Facebook Group - Cricut

Hello there!  I wanted to take a minute and invite you to join our Facebook Group "I LUV MY CRICUT".  Karin Adamczyk started this group quite some time ago and graciously invited me to team up to provide tutorials, share projects, and have friendly Cricut conversations with other Cricut Users.  If you are new to the Cricut or thinking of getting one, join us! We "LUV" our Cricut Explores and really enjoy watching the group get excited about them.   We have lots of fun and there are some really cool free SVG files.

Here are a few that I have added to the files

Cricut Explore Basics - Tutorials to help you get started with Design Space and Cricut Explore

A series of videos to help you get started with Cricut Design Space and the Cricut Explore.  I will be adding #4 soon.

6 Things You Should Know About the Cricut Explore

Hi there!  I wanted to answer a few questions and clear up a few misconceptions regarding the Cricut Explore/Design Space.  The following questions are taken from responses to my review on Facebook as well as here on my blog.

1.  Does Design Space (The Cricut Explore software) only work with cartridges?
   
     No.  The Design Space Software allows the use of third party images, such as SVG, DXF,
     jpg, png, gif and bmp.  As a Cricut Explore/Design Space user you do not have to use a
     Cricut Cartridge ever if you don't want to.  Should you just want basic shapes, there is a free basic
     shape cartridge available in your Design Space library.

2.  How does the Subscription plan work?  Are you only allowed to "rent" images?

     The Cricut Subscription plan allows you access to over 50,000 images (recently increased by the
     addition of Imagine Cartridges).  You have access to those images as long as you are subscribed.

     There is an option to purchase individual images which are mostly $0.99 (some are more).
     Purchased images are yours to keep with or without a subscription.

     Cartridges which you already own or purchase in the future are linked to Design Space.  Those
     images are yours to use anytime with or without a subscription.  There are also digital
     cartridges available for purchase.

3.  I don't know if I would like web-based Design Space, what are the advantages?

     There are several advantages to having Design Space as a web-based software.  The first
     would be that Design Space allows you access to all of the images you own and all of your
     projects no matter which computer you are on and no matter where you are connected to
     the internet.  Your images and projects are stored within the Design Space library, which allows
     access from any computer.  No more downloading an image on your desktop, only to find when
     you switch to your laptop you either have to download the image again, or wait until you can
     access it.  Everything is available to you no matter what computer you are on, no matter where 
     you are using the software.

      You can use Design Space on an unlimited number of computers.  You are not limited to 
      2 licensed copies as most softwares are.  

      All of the tools in Design Space is available to every user without charge.  There is no upgrade, or
      special edition which allows you extra tools.  Cricut has given everyone the entire tool library to 
      use on as many computers as you want.
  
       Updates to the Design Space software happen while you're sleeping (for the most part).  All you
       need to do is log in.   Some updates require firmware (updating the machine), or plug in updates
       which are simply prompted when you log in.  

4.    Can the Explore cut Chipboard thicker than cereal box weight?

        Yes.  The Cricut Explore offers a deep blade accessory which allows cutting of  heavy 
        chipboard, leather,  acrylic, acetate, balsa wood, fun foam just to name a few.   

5.     What is the advantage of the bluetooth adapter? If you have to use the computer 
        anyway, I don't understand why I need a bluetooth adapter.

        The advantages of bluetooth are as follows:
        a.  Allows you to put the Explore anyplace in your craft area.  I, personally, have mine set up
             on a table behind my desk.  It allows me to not have a cord going across the room, and allows
             me more desktop work space.
      
        b.  The bluetooth adapter allows you access to the Make It Now IPad Application.  The 
             Make it Now App provides  you access to lots of ready to go projects with your IPad.

