The winners of the two cartridge giveaway…

Cowelleru says:

Thanks for a great opportunity to win a new cartridge. I will e-mail you my DS cut.file.

Tracey says:

Here’s a menu board I created using Plantin Schoolbook: [IMG]http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m74/Keizerin1/DSC_0008.jpg[/IMG] I would love the From my Kitchen to make the embellishments to this as well since I give them away as gifts! Thanks for the opportunity! )

If you haven’t heard already, there are three new seasonal cartridges. And lucky for us…the imaged have been leaked! They are Thanksgiving, Christmas Village, and Christmas Cards.

Thanksgiving

Christmas Village

Christmas Cards

Your favorite? I love the phrases on the Thanksgiving but think I would get the most use out of the Christmas Cards.

Seasonal Cartridges retail at $24.99 and are supposed to be available for just a season.

Okay ladies… Many of you know that  am teaching at the Creating Keepsakes Convention in Tulsa in a couple weeks.
A lot of you also know that I am also taking care of my MIL who has brain trauma as a result of brain surgery to clip an aneurism nearly four months ago. She has no short term memory and I am by her side nearly 24/7.

What does this have to do with you?

Well, as I was racking my brain as to how in the world I was going to deliver a super class jam packed with value while taking care of mom at the same time, I got a gentle (okay, maybe not-so-gentle) nudge in my Spirit asking why I always have to do things MY way (which is usually the more complicated way!).  And so I decided that instead of stressing myself out for the next two weeks creating Design Studio files to give to my class, I would humbly, down-on-my-knees, beg you Design Studio super stars to graciously share a file with me that you have made.

Here are the details:

*Everyone who leaves a comment with a link to a file you have personally created will be eligible for a chance to win a cartridge. You can also just leave a comment saying you emailed me and contact me directly at info at learningthecricut dot com. I still need you to leave a comment though so I can include you in the give away.

*Gypsy files are fine also, as long as I have permission to convert them to Design Studio files as well.

*By commenting and sharing your file, you are giving Learning The Cricut permission to share your file on a dvd to the class attendees at the CKC Tulsa Convention.

*ALL files used will be given FULL credit including name, blog info, and any other info you would like me to provide with your file.

*The files will be used ONLY for this particular class and will not be redistributed in any other way.

You are probably wondering what the cartridges being given away are, huh?

You will be able to choose from:

Hello Kitty Font
Basketball Solutions
Mini Monsters
Robotz
Graphically Speaking
From My Kitchen

I will randomly pick two people who have shared their files to each win a cartridge. I’ll announce the prize winners on Wednesday, August 18th. Thank you so much for sharing with me. I absolutely LOVE the community of Cricut users!

So you were just thinking, “Gee, I have an extra $600 laying around…maybe Provocraft will come out with a new Cricut…”. Well, this is your lucky day:)  ***I just can’t keep up!!***

A video from “creativeladybug’ on YouTube:

A video from CraftCritique on YouTube:

Another from AboveRubiesStudio on YouTube:

For the “Cricut Circle” members, this info was announced to them first: (you can also read the letter HERE)

“The Next Big Thing From Provo Craft!

As a Cricut Circle member, we wanted to introduce you to the exciting new product being revealed and celebrated at CHA. Let’s hear a warm round of applause for Cricut Imagine, the world’s first tool that precisely prints and cuts with the touch of a button, requiring no computer or software.

With print and cut together, now and you can add color and dimension to your creative projects, bringing them to life like never before. Cricut Imagine saves you time since you no longer have to use three different tools to get designs, print, and then cut projects. The new machine helps you add more personalization and creativity to projects with a new library of content including shapes, patterns, and color. In addition, Cricut Imagine is easy to use and is built upon award-winning cutting and printing technology from Provo Craft and HP. Cricut Imagine is currently on display at the Craft & Hobby Association Summer Convention and Tradeshow in Chicago.

Cricut Imagine gives new life to all your original Cricut cartridges! Now you can add colors and patterns when pairing the original cartridges with NEW Cricut Imagine Colors and Patterns cartridges.

“Cricut Imagine is not only unique to the crafting industry, but to the world of technology. There is not another device that incorporates printing and cutting the way this machine does,” said Jim Thornton, CEO of Provo Craft. “The pairing of print and cut technology could only be done by the leaders in each category—HP and Provo Craft. We’re eager to see what our customers can now do with a simple sheet of white paper and Cricut Imagine print and cut technology.”

