Cricut Expression 2: 5th Anniversary Edition User Manual and Warranty
Welcome to the Cricut Expression® 2: 5th Anniversary Edition!
To celebrate the 5th Anniversary of Cricut®, we're introducing something very special – the Cricut Expression® 2: 5th Anniversary Edition machine. It's an all-new version of the Cricut Expression® Personal Electronic Cutter. On the outside, it features an all-new look, including a full-color LCD touch screen that's bigger and faster. On the inside, it retains all the great features of the Cricut Expression machine and adds many new ones.
Your Cricut Expression 2 machine offers:
- A mat preview that allows you to see shapes you're cutting and where they fit on the mat before cutting.
- New material settings, allowing you to choose default settings for materials like cardstock or chipboard, or customize a material setting to your preference.
- A cutting-area light to illuminate your cutting area on the mat.
- Independent image sizing, allowing you to size each image on a mat individually. For example, you can make one image 3" and another 5½" on the same mat.
- Multiple mat cutting, enabling you to cut as many images as you want, even if they don't all fit on one mat. Cricut Expression 2 projects can contain up to six mats.
CRICUT®, CRICUT EXPRESSION®, CRICUT DESIGNSTUDIO®, CRICUT IMAGINE™, CRICUT CAKE®, CRICUT TOOLS™, GYPSY®, CRICUT CIRCLE™, CUTTLEBUG®, CUTTLEKIDS™, YUDU®, YOURSTORY®, and KNIFTY KNITTER® are registered or applied for trademarks of Provo Craft & Novelty, Inc. South Jordan, UT 84095.
Diagrams
The machine components are identified as follows:
- A: On Button
- B: PAUSE Button
- C: Touch Screen
- D: Home Button
- E: Zoom Button
- F: Stylus
- G: Cricut Imagine™ Cartridge Port
- H: Wifi Port
- I: Original Cricut® Cartridge Port
- J: USB Port
- K: Power Cable Port
Button and Icon Legend
Icon | Function |
---|---|
[Cut Icon] | Cut |
[Settings Icon] | Settings |
[Image Icon] | Image |
[Art Quantity Icon] | Art Quantity |
[Project Quantity Icon] | Project Quantity |
[Fit to Page Icon] | Fit to Page |
[Auto Fill Icon] | Auto Fill |
[Mat Size Icon] | Mat Size |
[Paper Size Icon] | Paper Size |
[Start Position Icon] | Start Position |
[Center Point Icon] | Center Point |
[Fit to Length Icon] | Fit to Length |
[Load Last Icon] | Load Last |
[Load/Unload Icon] | Load/Unload |
[Tools Icon] | Tools |
[Materials Icon] | Materials |
[Apply All Icon] | Apply All |
[Machine Settings Icon] | Machine Settings |
[Calibrate Icon] | Calibrate |
[About Icon] | About |
[Composite Icon] | Composite |
[Layered Icon] | Layered |
[Size Icon] | Size |
[Flip Horizontal Icon] | Flip Horizontal |
[Flip Vertical Icon] | Flip Vertical |
[Rotate Icon] | Rotate |
[Cut Speed Icon] | Cut Speed |
[Cut Pressure Icon] | Cut Pressure |
[Multi-Cut Icon] | Multi-Cut |
[Clear All Icon] | Clear All |
[Backspace Icon] | Backspace |
[Redo Icon] | Redo |
[Undo Icon] | Undo |
[Space Icon] | Space |
[Return Icon] | Return |
[New Material Icon] | New Material |
[New Tool Icon] | New Tool |
[Relative Size Icon] | Relative Size |
[True Size Icon] | True Size |
[Paper Saver Icon] | Paper Saver |
[Edit Icon] | Edit |
[Copy Icon] | Copy |
[Add Image Icon] | Add Image |
[Delete Image Icon] | Delete Image |
[Save Icon] | Save |
[Cartridge Icon] | Cartridge |
[Home Icon] | Home |
[Load/Unload Icon] | Load/Unload |
Safety Information
Disconnect electrical power before servicing or cleaning.
WARNING! Do not place your fingers or other objects in the Cricut Expression 2 machine while it is connected to electrical power, powered on, or during cutting operations. Rapid movements of the cutting carriage during operation may cause bodily injury and/or damage to the Cricut Expression 2 machine.
