outline the differences. ❤

You can cut 3 or 4 layers on the Maker using the rotary blade and setting the material to heavy/denim. Use your regular grip mat, add the first layer of fabric. Next lightly spray that layer with temporary quilting adhesive, add another layer of fabric, spray, and add the third layer. You don’t want to use your fabric mat because the overspray of the adhesive will ruin your mat; the regular mat can be washed to remove any overspray.

I've seen people recommend this, and I disagree. Once the fabric is cut, you're going to sew it on the machine. Any adhesive residue on your fabric will prevent the fabric from gliding smoothly under the presser foot. Also, that adhesive residue will rub off on your machine, and could cause problems as the residue builds up. I'm a huge fan of fusible adhesive. I use it to baste my quilts before quilting. And I've seen the residue that builds up on the needle and throat of the machine when quilting. I'm okay with that for the benefits it provides when free-motion quilting. But it isn't worth it when piecing. If you want to cut more fabric faster, get an Accuquilt. Otherwise, stick to one layer at a time on the cricut. If that adhesive will ruin your mat, you absolutely don't want it rubbing against your machine - which is much more expensive to replace than a Cricut mat.

Cindy Weeks the fabric smooths out as it is secured to the mat, so it works great! I am not a fan of ironing, but never skimp when pressing seams. If the fabrics were truly wrinkled, I would agree with you.

I am an advanced quilter and ironing is one of the most important parts of quilting. You should iron before cutting.

Hi Mary! I'm an advanced quilter as well - with over 20 years of experience which includes teaching at QuiltMarket, and working with some of the top brands in the industry. I am an award-winning quilter. I look young (and I'm far younger than the average quilter), but I got a head start. ;) Throughout my quilting journey, the "why" has always been important. Quilting is an old art. There are reasons for everything we do. But as technology updates, knowing the why allows us to use that technology best. In the past, we used to use scissors to cut around small paper or cardboard templates. When we started using rotary cutters, we no longer cut around templates, we used long rulers to cut strips, and then sub-cut those strips. It wasn't about the templates - it was about cutting an accurate unit. So, why do we press fabric before cutting? We do it to put the fibers of the fabric in place. Fabric needs to be flat for accurate cuts. Trying to cut wrinkled fabrics will result in wonky cuts. When using the Cricut Maker, the fabric mat can take the place of the iron. The adhesive of the pink mat holds all the fibers in place. If the fabric were very wrinkled or had strong creases the adhesive mat would not be sufficient. But this was a fresh mat, with slight wrinkles in the fabric. As soon as I pressed the fabric to the mat, those wrinkles smoothed right away. Traditionally when I make quilts, I almost always start by starching and pressing my fabrics. The starch adds extra stability to keep the fibers in place while measuring, cutting, and sewing - which increases accuracy. I didn't starch the fabrics in the video. The mat provides all the stability needed during cutting. However, once the fabric is off of the mat, that stability is gone. So I would understand someone starching the fabrics to have more stability while stitching the pieces together. This series was designed for beginners. While everyone is welcome to join in (and I LOVE hearing from everyone of all experience levels who have joined in), I want the series to feel warm and welcoming for beginner quilters. I want to give new quilters all the information they need to be successful, but I also don't want to overwhelm new quilters with too many technical details. That is a very long way of saying - yes, ironing is important. But in this case we are okay. ;)

I am having a very hard time, too, using my own pattern. A tutorial on this would be great.