6.   What is the Print Then Cut Feature?  Does the Explore Print?  Do I need a special printer?

       The Print Then Cut feature allows the user to print and image, and then cut the image out.
       The image is printed on your regular home printer, just as you would print anything from your
       computer.  You then take that printed image, put it on your Cricut mat and the Explore will cut 
       the image.  You have some control as to where exactly it will cut the image (outlines, or more
       detailed).  No special printer is required, an ordinary household inkjet or laser printer works fine.

OK, now that you know the "6 Things You Should Know About the Cricut Explore", are you ready to win one?

Here's your chance!

HSN and Anna Griffin have some incredible packages coming up on HSN, including Anna Griffin Cuttlebug content for 2014 and a brand new CRICUT EXPLORE IN WILD ORCHID!

 This little beauty comes with the following bonus cartridges 3D Floral Home Décor and Pretty Packages feature special scoring lines and drawing content that ONLY Explore owners can see and access.

 

This spectacular reveal will be on HSN on October 7th.  Watch this video for details on how you can win $3,000 worth of Anna + Cricut goodness— which includes the BRAND NEW Cricut Explore in Wild Orchid, as well as the Anna Griffin Cuttlebug and ALL Anna Griffin Cuttlebug content for 2014!

 

You can read more here on Anna Griffin's blog.

 

 

   

Halloween Water Bottle Gift Set

Halloween at my house has changed.  The kids are grown and living on their own and I live on a street that doesn't get any trick or treaters.  I know, sad.  So, I get very little change to make Halloween treat boxes.  I used Lori Whitlocks Water Bottle Hang Tag to make this adult Halloween Treat!   

Stop by Lori Whitlock's blog today and add your link to the Link Up party.  We are showcasing any Halloween/Fall project using Lori Whitlock Silhouette Cut Files or SVG files.  Can't wait to see you there!

All of the files are listed on the Link Up!

Silhouette Cameo vs. Cricut Explore

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A few years ago, I wrote this review “Silhouette Cameo Vs.Cricut Expression”.  At that time, I had just gotten rid of all of my Cricut products and purchased a Sihouette Cameo.  I was happy.  The Silhouette did everything I wanted it to do and better than the Expression.  Fast forward to a few months ago.  The Cricut Explore entered my world.  My first thought was “Cricut?, yeah right, been there, done that”.  However, being the investigator that I am and out of curiosity I gave it a try, fully expecting to be unimpressed.  I couldn’t have been more wrong!  Not only has Cricut totally revamped the digital cutter itself, but the entire Cricut experience is a whole new ballgame and a whole “New Cricut”.

Let me explain.  Please note, the following is my opinion based on actual use, research and various tests which I personally performed with both machines.  I am in no way a paid employee or compensated for my opinion by either Silhouette or Cricut.

First and foremost, a digital cutter must cut well.  I thought my Silhouette did UNTIL I cut the exact same files, in the exact same size with the Explore.  Here are some of the comparisons.  I used a new blade and new mat for both machines as well as the same media to perform the comparisons.  In most every cut, The Explore cut with more precision, sharper edges and through more materials than the Silhouette.  A few of the simple cuts were equally good cuts, but in no case did the Silhouette cut better than the Explore. I should also note I used .png and svg files so that the comparisons would be fair.  No Silhouette or Cricut Files or materials, with the exception of the french fry boxes which illustrate score lines - I used a Cricut store file for the Explore and a Silhouette file for the Silhouette.  I should also note that weeding the files was almost non-existent on the Cricut Explore.  The Silhouette did require punching out many of the holes, especially the smaller holes.

Now, let’s talk about what the Explore can cut vs the Cameo.  Cricut offers a deep blade accessory (additional cost), which opens up a world of possibilities that the Cameo simply cannot match.  Both machines have the ability cut through the traditional cardstock, vellum, acetate,  vinyl and cereal box weight chipboard.  The Explore goes beyond.  The Cricut Explore has enough power to cut through leather, stencil material, chipboard, fun foam, balsa wood, Graffix plastic sheets.  The Silhouette simply cannot handle thicker materials with the same precision and, in most cases, not at all.

