Using Offset in Cricut Design Space
Gone is the day of having to design the perfect image in a different software and upload to Design Space. Cricut has recently added a feature we all have been waiting for: the offset tool!! Before I begin to tell you about this handy tool, I would like to mention that it is currently a BETA version, meaning it is pretty much what the final version will look and act like, but Cricut is still working to optimize offset for complex images. You may experience slight changes as Cricut is working on the current version. Hey- if we get to use the offset tool while they are working things out, I’m totally ok with that!
Offset is a layer that can be added to an image or text to give it dimension. It can be added to the bottom and resemble a shadow or it can be offset to the top of your image to give it a proportional overlay. Use offset to give your design life! Use multiple offsets to give even more pizazz
Before using the offset feature for the first time, you will need to make sure your computer is running an operating system that will support the updated version of Design Space.
For Mac users, you will need macOS 10.15 and higher
To upgrade your macOS, visit this page for information: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT211683
Currently, offset is only available on the desktop version of Design Space. Your canvas style must be new. Classic canvas will not work. To get to Canvas New: Select Menu > Settings > Canvas Style: New.
(To find out how to change settings, visit my blog post named “Setting up Cricut Design Space”)
3. Set your preferences
- Distance
-Select the distance you would like around your selected image by moving the slider to the right or left
- Corner
-Select the corner style for your offset; rounded or angular
- Weld Offsets
-If you have more than one layer selected and you select “Weld Offset”, all of the offsets will appear on one layer. If you would like all of your offsets to be on separate layers, uncheck “Weld Offset”
4. When you are satisfied with the offset, select “Apply” and it will appear on its own new layer.
5. From there, you can change the layer as you would any layer. I usually change the color and if I would like it to be a solid piece without holes or gaps, I take the extra step to contour the offset layer.
6. Once that is done, don’t forget to group your image to the offset layer so if you resize or move the image around the canvas, it moves together as a group.
Once you are able to add offsets, there are so many things that you can design that you were not able to before; add pops of color to your designs, make stickers with a proportional borders and so much more. I can’t wait to see what you create! <3
