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Thanks for this. I would love a comparison of the different Cricuts. I find myself thinking bigger is better but can’t justify the cost, so your input would be valuable to me.
I really enjoyed this video Ralph! You explain everything so well and put a lot of thought into your videos! I appreciate your insight, it's very helpful! I will watch any type of video you make, I enjoy them all☺️ Thank you so much for sharing. I hope you have a fantastic weekend.
Thanks for this video, Ralph. It is especially helpful for beginners when trying to figure out what they will need to buy starting out. I would appreciate a comparison of the different Cricut machines. ❤️🇨🇦
Thank you for sharing your experience. I've had several Cricuts and originally bought a Big Shot for embossing but now use it more often than the Cricut.
Great comparison and review of the pros and cons. I agree that it's best to have both, but it really depends on your needs. Thanks so much for sharing this information.
I feel like you described the 2 different machines very well. I own an electric big shot, Cricut Maker, Cricut Joy & a Brother Scan & Cut. I use each for different things.
Thanks for that! I had a silhouette years ago, but got rid of it and now just have a Big Shot Foldaway. And after this video, I think I want to add a Cricut Joy to my craft space. That way I’ll have the best of both worlds. Thanks for the video!
Great video! I've had both traditional and digital for years and you covered the capabilities very well. I totally agree with you that I could not choose which one to give up, I love both!! (I have a Big Shot, Joy, and Air 2)
I have had my Maker for years. I was recovering from knee replacement and wasn’t able to drive. I needed a birthday card for my bff, so I made one on my Cricut. Then thought “ I like this” so I started looking at FB groups for card making for the Cricut. A lady had a beautiful card she had made but had a background with embossing. I asked her how she did that and she explained about the die cutting machines. I am still falling down the rabbit whole. Love them both. I have a Sizzix Big Shot Plus, Platinum 6 and a Mini Empress electric and could not part with any. I love foiling so I bought. A fairly inexpensive laser printer, create my design or sentiment in Design Space, use print and cut then foil on my Mini Minc. I enjoy your video’s Ralph, you explain well.
I like traditional die-cutting machines (I use one from Stampin' Up!), as I want to get AWAY from the computer to do cardmaking. With more of a traditional art and craft background, I can draw and fussy cut if I really want something I don't have stamps or dies for.
I have the cricut Maker and have had a cricut machine of some sort since 2008. I actually haven’t used it in a while as I love the manual process of metal dies and stamping. I do on occasion incorporate the use of both and really need to get back to Cricutting again. Thank you
You actually convinced me to get the Cricut Joy. I have the first Explorer and tons of cartridges. I have good intentions it just doesn’t always get done. 😂
This depends on personal preference and what fits an individual style. I have a Bigshot and an Explore 3. For me fine details or high quantities of curves (eg flowers) warrant die cuts and non repeatable designs (things you only make a couple times) or geometric cuts work great digitally. A software subscription to design space will run you 12 a month, a die will average 20 per set so this is another consideration point. Thanks Tyler as always your content is on point and relevant.
I agree with all your points. One other advantage of the manual machines is the beautiful dies you can buy. Yes there are many lovely images in Design Space, but I don't find many of them as pretty as the ones for the manual machines. I often wish I could buy licenses for those images. I have two Cricuts and a manual, 3-inch die cut machine, but I hope some day to get a full size one that will take full-size embossing folders.
please do video on different Cricuts and whether you can buy just the designs you want or have to do a monthly subscription. AND can you cut out a design you stamped with a Cricut
Thanks for the video. I’m a long time cricut owner and big shot owner. I recently just got back into Card making, and find that for designs the big shot is a little better. I’m fine when I use my cricket I have to search for the perfect font and that can take some time. as with the big shot, die-cuts, cuts fonts perfectly. Although the cricket can cut intricate designs, it does take the machine much longer to cut design than it does rolling it through a big shot. So as you mention at the end of your video, if you’re able to do both do both because they both have advantages. Thanks again for the video.
The larger more sophisticated Cricut machines such as the Maker do an excellent job of cutting. There is a place for both types of machines in my studio and I use them both on a regular basis and love them both. I also have a Joy, but rarely use it. There is just no real comparison with the. Asker or Maker 3.
I’m well tooled up I have a ScanNCut, a Cricut Joy and a Gemini. I used to have a manual traditional years ago but with my Fibromyalgia it became impossible to crank the handle. I do have a mini portable manual I can manage at a push. When I first started card making about 30 years ago, a full set of alphabet dies was an unobtainable dream at about £300. I is crazy how not only are dies more affordable but the huge range of websites you can get free/cheap svg files from.
I have a cricut. I also have an embossing machine that i got cheap when a local craft store was going out of business, because i really wanted some embossing folders. I can use my cricut to cut out all my shapes and sentiments. It is not portable but i dont really craft outside of my home and it takes up less space than a cutter and a lot of dies
I do have both a Cricut Maker and a traditional die cutting machine, actually have 3. There is a reason for having both. For me the reason I continue to buy metal dies is because of the texture that SO many of the new dies have. To my knowledge, Cricut machines, it just can’t add that. Also, a TIP, if you want that beveled edge from a Cricut machine, then after cutting, take a hand tool that has a metal ball at one end and run it around the edge of the cut. It will look more professional. 😉
I prefer manual die-cutting as I do enjoy “unplugging”. I also have limited outlets in easy reach and hate having cords all over the place. I know some electronic tools are rechargeable but again hate having to find an available outlet and the right cord. I do agree about writing though - that is soooo cool on the Cricut - great way to personalize your cards with a professional way.
Thanks for the comparison. I actually use the original cricut as I invested a lot of money on the cartridges which I then linked to Cricuts original Gypsy which I love to use on the go and when I want to be creative using my own designs. That being said, I do have a manual die and embossing machine, which I originally purchased for embossing but do have some dies as well.