The first photo is a thicker chipboard.  I do not have a means of measuring it, but it's about the thickness of two cereal boxes glued together in my estimate.  I did Double cut on the Silhouette and the Explore, both with regular blades.

This Grafix .007 was cut on both machines double cut, regular blades.  The Silhouette blade was on 8 (I've read several who can cut it set on lower numbers, however, I have only been able to cut basic shapes with the Silhouette using Grafix)

This is a very thick plastic.  I had doubts the Cricut could even cut it.  The Explore cut it beautifully with the deep blade and 5 passes.  I used the deepest blade setting on the Silhouette (10), the highest pressure 33 and I cut it with 6 passes.  It only etched the surface.  

Let’s discuss the software.   My first reaction to the Explore software was not positive.  I am very proficient in Photoshop and tend to understand the technical side of software easily.  I was used to the Silhouette software, which has a lot of similar ways to accomplish tasks that Photoshop does, but in a much more simplified manner.  However, the Silhouette software updates from the Legacy Version 2 were a complete disaster.  I have 3 versions of Silhouette software running on my Macs because as each version was released it was filled with bugs such as misaligned cuts, missing font families and tools which would randomly freeze up, just to mention a few. I was constantly reverting back to the Legacy version if it had to be done in one shot and correctly.   The Explore software grew on me the more I used it.  It is very user friendly and most tasks are very simple to accomplish.  There are a few features I hope to see added in future updates and from the way the New Cricut team is listening to their customers, I am confident most of these features will be added in the near future. 

Speaking of software, Cricut recently added a few new features which included the “Print then Cut”, slice and flatten/unflatten abilities  The update happened over the course of two different evenings and worked without any hiccups.  The updates were apparently well prepared and beta tested saving a lot of users unnecessary headaches and lost production time.

The Explore software, known as Design Space,  has a few features which are worth mentioning.  Layered images from the Cricut store/subscription come in stacked as they would be assembled and  fully colored ( you can change the colors) and it is a nice feature when you’re trying to paper piece.   The color of the layers also correlate to the layering system, which in turns lays out each mat by color.  Design Space determines the best layout for the images on the cutting mat, however, you are given the opportunity to change the layout based on your paper size, preference, etc.  You can also “attach” a group of images should you prefer to have them cut in the exact way that you have them laid out.

The software for both machines allow the use of SVG files, however with the Silhouette Software this requires an additional upgrade purchase.  The free edition of the Silhouette Software does not allow the use of SVGs, and it has a lighter set of tools than the full designer edition.  Design  Space software is free and all tools and available to all users.

A major difference between the two software packages is the fact that the Explore Design Space is web-based, the Silhouette is computer based.  What does that mean?  It means that with the Design Space you are able to work in the software anywhere you have access to a computer and internet.  You also have access to your files.  Silhouette Designer Software is allowed only on two computers, after which you must purchase additional licenses.  Silhouette software does not allow you to work on one computer and finish on another unless you transmit your file via email or some other method to another computer.   I, personally, don’t mind the internet connection and love the fact that at any given time I can pull up a work in progress and work on it, save it and when I return home or travel, I can open the same file and continue where I left off.  The Silhouette software does require an internet connection to download images from their online store, which will have to be downloaded to any additional computer you may use.  It does not download to all of your computers at one time.

The Design Space software for the Explore allows for a true score line in lieu of the dashed cut line offered with Silhouette Software.  This does require an additional accessory purchase of the scoring tool, which is placed in the accessory pen/scoring carriage holder.

Both software packages offer the ability to trace an image such as a jpg, png or other type of outside image.  The Design Space does it with a little less effort, but I think the Silhouette Software offers a bit more control. 

