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Thank you for refocusing the thread. I just got an E2, my first Cricut product and came to the thread to learn how to use it. Most SCS threads are so helpful and positive, so I'm glad to see this regroup into positive, more helpful suggestions or comments on how to use the products. Looking forward to some great ideas. I've already bought lots and lots of cartridges and a Gypsy, now I just need help on learning how to get the most out of my new machine!!!!!!
I think it's too bad that cricut has stopped the use of SCAL. I think people use SCAL for completely different reasons than they use the cartridges. For instance I like to scan my stamped images and make "shadow" cut outs for layers behind my stamped images. When I need a new cutting machine I feel I'll be forced to see what else is available that will work with programs like SCAL.
VABCH....Many of the Cricut cartridges have the Shadow as a choice for working with the images.
lovetostamp3....The best advice I can offer is to sit down and just work with the features on your machine. That's the best way to learn what each of them can do. I took a couple weeks to explore the features of the machines (Cricut then upgraded to the Expression) I have. I just cut things in various sizes and used each feature to see what it would do or look like. That's how I learned how to use the machines and all they can do. Then I was ready to cut images to create cards.
If you have an independently owned craft store in your area, you may be able to take a class if your interested. If it's not offered, ask and they may give individual sessions.
VABCH....Many of the Cricut cartridges have the Shadow as a choice for working with the images.
lovetostamp3....The best advice I can offer is to sit down and just work with the features on your machine. That's the best way to learn what each of them can do. I took a couple weeks to explore the features of the machines (Cricut then upgraded to the Expression) I have. I just cut things in various sizes and used each feature to see what it would do or look like. That's how I learned how to use the machines and all they can do. Then I was ready to cut images to create cards.
If you have an independently owned craft store in your area, you may be able to take a class if your interested. If it's not offered, ask and they may give individual sessions.
Patti
Thank you, Patti for the suggestion. Actually I came back from a class I took earlier this evening from one of our local stores that focused on the new Cricut E2. It was great so far. We go back for part 2 & 3. I've been looking at videos on blogs and YouTube as well has what ProvoCraft has to offer. And, of course with all the cartridges I've just had to have, I've started playing as you mentioned, and have made a few cards already for family and friends. It's opened a whole new world! Put Stickles and some Bling on things and it's amazing how you can fancy it up, not to mention all those other "fun" products out there!!!
Yes, the shadow feature is great but only works with the images on that cartridge. I'm just saying that I don't think SCAL competes with the cartridges, it just allows you to use the machine in different ways.
lovetostamp3....Don't forget you an stamp on the images you cut to give them extra dimension. Run the pieces through a manual machine with a Cuttlebug embossing folder for even more dimension and texture. There really is no end to what you can do. Taking the classes is also a good way to learn.
VABCH....True the Shadow feature is only on certain cartridges, but I guess I find them on the ones I especially want. Also, if you cut the base image a 1/4 inch larger, most times you can use that as the Shadow for the image. It may not be exact, but is pretty darn close usually.
Subscribing - just got my Expression and want to use it as much as possible. Had a Baby Bug which sat and collected dust (passed on to my daughter in law along with the items that came with it - already miss my George and Basic Shapes Cartridge!). Found some useful videos on You Tube and a blog by The Pink Stamper.
Hi, everyone- Subscribing... just broke down and ordered a Gypsy. I missed the window for SCAL/MTC but I understand PC has to make some money, too! Promise I won't gripe ;)
I just did some re-arranging in my craft room to give myself a dedicated paper crafting space. I have my E out on the table and always plugged in. It is awesome! I am actually using it more often because I don't have to dig it out, plug it in, find the right cart, etc. I have forgotten how much I really like my Cricut! My next step is to really learn how to use my Gypsy. I bought it the day it was released from HSN and have barely touched it. Like others have said, I am a little afraid of it!
I recently upgraded from a baby bug to an expression. I too have it on my craft table plugged in but haven't used it much - I definitely need more cartridges to play with but they are SO expensive! Even on sale.
Taking classes at my LSS for the Gypsy and E have really helped; gets you over the fear! Also, she helps you navigate and shows you shortcuts, it's great!! If you have access, I highly recommend doing it; the hands on with a group is wonderful!! Then you go home and practice re-enforcing what you learned until the next week.....
Taking classes or watching the you-tube videos are really a big help.
Ask at the big chain craft stores if they teach Cricut or Gypsy classes. You'd be surprised. I work for one of those chain craft stores as an independent demo and I teach a Cricut Class, 3 hours of how to use the machine, and a Gypsy how to use the machine class. They're actually popular classes.