Hi Ralph! I have several die-cutting machines, an extensive collection of dies and a Silhouette Cameo 3 Digital die-cutting machine. Both systems have their merits, but I definitely use my die-cutting machines most often - they're just more convenient; I just grab the die I want and cut, whereas with the Cameo I need to set everything up in the software first. Don't get me wrong, I love the Cameo too, but it's less convenient. When I ran my own papercraft supplies shop on Etsy, it was great and I used it all the time, but now I only use it to print and cut sentiments - which it is great for! A quick tip - you can run an embossing tool around the edge of your blade cut pieces to bevel the edges. :)
Well done with this video, you explained these machines so well. I too, would never be able to choose between the manuel die machine and my Cricut machines, both have their uses in the craftroom like you have said. The Cricut is the least expensive like you said as well....I started out with the very first electronic die machine Cricut came out with...the Baby Bug. Yes, I am dating myself big time. It was cartridge based back then and we only had a few cartridges to start, but boy there were tons of images, sayings, etc....on each cartridge. When a new one came out, we were thrilled and rushed to buy them. Like dies...well worse than dies, the cartridges took up a lot of room in the craftroom. Now it is all digital and relies on the internet. Love both ways, but love not having to store those cartridges now. I also loved the Gypsy Cricut had. It looked like a child's gaming machine, we linked all our owned cartridges and then we could design on the go. That was amazing. LOL Fun times, fun memories and still fun. I've had many machines...updating as they went along. Then came my manual die machine, the Cuttlebug by Cricut...then the Big Shot. Yep, love them all! Haha
I tried a Big Shot die cutter for one project and new it wasn't for me. So I returned it and exclusively use my cricut now. But making Christmas cards a few months ago, I realized I couldn't embossing anything. So now I'm thinking I might need to find another Big Shot. One tip with the cricut if you don't like the sharper edges one the cricut cut- if you are using cardstock, lightly run a bone folder across the edge. Like super gently or you will just crush it. It will give the cardstock a more beveled look.
I have been on the fence about getting a cricut ever since I started watching your videos! I love so many aspects about them that you touched on here, and I wonder if they do collaborations with certain designers? For example, I LOVE Tim Holtz's line of thinlit dies, but if they were available on cricut to download, that might just change my life . . .
Thanks for doing this comparison video! I agree with everything you said. I have both types for the same reasons as they give me options. And a girl must have options!😂
I felt comfortable allowing 4th grade students to use my traditional die-cutting machine with minimal supervision, so that's something to consider if you want to craft with kids.
I actually had the Cricut Explore first, because my daughter had one. Then while looking for Cricut ideas on RUclips, found the MISTI and started stamping a lot. I didn't see the need for dies at first, but wow, once I tried them, I much prefer the cut quality of the dies. For quite a while I mostly used the Cricut to cut homemade envelopes. But I bought a punch board to make envelopes and that seems much quicker and easier. Now I mostly just use the Cricut to cut when I need large items that would never fit through the die machine. Last project was a pop out workbench card for my son in law. I could have done it with a paper trimmer and a scoreboard, but now I have the design in Design Space so I could use it for other things too. I do like the ability to cut vinyl on the Cricut because I like to make t-shirts. Also like the ability to write custom sentiments on my cards. Great video Ralph!
This overview would be good to share for new paper crafters. I tried several Cricuts. I kept my Expression, but haven't used it in years. I could never calibrate my Scan n Cut to get accurate cutting around a stamped image with no white border. I still have it (it can still be used to cut shapes to go behind filigree dies or sentiments), but haven't used it in years, either. I am fairly tech savvy, but the updates were difficult to implement with Macs. Getting settings right for various substrates was a headache. Cutting mats required more frequent replacement than my die-cutting plates. I don't use Better Press or foiling systems or other add-ons like that for my die-cut machine, but they do increase the versatility for those who are inclined. The only thing I occasionally miss by not using it is the ability to size the die cut (or change the proportions). If I mass produced things, the electronic machines would have an advantage there. Using the Cricut would be less expensive than owning the thousands of dies I've accumulated, but I enjoy my crafting much more when I don't have to think about the things electronic machines require.
I have the joy and scan n cut - I have 3 different die cutting machines including my old cuttlebug which is over 20yrs old but doesn't like the intricate dies which is why I upgraded to the platinum 6 and scout. Love my scan n cut but I haven't much room and it's buried at the moment so I haven't unearthed it for awhile. Just went to use my Joy for the first time in ages and it annoyed me so much I put it away again. I think for now I will keep to diecuts.
One of the other considerations when it comes to cutting is that you can create TINY die cuts with a manual machine. Electronic cutters don't do well with very small images. It's too hard for the blade to create a clean cut of something very small. I have both the Cricut Maker & a Spellbinders Platinum 6. I use the Spellbinders machine far more than my Cricut. But if there's something i need that i just don't have a die for and it's not too complicated (a shapevor word), then I'll pull out the Cricut. I used it more when my neice & nephews were young to make cards for them. I don't have a lotvof kid-themed dies & several folks have designed fun interactive cards geared towards young children. Much cheaper to spend a couple of dollars on a design I may only ever use once than to buy stamps and dies that I won't need in a couple of years. I'm also intrigued by the ScanNCut. That's the one feature I feel is missing from the Cricut line. I used to have a Silhouette but I don't think it's as user-friendly as the Cricut & I had a devil of a time getting it to properly feed cardstock to cut. I wasted more cardstock with it than I can count. It supposedly had a "scan & cut" feature. Really it was a photograph & cut. It has an option pic mat that you put your image on, photograph with a smartphone and it's supposed to be able to cut around the image using the registration marks on the mat as a guide. In reality, I never got it to work.
I started card making a few years ago and started with the Cricut Maker. Then a few months yes only months and saw a company that I fell in love with, so I purchased a traditional die cutting machine! I love them both for different reasons as you mentioned! Thanks for the video and the honesty!
