Which Cricut Machine Should You Buy?

Dawn Hall 

 

There are three models of the Cricut machine, popular personal die cutters made by the Provo Craft company. With three good options, it can be difficult to decide which one to buy. Should you start small and buy the original Personal Electronic Cutter? Or is the Expression model worth the extra investment? How does the Create, the hybrid model currently being exclusively sold by Michael's Craft Store, stand up against the other two machines?

In a number of ways, all three die cut machines are the same:

All three models are cartridge-based.
You can only produce cutouts based upon the cartridges you own. Each cartridge comes with a keyboard overlay, which is used in selecting specific cuts. The cartridges are not machine-specific - they can be used in any of the three models.

Basic operation of all three machines is the same.
If you own the Personal Electronic Cutter, you will have no problem operating the Cricut Expression or Create (and vice-versa). Why? Well, the basic operation of all three die cutters is the same.

Here's a quick rundown of the process. After plugging in the selected cartridge and corresponding keyboard overlay and turning on the machine, you are ready to start making die cuts. Materials, such as paper or cardstock, are placed on a special cutting mat, which is then loaded into the machine with the press of a button. With another press of the button, the selected design is chosen. All that's left is to select "Cut". The machine does the rest of the work.

All three Cricut machine models use the same accessories.
It was already mentioned that the cartridges are not machine-specific, but this is also the case with most of the other accessories. It does not matter which model you own - the replacement blades, inks, different tools, such as the Cricut spatula, and Design Studio software, can be used with any model. The one exception is the cutting mats. The machines accept different sizes of the mats, and you must get one that is compatible with your specific machine.

Now that you know how the Cricut machines are similar, you are probably wondering how they are different. They vary in several ways:

The size of die cuts produced by each machine are different.
The Personal Electronic Cutter has the capability of making cutouts ranging from 1 inch to 5-1/2 inches in size, in half inch increments. The Create can produce die cuts ranging from 1/4 inch to 11-1/2 inches in size, in quarter inch increments. The Expression gives users the most versatility, producing cutouts from 1/4 inch to 23-1/2 inches in size, in quarter inch increments.

They weight and size of the machines vary.
The Personal Electronic Cutter and Create are both small, portable machines. These models are good for crafters who like to take their projects on the road, and create scrapbook layouts and other projects in group settings. They are also suited for those who do not have a specific area in their home set aside for crafting, because these die cutters are easy to pack up and put away in between uses. The Expression, on the other hand, is much heavier and larger. If you have a crafting room or corner, and do not have the concerns of moving it frequently, it's a good choice.

The three Cricut machine models have different modes and functions.
There are several different modes and functions. For example, the fit to page mode will automatically adjust the size of the die cut based upon the size of the material loaded in the machine. The center point function allows you to align the cutting blade over the center of the material, so that the cut is made around it. The Expression machine has the most versatility as far as the availability of modes and functions. Next in line is the Create, and third place goes to the Personal Electronic Cutter. More information can be found regarding these modes and functions in the machine handbooks, which are available in PDF format on Cricut.com.

The price is different for each model.
The Personal Electronic Cutter is the most inexpensive Cricut cutter, with a suggested retail price of $299.99. The Create is $100.00 more, at $399.99, and the Expression is $499.99. Please note that all three machines can be purchased at significant savings. Many retailers run special sales or have a lower everyday price than the suggested retail price. It's a good idea to shop around when buying your first Cricut machine.

This article was written by Dawn Hall. Find out more about Cricut, including additional information regarding the Cricut machine models, on her website and blog. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dawn_Hall

Scrapbook Paper - Choosing the Right Scrapbook Paper

Robert Nelsons

 

The notion behind scrapbooking is pretty straight forward, the goal is simple, preserve memories and share them with others in your own way and style. It can be a fun way to spend your time while taking a sentimental walk down memory lane.

Scrapbooking can also reflect your own take on events which took place during those times. You do not need expensive materials to create your own scrapbook, there are lots of choices and a vast product range which cover multiple price points.

Secondly you don't need lots of material. The most important first step you will take is in choosing the paper. Choosing the right paper can get your creative juices flowing but as mentioned there are lots of choices and therefore it can be a little overwhelming.