The Air uses a fine point blade to cut fabric rather than the rotary blade. The project was designed for the rotary blade which is only available for the Maker. You may be able to starch your fabric really well and get it to work, but the best tool really is the Cricut Maker.

pokeyrella I understand what you are saying. I've taught quilters for years. This project is designed for new quilters. The challenges new quilters have are not cutting accurately, not sewing a good 1/4" seam, and not being familiar with the process. This machine cuts and marks seam allowances, solving the first two challenges. I hope that this video series will help them overcome the third challenge. 😀

Carolina Moore I understand!!! This will be great for beginners 😍

pokeyrella but this way it’s all the same size

Me too.... i don't think this will work for me..... way too slow

Its also great for us newly disabled quilters/crafters.....I am no means a newbie quilter/crafter......I no longer have hand strength to cut out fabric.....so this takes out all the hard work for me.....I couldn’t quilt anymore due to hand/joint stiffness and swelling.....now I can sew again and feel not so useless......yes its slower but cuts are accurate and makes sewing easier snd fun now..... I pray no one get my diseases but I feel so blessed this machine allows me to craft again and feel independent!

Katrina Slayton The Cricut Explore can use the Bonded Fabric blade. This is different than the rotary blade. While the rotary blade cuts by having the blade roll over the fabric, the bonded fabric blade works by cutting through the fabric. This works best when it is stabilized by ironing it to an interfacing. To make the quilt, you do not want fabric with interfacing on the back. If you are able to cut fabric without interfacing on your Explore, then you would be able to make this project. However, I think you would end up frustrated that the Explore didn't cut the fabric properly. That is my long-winded way of saying "Probably Not."

If all the pieces are the same size (such as uniform squares), then sure. But with all kinds of sizes it is harder to do that. Also, this was originally set up so that each week you'd cut and sew a block. Then the next week cut and sew. Then again. And again. When loading the mat each week, it would be very hard to get the cuts to like up with the cuts from past weeks.

Tracey Bradshaw I'm excited that you will be joining in! Yes, I designed this quilt and created all the files for it in Design Space. One of the major characteristics being that the largest mat is 12x24", so I made sure that the largest pieces would fit on the mat. I also made sure that each file had both cut lines and drawing lines so that beginners could stitch on those drawing lines.

I'm in UK & the pink mat is unavailable. When will we get them?

Dawn Mason the pink mat comes with the Cricut Maker. I don't work for Cricut, but I imagine that the pink mats will make their way across the pond about the same time as the Makers themselves? You can always e-mail Cricut to ask... I find them wonderfully responsive! ❤

Thank you Carolina. Ihave just bought a Cricut Air after buying a Cricut mini and being given wrong info as to what it can do for fabric. I am a quilters so wanted to do applique words,silhouettes etc. Id love to be able to use the rotary cutter onmy Air but it isntcompatible😥

Is the fabric pen water soluble or heat soluble?

Marcell Hobbs Congratulations on buying your Maker! It is so much fun to create with! My Cricut is on a shelf. It is not entirely enclosed, but you are right - there is only about 8” of space behind the machine. There is a gap between the back of he shelf and the wall. When I use the full length of a 12x12” mat, or use a 12x24” mat, the top edge of the mat curls down the wall and into the space between the wall and the shelf. This allows me to use the machine where it is stored, rather than having to bring it out onto my desk each time I use it, or keep it set up on my desk (where space is at a premium).

Thank you for your reply. I just finished setting up my machine, disappointed that is doesn't have bluetooth like my Air. I watched many videos this past week to learn about it before opening it. Not one person even mentioned that. Having the Air, I didn't even consider to research that aspect of the Maker. I can't believe a $400 machine doesn't have bluetooth.

Marcell Hobbs but it DOES have Bluetooth! You can use either the cord or Bluetooth. My laptop doesn’t have Bluetooth, so I use the cord when I use my laptop. But when I use my phone or iPad, I use Bluetooth. The trick is, you first go into your tablet/phone’s Bluetooth settings. Set it to look for devices. It will find your Maker and pair them. Then you go into your Design space software, and before you cut it will have to have the software find the machine as well. If you’re having problems, you can always call the Cricut support team. They are super helpful!

Carolina Moore Oh my! I am not home right now, but I will Check that out soon. I used my MacBook for the setup.

Carolina Moore 👏🏻I just paired it with my iPad. I used my Cricut Explore Air with my MacBook. I’ve yet to connect those.