I bought a Sizzix Portable late last year to cut a free die that I received with a WaffleFlower order from over 5 years ago. I absolutely hate it 😑. Trying to keep the cutting plates aligned and the feel of cracking and popping during the cut...it's nails on a chalkboard to me. The problem might be between the craft desk and the chair but, nonetheless I much prefer my Cricut over the Sizzix. I do love that beveled edge on the dies from the Sizzix, but using the Cricut doesn't make me grit my teeth 😂.
I have the Cricut Joy Xtra and the Maker plus Spellbinder Platinum for all the reasons Ralph mentioned in his video. As a card and t-shirt design maker I can attest to the pros and cons he mentioned. These tools for me are invaluable. As much as I would like to narrow it down to just having one of these tools, I can't because each one has its own merit. For those who are making the decision to purchase one of these, keep watching videos like this so you are informed.
Would LOVE a Cricut comparison video (costs/ features of each machine as well as Apple compatibility, how often parts need replaced, pen/marker compatibility, etc.).
I have a Brother Scan n Cut and a Cuttle Bug. They both serve me well. I buy fewer dies because I can scan a stamped image and cut a shadow. The Scan n Cut does so much more than that, however. I love them both! 😉
I agree with pattyh2410. I have a cricut but I do not use it because they want you to subscribe for more images, I LOVE my brother scan n cut , i use it so much. I also have a big shot which I also use. These are my go to, i make lots of papercrafts.
@@rosemarieporter4614 The subscription is why I didn't go with a Cricut. There are so many creators out there that offer great files. A really cool thing about SNC is you can place different colored card stock on the mat, scan it in and move the images to the respective color. Perfect placement. No guessing.
Thank you Ralph! Great Video! I love watching your videos and your explanations are so helpful. I have Cricut Maker, Explore and Joy Extra and still purchased the Big Shot mainly for embossing (love the effect) Your comparison was spot on! Thank you so much!
I have to say that I love my Cricut and my silhouette machines but I have had so much trouble with the computer with both of them over the years. I love being able to manipulate the images and the sizes. I have given up on both of them and finally I have gotten the metal die cutting machine. I have both a manual and the Big Shot Switch. I never have to have my computer tell me that my password isn't correct or that my library doesn't exist or that my computer is too old or that I can't add it to my new computer or....
I prefer the finish that a die cut gives but the Cricut means you can cut things of any size. I don’t often use my Cricut for papercrafts and find I go back to dies every time. I was disappointed in the Cricut for papercrafting as I felt it couldn’t do some of the intricate cuts a die gives. I use both, but for different things.
If someone is going to buy a Cricut Joy for card making, hold that thought. Get a Scan N Cut. You can do everything with a Scan N Cut that you can do with a Cricut Joy, except you can also cut out your stamped images with a Scan N Cut.
I just sold my last electric cutter. I much prefer using my Bigshot. No struggles getting the software to work, no time spent setting up the machine, I just make my cutting sandwich and run my die through. To me time is money and I would rather have more time, so I’m willing to spend money on dies and embossing folders.
This was great. I have a LOVE / HATE relationship with my Cricut! Weeding just doesn't go well for me but just cutting for a card works well. And yes, the die cutting is a deep black whole! So many great dies out there...
The design work is definitely not in my wheelhouse. A traditional die cutter makes the most sense for me. Creating my own sentiments would probably be the one advantage of a Joy.
Great, complete comparison!! I had a Silhouette and Scan & Cut before I started. I felt like I didn’t need dies. Wrong!! I enjoy both now. For all the reasons you pointed out. Thanks so much.
Does the cost of the Cricut only include the machine ? Don't blades and mats need replacing ? Or are they a one-time purchase ? And, what about the pens for writing ? Don’t you need a different one for each color you want ? And, what about the tools required for weeding ? I agree, the cost of dies and embossing folders does add up. But, I just find it hard to believe that there are no other costs involved after purchasing a digital machine 🤔
You’re right! There are definitely consumable costs with the Cricut. You’ve got to replace the blades and mats every so often - similar to the need to replace the clear cutting plates with the typical die cutting machines.
I know what you mean about the way the cricut doesn’t have such a good cutting finish but here’s a tip. I keep a plate especially for the following - pop you images cut out by cricut in between a folded piece of paper and run it through your die machine and it flattens the edges for you.
ok... so here's something I've been wondering about. I've had a cricut forever and I also have the sizzix big shot. I was wondering if you can do scan then cut on stamped images. Have you tried it? Since you're much more tech savvy than I, maybe you've figured this out. ❤ your videos and cards.
You can't use the Cricut for scanning stamping images and cutting around them. At least...it's not a native feature. I think some people have found some wacky workarounds to make it work, but I've never done it. It sure would be a great feature!
On kind of a whim, I made all our 2024 Christmas cards using printed paper and glue. I enjoyed it thoroughly, and about that time I discovered your videos full of new ideas and techniques that I could try myself. All that to say, when the Cricut Joy Xtra went on sale in January, I sprang for it. I'm amazed at everything this little machine can do! (I also had to rearranged two bookcases in my house to corral my growing craft supplies, oops.)
Yep-- I'd definitely like to see some Cricut comparisons. I went around and around about buying a Cricut this fall and in the end, I instead purchased a Bira--which is the precursor to the Gina K. IntriCut. I do love it for the fact that there isn't a stack of plates to fool around with. You touched on the need, however, to purchase dies and folders-- not a problem, since I have at least 200 dies and about 30-40 embossing folders. However, if I bought a Cricut, I probably wouldn't need to buy anymore of either. So, since there's a good chance I'll be buying a Cricut in the future (I'm running out of die storage). I'm thinking that I'm probably most interested in the Cricut Joy Xtra. It's kind of part way between die cutting an the Big Cricuts (like the Makers). Thanks!
I love both! Sometimes I just need a circle and it's quicker for me to grab the die and whip it out. If I need a bunch of something then I'll probably use my maker!
I’ve had both! To me, it’s more about your personality than the cutter! I overthought so much with my cricut, that I think the manual is more my speed!
