For my first vinyl cutting project in the Shapiro Design Lab, I decided to personalize my totebag and give it a fresh new look. Before going to the Design Lab, I reviewed the Design Lab course on Canvas. The course was extremely helpful because it gave me a basic understanding of the vinyl cutting process.
However, once I started working with the Cricut in person, I realized there were still many
small details and nuances that are hard to fully understand until I actually tried it myself.
Thankfully, the Design Lab staff were incredibly helpful. They guided me step by step through the process, from setting up the design file to using the cutting machine and applying the vinyl to my bag. They also explained the reasoning behind certain design choices, such as sizing, placement, cutting settings, and what details I needed to pay attention to. I asked many questions, and they answered all of them with great patience and encouragement. The whole experience was inspiring and interesting. I learned not only how to use the
equipment, but also how much planning and care goes into even a small design project.
Seeing my design move from a digital file to an actual decoration on my bag was very
exciting. My plain bag now feels completely new and much more personal. I can’t wait to
share my experience—and show off my “new” bag—with my friends!