It depends if you want to add sashing and borders or not. Without, here is the basic math (based on these blocks which finish at 6" in the quilt: Width of quilt ÷ 6 = # of blocks across the width (We'll call this number A) Length of quilt ÷ 6 = # of blocks for the length (we'll call this number B) A × B = total number of blocks needed. If that math feels like a lot, you can also draw it out on graph paper.

Amanda Slavata Great question! I designed the whole quilt in the design space software so that users could go directly to cutting, and not have to hassle with uploading SVGs. I still wanted the pieces as accurate as possible. Creating an accurate square in DS is easier than sub-cutting a rectangle accurately. And centering a drawn square inside a cut square is easier than trying to center a drawn square inside a square that is sub-cut out of a rectangle. As the software is updated, I might leave no space. But for now, logistically, this is easiest. 😀

Nope! You can use any quilting cotton. ❤

@@CarolinaMoore thank you for responding so quickly 😊🌻

@@alisongaylord9569 you're welcome! ❤❤❤

Ann True I have not done all the math, but I don't think so. The borders alone are over 20" (and a FQ is 18" x about 20" (but almost never more than 22"). You might be able to cut the block pieces out of Fat Quarters, but I'm not 100% on that. If you find a FQ set that you absolutely love, buy one extra (different) Fat Quarter in case you run short on any of the colors, so you can substitute it in. Buy a 1/3 yard piece to cut your borders. While you're there, buy 7/8 yard for your backing, and you'll have all the fabric you need for the whole quilt!

Cricut has 4 different colorways of their fabric, I'm working on making this same quilt out of each of them. But there are SO many awesome fabrics out there that you can use! Yes, you'll need 1/3 yard each of 5 fabrics. Since you're out buying fabric anyway, I'd suggest you also buy 7/8 yard of backing fabric, so you can get a coordinating fabric on the back of your quilt.

Thank you!! This will be my first quilt!!

Hi Alicia! I have two boys ages 9 and 5, and I worked on sewing with them over the summer. They both really enjoyed it. I've taught quilting classes for children before, and they love it! This quilt does have a lot of small pieces, but since you're already buying the maker, your materials cost is really low (assuming you have an iron and access to a sewing machine)! All you really need to get started is the fabric pen and a pack of fabric (less than $15). After she tries a block or two, if she loves it, you can invest in extra fabric mats. If she is frustrated or struggling, she can walk away from the project without worrying about having spent $100 on fabric for a large quilt. I have created these videos to be very beginner-friendly. Going step-by-step through the process. You both can rewind and re-watch as many times as needed. If she finds out that she loves quilting, you might want to look into a kids' sewing camp. Some quilt shops and rec centers offer these kinds of programs. I caught the quilting bug after being sent to a quilt camp over a long weekend when I was 12.

Thank you so much! My mom and my aunts all are sewers. They are so big into quilting. But unfortunately the live on the other side of the country and a couple have passed away. My daughter spent some time with my mom back in the summer and my mom caught her a little. I think she made a small simple pillow. But she really enjoyed that. Luckily she is already in 4 H, but not for sewing and I'm not for sure how well they go in the sewing club. But if she really gets into it I will send her to camp. We really noticed how great you was with your tutorials. You do a great job at explaining thing.

Awww... thanks! I am a lifelong student of quilting. I've been learning for about 25 years now. I started teaching quilting 6 or 7 years ago by teaching classes at my local quilt shop. I love anticipating the questions my students are going to have, as well as any challenges they might find in the process. While I love to teach, I also take classes whenever possible. Now when I take quilting classes I'm there to learn the technique as well as to learn how the instructor sets up their class! Sometimes I'll learn more from a poor instructor in how I **DON'T** want to teach. HA! I think it is equally important to teach the right way to do things (and why it is right), as it is to teach the fun parts of quilting!

I never licensed it to Cricut, so it isn't in their public files on Design Space. It is within my account on Design space because it is a pattern that I designed. You have to use the link in the description of the video to get to the pattern. Go to the video description, click the link, and it will open in Design Space.