Always follow basic safety precautions when using this product to reduce risk of injury from fire or electric shock. Read and understand all instructions in the documentation that comes with the Cricut Expression 2 machine.
Observe all warnings and instructions marked on the product.
- Do not install or use this product near water or when you are wet.
- Install the product securely on a stable surface.
- Install the product in a protected location where no one can step on or trip over the power cord and the power cord cannot be damaged.
- If the product does not operate normally, see Troubleshooting.
- There are no user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.
- The power cord cannot be repaired. If it is defective, it should be discarded or returned to the supplier.
Ozone-depleting chemicals, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), have been eliminated from the Provo Craft manufacturing processes.
This product contains lead in the solder that might require special handling at end-of-life.
FCC Statement
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (in 47 cfr 15.105) has specified that the following notices be brought to the attention of users of this product.
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Shielded Cables
Use of a shielded data cable is required to comply with the Class B limits of Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Pursuant to Part 15.21 of the FCC Rules, any changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly approved by Provo Craft may cause harmful interference and void the FCC authorization to operate this equipment.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Getting Started
Installing the Cutting Blade Assembly
The Cricut Expression 2 cutting blade assembly is located in the bottom of your box, separate from the machine. Before you turn the machine on, you will need to insert the blade assembly. To do this:
- Open the front door on the Cricut Expression 2 machine. Remove the cardboard inserts from both sides of the carriage.
- Remove the cutting blade assembly from its bag. The blade assembly fits into the black cradle on the left side of the carriage. Rotate the adjustment knob on the top of the blade assembly so that the black arrow on the blade assembly points to the number 3 on the adjustment knob.
- Locate the silver nut and turn it counterclockwise until it loosens enough that you can swing the screw to the right. Be careful not to loosen the screw too much or it will fall out.
- Open the left arm of the black cradle and position the cutting blade assembly inside as shown with the black arrow facing you. Ensure that the cutting blade has been inserted into the assembly with the sharp blade end pointing down. Close the cradle, swing the nut back to the left, and tighten it by turning it clockwise.
Positioning Your Cricut Expression 2 Machine
Place your Cricut Expression 2 machine at least 12" (30.48 cm) from the edge of your table to prevent it from tipping and causing possible injury. Allow 24" (60.96 cm) in the back of the Cricut Expression 2 machine for mat movement.
When positioning your Cricut Expression 2 machine, choose a location that:
- Cannot be accessed by children. The Cricut Expression 2 machine is not a toy and contains components, including a sharp blade, that could be hazardous to children.
- Is a hard, stable, and flat surface within 6 feet (1.83 meters) of a grounded electrical outlet, and has a minimum clearance of 24" (60.96 cm) behind the Cricut Expression 2 machine for paper movement.
- Is indoors or in a dry location where the Cricut® cartridges are not directly exposed to the effects of the weather.
- Is away from direct exposure to sunlight or extreme temperatures such as in parked cars, storage sheds, sunrooms, etc.
WARNING! Your Cricut Expression 2 machine should never be left or stored outside, in locations without heat or air conditioning, or in environments where the machine or cartridges can come in contact with water. It is recommended that your Cricut Expression 2 machine be maintained in an area with temperatures between 60 and 90 °F (15.5 and 32.2 °C).
Power
Plug the power cord into a grounded electrical outlet. Turn the machine on by pressing the [Power Button Icon] Power button located to the right of the screen.
Screen Calibration
Prior to your first use of your Cricut Expression 2 machine, it will run a screen calibration. Instructions on the screen will walk you through each step of the calibration. You will only have to complete the calibration process successfully once. If, for some reason, you wish to recalibrate the machine, please see page 24.
First Project
- On the home screen, press the [Image Button Icon] Image button directly to the right of the preview mat.
- Select one of the images by pressing the corresponding button.
- The image you selected will be added to the Image Queue.
- Press the [Home Button Icon] Home button located at the bottom right of the screen.
- Press the [Cut Button Icon] Cut button located to the right of the preview mat.
- Remove the clear plastic protective sheet from the cutting mat and mount a 12" x 12" (30.48 cm x 30.48 cm) piece of paper on the mat. Select the material from the dropdown menu that most closely matches the paper you mounted on the mat.
- Verify that the correct cutting tool has been inserted into the machine and has been set to the proper depth and press the Cut button.