Thanks to watching you use the Cricut Joy previously I have purchased one! Still learning, but do enjoy it. I will never give up the traditional machine, I have invested a lot and find the cutting is better. I would however, love to see you do a video on how to make sentiments with the Cricut Joy! That was my main focus on getting on and I am struggling a bit with figuring out the best way to get my words written. Always appreciate your videos! Thank you!
For me the game changer was when I discovered the bevel edge from a die cut. I prefer it so much. The biggest advantage to the digital cutter is the ability to resize. Thanks for this video!
You are in for a treat! My top recommendation for card makers would probably be the Cricut Joy Xtra. The Cricut Joy is great too -- especially since it's so small and convenient -- but I really appreciate the Print then Cut feature from the Xtra.
Great comparison! I started out with a Silhouette Cameo, added a Sizzix Big Shot to the craft room and feel in love with stamping and die cutting. I used the die cutter exclusively for a couple of years but am now beginning to utilize Adobe Illustrator to create unique sentiments and using the Silhouette to cut these out. While I much prefer the die cut edge to a machine cut edge, I have just recently purchased a Brother Scan and Cut in an attempt to cut the expense of purchasing matching dies for every stamp set. Love your comparison videos for craft supplies, thanks!
I have been using a traditional die cutter for years. I would never give them up! I have been eyeing a cricut joy in the past they they went on sale for $99 in the past. This past December it happened again and I purchased one from JoAnn's. I love it! I have had some experience with using design software (photoshop elements) so the tech side of it wasn't too challenging. I just wish I knew that it couldn't do print and cut (although I have watched a couple of videos using a work around) and may have paid a little more for a Cricutjoy Extra so I could make stickers easier. 😢
Tonight, I needed to cut a title for a scrapbook page…. Apparently my Cricut hated the paper and I finally gave up and cut the title either way my old faithful.. Big Shot
THANK YOU!!! For this video. I have been fighting myself to justify the cost of purchasing a Cricut. I want to be able to batch cards but the thought of using a die cutting machine ( which I have) deters me like the plague. I'm definitely comfortable now with purchasing a Cricut for my future cardmaking. THANK YOU.. MAHALO.. ARIGATO.. SALAMAT PO... GRACIAS!!!!
I say both. 3-4 years ago, my husband brought me a CRICUT explore air two and then a year later I cricut maker 3. I learned how to make T-shirts with it, but as I have started to delve into card making, I am finding that I want the embossing feature. There is a hack with the CRICUT that will let you emboss. However, I also agree with you about the cut is a much prettier cut and you are correct in that cutting with the blade can cause them to have frayed edges. So they each have a good purpose and good uses.
Very good comparison. I started my crafting journey with the Cuttlebug (still own) and the Cricut Expression (donated). I now own the Cricuit Air 2 and original Maker (see no reason to upgrade to the various newer versions), the Gemini and the Platinum 6. Each has a place/use for my crafting. For cutting dies, embossing folders and hot foiling using Foilpress, I use the Gemini. For BetterPress and some die cutting, I use the Platinum 6. For personalizing T-shirts, aprons, gift/treat containers and creating/cutting out something I don't have a die for, I use the Cricut. The negative with Cricut for me is not getting a good cut of small intricut designs, even with a brand new blade and mat. Manual or electric cutters are MUCH better for that. Anyway, this point I am happy with tools I have.
I started out with the Sizzix Big Shot & still use it from time to time. I then invested in the cute little JOY, which I use from time to time. I THEN invested in the Explorer, which I still use from time to time. I don't have a "craft" space/room, so whenever I want to use any of them OR the tools that work with them, I have to lug them out onto the dining table. I LOVE all my cutting machines. ONE thing I would say is that if you have spotty internet OR power outages very often, the Sizzix won't let you down, unless it's too dark to see what you are doing. ;) lol
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Thanks for this. I would love a comparison of the different Cricuts. I find myself thinking bigger is better but can’t justify the cost, so your input would be valuable to me.
Thank you for this comparison. I started out long ago with the Spellbinders Wizard and currently use a Big Shot.
I really enjoyed this video Ralph! You explain everything so well and put a lot of thought into your videos! I appreciate your insight, it's very helpful! I will watch any type of video you make, I enjoy them all☺️ Thank you so much for sharing. I hope you have a fantastic weekend.
I'm like you Ralph! I own both, and love both. I feel like they each deliver unique and beneficial "perks". Thanks for this fun video!
I have/love both and use them interchangeably. Great video!
Yes, please share more Cricut tutorials for card making.
Thanks for this video, Ralph. It is especially helpful for beginners when trying to figure out what they will need to buy starting out. I would appreciate a comparison of the different Cricut machines. ❤️🇨🇦
Thank you for sharing your experience. I've had several Cricuts and originally bought a Big Shot for embossing but now use it more often than the Cricut.
Great comparison and review of the pros and cons. I agree that it's best to have both, but it really depends on your needs. Thanks so much for sharing this information.
I feel like you described the 2 different machines very well. I own an electric big shot, Cricut Maker, Cricut Joy & a Brother Scan & Cut. I use each for different things.
Thanks for that! I had a silhouette years ago, but got rid of it and now just have a Big Shot Foldaway. And after this video, I think I want to add a Cricut Joy to my craft space. That way I’ll have the best of both worlds. Thanks for the video!
Would love a comparison of the Cricut models. Ty’s
Great video! I've had both traditional and digital for years and you covered the capabilities very well. I totally agree with you that I could not choose which one to give up, I love both!! (I have a Big Shot, Joy, and Air 2)
I have had my Maker for years. I was recovering from knee replacement and wasn’t able to drive. I needed a birthday card for my bff, so I made one on my Cricut. Then thought “ I like this” so I started looking at FB groups for card making for the Cricut. A lady had a beautiful card she had made but had a background with embossing. I asked her how she did that and she explained about the die cutting machines. I am still falling down the rabbit whole. Love them both. I have a Sizzix Big Shot Plus, Platinum 6 and a Mini Empress electric and could not part with any. I love foiling so I bought. A fairly inexpensive laser printer, create my design or sentiment in Design Space, use print and cut then foil on my Mini Minc. I enjoy your video’s Ralph, you explain well.
