eCraft Electronic Cutting Systems

OK, I know, you're wondering what's up with me today! Nothing for days and now 3 new posts on the same day!  Like I said, things are changing in 2010!

I recently came across this new electronic die cutting machine and I am really excited to get this one!  As you may know I first got the Cricket and sold that and got the Silhouette by QucKutz.  However, I'm not a big fan of it either.  I hate the idea of sticky mats and having to play with the pressure depending on the thickness of the paper and the price and size of the Cricut cartridges are a real turnoff for me.  I did get a Slice and I have gotten most of the cartridges for it!  I actually like the Slice's portability.  However I am again at the mercy of proprietary software.  I can only buy MM Slice cards to use in the Slice. 

All that said, this new cutter, does not use sticky mats, it uses a paper tray and you can use any true font on your computer to create words  either directly by connecting the eCraft via a USB port or by transfering the image to an SD card and popping it into the card slot in the cutter.  It can print using 12 inch by any length paper, using a roll which allows you to print long banners! The eCraft also regulates the pressure needed to cut different medium, paper, cardstock, grunge paper, etc automatically. It also draws and cuts without the machine having to stop as it holds both the cutting blade and the drawing pens simultaneously. It will first draw the image and then cut it out! Watch this video and do let me know what you think!



Truly looks like Craftwell USA has solved a number of the problems of the first generation cutters.  And the colored ones are really cute!  BTW, I hear that they will cost between $199 and $300 and the pre-loaded cards will sell for around $30.  Not too bad...

Coming this week!

I've decided that 2010 is about triumphing over my normal sedentary nature and especially about forming new friendships and cementing existing ones.  In my great wisdom {ô.ô}, I've determined that I needed to step out of my comfort zone to make things happen. So, this week, I've got my friend Charlene joining me Tuesday to scrap and play.  On Wednesday evening I've organized a meetup for local empty nesters and then Friday I'm driving to a weekend scrapbooking retreat at the French Lick Resort Springs Hotel in Indiana.

I'm excited as I get to catch up with one of my longtime on-line friends Sandy who it just happens shares my birthday, though I do believe that she is a couple of years younger! I am truly looking forward to getting there, but I'm not sure what I'll bring with me! I've actually paid for two people, I was hoping that my buddy Janie would be able to come up for a visit, but unfortunately that didn't happen. So, if anyone reading this wants to join me and share my room, your cost is $129.50 plus tax. Package for one includes two nights, Friday night reception, Saturday box lunch, workshops and speakers and 20% discount meal coupons. There will be stores on site, including Archivers. It will be interesting to see how Archivers sets up and what they bring with them. I'll try to take pictures! Now to figure out what to bring!

Scrapbook Buddies - Meetup Kentucky

With the new year comes even more catching up to do! Last Wednesday evening, was the first meeting of the Kentucky based Scrapbook Buddies! My friend Charlene showed up early and brought some treats with her! I had already set up the craftroom and after making sure everything was in order, we went to grab a quick bite. Four other people showed up and it would appear that they had a great time! The room setup worked well and everyone seemed to interact with everyone else!  I can't wait for the next gathering.