- Hold the mat up to the rollers and press the [Load Button Icon] Load button at the bottom of the screen.
- Press the Cut button.
- When the cutting operation ends, press the [Unload Mat Button Icon] Unload Mat button to eject the mat from the machine and peel the image from the mat.
What Your Cricut Expression 2 Machine Can Cut
The Cricut Expression 2 machine can cut a wide range of materials, from vellum and cardstock to poster board and vinyl. The Cricut Expression 2 machine can even cut thin chipboard with the use of the Multi-Cut function. More details about Multi-Cut can be found on page 28.
TIP: The repeated cutting of heavy materials may reduce the life of your Cricut Expression 2 machine's cutting blade and mat. Replacement mats and blades can be purchased anywhere that Cricut products are sold.
Basic Operations
Buttons and Machine Controls
- Power: Turns the machine on and off.
- Pause: Stops the machine while in the middle of a cut. Pressing the Pause button again will start the cutting operation where it was paused.
- Home: Opens the Home screen.
- Zoom: Pressing and holding this button while selecting an image on the screen will zoom the image so that it takes up the entire screen. Releasing the button and tapping it a second time will return the image back to normal.
- Cartridge Slots: The two cartridge slots provide the ability to use all original Cricut cartridges as well as Cricut Imagine™ cartridges. All original cartridges fit in the left slot, while Imagine cartridges fit in the right slot. Note that Cricut Imagine Colors & Patterns cartridges contain only color printing information and no image information that can be cut, and thus will not work with the Cricut Expression 2 machine.
- USB: This port allows you to connect the Cricut Expression 2 machine to a Gypsy® Handheld Design Studio for Cricut® or other design device and cut directly from that device.
Home Screen
The Home Screen is your starting point for every Cricut Expression 2 project. On this screen, you will see a preview of the current project and have access to image selection and the ability to make changes to cut and other settings.
Mat Preview
The Mat Preview area provides an overall view of your current project. Each image added to the project will appear on the mat. Pressing an image allows you to make changes directly. Pressing the [Edit Icon] Edit icon allows you to make changes to the image itself. For more details on editing an image, see page 15. Pressing the [Delete Icon] Delete icon removes the image from the project. Pressing the [Copy Icon] Copy icon duplicates the image, placing a second copy to the immediate right of the original.
If your project contains more than one mat, you can navigate among them using the navigation keys below the mat preview area.
Mat Navigation Keys
- Jump First: Moves you to the first mat in the project. If you are currently viewing the first mat, this button will be grayed out and unavailable.
- Previous: Moves you to the mat directly before the one you are currently viewing. If you are currently viewing the first mat, this button will be grayed out and unavailable.
- Page: Indicates which mat in the project is currently displayed, as well as the total number of mats in the project.
- Next: Moves you to the mat directly after the one you are currently viewing. If you are currently viewing the last mat, this button will be grayed out and unavailable.
Navigation Buttons
Jump Last: Moves you to the last mat in the project. If you are currently viewing the last mat, this button will be grayed out and unavailable.
To the right of the Mat Preview area, there are three navigation buttons providing access to other functions:
- Image Button: Opens the Image Screen, where you can select pictures, text, icons, and other elements for your project. For more information, see page 13.
- Settings Button: Opens the Settings Screen, where you can control project settings like Fit to Page and Auto Fill. For more information, see page 17.
- Cut Button: Opens the Cut Screen, where you can control Cricut Expression 2 settings such as pressure and speed, enter multi-cut options, and save/reuse cutting profiles. Push this button when ready to cut. For more information, see page 25.
- Load/Unload Button: Loads and unloads the mat for cutting. For more information, see page 28.
Image Screen
The Image Screen is the central location for selecting and editing images for your project.
Compatible Cartridges
Your Cricut Expression 2 machine comes with preloaded internal cartridges. You can also use any original Cricut cartridges and Cricut Imagine Art cartridges. Cricut Imagine Colors & Patterns cartridges contain only printing information and cannot be used for cutting with the Cricut Expression 2 machine.
Selecting Cartridges
If you insert an original cartridge, it will automatically be displayed in Keypad Mode. Inserting a Cricut Imagine cartridge, alone or with an original cartridge, will display images in Gallery Mode. To change displayed cartridge images, press the [Cartridge Button] Cartridge button at the bottom left of the Image Screen and select the desired cartridge.