I want to expand on the Print Then Cut feature of the Explore vs. the Print and Cut feature of the Silhouette.  I can honestly say, the Explore Print then Cut images are by far the best Print/Cut images I’ve seen on any machine.   They really took the time to get this one right.  There are literally no white edges on the image.  Silhouette Print and Cut images are pretty good, but I have never been able to get a PERFECT no white edge with the Silhouette.  Again, I used a 3rd party digital image for the compaison, I did not use a Silhouette Store file, nor a Cricut store file.

I’ve mentioned a few of the accessories available such as the scoring tool and the deep blade which are additional purchase items with the Explore. In addition, the Explore offers a blue tooth connection which allows wireless connection to your computer, as well as access to the Make it Now projects via a Cricut Application on your IPAD.  The Explore also offers a variety of sizes and mats with different “stickiness” levels for a wider variety of material use.  Silhouette does not offer a scoring tool, nor do they offer a deep blade.  Both machines offer a set of markers/pens. 

I bet you’re wondering about the subscriptions.  There are lots of comparisons out there, but, in my opinion, it’s a pretty tight race.  The biggest difference in subscriptions is with the Silhouette online store, you own every image you purchase with your subscription credits.  It’s yours to use as long as you want even if you do not renew your year-long subscription.  Cricut subscription works a bit differently.  You have use of over 25,000 images, but only as long as you are subscribed.  There is the option of purchasing most images for $0.99 which would then belong to you even if you are not subscribed.  Beyond that, I think the packages are fairly comparable.  You can check out Cricut Cartridges and the Silhouette online store to get a better idea of the exact content.

One last subject I wanted to touch on since my last review and that is customer service.  The New Cricut customer service is a far cry from the old.  I belong to a facebook group for both the Silhouette Cameo users as well as a Design Space facebook group.  I see comments all the time from both sides as far as customer service.  I, know, that I am not alone in saying the New Cricut customer service is efficient, they know their machine and they are quick to help.  I have personally had very good interactions with the Cricut team.  Silhouette customer service has never let me down either, however, with the update disaster, there was nothing they could do to help.  I can’t hold Silhouette customer service responsible for the update failure.

Oh, and one more thing.  The Explore is QUIET!  It's nothing like the screeching irritating sound of the Cameo.  My "better half" hated it when I ran the Cameo, he always said something is wrong with that, it shouldn't sound like that.  First time I used the Explore, he said, "wow! that's quiet!".

In summary, I’m sure you can tell.  I think the Explore is a better machine than the Silhouette.  Even as I write this, I can’t believe I’m saying it.  It truly is a New Cricut and, I can say in all honesty, I haven’t touched my Cameo since I got the Explore.  

I also wanted to add, I have been an avid user of the Silhouette Cameo.  I used the best settings and in many cases several different tries to get the best cut possible for the above comparisons.  The Cricut Explore cuts were cut on the recommended Cricut Explore settings with the exception of the Bazzill Acrylic paper which was not available in the presets.

Disclaimer:  The opinions expressed above are my own opinions, I am in no way compensated by Cricut, nor SIlhouette for my opinion.

Simple Stories Cozy Christmas and Thermoweb

 

This week Thermoweb is partnering with Simple Stories!  I had the pleasure of creating with the Cozy Christmas Collection.  In addition to the card above, I made several other projects.

  I love, love, love to make handmade Christmas Cards and Holiday packaging and with the help of my Thermoweb Adhesives and this collection, I got a jump start on a few holiday projects.
The card above was super simple.  Layer pattern papers from the Cozy Christmas collection using your Thermoweb Sticky Dot Runner.  Add chipboard ephemera using Thermoweb Foam Squares for added dimension.

The Cozy Christmas ephemera included this precut wooden snowflake background.  LOVE IT!.  I used Thermoweb Sticky Dot runner to adhere it to the card base and several Foam Squares to pop up the chipboard embellishments and stickers.

