Really want SCAL, but...

[scrpnmomo4]

...I am sooooooo illiterate when it comes to the computer! I have the hardest time figuring out new stuff and this terrifies me...especially if I purchase the program. I would need STEP BY STEP instructions on how to create, save and use any/all files that I would cut. Is there anyone out there that would be willing to walk me through any/all questions and/or concerns that I WILL have!? Please!!! I am waiting on my Expression to arrive, but already have the baby bug. So, before I do purchase SCAL, I need to know that someone will be able to help me when I need it....TIA!

Misty

[lindamac]

Every one on this forum is very helpful. Also go to Susan Bluerobots site and print out her tutorials. http://susanbluerobot.blogspot.com/
There are other people who have easy to follow tuts also. SCAL is an awesome program.

[suziscrapper]

You will find that it is much easier once you have SCAL and start downloading svg's. I will tell you how I save them.

I use a flash drive/memory stick (I have an 8gig one) I created folders w/in it for all my scrapbook stuff.
1. SVG's
2. Inkscape designs
3. Fonts folder
etc...
Keys to remember: You IMPORT .svg's (files made in Inkscape) and you OPEN .scut files made in SCAL
Most files are Zipped for easier downloading. You have to UNzip them save that new file then you can delete the zip file

As far as creating: You can create things in Inkscape. I mostly copy clipart and "clean it up" in Ink. In SCAL (sure cuts alot) you can cut any .ttf font or dingbat which the net is full of for free. Also this site has ton's of svg's and .scuts to download from fellow users. Take the dive, buy it, you won't regret it!

[TheresaTT]

i am such a cheapy and i bought it and LOVE it. wouldn't trade it for anything. i haven't had it long but has been well worth it. i even spent $ on an ext. hard drive to save everything.
EVERYONE here is great and helpful. buy it if you have the $. !!!!!

[Adrian]

Don't be afraid. It's really very easy and I'm extremely low tech. I love SCAL because of all the money it has saved me. I haven't bought any cartridges in over a year and I don't plan on buying any either. They don't interest me anymore. Go for it. You will be very happy.

[JenHuff]

Believe me, if I can figure it out, you can too.

[firstcut]

Misty, why not download the trial version and play with that for a while? The trial version is exactly the same except that it puts extra cuts through your designs to make them unusable. With the trial version you can practice everything until you reach your comfort level. I think that once you try SCAL, you will be hooked. It is really one of the simplest pieces of software you will ever see. Besides, if you are savvy enough to find and post on these message boards, you clearly have all the skill you need to use and enjoy SCAL!

[Adrian]

>>.Besides, if you are savvy enough to find and post on these message boards, you clearly have all the skill you need to use and enjoy SCAL!<<<


Good point!

[scrappinbykris]

I'd recommend as above, download the trial, download Inkscape (free) and just play with them for a bit, search the forums for what you want to learn, plenty of information in there, plus other blogs (also incredibly helpful) and just tinker about for a while. It won't take long! I just bought SCAL & got my cricut for Xmas, and have managed to work quite a lot out in that time, I've made quite a few svg's in the last couple of days too OMG it's amazing what you can do!

I did have the trial myself for about 2 or 3 weeks before christmas, so I did a lot of tinkering about before I had anything to even cut with, as all you need to do is import your svgs into the trial version of SCAL then click on preview to see if the cutting lines are what you expected, so as to know whether you are creating your files correctly.

[stefanyb123]

I love SCAL! I have only had my E since Xmas, and I am already making my own designs!! And I am way technologically challenged! I knew I was getting it,and I did as others have suggested, I downloaded the free trial version. It is the exact same as the one you buy, but just cuts some extra lines in your image so you can't use it. But thats fine for learning.

I would be happy to help, and so would many, many others. I haven't had it long, and you would learn a lot more from someone else but I would be happy to share everything I do know.

Inkscape is the program for making your own designs, and it is a little harder than SCAL. But SusanBlueRobot teaches it like the best teacher you ever had!! SHe is awesome! SHe has enough free files on her blog to do anyone for a long time,lol!