Image Types:
- Original Cartridge
- Internal Cartridge
- Imagine Cartridge
Selecting Images
There are two ways to view images on your Cricut cartridges: Keypad Mode and Gallery Mode.
Keypad Mode
Keypad Mode features a grid of image keys. To select an image, press its button; it will be added to the Image Queue. You can use either Keypad or Gallery Mode for all original and internal Cricut Expression 2 cartridges.
Gallery Mode
Gallery Mode features a strip of images from your Cricut Imagine cartridge. Browse by touching and dragging images left or right. To select an image, touch it, press the green plus icon [[Plus Icon]], and it will be added to the Image Queue. You can use either Gallery or Keypad View with Cricut Imagine cartridges.
Image Queue
The Image Queue contains the images for your current project, displayed in the order they will be cut. You can navigate through the Image Queue by touching and dragging images or by using the arrow buttons.
Delete Image in Queue
To delete an image, press it and then press the [Delete Icon] Delete icon on the large version of the image.
Copying Image in Queue
To duplicate an image, press it and then press the [Copy Icon] Copy icon on the large version of the image. A second copy will be added directly to the right of the first.
Edit Image in Queue
To edit an image, press it and then press the [Edit Icon] Edit icon on the popup window. This opens the Image Editor for making changes.
Zoom Image in Queue
To zoom in on an image for a larger, more detailed view, press and hold the [Zoom Button] Zoom button on the machine console and touch the image. To return to normal view, release the Zoom button and tap the screen.
Image Editor
You can adjust the size of your image in the Image Editor. Press the [Size Button] Size button at the bottom of the screen.
Adjusting Size:
- Select either True Size or Relative Size by pressing the corresponding button on the bottom row. True Size images have a fixed height. Relative Size images adjust height proportionally based on other characters from the same cartridge.
- Adjust the image height using the [Decrease Value Button] Decrease Value and [Increase Value Button] Increase Value buttons on the top row. The current size is shown in the Size Value box.
After making size changes, press [Save Button] Save to continue. Press [Cancel Button] Cancel to discard changes. Pressing the [Size Button] Size button again allows further size adjustments. Pressing the [Home Button] Home button returns you to the Home screen.
Layered and Composite Images
Some Cricut Imagine Art cartridges separate images into layers. This provides greater control over the size of each layer and allows them to cut separately. You can control whether an image cuts as a single image or in layers using the [Composite Button] Composite and [Layered Button] Layered buttons in the Image Editor. Selecting Composite cuts the edited image as one piece. Selecting Layered cuts each layer separately.
NOTE: Selecting a composite image may prevent layers fully contained within another layer from being cut.
Flip Horizontal, Flip Vertical, and Portrait/Landscape
These buttons change the orientation of the selected image:
- Flip Vertical: Flips the image vertically or a selected portion if separated into layers.
- Flip Horizontal: Flips the image horizontally or a selected portion if separated into layers.
- Rotate: Spins the entire image 90 degrees clockwise or spins a selected portion if separated into layers.
Settings Screen
The Settings screen provides access to various project settings, allowing manipulation of images, paper, and mat sizes, as well as other machine functions.
Similar to the Home page, you can see a preview of your project in the Mat Preview section. If the project has multiple mats, navigate between them using the navigation buttons below the Mat Preview (see page 11).
Activated settings are indicated by illuminated buttons in the Settings screen.
Art Quantity
This feature repeats images in your queue to minimize paper usage, useful for projects requiring multiple identical parts or filling empty space. Pressing the Art Quantity button opens a popup window with controls.
Change the number of repetitions using the [Decrease Value Button] Decrease Value and [Increase Value Button] Increase Value buttons, then press [Save Button] Save. Press [Cancel Button] Cancel to discard changes. Repeated images are added to the Mat Preview.
Project Quantity
This feature repeats the entire project, useful for cutting multiple copies. Pressing the Project Quantity button opens a popup window with controls.
Change the number of project repetitions using the [Decrease Value Button] Decrease Value and [Increase Value Button] Increase Value buttons, then press [Save Button] Save. Press [Cancel Button] Cancel to discard changes. You will be prompted after each project cut. The maximum number of project repetitions is nine.
Fit to Page
The Fit to Page button resizes images to fit the entire page. The Mat Preview shows the resized images. Press Fit to Page again to return images to their original sizes.
