sweetpeasmom
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 2,594 
|
Post by sweetpeasmom on Jul 13, 2018 11:57:33 GMT
I know this is scrapbooking related but I'm hoping to get answers here.
Which one is better or do you prefer and why? I am thinking of getting one to cut vinyl. I see things I want to make for the home or dd and I don't have one. I've used a Cricut before but it wasn't one that cuts from the computer. It used the cartridges. I want something that cuts something I've done on the computer.
|
|
schizo319
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 3,030
|
Post by schizo319 on Jul 13, 2018 12:13:16 GMT
I have a silhouette cameo that I've had for several years. I really love it. At the time that I got mine, the cricut only used cartridges, and I was really only interested in cutting things that I had drawn myself, so the silhouette was my only option. I find the software very easy to use, but I draw vector graphics for a living, so my experience is probably a little skewed.
|
|
|
|
Post by Basket1lady on Jul 13, 2018 12:20:14 GMT
Silhouette. Does a better job with small cuts and the software is easy to use. You can buy one file at a time, design your own, and use files designed by others than Silhouette America. Even older machines work—firmware is updated via the computer.
|
|
gloryjoy
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 3,332
|
Post by gloryjoy on Jul 13, 2018 13:34:14 GMT
I own a Silhouette so it gets my vote.
I did own a Cricut with about 50 cartridges. Also I never found their software very good or easy to use.
In my experience, the Silhouette software is very user friendly. I feel like there is so much more you can do with it, I'm always learning something new, they're always adding more features.
|
|
caangel
Drama Llama
Posts: 5,479
Location: So Cal
Member is Online
|
Post by caangel on Jul 13, 2018 14:06:23 GMT
Silhouette
Cricut's software is internet based, no internet or server issues and no crafting for you. Last I heard was that they had a subscription plan but you couldn't download any files from their store. So if you stopped the subscription you are left with no files.
|
|
|
|
Post by mcjunkin on Jul 13, 2018 14:06:33 GMT
Silhouette is an awesome machine! There are several threads on the scrapbook board here that talk about pro/cons and features of each machine. Not sure how to link and search function is wonky. Scrapnnana is one that contributes a lot of good info on those. Maybe find her older posts. I do not have Cricut, but if I remember correctly, there is a big difference in the design software, and I *think* that for the Cricut you must be on line to design. Not so for the Silhouette.
|
|
seaexplore
Prolific Pea
Posts: 8,470
Apr 25, 2015 23:57:30 GMT
|
Post by seaexplore on Jul 13, 2018 15:04:04 GMT
Another silhouette fan.
I got a new to me cricut in 2010. Used the hell out of it with SCAL2. Bought cartridges because I HAD to have them. Bought a gypsy because I HAD to have it, trying to sell it all right now.
I bought my silhouette cameo 3 in October 2017. LOVE IT! I do not love the software so I use SCAL4. 5 just came out and I’m trying to decide if I should upgrade. SCAL customer service is awesome too!
I also have a us cutter MH 34 that came to me from a friend,. I’m still trying to figure that one out. It also works with SCAL.
|
|
|
|
Post by crazy4scraps on Jul 13, 2018 15:12:47 GMT
Between those two, Silhouette will do what you want.
|
|
|
|
Post by mygigiscraps on Jul 13, 2018 15:19:52 GMT
Silhouette Cameo 3 girl here. LOVE my Cameo. I don't ever worry about whether or not Silhouette America will support their software and machines. I used to have Cricut products. Never again.
|
|
|
|
Post by M on Jul 13, 2018 15:20:34 GMT
I am Silhouette user. Just bought my second one. My other one was about 6 years old and was a hard worker!
|
|
|
|
Post by cindyupnorth on Jul 13, 2018 15:29:22 GMT
following! I want a cutter for sb titles. YES! I still sb! Been holding out til they got cheaper!
|
|
|
|
Post by cmpeter on Jul 13, 2018 15:39:52 GMT
Silhouette fan here. I like that I can take it to crops and still use it...since it doesn’t require an internet connection. Once I buy a file it’s mine forever. I can also make my own files.
|
|
GiantsFan
Prolific Pea
Posts: 8,299
Site Supporter
Jun 27, 2014 14:44:56 GMT
|
Post by GiantsFan on Jul 13, 2018 15:47:22 GMT
I have both. Silhouette cuts intricate items and small alphas much better than Cricut. My Cricut is the 1st gen Expressions that I use with SCAL, so the newer versions may be better.