Not on the bottom when cutting, but there is on the top.

No. You do not need Cricut Access. These files are not under the Cricut subscription. They are my files that I created in their software. They make periodic updates to their software. I can't always keep up. You can try opening it on a computer and a device like a phone/iPad. Sometimes that makes a difference. I've also shared these files under my Cricut Profile. If you can look up a Cricut Profile you should be able to find them that way as well.

Tracey Bradshaw if you go to www.AlwaysExpectMoore.com/CricutMakerBOTW you will find links to everything. There are images there you can look at. Also, I hold the quilt up during the Facebook Live announcement video, there is a link to that video on that page. For the Apricot and Persimmon, I would use the large flower for the outer border, and the small flower for the sashing. I like bigger prints in the borders, because otherwise they get cut too small and it is hard to see the design. Using the small flower as the sashing is best because there are two light fabrics in that set, and making a block with those two would not provide a lot of contrast. So I would use one of those light fabrics as the sashing. Hope that helps!

Ageeth Dierdorp the finished size is about 23"x23"

That's a great question! Unfortunately, the answer is no. The rotary blade has a gear at the top of the housing that allows it to rotate. The only machine that can operate this gear is the Cricut Maker.

Yes, certain files can be uploaded into Cricut Design Space and converted to their format. The easiest are SVG files.

Linda Sellick I have used it to cut hexes for EPP projects, as well as cut my pieces for foundation piecing. It is nice to have the machine precisely cut my pieces with the right seam allowance! ❤️

I'm sure it is possible. I have not done it, though... they're just wedge shapes, so I don't see why not... you just want to have the right angles, so the wedges add up to 360 degrees when sewn together (so, minus seam allowance).

Conni Crum I have cut enough fabric to make this quilt 4 times over, and this is the only time it ever did that! It was only a few threads on the side, which were easily removed. I show them being removed before I cut the sashing pieces. If somehow there was so much fabric that it prevented the machine from moving, it would not force it. The machine would stop and have an error message. I know this because I once went to grab something from the bottom storage compartment while the machine was running. The mat jammed into the open hinge area, and the whole machine stopped! Very scary!! But I was able to un-jam the mat, reset the machine, and all was good!

Nope! You want quilting cotton. And you need 1/3 yard cuts or greater.

Heidi Elliott this finished quilt is 24"x24".

Shawn Stoen I have only had this happen a few times. I don't think it would damage the Maker. More than once, I have accidentally jammed the mat so it got stuck. Once the machine felt the resistance, it stopped and gave an error code. It did not force through the mat, which most likely would have damaged the machine.

Suzanne Roca oooh! Smart!! 😍

If you go to the video description, you'll find the link to cut the block pieces. You can also find it on my blog www.AlwaysExpectMoore.com. in the menu around the header, you'll see the link for Cricut Maker BOTW. 🥰

Yes. You can draw them in the Cricut Design Space software, or you can use other software (like Adobe illustrator) that creates SVG files which can be imported into the program.

@@CarolinaMoore k. Thanks.

You're welcome!

Yes they are! And congrats on your new Maker! 🥰

You can use any quilting cottons. 🥰

Yes, you can! You will want to change the settings. I don't think there is a "fabric with interfacing" option. So, I'd probably set it to felt. You may have to test different options to see what cuts best.

@@CarolinaMoore Thank you so much! Wish me luck, I am going to try to make a memory bear.

So fun! And good luck! ❤

Yes! Absolutely! You just need 1/3 yard of 5 fabrics.

Theresa Atkinson the Explore series does not have the ability to use the rotary blade attachment, so you can't cut non-bonded fabric. You need the Maker to do this. However, I have another video that shows you how to make a no-sew version of this quilt using Cricut Iron On.

