Cricut

What Is Cricut?

The Cricut is a cartridge based electronic die cutting machine that cuts shapes and letters out of vellum, paper, cardstock (including Bazzill), thin chipboard and vinyl. The Cricut is a standalone unit and does not require connection to a computer to operate, however its functionality can now be extended with software and connection to computer via a USB cable.

Cricut Models – Overview

There are currently three models of Cricut (although a fourth is on the way) and also a handheld device called the Gypsy. Three of the Cricut models share the same blade assemblies and cartridges. (It’s not yet clear whether the fourth model shares the same blade assembly, but it will be compatible with all cartridges.)

Cricut Personal – The Cricut Personal cuts designs in five sizes from 1″ to 5.5″ on a 6″ x 12″ sized cutting mat. The machine features a small LCD display screen, a carry handle for portability and weighs about 7lbs (approx 3.2kg). The Cricut Personal was the first model of Cricut released by manufacturer, Provocraft.

Included in the usual Cricut Personal package is the machine, blade assembly, 6″x12″ cutting mat, power adapter, quick start guide, user manual and the George & Basic Shapes cartridge.

Cricut Expression – The Cricut Expression is a larger machine which cuts designs ranging from 0.25″ to 23.5″ on a 12″ x 12″ (30.48cm x 30.48cm) or 12″ x 24″ (30.48cm x 60.96cm) sized cutting mat. The Expression has additional features, allowing you to mix and match features in the same cut, cut in portrait or landscape and also features a larger LCD screen which can be angled for easier viewing. Machine dimensions are 21.5″ x 7″ x 7.75″ (or 54.6cm x 17.8cm x 19.7cm) and weight is 12.6lbs (5.72kg).

Included in the usual Cricut Expression package is the machine, blade assembly, 12″ x 12″ cutting mat, power adapter, quick start guide, user manual, Plantin Schoolbook Font cartridge and Accent Essentials Shapes cartridge. (Note: The 12″ x 24″ cutting mats are availalbe separately. Also, the pink Expression package includes 3 cartridges.)

Cricut Create – The Cricut Create is the same size as the Cricut Personal (ie 6″ x 12″) but it can cut smaller shapes ranging in size from 0.25″ up to 11.5″.

It also has a Portrait mode, Fit To Page mode, Auto Fit mode, Center Point function and Flip function and an improved LCD display screen.

Included in the usual Cricut Create package is the machine, blade assembly, 6″ x12″ cutting mat, power adapter, quick start guide, user manual and Don Juan Font cartridge.

Gypsy – The Gypsy is a handheld portable device that allows you to create designs on the screen and save them for later use with your Cricut. To cut designs made with the Gypsy, connect it to the Cricut via a USB cable. The Gypsy also allows you to load and store your entire library of Cricut cartridges on it and there’s a search facility to assist in finding specific items. The Gypsy comes with two pre-loaded exclusive cartridges called Gypsy Font and Gypsy Wanderings.

Cricut Cake - In January 2010, Provocraft launched a new model of Cricut called the Cricut Cake aimed at the cake making industry. The Cricut Cake is a modified version of the Cricut Expression, allowing it to cut thin sheets of icing (fondant) instead of paper. Provocraft has indicated Cricut Cake will be compatible with all Cricut cartridges and there will also be a new range of cartridges specifically for the Cricut Cake. The first cartridge will be called Cricut Cake Basics.

5th Feb 2010 – A Provocraft update states the finishing touches are still being placed on the Cricut Cake machines prior to them going into full commercial production. The machines are planned to be released in the first week of May 2010 in the US. (No word on when they might be available in Australia just yet.)