Here is a quick layout featuring lots of Cozy Christmas as Thermoweb Adhesives.  I started by layering the photo mat stack with the Sticky Dot Runner.  I popped up the actual photo with Foam Squares.  The word stickers made it super simple to add lots of fun color to the right of the photos.  The cute bow was cut on my Eclips die cutting machine.  I used Mini Glue Dots to assemble it and a bit of Super Tape to secure it to the layout.

I made this quick and easy gable box a perfect container for delivering Christmas Cookies, by simply adding some pattern papers, a ribbon and one of the 4x6 tags included in the paper collection.

That's a wrap.  The Cozy Christmas Collection by Simple Stories has everything you need to start your Holiday Craft projects.  Don't forget your Thermoweb Adhesives to keep it all neat and tidy!

Seriously... Kerri Bradford and Heidi Swapp Layout.

I had so much fun creating this layout.  It wasn't for a design team and it wasn't for any kind of assignment, I just had a chance to play and try out some new products, stencils and techniques that I've had mulling around in my mind for awhile.

I love the Kerri Bradford Cut files.  I own several but always forget to use them.

And of course, you know I had to get the new Heidi Swapp/Becky Higgins Project life kits.  I am not a Project Lifer (yet anyways), so I wanted to find another way to use the fun 3x4 cards included in the core kits as well as some of the embellishments from the gold kit. 

September Blog Hop with Lori Whitlock

Hello and welcome back to another Lori Whitlock blog hop!  We are so excited that you have joined us! 

Today, I have a fun giftbox/card combo set for you.

 I started with Lori Whitlock's Square Center Step Card (Lori Whitlock SVG File) and the 3d Double Scallop Tote (also Lori Whitlock SVG File).

 

I used the Fine & Dandy Paper collection by Echo Park which was also designed by Lori Whitlock.

A few fun embellishments such as adding a wide ribbon bow and button finish off this fun gift set.

Look how cute they look stacked together!



Thanks for stopping by!  Now it's time for the fun stuff!

Here's a couple of coupons for you.  One is for the SVG shop and one for the digital shop over at Snap Click Supply.  Grab your coupons and then check out the rest of the blog hop.

While you're there, grab your adorable freebie

Don't forget to enter to win Lori Whitlock's Echo Park Christmas Collection!!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Here's a list of the entire blog hop!  Please stop by each one and see what these lovely ladies have created for you!


Lori Whitlock
Corri 

Mendi 

Traci

Lorrie  YOU ARE HERE
Cathy

Linda 

Stacey

Tya

Chrissy

Stephanie 

Ashley

Rachael Sheedy

Pumpkin Rosette with Lori Whitlock Silhouette/SVG files

 Hello there! 

Can you believe it's September already?  Kids are back to school and fall is just around the corner, which got me thinking about pumpkins!

 This pumpkin was made using an SVG file by Lori Whitlock called "Build a Rosette".    (Item # 32782 in the Silhouette Store)

For the top of my pumpkin I used the Fall Leaves (Silhouette File 20959). 

The beauty of making this pumpkin with the Sizzix Eclips2 is that all the scoring is done for you as the file cuts.  The Eclips makes true score lines, so folding is a snap!

To make this pumpkin simply choose a rosette style and cut the following sizes:

Two 12 x 2
Four 12 x 2.25
Four 12 x 2.5
Four 12 x 2.75
Two 12 x 3

Use two strips end to end to create 1 rosette.  You will have two rosettes the same size of the 2.25, 2.5, 2.75.    Begin stacking the rosettes according to your liking.  I used the smallest on the bottom and worked my way up with one of each size up to the 3", then started stacking in reverse decreasing as I got to the top.


I was thinking an apple for the teacher would be a super fun gift!  Or how about a pineapple for a tropical party?  The possibilities are endless!

Basic Grey Highline Collection meets Thermoweb!

Hello there!  It's Lorrie here, and I can't wait to show you my projects for the Basic Grey Partner Week with Thermoweb.
Look at what I got to play with!!  Basic Grey Highline Collection and all of my favorite Thermoweb Adhesives!

