Today, I have something that might surprise you. I have a project I made using my new Silhouette Cameo. There has been lots of talk about people switching over to that machine, and as such, there has been many questions on the pros and cons between the Cricut Expression and the Cameo. There was no way I could answer these questions truthfully with out actually getting one and using it. Besides, I craft so much that I thought the additional variety the Cameo would give would be a good thing.
One of my good crafting friends, Diane from Capadia Designs, has sung the machine's praises for quite some time. She very much likes perfect circles and scallops which the Cameo provides. Now, those things do not bother me at all, so I am ok with that aspect of the Cricut. Her stuff is beautiful, so maybe I should care more ;-) She advised me of the best deal going a week and a half ago, and while I was on the phone with her, I purchased it.
Price: I think the two machines are quite comparable in price. You can get them both on sale in the $200 range if you look. However, the price in images is different. The Cameo does not come with cartridges like the Cricut usually does. You will have to buy images or procure free ones online. Now if you buy individual images from Silhouette not on sale, you will pay $1 each where a Cricut cartridge has more images for the money. However, if you typically do not like each image on a cartridge you might like the freedom of buying images as you need them.
Out of the box usability: Everyone knows that the Cricut is out of the box ready. You do not need a computer to use it. Pop in a cartridge and you are off running. The Cameo needs a computer to work. Although, the Cameo is quite easy to use out of the box if you have a computer. I did not take one class and was ready to go with in minutes. Not everyone likes to be chained to a computer though. If you are used to using the Cricut Craft Room you may already be used to crafting with a computer. I personally like the freedom of not having to use the computer if I do not want to.
Quality of cuts: This is where the Cameo does shine. I was so surprised at how intricate the machine would cut, which will be great for those occasional projects. My type of crafting typically does not use a lot of delicate cuts, but it is nice to have the option.
All in all, it is really up to you. I do not think it is crazy to have both. That is what I am going to do. The more tools the better, I say!
Occasionally, I will post projects made with my new machine, but will still continue to mainly post Cricut heavy projects.
Here is the first thing I made using the machine. It did not take very long to put together. I just really liked the stars!
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| As you can see some of these stars are pretty small and they cut pretty well. |
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| I used a Close to My Heart stamp set called Christmas Joy. |
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| I added some rhinestones to make it sparkle a little more. |
December Specials
I am giving one Pink Cricut machine away to one lucky customer. To be eligible to win all you have to do is purchase something in the month of December! I will draw the winner January 2nd!
Second, everyone enjoys shopping the deals this time of year, and you’ll be tickled to learn that Close To My Heart is making more fabulous deals available to you. At 12:00 AM (MST) on December 1, Close To My Heart will add new items to the “While Supplies Last” section my shopping page. Among the new additions you will find a wide variety of paper and coordinating accessories, all with a substantial markdown. You will also find that most of the items that are currently available will also see a further markdown at that time. Click here to check it out ==> Close To My Heart SALE
Next, the December stamp of the month is a good one. It covers everything and it is a must have it you are new at stamping. It is called Year Around Cheer and that pretty much sums it up!
Get the Stamp of the Month set for just $5 (S1211A) when you place an order of $50 or more in products!
Lastly, don't forget that you can still buy the fabulous Artiste and Art Philosophy cartridges, so if you have not taken the plunge yet, come on in the water is great! Also, if you want one of these cartridges for Christmas send your husbands or family members my way. I will help them get what you want under the tree ordered. However, you can always order these things as a gift to yourself. That way you for sure get what you want for Christmas. You have been good this year, right?
Have a TERRIFIC Tuesday!
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