Auto Fill
Similar to Art Quantity, Auto Fill repeats the project until the page is full. Repeated images are reflected in the Mat Preview. Press Auto Fill again to revert to the original, non-repeated images.
Mat Size
The Mat Size button displays the current mat size. You can change it by pressing the Mat Size button and selecting the desired size. Options are 12" x 12" (30.48 cm x 30.48 cm) and 12" x 24" (30.48 cm x 60.96 cm). A third option allows using the longer 12" x 24" mat in landscape orientation. Press [Save Button] Save to confirm, or [Cancel Button] Cancel to discard changes.
Paper Size
The Paper Size button allows you to choose a custom paper size. When pressed, a popup window with Paper Size controls appears. The current width and height are displayed. Use the [Increase Button] Increase and [Decrease Button] Decrease buttons to adjust values, then press [Save Button] Save. Press [Cancel Button] Cancel to discard changes. The new paper size will be reflected in the Mat Preview and Home page.
Start Position
The Start Position button changes where the cutting blade begins your project on the page. By default, it starts at the top left corner. Pressing the Start Position button opens a popup window with controls.
Use the [Increase Button] Increase and [Decrease Button] Decrease buttons to choose a new starting point, then press [Save Button] Save. Press [Cancel Button] Cancel to discard changes. The Mat Preview and project images will update to reflect the new start point.
NOTE: Measurement units for the start point can be changed to tenths of inches, quarters of inches, millimeters, and centimeters in the machine settings (see page 23).
Center Point
The Center Point button uses the center of the image to locate the shape, rather than the lower left corner. This can be used with Start Position to align the center of a shape with the center of an object, like a photograph. If multiple images are on the mat, they will all use their center points, creating a single cut image. This option is not available for projects with more than one page. Press the Center Point button again to return to the regular location.
Fit to Length
The Fit to Length button allows you to set a horizontal size for your finished project. Pressing it opens a popup window with controls. The current length is displayed. Use the [Increase Button] Increase and [Decrease Button] Decrease buttons to change the length, then press [Save Button] Save. Press [Cancel Button] Cancel to discard changes.
Load Last
Pressing Load Last indicates you want to use leftover paper from the last project. The Cricut Expression 2 machine tracks used paper sections. When Load Last is selected, the new project will be repositioned to use the remaining space on the paper.
Apply All
The Apply All page allows you to apply multiple settings to images in a project simultaneously. You can select settings such as True or Relative Size, Flip Horizontal, Flip Vertical, Rotate, Size, and Paper Saver.
Paper Saver
Paper Saver automatically arranges images to use the least amount of paper possible. After selecting areas to alter, press [Save Button] Save to apply changes. Press [Cancel Button] Cancel to discard. Changes made with Apply All override previous changes.
To undo changes made with Apply All, press the [Undo Apply All Button] Undo Apply All button.
Cut Settings Screen
The Cut Settings Screen contains settings to control the cutting of your project.
Material Selection
If you have predefined materials, use the dropdown menu to select one and proceed by loading your mat and pressing [Cut Button] Cut. You can also select predefined materials or edit pressure, speed, and multi-cut values directly. You can define a new material by pressing the [New Material Button] New Material button (see page 22 for details).
Tool Selection
If you have predefined tools, use the dropdown menu to select one and proceed by loading your mat and pressing [Cut Button] Cut. The number after each tool name specifies the blade depth. You can define a new tool by pressing the [New Tool Button] New Tool button (see page 22 for details).
Cutting Heavyweight or Lightweight Materials
The Cricut Expression 2 machine can cut various materials. For optimal cuts on lightweight materials (like vellum) or heavyweight materials (like thin cardstock), you may need to adjust blade depth, speed, or pressure. Save settings that work well for future use. Refer to Material Settings on page 22 for details.
Adjusting Blade Depth
To change the blade depth, remove the cutting blade assembly. If the arrow faces forward, you can spin the adjustment knob on the attached assembly. WARNING! Always unplug your Cricut Expression 2 machine before removing the cutting blade assembly!
To remove the assembly (Figure 1), turn off the machine. Loosen the screw counterclockwise (Figure 2). Be careful not to loosen it too much. Remove the assembly. Locate the blade release at the top and push it in (Figure 3). The blade will emerge. Gently pull the blade away from the magnet (Figure 4). To install a new blade, remove its protective cover, insert the shaft into the bottom of the assembly. The blade should be sucked up inside if installed correctly (Figure 5). Reinstall the assembly by reversing the removal procedure. Test on scrap paper and adjust as needed.