Let's get started!  First up, we have a bright and cheery card

This card was so easy to assemble.  Use Thermoweb Foam Squares, and Thermoweb Zots to create multiple dimensional layers.  Double the foam squares for even extra lift.

How about this bright card?  It's sure to put a smile on the recipients face.  Cut several 1 x 1 squares and use the Basic Grey Highline Stickers and brads to embellish each square.  Use Thermoweb Foam Squares to pop up each square and the sticky dot runner to adhere the card base to the card front.  Secure the slender black strip with Thermoweb Sticky Lines.

The really awesome thing about this collection is not only are there bright and sunny colors, but also a few neutrals that make a softer looking card.  Adhere the card base using the Sticky Dot Runner.  Attach the vellum with Vellum Adhesive Runner behind the tag.  Stitch a few small lines across the top of the vellum to secure the stop.  Spray the Basic Grey Wood Veneer with gold paint.  Use Thermoweb Fabric Fuse to attach it to the tag.  Add a fun Basic Grey Brad and a few sequins to finish it off.







The Highline Collection just screams sunshine, flowers and happy cards!  This is my final card.  Simply adhere the card base to the card front with the sticky dot runner, add the Basic Grey flower stickers.  Attach a Basic Grey brad to the center of the larger flower.  Attach the tag using Thermoweb Foam Squares.  Send to a friend and make them smile!
Ok, now I have one last project to share

This layout was super fun to make.  Before I explain, I have to tell you the story behind the photos.  Recently a group of my high school friends and I got together in our home town for what we call a "mini renuion".  We met at a local pub.  We've been to this pub before, so we were all excited to see a new Jukebox.  Well let me tell you, it was the coolest jukebox ever!  Not only did it play lots of music from the "80's"..ahem... it was also a PHOTOBOOTH!  Yes, that's right.  You put your money in, stand in front of it and it takes 4 photos, which you can then send to your facebook account or email right from the machine!  I tell you what, we had the most fun with that thing!

OK.. back to the project!  Highline by Basic Grey has so many extra elements that are simple to just add to a layout.  For the items that were not already backed with adhesive, I used a variety of Foam Squares, Zots, Sticky Strips and the mini dot runner.  I added a little bit of paint splatter just to add a little to the white space.

Thanks Thermoweb and Basic Grey!  What a fun assignment!  I'm in love with this collection!

Free Halloween 3x4 printable

https://www.dropbox.com/s/ly73s6qneahj6ur/LN%203%20x%204%20Halloween%20Sept%202014.jpg?dl=0

Hello there!  Can you believe it's SEPTEMBER!?!?!  Oh my gosh!  Time to start planning those Halloween Cards, layouts and all the other fun Halloween goodies.  I've got a freebie for you.  How about some 3 x 4 pocket page fillers?  They also make cute card fronts and tags for your Halloween projects.  Click here to get your free download. 

Thanks for stopping by!

Lorrie

Halloween Cards with Eclips2 and/or SIlhoeutte

You have got to check out the new releases from Lori Whitlock this week!  They are available both at Http://loriwhitlock.com and the Silhouette online store.  This treat box is just one of many new products available as of today!  The skull and cross bones is another!

And what about this cute little ghost/pumpkin combo?  The spider web, gear and spider are also part of the new releases this week. 

Wait... that's not all...

How cute is this little guy???  Love him!

Don't go away.. there's more

This is the last one I am featuring today, but rush over to Lori Whitlock's shop and check out the rest, there's so many fun new cut files available this week!

I cut all of these with my Sizzix Eclips2!  I am loving this machine!!!

You are Simply Wonderful Card

Hello there!  I wanted to share this fun shape card I made using Lori Whitlock's Owl SVG and my Sizzix Eclips2.   The papers are also from Lori Whitlock from the "We Are Family Collection".  

I added 3D googly eyes and I turned the eyelashes upside down (originally they look like the owl is sleeping when turned the way they were intended).