I'm actually thinking about getting the Brother Scan N Cut. I'm hoping there will be a "I can't pass this up" deal on Prime Day.
|
|
|
|
Post by Tammiem2pnc1 on Jul 13, 2018 15:53:13 GMT
I'm the oddball and will stick with my Cricut Explore Air 2. When I was looking for a new machine I did a lot of research and I ended up choosing the Cricut. There are so many free or cheap SVG files out there that their subscription didn't bother me at all. I use it for scrapbooking, vinyl (decals) and HTV for shirts. Their software does need to be run online, but I've never had that be an issue. I think overall both machines now a days are very comparable overall. When I first chose my Cricut one of the deciding factors was price, the Cricut was cheaper, but now I think they are pretty much equal in price.
|
|
|
|
Post by cannes on Jul 13, 2018 16:21:42 GMT
I traded my Cricut for a Silhouette and have never once regrettted the switch.
The Silhouette software is very good and user friendly; it requires no cartridges or purchased designs and should I purchase a subscription or designs, they are mine to keep. Plus, the machine cuts small items much better than Cricut,
|
|
|
|
Post by lisae on Jul 13, 2018 16:25:00 GMT
I've had both and much prefer the Silhouette. It's cheaper in the long run and takes up less space because you don't have to store the cartridges. You can change proportions of what you cut. The quality of the cuts is better with the Silhouette also.
|
|
|
|
Post by freecharlie on Jul 13, 2018 16:30:04 GMT
I know this is scrapbooking related but I'm hoping to get answers here.
Which one is better or do you prefer and why? I am thinking of getting one to cut vinyl. I see things I want to make for the home or dd and I don't have one. I've used a Cricut before but it wasn't one that cuts from the computer. It used the cartridges. I want something that cuts something I've done on the computer.
thanks for asking. I've been researching because I am doing an album for ds. |
|
|
|
Post by cindyupnorth on Jul 13, 2018 16:32:59 GMT
Ok. This is probably a dumb question, but if the silhouette doesn't need internet, or cartridges, how does it get new updates, or new fonts, etc? how does that work?
|
|
GiantsFan
Prolific Pea
Posts: 8,299
Site Supporter
Jun 27, 2014 14:44:56 GMT
|
Post by GiantsFan on Jul 13, 2018 16:46:55 GMT
Ok. This is probably a dumb question, but if the silhouette doesn't need internet, or cartridges, how does it get new updates, or new fonts, etc? how does that work? For Silhouette machines you do need internet for updates, but you can use the software to design your own items, layout text on the screen and cut without logging into the internet. Of course if you want to purchase designs from the Silhouette Store or elsewhere you will need an internet connection. With the Cricut machines it's my understanding that you have to be connected to use their software no matter what you are doing. |
|
|
|
Post by cannes on Jul 13, 2018 16:49:54 GMT
Ok. This is probably a dumb question, but if the silhouette doesn't need internet, or cartridges, how does it get new updates, or new fonts, etc? how does that work? You’d need the internet if you wanted to purchase designs from the Silhouette store or to download new fonts or for software updates. You don’t need the internet to use the software or to utilize downloaded designs. Another plus I forgot to mention - you can cut and true type font that is installed in your computer; you don’t have to purchase special fonts. |
|
swtonscrappn
Full Member
Posts: 135
Jun 25, 2014 23:58:28 GMT
|
Post by swtonscrappn on Jul 13, 2018 17:50:04 GMT
Count me in as another "traded my credit for a cameo and have NEVER been happier". I've had my cameo for several years now and use it regularly!
|
|
|
|
Post by Basket1lady on Jul 13, 2018 18:02:38 GMT
I have both. Silhouette cuts intricate items and small alphas much better than Cricut. My Cricut is the 1st gen Expressions that I use with SCAL, so the newer versions may be better. I'm actually thinking about getting the Brother Scan N Cut. I'm hoping there will be a "I can't pass this up" deal on Prime Day. A Silhouette will cut SCAL files. |
|
inkedup
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 4,837
Jun 26, 2014 5:00:26 GMT
|
Post by inkedup on Jul 13, 2018 18:04:37 GMT
I've never used a Cricut, but I have had a Cameo for several years and I love it. It's easy to work with (especially if you have some Photoshop knowledge) and the results are spectacular.