I like traditional die-cutting machines (I use one from Stampin' Up!), as I want to get AWAY from the computer to do cardmaking. With more of a traditional art and craft background, I can draw and fussy cut if I really want something I don't have stamps or dies for.
love your videos
I have the cricut Maker and have had a cricut machine of some sort since 2008. I actually haven’t used it in a while as I love the manual process of metal dies and stamping. I do on occasion incorporate the use of both and really need to get back to Cricutting again. Thank you
Class is back in session!! Absolutely enjoyed this video!!
You actually convinced me to get the Cricut Joy. I have the first Explorer and tons of cartridges. I have good intentions it just doesn’t always get done. 😂
thanks for your opinions..................pat
This depends on personal preference and what fits an individual style. I have a Bigshot and an Explore 3. For me fine details or high quantities of curves (eg flowers) warrant die cuts and non repeatable designs (things you only make a couple times) or geometric cuts work great digitally. A software subscription to design space will run you 12 a month, a die will average 20 per set so this is another consideration point. Thanks Tyler as always your content is on point and relevant.
I agree with all your points. One other advantage of the manual machines is the beautiful dies you can buy. Yes there are many lovely images in Design Space, but I don't find many of them as pretty as the ones for the manual machines. I often wish I could buy licenses for those images. I have two Cricuts and a manual, 3-inch die cut machine, but I hope some day to get a full size one that will take full-size embossing folders.
please do video on different Cricuts and whether you can buy just the designs you want or have to do a monthly subscription. AND can you cut out a design you stamped with a Cricut
I've literally been waffling between these 2 machines for daysssss. Guess I'll have to save up and get both 🤷♀️😅
Thanks for the video. I’m a long time cricut owner and big shot owner. I recently just got back into Card making, and find that for designs the big shot is a little better. I’m fine when I use my cricket I have to search for the perfect font and that can take some time. as with the big shot, die-cuts, cuts fonts perfectly. Although the cricket can cut intricate designs, it does take the machine much longer to cut design than it does rolling it through a big shot. So as you mention at the end of your video, if you’re able to do both do both because they both have advantages. Thanks again for the video.
The larger more sophisticated Cricut machines such as the Maker do an excellent job of cutting. There is a place for both types of machines in my studio and I use them both on a regular basis and love them both. I also have a Joy, but rarely use it. There is just no real comparison with the. Asker or Maker 3.
I’m well tooled up I have a ScanNCut, a Cricut Joy and a Gemini. I used to have a manual traditional years ago but with my Fibromyalgia it became impossible to crank the handle. I do have a mini portable manual I can manage at a push. When I first started card making about 30 years ago, a full set of alphabet dies was an unobtainable dream at about £300. I is crazy how not only are dies more affordable but the huge range of websites you can get free/cheap svg files from.
I have a cricut. I also have an embossing machine that i got cheap when a local craft store was going out of business, because i really wanted some embossing folders. I can use my cricut to cut out all my shapes and sentiments. It is not portable but i dont really craft outside of my home and it takes up less space than a cutter and a lot of dies
Yes, please do more videos on the various electronic machines.
I do have both a Cricut Maker and a traditional die cutting machine, actually have 3. There is a reason for having both. For me the reason I continue to buy metal dies is because of the texture that SO many of the new dies have. To my knowledge, Cricut machines, it just can’t add that.
Also, a TIP, if you want that beveled edge from a Cricut machine, then after cutting, take a hand tool that has a metal ball at one end and run it around the edge of the cut. It will look more professional. 😉
I prefer manual die-cutting as I do enjoy “unplugging”. I also have limited outlets in easy reach and hate having cords all over the place. I know some electronic tools are rechargeable but again hate having to find an available outlet and the right cord. I do agree about writing though - that is soooo cool on the Cricut - great way to personalize your cards with a professional way.
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Thanks for the comparison. I actually use the original cricut as I invested a lot of money on the cartridges which I then linked to Cricuts original Gypsy which I love to use on the go and when I want to be creative using my own designs. That being said, I do have a manual die and embossing machine, which I originally purchased for embossing but do have some dies as well.
Hi Ralph! I have several die-cutting machines, an extensive collection of dies and a Silhouette Cameo 3 Digital die-cutting machine. Both systems have their merits, but I definitely use my die-cutting machines most often - they're just more convenient; I just grab the die I want and cut, whereas with the Cameo I need to set everything up in the software first. Don't get me wrong, I love the Cameo too, but it's less convenient. When I ran my own papercraft supplies shop on Etsy, it was great and I used it all the time, but now I only use it to print and cut sentiments - which it is great for! A quick tip - you can run an embossing tool around the edge of your blade cut pieces to bevel the edges. :)
Well done with this video, you explained these machines so well. I too, would never be able to choose between the manuel die machine and my Cricut machines, both have their uses in the craftroom like you have said. The Cricut is the least expensive like you said as well....I started out with the very first electronic die machine Cricut came out with...the Baby Bug. Yes, I am dating myself big time. It was cartridge based back then and we only had a few cartridges to start, but boy there were tons of images, sayings, etc....on each cartridge. When a new one came out, we were thrilled and rushed to buy them. Like dies...well worse than dies, the cartridges took up a lot of room in the craftroom. Now it is all digital and relies on the internet. Love both ways, but love not having to store those cartridges now. I also loved the Gypsy Cricut had. It looked like a child's gaming machine, we linked all our owned cartridges and then we could design on the go. That was amazing. LOL Fun times, fun memories and still fun. I've had many machines...updating as they went along. Then came my manual die machine, the Cuttlebug by Cricut...then the Big Shot. Yep, love them all! Haha
I have both
I tried a Big Shot die cutter for one project and new it wasn't for me. So I returned it and exclusively use my cricut now. But making Christmas cards a few months ago, I realized I couldn't embossing anything. So now I'm thinking I might need to find another Big Shot.
