Information

[Jenn Kellams]

So quite a few people at my school are wanting to have the PTO but us a Cricut or something like it for school. We would like to be able to print on 12x12 paper and also maybe use image and font files digitally (for cutting purposes, not so much printing) as well as cartridges. I would like some recommendations and why you like what you are recommending. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!

[cort]

If you are wanting to print on paper you would need the imagine (there are cartridges with all types of patterns from my understanding).

I own a cricut expression...but there is also a silhouette machine by another company (not sure who...a good friend of mine has one JMO95 on the boards here).. she could probably give you more info on the silhouette.

[Jenn Kellams]

If you are wanting to print on paper you would need the imagine (there are cartridges with all types of patterns from my understanding).

I own a cricut expression...but there is also a silhouette machine by another company (not sure who...a good friend of mine has one JMO95 on the boards here).. she could probably give you more info on the silhouette.

Thank you! I am not wanting to print I don't think. Mostly just cutting. Does the Cricut Expression do cutting from files or is it cartridges only?

[letumom]

If you connect to the Internet, you can use Cricut Craft room, in conjunction with a computer to choose the cuts/designs that you want. There is a small charge for the "carts" you buy via .Craft Room. But it looks like it might be less than buying full carts.

You will not be able to use svg or cut files which can be bought on line. A couple of years ago, Cricut put an injunction in place to prevent this type of interaction.

HTH

[writerlady]

I have both a Cricut Expression and a Silhouette Cameo. They both cut up to 12" wide and at least 3 feet long. They have their pros and cons. The Expression uses cartridges, which have come down in price and can be bought on ebay or on sale at crafty stores. The Cameo uses small files and a computer program to cut, although you can also load designs onto an SD card and cut from that. The files are very detailed, but small, so you can get a ton on one SD card. Silhouette also has an online store, where they sell designs. They have a free file every week, and they have a"clearance" sale, where you can buy designs for 50 cents and they change every week. If you upgrade your software, you can create your own designs - using svgs (google svg) and true type fonts. It is more open-ended for design purposes than the Cricut. They both use mats, and I think the Expression's mat was sturdier, but they recently changed it and I don't care for it anymore. You can actually make your own mat quite easily. You can find direction online. They both can write or draw with pens you can purchase. There is an option online to purchase a nicer pen holder for both of them, and you may want to pursue that. Best of luck to you!

[Queen Mum]

You can use the Expressions to print - using the pens. They will not fill in, only do an outline. But if you want to save $$$ you can print, using the pens, then fill in with markers. Yes, it will take time - but it would be lots cheaper than buying inks for the Imagine.

You're really better off cutting out the letters and making your posters.

[Jenn Kellams]

You ladies are amazing!! Thank you so much for your help and knowledge!!

[Indy Scrapper]

If you look into the Cricut Craft room, please remember that you can design anything you want, but you have to have the cartridge for your machine to actually cut that design.


I think the Cricut Expression is the easiest to learn, the most cost effective and would be great for classroom use. It is my understanding that machine was designed with the classroom in mind. You will need lots of cutting blades if you are doing big projects. Cardstock will dull a blade pretty quickly. I also suggest having several cutting mats so you can layout your projects on the mats and have them ready to load when you are ready to cut.



Have fun.