I recently upgraded from a baby bug to an expression. I too have it on my craft table plugged in but haven't used it much - I definitely need more cartridges to play with but they are SO expensive! Even on sale.
I have always bought mine on Ebay. The most I have ever paid was $35. I ususally pay between $20 and $30.
Hi everyone! I am having a garage sale next weekend and was thinking it would be neat to use my Cricut in some way. Have any of you used yours in a similar way? I'd love to see pics. Thanks!
__________________ "As a matter of fact, I am a mad scientist!
Has anyone bought the cricut for beginners DVD? I just got the expression from my mom and have no clue on how to use it!!
Personally, I wouldn't spend the money. There are plenty of free You Tube tutorials that should give you all the information you need to use your Cricut.
Hi everyone! I am having a garage sale next weekend and was thinking it would be neat to use my Cricut in some way. Have any of you used yours in a similar way? I'd love to see pics. Thanks!
I am always making signs with my cricut, Let me see if I can find the pancake breakfast one I made for boy scouts. I used scrap vinyal the local sign shop gave me.
I just looked through my computer and can't find the pic tho;(
aha ! I KNEW there must be another Cricut thread! :-D
Loving the Cricut & gypsy combo, but Sooo glad I got scal before it no longer worked with my E.... I love the cartridges too, but hey, it's all about versatility.
It means subscribing. It for when you find a thread interesting but don't have anything to say on it yet. When you post something then you get the emails when someone else posts. Does this make sense?
I'm considering buying this new cartridge but would like to see the handbook first. On the Cricut website, it appears that all you can see is the "Look Book", which doesn't show all of the phrases that are available. There's a sample handbook page that shows 3 different phrases on that page and I did read somewhere that there are 150 phrases available, not just the 50 in the Look Book. I'm not in the habit of buying things "sight unseen." Why wouldn't PC want us to see all of the capabilities? Does anyone know where there might be a handbook to look at? I've done searches to no avail.
I'm considering buying this new cartridge but would like to see the handbook first. On the Cricut website, it appears that all you can see is the "Look Book", which doesn't show all of the phrases that are available. There's a sample handbook page that shows 3 different phrases on that page and I did read somewhere that there are 150 phrases available, not just the 50 in the Look Book. I'm not in the habit of buying things "sight unseen." Why wouldn't PC want us to see all of the capabilities? Does anyone know where there might be a handbook to look at? I've done searches to no avail.
This page has the book included with the cartridge on it. Poorly organized but it's all there.
This page has the book included with the cartridge on it. Poorly organized but it's all there.
OK--gotcha! It really is a poor presentation--I would have liked to have seen which words are able to be cut individually rather than as part of the phrase, but I do see all of the possibilities...thanks!
I have had my cricut since it came out, but i have learned so much from
watching all the You-tube videos out there. And then just trail and error.
I went through a lot of paper.
I just got the Gypsy. My DH got it for me and I ended up with 2 of them.
I am still learning how to use this one. I did just make my first wall sign.
I am so excited...
I just bought the new Art Philosophy Bundle from CTMH.
Now i just have to wait for the Fedx man to come.
I went to cricut to see if i could buy it, but they don't
even sell it on there online store. I thought that was
weird.
Now i just have to WAIT...
It means subscribing. It for when you find a thread interesting but don't have anything to say on it yet. When you post something then you get the emails when someone else posts. Does this make sense?
Hi Roxane,
When I first noticed 'subbing' I thought it meant people subbing were monitoring the board discussion in case of issues but now that you explained it to me, I understand what it means & it makes sense. Now I know that I can use it when I come across a board I like but have nothing to add to the discussion.
Thank you for your quick response and explanation.
I apologize if a lot of this stuff has been discussed. I have been trying to find the answers but there are so many posts ;-)
Question 1 - My laptop crashed and I lost my Design Studio that was on there. You only get one download. When I got my new laptop it won't download. Support has said if I send my serial number, they will reset it. Where is that number supposed to be. I can't find it in the book, on the CD or anywhere in the box my software came in. If I knew where to find it, it might help me??
Question 2-If I can't get my studio software to work and need to replace, is the Gypsy really worth it? If I buy cartridges that are linked to a Gypsy can I use them in my design studio or not?
I purchased my Design Studio years ago and haven't had time to even learn how to use it, I will be so bummed if I can't get it to work because my laptop crashed but I like the additional options above and beyond the cricut expression alone...Used that twice in the past 6 years. I can't wait to graduate so I can "play" again.
Thanks for any help on my questions. I see so much about "linked" cartridges and I really don't understand the consequences for that.