One tip with the cricut if you don't like the sharper edges one the cricut cut- if you are using cardstock, lightly run a bone folder across the edge. Like super gently or you will just crush it. It will give the cardstock a more beveled look.
I have been on the fence about getting a cricut ever since I started watching your videos! I love so many aspects about them that you touched on here, and I wonder if they do collaborations with certain designers? For example, I LOVE Tim Holtz's line of thinlit dies, but if they were available on cricut to download, that might just change my life . . .
You have me seriously considering a Cricut. I run a class once a week and it would be delightful not to have to cut 12 of everything on my Big Shot!
Thanks for doing this comparison video! I agree with everything you said. I have both types for the same reasons as they give me options. And a girl must have options!😂
I felt comfortable allowing 4th grade students to use my traditional die-cutting machine with minimal supervision, so that's something to consider if you want to craft with kids.
I actually had the Cricut Explore first, because my daughter had one. Then while looking for Cricut ideas on RUclips, found the MISTI and started stamping a lot. I didn't see the need for dies at first, but wow, once I tried them, I much prefer the cut quality of the dies. For quite a while I mostly used the Cricut to cut homemade envelopes. But I bought a punch board to make envelopes and that seems much quicker and easier. Now I mostly just use the Cricut to cut when I need large items that would never fit through the die machine. Last project was a pop out workbench card for my son in law. I could have done it with a paper trimmer and a scoreboard, but now I have the design in Design Space so I could use it for other things too. I do like the ability to cut vinyl on the Cricut because I like to make t-shirts. Also like the ability to write custom sentiments on my cards. Great video Ralph!
Hi..
Can you do a video using cricut joy extra
This overview would be good to share for new paper crafters.
I tried several Cricuts. I kept my Expression, but haven't used it in years. I could never calibrate my Scan n Cut to get accurate cutting around a stamped image with no white border. I still have it (it can still be used to cut shapes to go behind filigree dies or sentiments), but haven't used it in years, either. I am fairly tech savvy, but the updates were difficult to implement with Macs. Getting settings right for various substrates was a headache. Cutting mats required more frequent replacement than my die-cutting plates. I don't use Better Press or foiling systems or other add-ons like that for my die-cut machine, but they do increase the versatility for those who are inclined. The only thing I occasionally miss by not using it is the ability to size the die cut (or change the proportions). If I mass produced things, the electronic machines would have an advantage there. Using the Cricut would be less expensive than owning the thousands of dies I've accumulated, but I enjoy my crafting much more when I don't have to think about the things electronic machines require.
I have the joy and scan n cut - I have 3 different die cutting machines including my old cuttlebug which is over 20yrs old but doesn't like the intricate dies which is why I upgraded to the platinum 6 and scout. Love my scan n cut but I haven't much room and it's buried at the moment so I haven't unearthed it for awhile. Just went to use my Joy for the first time in ages and it annoyed me so much I put it away again. I think for now I will keep to diecuts.
Yes-a comparison between the different Cricut machines would be helpful!
You got it 🫡
Yes, I have a Cricut Maker and donated my Joy to my teacher friend but I am interested in the Joy Extra. 🤔
I would like to see the tutorial on using Cricut Joy Xtra
One of the other considerations when it comes to cutting is that you can create TINY die cuts with a manual machine. Electronic cutters don't do well with very small images. It's too hard for the blade to create a clean cut of something very small. I have both the Cricut Maker & a Spellbinders Platinum 6. I use the Spellbinders machine far more than my Cricut. But if there's something i need that i just don't have a die for and it's not too complicated (a shapevor word), then I'll pull out the Cricut. I used it more when my neice & nephews were young to make cards for them. I don't have a lotvof kid-themed dies & several folks have designed fun interactive cards geared towards young children. Much cheaper to spend a couple of dollars on a design I may only ever use once than to buy stamps and dies that I won't need in a couple of years.
I'm also intrigued by the ScanNCut. That's the one feature I feel is missing from the Cricut line. I used to have a Silhouette but I don't think it's as user-friendly as the Cricut & I had a devil of a time getting it to properly feed cardstock to cut. I wasted more cardstock with it than I can count. It supposedly had a "scan & cut" feature. Really it was a photograph & cut. It has an option pic mat that you put your image on, photograph with a smartphone and it's supposed to be able to cut around the image using the registration marks on the mat as a guide. In reality, I never got it to work.
Hi Ralph, what pens do you recommend for your Cricut Joy?
How well does the Cricket grip mat retain its stickiness? That has usually been the downfall of the blade cutting machines.
I started card making a few years ago and started with the Cricut Maker. Then a few months yes only months and saw a company that I fell in love with, so I purchased a traditional die cutting machine! I love them both for different reasons as you mentioned! Thanks for the video and the honesty!
As a calligrapher, neither sentiment stamps nor a machine that can write is super appealing.
I bought a Sizzix Portable late last year to cut a free die that I received with a WaffleFlower order from over 5 years ago. I absolutely hate it 😑. Trying to keep the cutting plates aligned and the feel of cracking and popping during the cut...it's nails on a chalkboard to me. The problem might be between the craft desk and the chair but, nonetheless I much prefer my Cricut over the Sizzix. I do love that beveled edge on the dies from the Sizzix, but using the Cricut doesn't make me grit my teeth 😂.
Simple answer both
I have the Cricut Joy Xtra and the Maker plus Spellbinder Platinum for all the reasons Ralph mentioned in his video. As a card and t-shirt design maker I can attest to the pros and cons he mentioned. These tools for me are invaluable. As much as I would like to narrow it down to just having one of these tools, I can't because each one has its own merit. For those who are making the decision to purchase one of these, keep watching videos like this so you are informed.
