Silouhette vs. Cricut?

[lonegirl]

Hello Crafters!
I am new to paper/vinyl crafts, and continually see bloggers using cricut and silouhette. What is the difference? Do both need cartridges which are added expense, or can you download images/shapes from internet? Are there ever deals?
Thanks

 

[mrudman]

I'm not real familiar with the Silhouette, but I own a Cricut, so i'll try to give you the differences that I know of.

Cricut: Uses cartridges, although can also use computer if using certain programs. Uses mat up to 12x24, can cut letters up to 12 inches high.

Silhouette: Uses computer for most part (although looks like you can save to an SD card to use it without computer. Uses mat measuring 8x12, so thinking letters could be up to 12 inch also, but not sure.

Both can cut thin paper up to heavy cardstock, including thin vinyl.

ETA: Just found a site that states the silhouette cuts letters up to 9 inches high.

 

[mmkk]

I don't know much about the Silhouette but there is a whole forum on the DISboards about scrapbooking! http://www.disboards.com/forumdisplay.php?f=123 There are some wonderful ladies over there that might could give you better advice than I could! But I do have to say I have a Cricut Expression, which I just recently purchased, and I love it so far! You can buy the cartridges or you can download a couple of programs out there that allow you to use your own fonts and certain images. (Makes the Cut vs. Sure Cuts a Lot) There is currently a sale going on at www.Cricutmachine.com where you can get an Expression Bundle for 189.95 + 5.00 shipping. Its only for 24 hours though and it just started this morning.

 

[TLuvsD]

I love my Cricut--I have the personal Cricut and the Expression. I use them with Design Studio and Make the Cut software....and I love it. I use them more for crafts than scrapbooking, but that's more my personal interest than anything about the machines.

I love the ability to cut vinyl, I've done word books, paper bouquets, wedding shower items, school items (PTO and DD uses it for class work). Right now I'm working on some wedding items.

 

[Eeyore1928]

My sister in law is selling all of her cricut stuff....I can give you her name if you would like to pm her

 

[lonegirl]

yes please send!