Information

[gncntry96]

I've started to do some research about SCAL and MTC, and am still undecided. I told DH that's what he's getting me for Christmas, so I need to decide which way to go...anyone have any words of wisdom?

The whole concept is awesome, but I just want to be sure that I don't end up getting something that's too complicated and I don't end up wasting the money. Any advice is welcome.

Thanks!!

***Edited to add***
Sorry. Sure Cuts a Lot (SCAL) and Made to Cut (MTC). I'm not sure exactly how they work. I know it's software that you install on the computer, then you can make any font into letters the cricut can cut. Does the cricut then connect to the computer? I have watched some of the tutorials on MTC, and it looks ridiculously easy to do...but most things are when you really know what you're doing. I just wonder how long it takes to get to that point. I was just sitting here watching the tutorials with my jaw dropped wide open in amazement at what it can do. Just want to get some current user insight before I take the plunge with either one.

Update: so after doing a trial of both, I think I'm going to go with the Made to Cut. There are several Cherries who said they loved it, and I seemed to do better figuring it out better than the other one, although I think that's more a matter of personal preference. I might be sending PMs to some MTC users for some tips and tricks. Thanks for all your insight!

[Ayla]

I don't even have a clue what you're talking about!!!

[MOM2SNOX]

I have the SCAL (Sure Cuts A Lot) and really like it but I don't know anything about MTC. What is it??

[GRACEpunches5]

me either. not a clue on what those are!

[scrappie_stacie]

I have the SCAL (Sure Cuts A Lot) and really like it but I don't know anything about MTC. What is it??

Ditto! I love SCAL. Quite honestly if I didn't have it I probably wouldn't use my Cricut as much as I do. I love the flexibility of being able to download any font or dingbat and then cutting it out on my cricut. There are also alot of free downloadable svgs. I also downloaded something called inkscape. I played with it awhile ago, but haven't been back since. You can design your own svgs with it... very cool.

[writerlady]

I have SCAL. Yes, the Cricut connects to your computer via a pretty generic looking USB cable. I believe it came with my Expression. SCAL is fairly easy to use. There is a free program called Inkscape that you can try - to make your own things to cut out. You can cut more than fonts with SCAL and there are yahoo groups that post freebies very often. I have a HUGE amount of files to cut - and none of them cost a penny. I've heard very good things about Make the Cut, too. In fact, I read today that MTC will let you draw and cut, like the new Inspiration printer/cutter. Hope this helps.

[runmommy]

I don't have any experience with SCAL but I have MTC and I LOVE it!! It is so easy to use. I'm sure it can do much more than I've used so far, but it's been worth the $$ to me just being able to cut all the different fonts already installed on my computer and those I've downloaded from various websites.

I think both programs offer free trials so you could give each one a try.

[deerewife]

I have SCAL and have used it to do all kinds of things. Most recent was popcorn container invites for my dd's birthday. You can find all kinds of free files to use on the internet and I believe you can even create your own. I'm sure MTC has similar things.

I know SCAL now works on a MAC and I believe allows you to install on two computers.

You just connect your Cricut with a USB cable to cut.

[mommahobbit]

I have MTC and could not live with out it! It is so user freindly and the customer supprt is amazing! Scal is nice but I never could grasp it! Make the Cut RULESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS any questions about MTC please pm me! I love it!

[Grandma Flowers]

I have SCAL and like it.

[gncntry96]

Thanks everyone! I think I'm going to do the free trials for both of them and see which one fits me better. Once I decide, I may be sending some PMs to you all to get some help getting started.

[kittymomma]

please share any/all info, opinions etc you get/form during your research! I have been debating getting SCAL--didn't know about the other program...