If you make all 9 blocks and add the sashing and borders, it is 24 1/2" x 24 1/2"

They don't sell them anymore. But you can get 1/3 yard cuts from any quilt shop and it is the same thing. 🥰

Beth Purvis I hate to disappoint you, but the rotary blade only works on the Maker. They redesigned the tools completely for this new blade. You can cut fabric on the Cricut Explore Air 2, but it has to be “bonded fabric.” That means the fabric has some kind of stabilizer fused to it. Once the stabilizer is on there, the Air 2 can cut it... but it is now not suitable for quilting because the interfacing fused to the fabric makes it thicker. :/

Beth Purvis help, I can’t find the files,

I just purchased the material and pens on cricut .com and now I can’t get the files? How do I get them? Help

Rita strouse Each video has the link to file(s) for that video in the video description right here on RU-vid. You can also find them on my site here: www.AlwaysExpectMoore.com/cricutmakerBOTW You can click on the link from a computer or iOS device with Cricut Design space loaded. It will take you right to the file.

Can you explain what you mean by “once the stabilizer is on there, it is now suitable for quilting”. I have used stabilizer on a few quilt patterns and had them quilt ( I don’t quilt them myself, I just make the squares, borders, etc and then have them professionally quilted). I have never had anyone tell me they couldn’t be quilted. I want to be sure that it’s not a problem for longevity, etc. since I am hoping these will be heirlooms for my daughter and grandkids someday. Thank you for your help!

I get this question so often that I made a blog post with all the details on sizing! You can read it here: alwaysexpectmoore.com/2020/01/cricut-maker-block-of-the-week-sizing-options.html

kiricalo nope! I provide links to all the free design space files in the descriptions of the videos. You do need to open them on a desktop or laptop computer then save them to your design space. Cricut has not yet set up the links to open from a mobile device into Design Space (yet... hopefully soon!).

Creda Cullen all the design space files are linked in the description of each video. You cam also find the links here: www.AlwaysExpectMoore.com/CricutMakerBOTW

But where do they go once you click it.....???? didn't think this particular step would be that big of a deal!

Monica Botell you have to click it from a non-Android device. They have fixed this bug for iOS, but the Android app is still in Beta.

Yes! You can absolutely use fabrics from your stash. You'll need a Cricut Maker, though. I don't have any instructions for hand-cutting the fabrics. If you have a friend with a Cricut Maker, you might be able to ask them for help in getting the fabric cut.

@@CarolinaMoore thanks

Glad I could help! 🥰

Cricut has been having some issues with design space accessing older files from a computer. You can access it from a tablet or phone, save it to your design space files, and rhen use it from any device.

@@CarolinaMoore, thanks for the reply! I’ve tried opening the files on both my iPad and iPhone, and the links just launch Cricut Design space with a blank canvas. I’ve tried it with the links in the Intro and Block 1 videos and get a blank canvas each time. I haven’t used Design Space in a while, so I may be doing something wrong. I did start the project by watching the videos and determining the proper sizes to cut based on the measurements on the Cricut mats and your pressing mat. I’ve been able to figure out the dimensions for the first two blocks, but haven’t quite figured it out for the border and sashing. I’m having fun at any rate!

@@lauraspurlock1042 oh no!! So far, everyone who has had issues has been able to open them on mobile. Are you giving the files long enough to load? And have you zoomed out on the screen to make sure it isn't just focused on a blank part of the canvas?

Hi there! Cricut made changes to their software, and it caused this glitch. They are aware of the problem. For now, it looks like the problem is only on computers (desktops/laptops). You should be able to open it on the mobile app (Phone or Tablet), save it to your account, and then you'll have the file you can open on any device.

That’s worked thank you for your quick reply my wife will be very happy now. She can not wait to complete your quilt

@@timbeech9602 I just happened to see the notification pop up, so was able to reply right away. Cricut is aware of the problem. Hopefully they get it fixed soon! 🥰

Cricut Design Space has been down, which would make it not possible. But, once it comes back up, you go to a desktop computer, click on the link I put in the description of the video, and it will take you right to the file. It sometimes works on iPads, but is more reliable from a computer. At that point, you can save the file to your Design Space files by clicking "save" and then you can open it up in Design Space on your iPad. Just open up Design space, and it should be right there in the top row of your saved files.