|
|
|
|
Post by Basket1lady on Jul 13, 2018 18:06:27 GMT
I'm the oddball and will stick with my Cricut Explore Air 2. When I was looking for a new machine I did a lot of research and I ended up choosing the Cricut. There are so many free or cheap SVG files out there that their subscription didn't bother me at all. I use it for scrapbooking, vinyl (decals) and HTV for shirts. Their software does need to be run online, but I've never had that be an issue. I think overall both machines now a days are very comparable overall. When I first chose my Cricut one of the deciding factors was price, the Cricut was cheaper, but now I think they are pretty much equal in price. A Silhouette will cut SVG files, but you need the Designer Edition. It's about $25 with a code, which are frequently available. Silhouette School is running a promo on the Designer Edition and the Business Edition upgrades--50% off. The basic design program is actually very good and is free, but I think the DE is worth the money. There are comparison charts out there comparing the different editions. I use my Cameo a TON and don't have BE--I just don't need it. And don't forget how easy it is to trace things. I've traced tons of things for personal use with the kids' schools, as well as fun ideas I see on Pinterest. |
|
GiantsFan
Prolific Pea
Posts: 8,299
Site Supporter
Jun 27, 2014 14:44:56 GMT
|
Post by GiantsFan on Jul 13, 2018 18:07:50 GMT
I have both. Silhouette cuts intricate items and small alphas much better than Cricut. My Cricut is the 1st gen Expressions that I use with SCAL, so the newer versions may be better. I'm actually thinking about getting the Brother Scan N Cut. I'm hoping there will be a "I can't pass this up" deal on Prime Day. A Silhouette will cut SCAL files. Yes I have SCAL3 for use with Silhouette. |
|
|
|
Post by cindyupnorth on Jul 13, 2018 18:45:43 GMT
What is SCAL?
|
|
GiantsFan
Prolific Pea
Posts: 8,299
Site Supporter
Jun 27, 2014 14:44:56 GMT
|
Post by GiantsFan on Jul 13, 2018 22:03:14 GMT
SCAL (Sure Cuts A Lot) is a third party design program that you can use instead of the cutting machine's standard software. The SCAL software was originally designed (by CraftEdge) to use with Cricut in lieu of or in addition to purchasing their cartridges. As you can imagine Provo Craft, the maker of Cricut, wanted you to have to purchase cartridges and use their horrible attempt at software and demanded the SCAL people stop selling their software. Legal battle ensued and PC prevailed and SCAL was no longer allowed to work with Cricut. So unless you already have an original copy of SCAL you will not be able to cut anything but cartridge fonts and images on the first Cricuts (Personal, Expression, Create, Cake). I've been using it since it came out. The software for Silhouette is pretty darn easy I'm just used to SCAL. I have not used Cricut Craftroom or Design Space or whatever it's now called. I have two friends who use it and have no problems. You do not need SCAL in order to use a cutting machine. All newer cutting machines come with some type of software. I hope this helps. |
|
|
|
Post by Basket1lady on Jul 13, 2018 23:24:13 GMT
SCAL (Sure Cuts A Lot) is a third party design program that you can use instead of the cutting machine's standard software. The SCAL software was originally designed (by CraftEdge) to use with Cricut in lieu of or in addition to purchasing their cartridges. As you can imagine Provo Craft, the maker of Cricut, wanted you to have to purchase cartridges and use their horrible attempt at software and demanded the SCAL people stop selling their software. Legal battle ensued and PC prevailed and SCAL was no longer allowed to work with Cricut. So unless you already have an original copy of SCAL you will not be able to cut anything but cartridge fonts and images on the first Cricuts (Personal, Expression, Create, Cake). I've been using it since it came out. The software for Silhouette is pretty darn easy I'm just used to SCAL. I have not used Cricut Craftroom or Design Space or whatever it's now called. I have two friends who use it and have no problems. You do not need SCAL in order to use a cutting machine. All newer cutting machines come with some type of software. I hope this helps. Agree. I just wanted to reiterate that you don't need to use SCAL, but if you buy designs off the internet a lot of designers use them. But honestly, I just trace with the Silhouette software. I don't want to mess with downloading files. The Silhouette software is pretty darn good--I use it way more than Photoshop for graphics. Recently, I designed a baby quilt and a wooden hanging flag with all of our duty stations on it. I didn't cut anything with my Cameo, I just used the software. |
|
|
|
Post by 950nancy on Jul 14, 2018 0:37:26 GMT
I have had three versions of the Cricut and one of the Silhouette. Hands down I prefer my Silhouette. The software was easier to use (and I had Gypsy). I still have 125 Cricut cartridges and some of their designs are really cool, but I still prefer the Silhouette.
|
|
sweetpeasmom
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 2,594
|
Post by sweetpeasmom on Jul 14, 2018 1:24:09 GMT
Thank you for all the input (and explains SCAL).
|
|
