How to EASILY Make SVG Files for Cricut in Canva

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SVG files offer so much flexibility in using your Cricut or Silhouette machine – but creating them can be tricky. Canva is our preferred method to easily create SVG files for Cricut and Silhouette – here’s how!

Canva is one of my favorite design programs because it’s so easy to use – they recently introduced the ability to create SVG images, and we’re really excited about that!

How to create SVG files

Every now and then a new tool comes out that just makes me want to scream about from the rooftops.

And today is one of those days. I’ve been a long time Canva user and I love all of the different features they have on design.

I heard recently that you can now save your files as SVG files and my mind was overwhelmed.

You see, I use a lot of SVG files. We sell some of these here on Clarks Condensed … but here’s a dirty little secret – I’m not creating any of them.

I’m pretty sure the ability to design things has been left out of my brain and I really struggle to create attractive and fun designs.

I don’t usually use Design Space, which works fine. But I can’t save the designs to just sell or share with others (unless they have Cricut too).

This new feature in Canva opened new doors for me to design and create SVG files. I think many of you will enjoy doing this!

Enough Jibber Jabber – let’s jump in.

How to create an SVG file in Canva

Go to Canva.com and create or register for an account.

Create a blank canvas – I usually just pick the Instagram template for simplicity.

Add any images and text you want. Canva has lots of fun features like shadows, curves, etc. to help you customize your text even better.

Once your design has been created to your liking, go to the top right corner and click “Download”.

Under the file type select “SVG” and then also “transparent”.

The file will be downloaded to your computer and you can upload it to a design program of your choice. It worked wonderfully with Cricut Design Space and I was able to edit the individual elements of the image I was using.

Sign up for a free trial of Canva here!

Is Canva Free?

Yes and no. Canva has a 100% free account that I used for many years up until this year. It includes a variety of free text and design elements, and you can upload your own images too.

UNFORTUNATELY, The option to save your file as an SVG file is limited to paid accounts only. So you need a paid account to save your files as an SVG file type.

Pro accounts are $ 9.99 per month (if you prepay for a year) or $ 12.99 for a month-to-month contract.

If you’re not sure if you want to sign up for a paid account, you can click here to try a free trial and see if this is a good option for you. Take the time to really get to know the program and see what you think. With Canva, you really pack a lot of punch.

Canva versus Illustrator

These are two programs that have many similar features but also require different skills. I find Illustrator to be more overwhelming and has a bit of a learning curve. However, with Canva, it’s pretty easy to sign up and start designing.

There are definitely more design options in Illustrator that some people will appreciate. However, Canva’s amazing library of elements and images really can’t be beat.

I would say if you want something simple with a lot of different images already in the program, Canva is the way to go. However, if you want to create more from scratch and are ready to learn, Illustrator is a great option.

Can I save the SVG files on my phone?

I was unable to save the SVG file directly to my phone so I believe that at the time of this writing it is only a desktop feature.

Can I sell the SVGs I make in Canva?

There are many terms and conditions that have to do with Canva images and since I am not a lawyer I will not be able to advise you legally. Here are Canva’s current rules on how and what to use their images.

As far as I know, if you have a FREE account you can sell any images you change for free, print, etc. If you have a paid account, most of the images / elements are now included and ready for use. Whenever you are paying for anything, be sure to read the specific license terms.

However, be sure to read the terms and conditions to determine how to interpret the rules and contact Canva with specific questions.

Do you have questions? Comment below!

Sign up for a free trial of Canva!

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