@Karen Smith all the links are in the description, and also at www.AlwaysExpectMoore.com/CricutMakerBOTW

These blocks are designed to finish at 6". Because the seam allowance is included, you can't simply change the scale to resize them.

You can absolutely use your own fabric! And you can create your own patterns if you like. This series shows you my free pattern for this mini quilt. But you can absolutely design your own.

Cricut has had some issues with design space. The links will open in Mobile, but not on a computer.

All the links you need can be found here: alwaysexpectmoore.com/cricutmakerbotw

"Garden Girl" is the name of the fabric pack I used. The pattern I am using for making the quilt is my own - the Cricut Maker Block of the Week. You can find all the details and pattern links here: www.AlwaysExpectMoore.com/CricutMakerBOTW

Mod Flo it depends how often you use them, what kind of cutting (small circles and curves cut more deeply into the mat), and what kinds of fabric (felt and flannel are going to be linty and reduce the tack). You could cut this whole quilt using one 12x12 and one 12x24 and still be able to use them after. No problem. I have heard that the pink mats can be washed once or twice, but have not confirmed that.

The fabric mats are not washable, you will ruin the adhesive. I use the regular green mat to cut fabrics that don’t easily fray. I’ve heard that some people put a layer of transfer tape or clear contact paper, adhesive side up, on the fabric mat to protect the adhesive but I’ve not tried that.

Once the mat is no longer sticky, I have washed off all the lint an re-used them. I used water, dish soap, and a gentle dish scrubber. I scrubbed away all the lint, rinsed it well to remove any soap residue, then let it air dry. It wasn't "like new" but it was reusable.

Monica Botell I've talked to the folks at Cricut about this. When I recorded the video, you had to click the links from a desktop or laptop computer with design space installed (as mentioned in the video... but I do go over a lot of stuff, so it is easy to miss). From there, you can use it or save it to your Design space files to use from any device you log in from. They have since updated this for iOS devices. So if you are on an iPad, it will now take you to the file. It has not yet been updated for Android (the Android app is still in Beta), so I'm guessing you are using an Android device. Log in from any non-Android device, and that should fix the problem. You can find the links here: www.AlwaysExpectMoore.com/CricutMakerBOTW

Believe it. I've been quilting since I was 12, have won awards for my quilts, taught quilting at National events and on TV. Sometimes, it is okay to rebel against the "rules." It is just fabric. 🥰

When I first started sewing, the average price of fabric was $2.99 a yard; and that was good quality fabric. To me, sewing is an art and quilting is the most precise form of it. I applaud cutting machines that help with accuracy and precision. But if you’re not ironing the fabric before putting it in the machine, the purpose is defeated.

I love to make quilting more accessible to all who want to learn. Cutting machines are great for precision cutting - but they are also great tools for people who want to quilt but don't have the strength in their hands or wrists to cut with a rotary cutter. Or people who aren't able to see the small marking lines on a ruler. I love a quilt that has been well-pieced. But more important than the precision of the piecing is often the love that goes into a quilt. A grandmother making a quilt for her first grandchild - the love that goes into that quilt is the same regardless of points meeting. Same with someone making a quilt for a friend undergoing chemo. Not every quilt is an award-winning quilt. And they don't need to be. Quilts can be made just for the joy of making with fabric. If you watch my other videos here on RU-vid you'll see that I spend a lot of time sharing tips, tools, and techniques to help quilters. Because while quilting can be a beautiful art form, it can also be a simple and tangible expression of love. 🥰

This is the Cricut Maker.

I have more than one pair of tweezers, so I think they must come in more than one set? I know they are in the set of essential weeding tools.