Cricut Imagine features include:

* Cricut Imagine cartridges are enhanced by Cricut Pattern and Cricut Color cartridges to add dimension and layering
* Cricut Imagine is fully compatible with all original Cricut cartridges.
* Compatible with Gypsy by Cricut handheld design studio
* Easy-to-use LCD touch-screen navigation so that all information is right at your fingertips
* New detachable accents to be able to personalize your machine with colors and textures
* Access to a vast new library of content and artwork: Over 150 original Cricut cartridges (with several new cartridges introduced each month), 12 new Cricut Imagine Art cartridges specifically for this new machine, plus 12 new Cricut Imagine Colors & Patterns cartridges
* On-board color and pattern selector – choose your own colors, sizes, and much more
* Works with paper sizes up to 12” x 12” and make cuts from .25” to 11.5”, making large-format print and cutting possible
* Retractable paper tray
* No computer necessary
* Uses same blades and blade housing as current Cricut products
* Uses a separate mat than original Cricut machines

Suggested retail for Cricut Imagine is $599.99. To learn more about this unique machine visit here. For more information on Provo Craft visit the Provo Craft Home Page or follow us on Twitter.

—The Cricut Circle “

_________________________________________________________________________________________

So here’s my question…

Isn’t part of the layering and “piecing” what makes the cuts have flair and dimention? Do you think your projects will be better with an image cut out and printed all on one sheet? I mean, not having to glue every piece would be nice…but will it lose some of its “homemade”-ness?

And what about the price? $599 is pretty steep. Do you see this replacing the Cricut machines we use now?

Our precious Cricut friend Monique has recently been diagnosed with stage three breast cancer. You can follow her journey on her Caring Bridge Site

Last night I made this card for her with my Gypsy. I used the bikini top from Life’s A Beach, flipped one of them and welded them together. Pretty cute for a bra I must say:)

Robyn from My Pink Stamper has encouraged us all to send pink cards her way, and I would like to make that a reality. You can participate in the “Pink for Monique” campaign by sending cards and words of encouragement to:

Monique Griffith
1879 Butterfly Ct.
Rocklin, CA 95765

I can not possibly imagine what she and her family are going through right now. I do know that we can lift her up and keep her covered in prayer. My Jesus is a healing Jesus,  and I know that He has her family in the refuge of His wings.

I have never used a “linky’ before, but if you make a card for Monique (or a breast cancer/pink card in general), Please link your pic so we can all be encouraged and inspired. Thank you all!

Many of you know that I am a BIG FAN of Monique and her amazing kits she puts together. I just received an email from her about her kit sale thru the rest of the month. Just to warn you- her kits go fast, so if you are interested, don’t put it off.

You can see the details of her kits on her blog HERE.

Here is the email I received:

————————————————————————————————————————————————

“I’ve decided to run a Summer Kit Sale for a limited time- Through July 31st only!!! Except for the 2 brand new kits shown below, all past kits are on sale from $5 to $10 off. (See attached pdf for pictures, info and prices.)  AND if you spend $75 (not including tax/shipping), you’ll receive your choice of any 1 set of my directions FREE from the choices HERE – a $10 value.  Spend $100, and get 2 sets of directions.  And then an additional set of directions for every extra $25 spent.

I have 2 brand new kits, which you may have seen on my blog already.  There’s the Splash Layout (See lots more pics and info HERE), and the Fabulous and Feisty Layout (See lots more pics and info HERE).

NEW Splash Layout:  If you have never ordered a kit from me before, here’s what’s included. You’ll get all of the patterned papers (aren’t they ADORABLE?), solid cardstock, ribbon, rhinestones and even the googly eyes you’ll need to complete the layout. And all of your many layers of photo mats and journal box will be pre-cut for you. Plus you will receive my detailed yet easy to follow directions that include my Cricut Cut Chart, which shows you line by line exactly what you’ll need to cut on your machine with all of the sizes and settings for each cut. And the cuts are grouped by color to make it more efficient for you. There are also well-organized written instructions and plenty of color photographs to go with the directions.
To complete this layout kit as shown, you’ll need the following supplies: Cricut Expression or Baby Bug and mat, Life’s a Beach Cartridge, dark brown chalk ink, 3D pop-dots, white gel pen, brown pen, Gold and Diamond Stickles, and basic tools such as scissors, adhesive, etc.

NEW Fabulous & Feisty Layout from the new “Nana Susan” line designed by Susan Rees:  This kit is VERY limited in numbers since it’s the first in this line.  It will include all of the patterned papers, cardstock, ribbon, buttons, brad, rhinestone, and as usual, the photo mats will all be pre-cut for you. You’ll also get the same detailed, yet easy to follow directions with the Cricut Cut Chart, which shows you line by line exactly what you’ll need to cut on your machine with all of the settings. And cuts are grouped by color so it’s nice and efficient. There are also well-organized written instructions and plenty of color photographs – just like you’re used to!

To complete this layout as shown, you’ll need the following supplies: Cricut Expression and mat, Paisley cartridge, dark brown chalk ink, white gel pen, 3D pop-dots, punch for brad, standard stapler, Diamond Stickles, mini glue dots for buttons, plus adhesive and standard tools such as scissors and paper trimmer.