Would LOVE a Cricut comparison video (costs/ features of each machine as well as Apple compatibility, how often parts need replaced, pen/marker compatibility, etc.).
I have a scan n cut sdx1200 which is great, but i feel i'm missing out. Not all of the beautiful dies for card making are available digitally
I have a Brother Scan n Cut and a Cuttle Bug. They both serve me well. I buy fewer dies because I can scan a stamped image and cut a shadow. The Scan n Cut does so much more than that, however. I love them both! 😉
I've been so interested to try a scan n cut! I don't think I have the space though haha!
@ I understand!
I agree with pattyh2410. I have a cricut but I do not use it because they want you to subscribe for more images, I LOVE my brother scan n cut , i use it so much. I also have a big shot which I also use. These are my go to, i make lots of papercrafts.
@@rosemarieporter4614 The subscription is why I didn't go with a Cricut. There are so many creators out there that offer great files. A really cool thing about SNC is you can place different colored card stock on the mat, scan it in and move the images to the respective color. Perfect placement. No guessing.
I have always wanted a Scan N Cut.
This was a great video. I'm fairly new to card making, and this video was spot on to help us newbies. Thank you.
Thank you Ralph! Great Video!
I love watching your videos and your explanations are so helpful.
I have Cricut Maker, Explore and Joy Extra and still purchased the Big Shot mainly for embossing (love the effect)
Your comparison was spot on!
Thank you so much!
I have to say that I love my Cricut and my silhouette machines but I have had so much trouble with the computer with both of them over the years. I love being able to manipulate the images and the sizes. I have given up on both of them and finally I have gotten the metal die cutting machine. I have both a manual and the Big Shot Switch. I never have to have my computer tell me that my password isn't correct or that my library doesn't exist or that my computer is too old or that I can't add it to my new computer or....
I prefer the finish that a die cut gives but the Cricut means you can cut things of any size. I don’t often use my Cricut for papercrafts and find I go back to dies every time. I was disappointed in the Cricut for papercrafting as I felt it couldn’t do some of the intricate cuts a die gives. I use both, but for different things.
If someone is going to buy a Cricut Joy for card making, hold that thought. Get a Scan N Cut. You can do everything with a Scan N Cut that you can do with a Cricut Joy, except you can also cut out your stamped images with a Scan N Cut.
I would add that the Cricut is better to make multiple of one design, but the traditional die cutting machine is better to use up scraps of cardstock
I just sold my last electric cutter. I much prefer using my Bigshot. No struggles getting the software to work, no time spent setting up the machine, I just make my cutting sandwich and run my die through. To me time is money and I would rather have more time, so I’m willing to spend money on dies and embossing folders.
It is hard to beat the simplicity of a traditional die cutter!
For some of us card making is our way to get away from computers!
I agree! I spent more time worrying with my cricut, I just can’t handle so much choice!
I use my cricut to create sentiments and card inserts but cut with my big shot. This way i don't have to buy extra stamps.
This was great. I have a LOVE / HATE relationship with my Cricut! Weeding just doesn't go well for me but just cutting for a card works well. And yes, the die cutting is a deep black whole! So many great dies out there...
The design work is definitely not in my wheelhouse. A traditional die cutter makes the most sense for me. Creating my own sentiments would probably be the one advantage of a Joy.
Totally get it - I find die cutting so satisfying!
I have both and I don’t want to be without either one 😂. Thanks for the comparison
Love the animation of your logo!
Great, complete comparison!! I had a Silhouette and Scan & Cut before I started. I felt like I didn’t need dies. Wrong!! I enjoy both now. For all the reasons you pointed out. Thanks so much.
Haha we eventually collect them all don't we?
Thanks Ralph! Yes please, a video on other machines would be appreciated.
You got it!
You brought us great points. Very well said. 👍👍👍
Thanks! Glad you found it helpful.
Does the cost of the Cricut only include the machine ? Don't blades and mats need replacing ? Or are they a one-time purchase ? And, what about the pens for writing ? Don’t you need a different one for each color you want ? And, what about the tools required for weeding ?
I agree, the cost of dies and embossing folders does add up. But, I just find it hard to believe that there are no other costs involved after purchasing a digital machine 🤔
You’re right! There are definitely consumable costs with the Cricut. You’ve got to replace the blades and mats every so often - similar to the need to replace the clear cutting plates with the typical die cutting machines.
Great comparison. I need to get my joy out more often.
So glad you liked it!
I know what you mean about the way the cricut doesn’t have such a good cutting finish but here’s a tip. I keep a plate especially for the following - pop you images cut out by cricut in between a folded piece of paper and run it through your die machine and it flattens the edges for you.
Great tip! I sometimes just rub the edges down with a bone folder but your way sounds quicker
THANK YOU!!! I really appreciate being such an honest creator not just telling us to buy everything!
Well to be fair I did say I would choose to buy both lol
A question….Can the Cricut Joy Xtr. be used with an IPad. Very informative video. Thank you for sharing. 🙋🏻♀️🤗
Yes, it can! And thank you 🙂
ok... so here's something I've been wondering about. I've had a cricut forever and I also have the sizzix big shot. I was wondering if you can do scan then cut on stamped images. Have you tried it? Since you're much more tech savvy than I, maybe you've figured this out. ❤ your videos and cards.
You can't use the Cricut for scanning stamping images and cutting around them. At least...it's not a native feature. I think some people have found some wacky workarounds to make it work, but I've never done it. It sure would be a great feature!
Have both sizzix big shot A4 and a Cricut maker 3, and Love both, so many different types of designs and cards you can create with both machines
On kind of a whim, I made all our 2024 Christmas cards using printed paper and glue. I enjoyed it thoroughly, and about that time I discovered your videos full of new ideas and techniques that I could try myself. All that to say, when the Cricut Joy Xtra went on sale in January, I sprang for it. I'm amazed at everything this little machine can do! (I also had to rearranged two bookcases in my house to corral my growing craft supplies, oops.)