J.M. Galby This was all designed for the Cricut Maker, because it has the rotary blade attachment. It is the only machine that has an adapter for the rotary blade. I don't know of a workaround to cut non-bonded fabrics with the Explore series, so at this time, I think this is a Maker-only project. But - I won't be taking these videos down. They will stay up (and I will add more)! So when you have access to a Maker, you can make the quilt! And the files will stay free. ❤

Carolina Moore thank you

Colleen Benjamin There are no coupon codes. But if you use the links in the description, I will make a small commission.

Myriam Lachal you are welcome! there are so many fun things that can be done with this machine! vous êtes les bienvenus! Il y a tellement de choses amusantes à faire avec cette machine!

The finished size is 23" square.

Really? I show the amount of scrap fabric. It is hardly more than a handful. You get precise cuts and marking of the stitching line. And the waste is barely enough to fill a pincushion...

Being a quilter who uses a ruler and rotary cutter we don’t leave gaps between strips. So to us this seems to be a WASTE of fabric.

This is nothing that is technically your fault. It is in the design of the cutting system. I have the same issue with the accuquilt go system as well.

@@AmethystWynter I have been a quilter for over 25 years. Most of my quilts are cut with a ruler and rotary cutter. And I keep a bag next to my cutting table where I put all my scraps. Strips that are cut off when I square up my fabric. Pieces that are left from the end of a strip after I sub-cut it into smaller units like squares, rectangles, or triangles. The odd few inches left on the end of a cut of fabric after cutting out a quilt. In quilting - scrap happens. There are things about using the Cricut that make it less than ideal. It takes longer. You can only cut one layer at a time. Over time the mats lose their adhesive qualities and you have to buy new ones. But I don't see a lot more waste than with rotary cutting. Especially for a new quilter, getting accurate cuts and keeping your fingers away from the rotary blade are big assets. And getting to have the sewing lines drawn right on the fabric is also a huge plus!

Yes, it is good to be careful with a new mat. But the threads that pull are parallel with the seam. Which means, the cross-threads are still there. Those allow you to still accurately see your 1/4" seam allowance. If you pull too many threads, you won't have very many left in the seam allowance, which will weaken your seam. That is the bigger concern. 🥰

karen boxwell the Design Space files are in the Description of the video. Also, you can find all the videos and corresponding Design Space links on my website at www.AlwaysExpectMoore.com/CricutMakerBOTW

Bekki White I know they carry some of the products... I'm not sure if they carry the full line.

Livinnpjs thanks so much for your comment! I have cut fabric with my Silhouette, my Brother Scan N Cut, my old Cricut (I think it was the Cricut Expression?), my Accuquilt GO!, and my Sizzix machine. In addition to rotary cutting and cutting with scissors. Compared to rotary cutting or cutting with dies, is this more tedious? Sure! But stopping there means we're only looking at one side of this. Cutting fabric on the Silhouette, Brother ScanNCut, or similar machine is not difficult. You put a stabilizer on the back (HeatNBond Ultra is my favorite for this), and cut on a fast setting with high pressure. But you can only use it for appliqué. You can't use it to piece quilts because the interfacing makes it too bulky, and if you used a double-sided fusible like HeatNBond, you cannot iron it without activating the adhesive - so you would not be able to press seams. And you can't successfully cut unbounded fabric on these machines. I have tried and tried. The Sizzix Fabi and Accuquilt GO! are wonderful machines (I own both). You can stack multiple layers of fabric at once and cut them out. But you need to purchase the steel-rule dies for each project, which does add up over time. And you need to store them if you plan to use them again in the future. But if you have the storage space, the money to spend on dies for your projects, and the manual strength to run it through the machine, they are a great solution! Regarding fabric distortion, I have made this mini quilt 3 times now, as well as other fabric projects, and have not noticed a distortion in the fabric. Fabric does have memory, and likes to return to its shape. The mats really are not that sticky. They are about as sticky as a lint roller. Just like running a lint roller over your pants or suit does not distort your clothes, you won't notice distortion in this process. Watch the other videos in the series. In the first several, I place the cut pieces on an ironing mat with grid lines, and they are not out of square. And the reason for the tweezers is to keep oils from my hands off the mat - this helps it last longer. This video is the only time I had threads tangle on the machine. Sure, I could have edited it out, but Since it did happen, I thought addressing it was most appropriate. The threads did not get tangled in a motor or gear housing (which are protected). It got tangled in the roller bar. And as you can see in the video - it was no big deal. I have gotten worse thread snarls in the bobbin of my Bernina (which cost much, much more than $400). Also, you don't have to watch the machine cut. After you start the machine you are free to put dishes in the dishwasher, take a walk around the block, put the wash in the dryer, pick up the kids from school... walk away and the machine does the work while you do something else. At the end of the day, the purpose of this video series is not to invite long-time quilters to retire their rotary cutters and buy this machine. It is designed for beginners. In my experience, beginners are most likely to have challenges with accurate cutting, and getting a 1/4” seam allowance. In this series, the machine cuts the pieces for them and the seam allowances are marked. I walk them through the piecing (and answer questions when people ask them here). I've quilted for 25 years, and love teaching beginners. Once they understand the basics, they might feel more comfortable taking a traditional quilting class at a shop or online. Helping a beginner find success in that first quilt is what this is all about. ❤️