All kits will start shipping at the end of July or the first week of August.  Shipping for 1 kit ranges from $5 in California to $6-$9 in the rest of the US, depending on location.  It’s generally only $2 more to add another kit to your box, but you’ll never pay more than $10 shipping for multiple kits.  I can fit several into a flat rate Priority Box!  (Free local pick-up is also available.)  Many of these kits are limited in quantity, so they will be available on a first come, first serve basis.

To order, please copy and paste, and fill out the nifty make-shift order form below and email back to me… (If you have already ordered Splash or any other kits, no problem – just let me know, and we can still combine shipping with other kits.)

******************************************************************************
ORDER FORM
Splash Layout Kit – Regular Price $25.    Quantity desired:___
Fabulous and Feisty Layout – Regular Price $25.    Quantity:___
Minnie Mouse Book – Sale Price $25.    Quantity:___
Catch a Wave Layout – Sale Price $20.    Quantity:___
Mom & Me Layout – Sale Price $20.    Quantity: ___
Spring into Action Layout – Sale Price $15.    Quantity:___
In Bloom Layout – Sale Price $20.    Quantity:___
Girly Gift Purse & Cards – Sale Price $20.    Quantity:___
Happy Easter Layout – Sale Price $18.    Quantity:___
Sweet Treats Party Kit – Sale Price $15.    Quantity:___
If you’re spending $75- $99, what’s your choice for free set of directions? (Click HERE for choices.)________
If you’re spending $100- $124, what’s your choice for second set of directions?________
If you’re spending $125- $149, what’s your choice for third set of directions?_______
If you’re spending more than $150, what are your other choices for each extra $25 spent?________
What is your state or zip code?_______
Would you prefer that I send you a PayPal invoice, or would you rather mail a check?________

********************************************************************************

Thanks so much, and just let me know if you have any questions.  I hope you’re all having a wonderful Summer!!

Monique Griffith
———————————————————————————————————————————————–

You can email her the order form at moniquegriffith at yahoo dot com

If you haven’t heard already, there is a new update for the Gypsy. All of the new Lite Cartridges can now be added so we can play our little hearts out!

Click HERE to update.

This update is content only- it will add the new June 2010 cartridges, except the Cricut Lite cartridge ‘Celebrate with Flourishes’ and ‘French Manor’, the new exclusive Cricut Circle cartridge. Keep your eye out for these two in the July update.

Tammy from Creative Criters Cricut Club has posted a great video on YouTube showing how to update (although you don’t need to mess with ‘firmware’ as she shows in the video since this update is just content).

On a side note, Tammy is one of the best resources for learning about the Cricut. She has recently became ‘affiliated’ with ProvoCraft as a demonstrator. No need to worry about where she is coming from though, her heart is for Cricut users and she writes honestly and with her own opinions. Plus, now she has the inside scoop!

If you haven’t subscribed to her blog, I highly recommend doing so. You can view her videos on her site or by subscribing to her YouTube Channel at http://www.youtube.com/user/creativeladybug.  She has also made a great DVD on the Gypsy with Above Rubies Studio. Tammy rocks!!!!

Just for HSN… 3 Birds on Parade

“Enjoy the little adventures throughout the year! The 3 Birds on Parade cartridge is filled with images of birds with different themes such as holidays, seasons, and sports. These cute layered images also have coordinating phrases and a complementary font”

October 31st

Put the scares back into Halloween with the October 31st seasonal cartridge! You will absolutely love the clean and classic designs, including haunted houses, gravestones, jack-o’-lanterns, and more. These images are a great addition to any scrapbook, party décor, or other project!

Pumpkin Carving

Get ready for Halloween with the Pumpkin Carving cartridge! This seasonal cartridge features fifty themed images that are perfect as jack-o’-lantern templates, party décor, scrapbook backgrounds, and many other projects. Don’t be afraid to take your spooky celebrations to the next level!

H2O

Quench the summer heat with the H2O cartridge! This seasonal cartridge is brimming with delightful water themed images like suntan lotion, a lifeguard, swim goggles, and more. Whether you’re looking for the perfect image for your summer pool party invitation or to reinvent your living space, this cartridge is sure to be a hit!

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Are these not the cutest bears you have ever seen?!!?

And I LOVE love love monkeys…

Tricia Moore of Little Scraps of Heaven Designs creates these oh-so-cute paper piecings in a variety of file formats. If you are old school you can even cut them by hand. That’s the last thing I would want to do, so I’m all for using my Cricut.

If you want to start using adorable cutting files like these with your Cricut, you’ll need a third-party software like Make The Cut. There’s also SCAL, but I prefer Make The Cut because it so much easier to use in my opinion. You can download the trial software HERE. They also have some great step-by-step guides for getting started HERE in the forum.

And of course, if you make anything with her patterns (or anything Cricut related for that matter) I’d love to see it! You can even post it to our Facebook page HERE.

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