Yep-- I'd definitely like to see some Cricut comparisons. I went around and around about buying a Cricut this fall and in the end, I instead purchased a Bira--which is the precursor to the Gina K. IntriCut. I do love it for the fact that there isn't a stack of plates to fool around with. You touched on the need, however, to purchase dies and folders-- not a problem, since I have at least 200 dies and about 30-40 embossing folders. However, if I bought a Cricut, I probably wouldn't need to buy anymore of either. So, since there's a good chance I'll be buying a Cricut in the future (I'm running out of die storage). I'm thinking that I'm probably most interested in the Cricut Joy Xtra. It's kind of part way between die cutting an the Big Cricuts (like the Makers). Thanks!
I have no idea how that sentence ended up with the strike through!
I love both! Sometimes I just need a circle and it's quicker for me to grab the die and whip it out. If I need a bunch of something then I'll probably use my maker!
Absolutely! I totally agree. If you only had the budget for one which would you choose?
@ralphtyndall probably the Joy! (Which I also have 😬😂)
I never use my Cricut. Too many consumables and they're too expensive but also I like the quality of manual cuts better. They have a little texture.
I’ve had both! To me, it’s more about your personality than the cutter! I overthought so much with my cricut, that I think the manual is more my speed!
I prefer both. I have the Cricut Maker and I just purchased the Big Shot. Thank for the comparison.
I have the Maker as well, but admittedly it's still in the box...🫣
Thanks to watching you use the Cricut Joy previously I have purchased one! Still learning, but do enjoy it. I will never give up the traditional machine, I have invested a lot and find the cutting is better. I would however, love to see you do a video on how to make sentiments with the Cricut Joy! That was my main focus on getting on and I am struggling a bit with figuring out the best way to get my words written. Always appreciate your videos! Thank you!
I actually have a video on that exact topic! Check it out 🙂 ruclips.net/video/VPGcPnWyaug/видео.htmlsi=7kg8YXho8Pbjji8E
For me the game changer was when I discovered the bevel edge from a die cut. I prefer it so much. The biggest advantage to the digital cutter is the ability to resize. Thanks for this video!
Totally agree, the bevel edge is amazing!
Perfect timing! I just started to look at adding to my craft room with a digital machine
Edited to add, I already have a traditional die cutting machine
You are in for a treat! My top recommendation for card makers would probably be the Cricut Joy Xtra. The Cricut Joy is great too -- especially since it's so small and convenient -- but I really appreciate the Print then Cut feature from the Xtra.
I would like to see a video on all the cricuts I think I’m going to buy one! But do want to know which one I should get
Can definitely work on this!
Great comparison! I started out with a Silhouette Cameo, added a Sizzix Big Shot to the craft room and feel in love with stamping and die cutting. I used the die cutter exclusively for a couple of years but am now beginning to utilize Adobe Illustrator to create unique sentiments and using the Silhouette to cut these out. While I much prefer the die cut edge to a machine cut edge, I have just recently purchased a Brother Scan and Cut in an attempt to cut the expense of purchasing matching dies for every stamp set. Love your comparison videos for craft supplies, thanks!
I have been using a traditional die cutter for years. I would never give them up! I have been eyeing a cricut joy in the past they they went on sale for $99 in the past. This past December it happened again and I purchased one from JoAnn's. I love it! I have had some experience with using design software (photoshop elements) so the tech side of it wasn't too challenging. I just wish I knew that it couldn't do print and cut (although I have watched a couple of videos using a work around) and may have paid a little more for a Cricutjoy Extra so I could make stickers easier. 😢
You are just so good at explaining things! ❤️
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Tonight, I needed to cut a title for a scrapbook page…. Apparently my Cricut hated the paper and I finally gave up and cut the title either way my old faithful.. Big Shot
THANK YOU!!! For this video. I have been fighting myself to justify the cost of purchasing a Cricut. I want to be able to batch cards but the thought of using a die cutting machine ( which I have) deters me like the plague.
I'm definitely comfortable now with purchasing a Cricut for my future cardmaking.
THANK YOU.. MAHALO.. ARIGATO.. SALAMAT PO... GRACIAS!!!!
I love my Big Shot but sometimes I wish I had the freedom of a Cricut! I have no desk space to use it though
I feel you on the desk space thing...I keep mine tucked away on a shelf until I need it lol
I say both. 3-4 years ago, my husband brought me a CRICUT explore air two and then a year later I cricut maker 3. I learned how to make T-shirts with it, but as I have started to delve into card making, I am finding that I want the embossing feature. There is a hack with the CRICUT that will let you emboss. However, I also agree with you about the cut is a much prettier cut and you are correct in that cutting with the blade can cause them to have frayed edges. So they each have a good purpose and good uses.
Totally agree!
Very good comparison. I started my crafting journey with the Cuttlebug (still own) and the Cricut Expression (donated). I now own the Cricuit Air 2 and original Maker (see no reason to upgrade to the various newer versions), the Gemini and the Platinum 6. Each has a place/use for my crafting. For cutting dies, embossing folders and hot foiling using Foilpress, I use the Gemini. For BetterPress and some die cutting, I use the Platinum 6. For personalizing T-shirts, aprons, gift/treat containers and creating/cutting out something I don't have a die for, I use the Cricut. The negative with Cricut for me is not getting a good cut of small intricut designs, even with a brand new blade and mat. Manual or electric cutters are MUCH better for that. Anyway, this point I am happy with tools I have.
I started out with the Sizzix Big Shot & still use it from time to time. I then invested in the cute little JOY, which I use from time to time. I THEN invested in the Explorer, which I still use from time to time. I don't have a "craft" space/room, so whenever I want to use any of them OR the tools that work with them, I have to lug them out onto the dining table. I LOVE all my cutting machines. ONE thing I would say is that if you have spotty internet OR power outages very often, the Sizzix won't let you down, unless it's too dark to see what you are doing. ;) lol