The smaller the number on the adjustment knob, the shorter the blade depth. Shorter depths are recommended for lightweight materials, longer for heavier.
TIP: Cutting heavy materials reduces blade and mat life but produces better cuts.
TIP: If cutting results are poor, always insert a new blade first.
Adjusting Cut Speed
The Cut Speed button controls cutting speed for optimal results. Increase speed for simple shapes; decrease for lightweight materials or detailed cuts. Test and readjust as necessary.
The current cut speed is displayed in the popup. Change it using the [Increase Button] Increase and [Decrease Button] Decrease buttons, then press [Save Button] Save. As a general rule, decrease speed if cuts are torn. If problems persist, adjust pressure, blade depth, or replace the blade.
Adjusting Cut Pressure
The Pressure button controls how hard the cutting mechanism presses against the paper. Increase pressure for heavyweight materials, decrease for lightweight. Test and readjust as necessary.
The current pressure value is displayed in the popup. Change it using the [Increase Button] Increase and [Decrease Button] Decrease buttons, then press [Save Button] Save. As a general rule, increase pressure if selections are not cut through. If problems persist, adjust speed or blade depth.
Multi-Cut
The Multi-Cut button allows cutting a project up to nine times on the same cut lines, enabling cuts on thicker materials like thin chipboard. It is recommended to set blade depth to 6 when using Multi-Cut, as effectiveness is limited by blade depth.
The current Multi-Cut value is displayed in the popup. Change it using the [Increase Button] Increase and [Decrease Button] Decrease buttons, then press [Save Button] Save.
Load/Unload Mat
When ready to cut, mount your paper on the cutting mat and press the [Cut Button] Cut button. On the next screen:
- Insert the mat into the machine with the arrow pointing toward the machine.
- Hold the mat firmly between the roller bar and the deck, and gently push it into the rollers.
- Press the [Load Mat Button] Load Mat button.
The machine will load the paper. If it doesn't, pressing the same button will unload it. You can also load the mat using the Load/Unload Mat button on the Home screen.
Once the mat is loaded, press the [Cut Button] Cut button to begin. Pressing [Pause Button] Pause stops the cut. Pressing it again resumes. Pressing [Stop Button] Stop halts the cutting and prompts whether to eject the mat or return to the Home screen.
Basic Care
Blade Life
Expect anywhere from 500 to 1500 single cuts from your cutting blade before replacement. Blade life varies based on settings and materials. When cut quality decreases, it's time to replace the blade. For best results, use genuine Cricut Replacement Cutting Blades (part #290002), available at participating Cricut retailers.
Replacing the Cutting Blade
WARNING! Always unplug your Cricut Expression 2 machine before replacing the cutting blade.
To change the blade, first remove the cutting blade assembly. To remove it (Figure 1), loosen the screw counterclockwise (Figure 2). Be careful not to loosen it too much. Remove the assembly. Locate the blade release at the top and push it in (Figure 3). The blade will emerge. Gently pull the blade away from the magnet (Figure 4). To install a new blade, remove its protective cover, insert the shaft into the bottom of the assembly. The blade should be sucked up inside if installed correctly (Figure 5). Reinstall the assembly by reversing the removal procedure.
WARNING! Cutting blades are extremely sharp and should be handled with utmost care. They are potential choking hazards and should be kept away from children.
Caring for the Cutting Mat
Expect 25 to 40 full mat cuts (more for smaller cuts) before replacement. Mat life varies based on settings and paper. Replace the mat when:
- Your paper no longer sticks to the cutting mat.
- The mat becomes curled on the edges.
Use only genuine Cricut Expression 2 replacement cutting mats, available everywhere.
Cleaning Your Cricut Expression 2 Machine
WARNING! Always unplug your Cricut Expression 2 machine before cleaning!
To clean, gently wipe exterior panels with a damp cloth. Immediately dry any excess moisture with a chamois or soft cloth. Do not use chemicals or alcohol-based cleaners (including acetone, benzene, carbon tetrachloride). Abrasive cleansers and tools should also be avoided. Do not immerse the machine or any component in water.
Additional Basic Care Tips
- Keep away from food and liquids.
- Keep in a dry, dust-free location.