Many suggest that you use paper that is acid free. The simple reason for this relates to preservation. The last thing you want is to have the very memories which you sought out to preserve deteriorate over time due to choosing the wrong paper.

Choosing the right paper is also important so as to match the theme which you intend to convey. If in the event the memories are distant and evolve to the present day, then you may want to use older styles of paper to start with and then decorate with more modern trimmings.

You can also mix and match papers, this may prove difficult at the beginning because it can be hard to know if they will match and it is not until you try it that you will see. The point is to have fun and play around with it to see what works best.

In conclusion, before you invest in any paper consider what it is you wish to convey and then match the paper that best suits the mood and as mentioned, enjoy and have fun.

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How to Scrapbook Your Own Day Planner!

Tammy Matthews

 

Try finding a day planner that affords you the space to stamp and scrapbook month to month! You can create your own monthly masterpiece by applying your favorite photo on an index tab divider, or even on a sturdy calendar page itself.

Apply you favorite stickers and stamps to significant dates to remember or celebrate. Consider tacking pictures of those who will celebrate memorable moments such as birthdays, anniversaries or graduations on the index tab dividers for each month.

Some planners even have a covers that have picture pockets that you could easily modify with the passing seasons! Changing the look of your day planner cover will keep it fresh and exciting all year long.

Try inserting a few mini scrapbook pages within the planner itself. Sharing your favorite photo masterpieces can be as easy as reaching for your purse.

Your creative scrapbooking is meant to be shared and enjoyed. Scrapbooking the pages of your planner could also serve to promote a business, whether its stamping, scrapbooking or day care! Share your talents each and every time you open your planner to make an appointment or just to jot down a note or two.

Adding your own personal scrapbooking touch to your day planner or calendar will encourage you to be more organized and will inspire at the same time!

It can make a great personal gift for you or someone you love. Enjoying the space we live in makes everyday a little easier. Have fun and get scrap happy in January right on through to December!

Author, Tammy Matthews, is a mom of three and creator of the Bizzi2Go Planner. For more information please visit: http://www.bizzimom.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tammy_Matthews

Scrapbook Ideas - How the Experts Get Their Creativity and Avoid Any Mistakes When Creating Them

Paul Kramer

There are a lot of different ideas that can be implemented into scrapbooking and these include hand prints, creating a wide range of borders, using background paper and adding some further details with the use of glue.

The art of scrapbooking is something that can provide children with a vast amount of fun and pleasure so this is a great way for them to spend a rainy day. Before you begin to make the scrapbook it is very important to collect all the pictures and other supplies, which you will want to put into the scrapbook.

Some children and perhaps even some adults will enjoy putting a handprint into the scrapbook. It is best to do these print using water based paints so that they are easy to clean up. It is very important to make sure you get all the paint off once you have done these prints as this will mean that you do not get paint all over the house.

A lot of people who make scrapbooks enjoy experimenting with various different borders if you want to involve children in this you could perhaps visit the beach and collect various different seashells, which you can then use to make your border. Some children especially toddlers would really enjoy gluing shells and sand onto a page of the scrapbook and this would most likely keep them occupied for several hours.

It is also very popular to add background paper into the scrapbook and this is also something that children will enjoy doing. The background paper could be done using tissue paper and water based paint.

Another good way of adding detail is by using glue, by doing this you can add swirls, lines and a wide range of other designs to the page, before the glue dries you should add a substance such as glitter, sand, beads or the such like.

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10 Valentine's Day Scrapbooking Ideas With or Without Photos

Christine Perry

 

Valentine's Day is all about romance, love and friendship. It may not be a common picture-taking opportunity, but with or without a photo, there are still plenty of Valentine's Day scrapbooking ideas. Remember this February 14th and that special someone you asked to be yours with these Valentine's Day scrapbook page tips.

1. Find a Photo- just because you don't have a photo taken on February 14th doesn't mean you can't include photos in your Valentine's layout. Find a photo of you and sweetheart from another occasion to fix that problem. You can go back as far you as you want for a picture of you both together, perhaps even a wedding picture.

