Re: SCAL and Make the Cut
 

I am just learning about these programs (seems better to buy one than continue buying Cricuit cartridges?)--what is the difference between these 2? is one easier to use for computer novices? I own a baby Cricuit--which would you reccommend?

I can only speak to Make the Cut, but I think it is a great program. Very user-friendly and the programmer has just come out with a Beta update which enables us to print and cut. That is not a feature I am particularly interested in because I don't have tanks of ink buried in my backyard, but many are thrilled with it! The new version also has a rhinestone/pattern/layout feature if that interests you. I have used MTC mostly to cut files designed by others or to just make paper craft items. There is never any charge for program updates which is a great practically unheard of feature. There is a forum, with many tutorials and someone is always anxious to help a newbie. They also have regularly scheduled Webinars to help people better learn how to make use of all the program features.

I would advise you to visit the forum, watch some of the video tutorials and DL the trial version. I really don't think you will look any farther! I am sure someone will be along to tell you about SCAL soon!

General

I have SCAL. I do love the fact I'm not purchasing cartridges.

There are trial versions of both software. You can download and try both of them. When you do this the designs that you cut will be slashed.

I cut my own fonts/weld them/shadow them....etc. Designs--there are so many freebies or low cost ones available. I have already accumulated way more than I would cartridges.

Have fun!
Ginger

I have SCAL also, and I love it. I didn't buy my Expression until I found the program online, I just don't like being stuck with just the cartridges. I agree with ginderd - try the trial versions of both and make your decision then. There are tons of files being shared all the time for each program. I still get a cartridge if it has something I want, but I check online first to see if I can find the design I want for free, and normally find what I want.

What I don't pay out in cartridges I surely put out for my paper addiction!!! LOL

Have fun playing!

Thanks everyone for the info--are there any extra steps that have to be taken with SCAL-as far as converting files? Someone at Archivers said that Make the Cut is easier in that respect?

I'm on a MAC so I don't have a choice. I do know that SCAL has made improvements, but are they up to MTC? I haven't a clue.

I too just spend my $ on other things than cartridges.....:D:D:D

Ginger

Unless I'm missing something on MTC it doesnt seem to import or trace at design size. Not important for cutting a 5inch nestie but when you need things to be at an exact size, boxes, 3d etc that can be a real nightmare. I'm more than happy with scal.

I am another SCAL user. I love it. I think it's an easy program to learn, lots of tutorials and the forum is a treasure trove of tips.

Items in MTC can easily be set to cut to any size using the properties box. It will even change fractions to decimal settings for you. Example: 5 1/8 = 5.125. Resizing anything is done just by clicking on a corner arrow and pull...the size even shows up above your object! Easy peasy!

Make the Cut! It has a wonderful support system, upgrades are free and it is SUPER simple to use. They have updates and new beta versions all the time. They also ask us for our input on new versions which I LOVE. He (Andy, I believe) really listens to us about what we want. You couldnt ask for better support from a software that you purchase than the support you get from everyone involved with Make the Cut.

Actually, in the current version there is a box to check for "actual size".

I think this is by far the easiest program to learn for beginner's , yet also has some very advanced features that you can use as you learn more.

The support is by far the best I have seen for any software. Their forum has so much information and help.

I agree with those above to download the trial version of each program and then make your decision.

Thanks Sah, will be having a play later and see how scal & mtc handle identical files.

I purchased SCAL and I am happy with it.

I looked at both and found them to be very similar. I went with SCAL mostly because of the comfort level that they might be around a big longer than MTC due to the lawsuit Provocraft has against MTC.

I'm not judging MTC but should Provocraft win, it would have the potential to bankrupt this company and there would be no further updates to the program, making it redundant. It would be similar to what recently happened to Limewire. My brief understanding of the lawsuit is that the issue is MTC offering a feature that allows you to back up Cricut cartridges (SCAL doesn't offer this feature). Provocraft feels this violates copyright and is also a patent infringement.

Research both programs so you can make an informed decision.

Hope this helps.

The lawsuit issue with Provocraft and MTC is very old. The backup feature was removed last April. There have been several major updates since then (and they are free). It now has Print and Cut features and a rhinestone template generator.