Yes, I have over 20 years under my belt as well. I teach many new quilters, and I teach them the "OLD" way. Rotary cutter and ruler. I don't own an Accuquilt, nor do I cut fabric on my Cameo, other than as I said applique where I intend to heat bond letters or similar to say a pillow case. My point was ... as I will say again... that this method is SOOO much more work, and so much more expense. My beginners are not watching videos, they are hands on in my studio, and they are always surprised how SIMPLE quilting can be. The comment that I get often, "OH, wow, I thought this was so much more complicated". If a new quilter thinks the only way to quilt is using a machine, and certain shapes it limits them. Precision is not the issue as quilts are ART and as such they are not perfect. A new quilter who compares their cutting to a machine (of any sort, Accuquilt, Cricut etc) will inevitably feel inferior. A new quilter who thinks that they are limited by the shapes or sizes a machine cuts, will lack vision. And a new quilter who feels that they need to spend hundreds on a machine, mats, supplies will quilt less due to cost constraints. As teachers, it's our role to empower others, you can empower your way, I will empower mine, and for me and my students I subscribe to the KISS method of keeping things simple...and repeatable, enjoyable and fast enough to complete a project in the short times that folks have available. If you are a quilter, then you know that the cutting is (or should be) the fastest part of making the quilt. All I was and am saying is that this process adds a laborious effort to what can otherwise be a simple, easy and cheap hobby. Save the machine for paper and quilt the "normal" way.. that was my point.

Livinnpjs I guess we will have to agree to disagree. I find that measuring and cutting is a time consuming part of quilting. Getting those cuts right sets the quilter up for success. But it is tedious to me because I'm not actually making... I am doing the prep work. My favorite part is the sewing together. Quilting is absolutely an art. And an expensive one, even when using more traditional tools. And while I agree that having perfectly matching points isn't required, it is so nice when everything lines up! My beginners ARE watching these videos. Some are papercrafters who have always wanted to learn to quilt, and this gives them that nudge. Some are people who don't have the hand or grip strength to manage a rotary cutter. Some have a hard time seeing the little lines on the ruler to make accurate cuts. I rarely have the opportunity to teach in person anymore, my current lifestyle just isn't suited to presenting to classrooms like I used to. So until things change again, these videos allow me to share my passion and experience with those who want to learn more about crafting and quilting. As a fellow quilter I'm sure we can agree that it is always great to help newbies find their love of quilting. ❤️ If you'd like to see some videos where I teach more traditional cutting methods, you can check out the @favecrafts channel. They have invited me to film for them on several occasions.

I do totally agree that teaching the craft is a wonderful gift. And I respect anyone who shares the knowledge.

Livinnpjs so true

Sandy Porto The files are in the description of each video, and at www.AlwaysExpectMoore.com/CricutMakerBOTW