How to Upload SVG Files to Cricut Design Space in Under 5 Minutes (Step-by-Step for Beginners)
How to Upload SVG Files to Cricut Design Space: A Beginner's Step-by-Step Guide
If you've just purchased a beautiful cut file and you're wondering how to upload SVG to Cricut Design Space, you're in the right place. The process is surprisingly quick and beginner-friendly, and once you've done it once, you'll be uploading files in under five minutes every single time. Whether you're working with SVG, PNG, DXF, or EPS files from our shop at 99SVG, this guide walks you through each step so you can get straight to crafting.
What File Types Does Cricut Design Space Accept?
Before we dive into the steps, it helps to understand which file formats work with Cricut Design Space. The platform supports SVG, PNG, JPG, DXF, and BMP files. For the cleanest, most precise cuts, SVG and DXF files are always the best choice because they are vector-based — meaning they scale to any size without losing quality. PNG files work great for print-then-cut projects, while EPS files are typically used with Silhouette Studio for Silhouette machine users.
When you browse our full collection of SVG cut files and bundles, every design comes packaged with SVG, PNG, DXF, and EPS formats so you're covered no matter which machine or software you're using.
Step 1: Download and Unzip Your SVG File
After purchasing a design from 99SVG, you'll receive a ZIP folder containing all file formats. Before you can upload anything to Cricut Design Space, you must unzip the folder first. On a PC, right-click the ZIP file and select 'Extract All.' On a Mac, simply double-click the ZIP file and it will extract automatically. Once unzipped, locate the SVG file inside the folder — it will have a .svg extension.
Step 2: Open Cricut Design Space and Start a New Project
Open Cricut Design Space on your computer or mobile device and click 'New Project' to open the canvas. You'll see a toolbar on the left side of the screen. Look for the 'Upload' button, which is represented by an arrow pointing upward, and click it.
Step 3: Upload Your SVG File
Once you're inside the Upload panel, click 'Upload Image.' A file browser window will open. Navigate to the folder where you unzipped your files, select the SVG file, and click 'Open.' Cricut Design Space will process the file and display a preview almost instantly. With SVG files, there is no background removal required — the design comes in clean and ready to use, which is one of the biggest advantages of the SVG format over PNG or JPG.
Step 4: Save the File to Your Uploads Library
After the preview loads, you'll see two options: 'Save as a Print Then Cut Image' or 'Save as a Cut Image.' For standard cutting projects, choose 'Save as a Cut Image.' Your file is now saved to your Cricut uploads library and can be reused in any future project without needing to re-upload it.
Step 5: Insert the Design onto Your Canvas
Click on the design thumbnail in your uploads library, then click 'Insert Images' at the bottom right. Your SVG file will appear on the canvas. From here, you can resize it, change colors, duplicate layers, or weld elements — all within Cricut Design Space. When you're happy with the placement and sizing, click 'Make It' to send the design to your Cricut machine for cutting.
Tips for the Best Results
Always use the correct material setting on your Cricut machine to match the material you're cutting, such as cardstock, vinyl, or iron-on. If you're using a design for a product you plan to sell, check that your file includes commercial use licensing — all designs on 99SVG clearly state their license terms, and many include full commercial use rights. Silhouette machine users should import the DXF or SVG file directly into Silhouette Studio using the same general unzip-and-import workflow.
You're Ready to Create!
Uploading SVG files to Cricut Design Space is one of those skills that feels intimidating the first time but becomes second nature almost immediately. With the right files — properly formatted SVGs that come packaged with PNG, DXF, and EPS alternatives — your crafting workflow becomes smooth, fast, and endlessly creative. Shop high-quality, ready-to-cut designs at 99SVG and spend less time troubleshooting and more time making things you love.
Browse our SVG bundles & cut files at 99SVG - instant download, commercial license included.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won't my SVG file upload to Cricut Design Space?
The most common reason is that the SVG file is still inside a ZIP folder. You must fully unzip or extract the folder before uploading. Also make sure you're selecting the actual .svg file and not a folder or another file format. If the file is corrupted, try re-downloading it from your purchase confirmation email.
Can I use SVG files from 99SVG for commercial projects?
Many designs at 99SVG include commercial use licensing, which means you can use them to create and sell finished handmade products. Always check the individual product listing for specific license details. Files come in SVG, PNG, DXF, and EPS formats to support both Cricut and Silhouette users.
Do SVG files work with Silhouette machines as well as Cricut?
Yes! SVG files are compatible with Silhouette Studio (Designer Edition and above) as well as Cricut Design Space. If you have the basic version of Silhouette Studio, you can use the DXF file included in your 99SVG download package instead, as DXF files are supported by all versions of Silhouette Studio.