MTC works with many different cutters - not just Provocraft machines. (Silhouette, Gazelle, Black Cat, Craft Robo Wish Blade and many other vinyl cutters.) So I don't think the Provocraft lawsuit would put them out of business. I think my $58 was well spent - even if there were no further updates.

Glad to hear the lawsuit is over. I could find no information on it being settled when I Googled it.

The lawsuit is not over. Nobody knows if it has been settled or not. Andy (MTC) might have had to sign an agreement not to discuss the lawsuit. Least this is what I read on one of the crafting forums. I think it was over at MTC when they were on the old forum style. If anybody has any more info I hope they can chime in.

Thanks for clarifying. I misunderstood the earlier post. I should have known better because I know that lawsuits can take a long time to work their way through the system. So, just because the suit is old doesn't mean MTC is out of the woods yet.

SCAL and Gazelle
 

Hi - I'm new to cardmaking, etc and looking at the Gazelle. I am also interested in SCAL - will they work together? Does anyone use both? Thanks.

Yes, I have cut with SCAL using my Gazelle. The Gazelle cuts beautifully with SCAL. If you were buying a Gazelle and already have SCAL then your all set. If buying a Gazelle and you want a different software than Funtime then go for MTC. The reason behind this is that Andy (MTC) tweaks his software constantly to work with the Gazelle.

If you buy the Gazelle you will get a great version of Funtime that has Rhinestone's & Lattices. Funtime now can import PDF. It still can not import SVG.

SCAL and Gazelle
 

Thanks so much for the response. I do not have either the gazelle or any software yet. I appreciate the advice.

hoping to get more feedback on these
 

hi
i tooo am looking at these 2 programs. i really want to be able to use it for my original work as well as using the files other people are so graciously offering on their sites. this seems really difficult to decide.
thanks

When MTC first came out, I downloaded the trial version, along with SCAL. MTC has a much easier going platform than SCAL to me. Download both and see what you think.

Andy is working closely with the other cutters so I know my software will work with whichever cutter I choose if my Cricut bites the dust. Great program...great designer.

c.

I have just updated my detailed comparison chart to reflect the newest official versions of SCAL and MTC. You can find it here
Cricut comparison chart update � Clever Someday

thank u. I am clicking over there right now!

I can use the above link to your page, but once there the link will to the chart causes internet explorer to shutdown :(

Got it. Just one question for you Clever, which do you prefer to use?
thank u!!

undecided,
I have updated the blog post with thumbnails of jpg versions of the chart. Click on them and you can read them since the PDF link didn't work for you (sorry about that, not sure what is wrong).

To answer you question, I predominantly use a Mac so I have been loyal to SCAL since it has a native Mac version. I am also a print & cut enthusiast and have to say that MTC has definitely taken a lead there. So basically, I would recommend SCAL to Mac users and MTC to PC users as it stands right now. Most Cricut users would be happy with either one.

thank you so much for your clear and concise response and your charts!
hope you are having a happy holiday!

Thanks of the detailed charts! I don't have a Cricut, and I don't know how useful it would be just for making cards. I don't make scrapbooks

"If" I bought a Cricut I definitely like the idea of buying cut files instead of cartridges with a lot of designs I would not use just to get a few that I want.

Is there a place that explains to a newbie how to use these type programs??
I need a "SCAL or MTC for Dummies"" LOL . Maybe someone can convince me that I " need" a Cricut . :) There is always Mother's Day for gift ideas :)
I have a MAC
Thanks
Barbara

Barbara--
Since you are on a MAC, then you need SCAL as MTC does not work with MAC.

Here is a link for info! Once you're on the page look at the top right for "Forums". You'll find LOTS of files and can search for anything you want/need. You'll be able to cut the fonts that are on your computer too.

I have a MAC and purchased the CE + SCAL last Christmas. I so don't regret it!

Craft Edge: Scrapbook Software to Cut True Type Fonts and Shapes with Cricut

Have fun!
Ginger

I would use SCAL too if you have a MAC. MTC is running on MAC with programs like VMWare but it's not true native Mac support. I think it's great that MTC is finding ways to run MTC on other OS. I prefer true native support for any type software that runs hardware. Less glitches when communicating. SCAL wins hands down with true MAC support.

subbing as I am trying to decide myself...thanks for the responses