2. Choose a Page Title- Need some help coming up with a Valentine's Day themed title? Here are a few suggestions:

• How Do I Love Thee?
• I Love You
• I Want to Kiss You All Over
• Crazy Little Thing Called Love
• My Heart Belongs to You
• This Kiss
• Always and Forever
• High School Sweethearts
• Soulmates
• Be Mine
  

3. Choose Romantic Page Elements: Obvious choices for your page elements are hearts and roses, but look at your other scrapbooking supplies for embellishments that make you think of romance. For example, use white lace, a pink satin ribbon, red bows or Victorian accents.

4. Add Color- Red is the color of the day for Valentines' Day, but too much red on your page may overpower your focal point. Use red as an accent, and try adding more white and pink to your layout.

5. Add Your Valentine's Day Cards- Cards make decorative page elements. You can create a pocket on the page to add the cards you gave to each other. This way they can be removed so you can read the sentiments inside.

6. Write Love Letters- Journaling is just as important on a Valentine's layout as it is on any other scrapbooking page. Use the page title ideas listed above to prompt journaling ideas. You could also include handwritten love letters given any time of the year or from the past.

7. Add a Love Poem- if you want a quick way to add journaling, use a love poem or quote on your page. It's easy to find plenty of choices for poems and quotes by doing a search for "romantic poems" on the internet.

8. Photograph Valentine's Day Gifts- Include a photo of the box of chocolates or roses you received, and scrapbook the gift card. If you had a nice dinner out, put a photo of the restaurant on your page and don't forget to journal what you each ordered for dinner.

9. Remember the Kids- Children celebrate Valentine's Day too. Include cards exchanged from school mates on a special page for your children. Record their feelings about this holiday and what it means to them.

10. Dedicate a Page to Your Valentine- Instead of focusing on the couple, use a page layout to express all the reasons why you love him/her.

With a little creativity, you can create a beautiful Valentine's Day page layout even if you don't have a photo from that day. You don't even need special supplies. You probably already have embellishments with a romantic theme. Add some white and pink cardstock and some red letters, and you have everything you need to make a Valentine's Day scrapbooking page.

Christine Perry is an avid scrapbooker and has over 10 years of scrapbooking experience. Her favorite scrapbooking subjects are her reluctant teenagers. She invites you to her website, http://www.intoscrapbooking.com for more scrapbooking tips and Valentine's Day scrapbooking ideas. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christine_Perry

Making a Marriage Book - Documenting Your Romance

Mel Candea

Scrap-booking has become so popular these days as an ongoing project, something to share or for relaxation. But what about making a marriage book, a tool for communication between you and your partner, a place for memories? Whether you're a newly-wed or a 20-year relationship devotee,
a marriage book can be a positive force for you both. The nicest thing about it is that you tailor it to match you, your partnership, your lifestyle. So how do you begin?

Choose your theme, or your focus. Will it be for writing to each other, for special events like anniversaries, vacation memorabilia? A combination of all of these, as an ongoing physical representation of your time together?

Choose the book type you want, to match the theme. A Moleskin would be perfect for writing each other, with a continuation of replies. Or you could bind your own book, using hand-made paper and a few simple methods that you can find online. Opt for materials that are sturdy and durable- you'll want to keep it a long time.

Talk to your partner about it, what it should represent to you as a couple. Some people won't feel comfortable with writing or gluing constantly, so set some ground rules. Will it be used spontaneously, or some time you both set aside each week? Each month? If you have children, will you include them in the process?

Be creative. Some ideas for its use could be: both short notes or long letters, or it could be used for time-outs when there's a hitch in communication. And the make-ups afterward. It could include mementos from special nights out: tickets, coins, a leaf from a memorable walk, postcards or even drawings. The entire focus of the book should be about the two of you, together.

A few last thoughts:

Don't flaunt your wedding book (or relationship book) the same way you would a scrapbook. It should be treated as a diary. Privately. Not something to show friends or family, unless you both agree it's ok.

Don't use it merely as a vent to gripe or attack the other person- the main focus is on communication and expressing your feelings to your partner. Keep a balance of both positive and negative moments.

Try to keep it going. With all of the business in your daily lives right now, it's easy to forget or get lax on. In a few years, you'll be glad to be able to look back.

Email: Melony73@yahoo.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mel_Candea