The Cricut

So, here's the Cricut Expression machine I've been raving about to everyone who will listen. (I'm sorry if I've bored you to death; just tell me to stop and I'll try.) I first saw the earlier version of it at a scrapbook expo a few years ago, and I've really wanted one ever since. I spent a pretty penny for it, as they say, so I'm counting on it to motivate me to get back working on scrapbook projects, which I've so neglected for the last year or so.

This machine pretty much does it all! There's no need for die cutting devices any more, and in fact I should get myself organized and sell all of my other die-cutting equipment on e-bay. This bad boy will cut virtually any shape, any size, and almost any texture up to 12 x 12 inches, and even, I hear, 12 x 24 inches (although I don't know how to do that yet). In fact, there's a lot I don't know how to do yet. I think I'm going to have to spend some serious study time with this machine, before it gets practical for me to use on a regular basis. I've tried some things out, but am not really good at it yet. I've been watching how-to videos on the internet, and reading the instruction book. But, I think it's going to be just spending time working with it that will do it for me. I was hoping to have actually made something to include with this post, but I haven't even done that yet. I've just tried a few random things, nothing I'd want to show off yet.

I've been following a great scrapbooking blog for the past few months, and am including some things from it to show what the Cricut can do (for any of you who are interested in this stuff). I want to give proper credit to the blog I got these from: thanks and credit to Robyn at thepinkstamper.blogspot.com. If you like scrapbooking and paper crafting, check out her blog.

Here's a cute little purse gift bag with a matching card; should be do-able even for me.

And wouldn't these make cute baby shower favors? Or a larger version could be a great gift wrap for your shower gift. There are just so many possibilities here. Again, from Robyn at The Pink Stamper.

Here's another cute thing that I really like--these little gift boxes with the flower on top. It's cut all in one piece, and you just fold it and put it together. I have to admit, though, I kind of tried it myself and, well, let's just say I wasn't quite as successful as Robyn. Mine didn't come out looking quite this cute, but I'm going to keep trying. I know I can do it! Next time I post something about the Cricut, it will include the projects I made, not Robyn's creations.