Many Cricuteers want to know the dimensions of a shape before cutting
it out. For instance, if you set the size dial at 3 inches, you can be sure
that the shape will be 3 inches. However, does that mean that the shape will be 3 inches wide or does it mean the shape will be 3 inches long?
To get around this issue, some have cut out each shape in each size and saved it in a book for future reference. This can be fun, but it is not necessary.

To avoid wasting expensive paper, it is wise to know the orientation of
the shape you desire to cut out and what its dimensions will be. To avoid
an unexpected outcome, try cutting an "air shape" before you cut the actual shape on the paper of your choice. Here's how to do this:

1.       Set the blade depth to 1.

2.       Set the pressure dial to 1.

NOTE: The Cricut blade will not cut anything
 if the blade depth is turned to 1 and the pressure dial is set to 1.

3.       Load the cutting mat into the Cricut machine with the plastic cover, some regular computer paper, or the paper you are planning on using.

4.       Select the shape you want to "air cut" and set the size dial to
the size you desire.

5.       Press the CUT button and watch the outline of the blade as it moves in the air above the mat. Make a mental note of the dimensions of the cut and how much area the blade moved over on the mat.

6.       If the shape was not big enough or small enough, simply adjust the size dial only and cut another "air shape". Watch the Cricut blade and make mental notes again.

7.       Once you have found the desired size, set the blade depth higher to the appropriate depth for the paper you are using and set the pressure dial to a higher setting appropriate for the paper you are using.

8.       Load your mat with the paper you desire to use and position the blade where you wish to commence cutting.

9.       Select the shape you wish to cut and press the CUT button.