What should I get for Vinyl

[Dragonwold]

I would like to make those popular vinyl words for my walls and to make labels for my pantry jars.
What cutter should I get, I do own a BigKick, but not sure how to use it for what I want.
Is one of the Circuits worth the money? Which would be best? I don't scrapbook.
Thanks for your answers.

[Stampinmom57]

There are many cutters out there. I have the cricut expression to cut all my vinyl. I love it.

[scrapper79]

If you got a Cricut, I would recommend getting the program Sure Cuts A Lot (there are others, but I do not know anything about them). With this program, you can get .svg files to download. My Vinyl Designer is a good place to start with some ideas. They create the designs, and you can cut them on your Cricut with whatever color you wanted. My Vinyl Designer
You can also use SCAL to create your own designs, using the fonts from your computer (cheaper than getting all the cartridges.)
I hope that helps you some.

[craftycrunchymama]

I love my Silhouette for cutting vinyl. They have a gorgeous variety of images and you can use any font that you have on your computer or you can download the free ones.

[Dragonwold]

Quote:

Originally Posted by craftycrunchymama

I love my Silhouette for cutting vinyl. They have a gorgeous variety of images and you can use any font that you have on your computer or you can download the free ones.

Well just looked at the website, this might just be the ticket. I used to do glass etching. I am amazed at all the things this machine can do.
A few questions?
Must you use their vinyl and other special papers, or can I order or buy other brands?
Often do you need to replace blades and mats?
What would you suggest to be the best accessory or tool to get with a basic package?
Now to find out how much Canadian it is and where to get it.
Any one know of any deals?

[sandyh124]

It is probably easier to use the Oracal 631 for your wall vinyl - that is what Provo Craft uses with their kits. You can buy it at a variety of places, look online for good deals - it is MUCH cheaper than my local stores. I get mine from Expressions Vinyl (www.expressionsvinyl.com) - but I have heard here that there are several other sites that offer comparable pricing. Find the one with the best price and deal on shipping to you. You will probably want the spatula and a "pick" as tools. I am using my old ceramic tools as picks and have one with a long sharp point, they do double duty for me. I have heard of someone using old dental tools too. The spatula though is really great for the Cricut mats. As far as the blades, on my machine I tend to go through them fairly quickly. But - I cut heavier card stock and do intricate cuts, so I probably replace them more than most. Probably once a month, maybe? I shop for deals on them too, and buy when I can get the best price.

[Dragonwold]

Thanks Sandy for the information
I see that Overstock.com has it for 263.00 Canadian plus shipping and handling. Still under $300, I am thinking this is a good price? Doing the should I order it now or should I wait until closer to Christmas Ackkk

[sandyh124]

It seems that around $250 - $275.00 is a really good price right now for the Expression in the US. I don't know if it will get better before Christmas or not, it might. For the machine, and basic supplies with 1 cart - I'd say that was a good price. Any extra carts, tools and supplies - shop around - it will pay off for you.

One more thing - I have the SCAL program too - and LOVE it! Saves a bundle on the carts. BUT - it will only be easy for you to learn if you have some basic knowledge of how to manage photos and line drawings. I have some experience, and think it is easy. They have great tutorials online, You Tube videos, etc. It was definitely worth it for me, I have 4 Provo Craft carts, and that's all I need. I can find almost anything I want for free on the Internet.

HTH,

[Dragonwold]

That price I quoted was for the Silhouette SD. I ended up ordering the Silhouette as I like the idea of no cartridges. It should arrive middle of November. I can't wait to play with my new toy. Hopefully the craft room will be organized by then, instead of the store room for items moved for renovations.

[crafty1021]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dragonwold

That price I quoted was for the Silhouette SD. I ended up ordering the Silhouette as I like the idea of no cartridges. It should arrive middle of November. I can't wait to play with my new toy. Hopefully the craft room will be organized by then, instead of the store room for items moved for renovations.

Have fun!!