- Avoid excessive heat or cold.
- Do not leave in a car where excessive heat may melt or damage plastic components.
- Do not expose to direct sunlight for extended periods.
Optional Adapter Installation
Your Cricut Expression 2 machine has an adapter slot in the back for future functionality, such as Wi-Fi. Please see documentation included with future adapters for installation instructions.
Troubleshooting
Problem: The cutting mat didn't load when I pressed the Load button.
Solution: Press the Unload Mat button and then reload the mat before pressing the Cut button again.
Problem: The blade is not cutting all the way through the paper.
Solution 1: Adjust the Multi-Cut setting on the cut screen for multiple cuts along the same lines.
Solution 2: Increase the cut pressure in the Project Preview screen.
Solution 3: Adjust the blade depth, especially for thicker materials.
Solution 4: The cutting blade may be dull and needs replacement.
Problem: The paper lifts off the mat as the Cricut Expression 2 machine is cutting.
Solution 1: Ensure the paper is pressed firmly onto the cutting mat.
Solution 2: Rinse the mat with water while gently rubbing off paper lint. Let the mat dry thoroughly before reuse.
Solution 3: Try a new mat. Each mat lasts for 25 to 40 full page cuts, depending on cut size and material.
Problem: The cutting mat is too sticky, ripping my paper when I try to remove it.
Solution: Use a craft knife or Cricut Tools™ (sold separately) to lift material from the mat. Cricut Tools are designed for lifting, pulling, or cleaning cut characters.
Problem: My machine doesn't turn on and appears to have no power.
Solution 1: Check the power adapter to ensure the green power indicator is lit. If not, ensure the power plug is fully inserted into the adapter.
Solution 2: Try plugging the power cord into another outlet.
Problem: My Cricut Expression 2 machine doesn't communicate to an attached USB device.
Solution 1: Check the USB cable for proper connection.
Solution 2: Ensure the connected device is powered on.
Solution 3: Make sure the Cricut Expression 2 machine and the attached device have the latest firmware installed.
Cricut Expression® 2: 5th Anniversary Edition Statement of Limited Warranty
Part 1—General Terms
This Statement of Limited Warranty includes Part 1—General Terms, Part 2—Country-Specific Terms, and Part 3—Warranty Information. Part 2 terms replace or modify Part 1 terms. Warranties provided by PROVO CRAFT AND NOVELTY, INC. (“PROVO CRAFT”) or its authorized repair center apply only to Machines purchased for your use, not for resale. “Machine” refers to a Cricut Expression® 2: 5th Anniversary Edition, its features, elements, or accessories, including any font or image cartridges sold with it. “Machine” does not include expendable or consumer replaceable parts like cutting blades and mats. This statement does not affect statutory consumer rights that cannot be waived or limited by contract.
What This Warranty Covers
PROVO CRAFT® warrants that each Machine 1) is free from defects in materials and workmanship and 2) will perform substantially as described in the User Manual. The warranty period starts on the original Date of Purchase (as shown on your invoice or sales receipt, unless otherwise informed by PROVO CRAFT or your reseller) and is specified in Part 3—Warranty Information. Replaced parts assume the warranty status of the removed part. Unless PROVO CRAFT specifies otherwise, warranties apply only in the country or region of purchase.
THESE WARRANTIES ARE YOUR EXCLUSIVE WARRANTIES AND REPLACE ALL OTHER WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. SOME STATES OR JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OF EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, SO THE ABOVE EXCLUSION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. IN THAT EVENT, SUCH WARRANTIES ARE LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE WARRANTY PERIOD. NO WARRANTIES APPLY AFTER THAT PERIOD. SOME STATES OR JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
What This Warranty Does Not Cover
This warranty does not cover:
- Blade housing and cutting blades, whether supplied with the Machine or sold separately.
- Cutting mats, whether supplied with the Machine or sold separately.
- Failure resulting from misuse (including use beyond capacity, use in business/commercial purposes, accident, modification, unsuitable environment, or improper maintenance).
- Failure caused by third-party products or software for which PROVO CRAFT is not responsible.
The warranty is voided by removal or alteration of identification labels or disassembly of any component. PROVO CRAFT does not warrant uninterrupted or error-free operation. Any technical or other support provided under warranty, including “how-to” assistance and setup/installation guidance, is provided WITHOUT WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND.