Cricut Expression Reviews

Purchasing the Cricut Expression was something I considered for a long time before I made my actual purchase. Even though I conducted my own research and was able to get a great price, it still seemed like a lot of money to spend on something that I already had a lesser, cheaper version of. However, I made the initial investment, and wow, am I glad that I did.

First let me clarify about Cricut Expression reviews and review sites in general. Unfortunately, it has been my observation that many review sites are run by individuals trying to make a quick sale on items they promote, so, of course, many reviews are false. I read a few Cricut Expression reviews that were actually so vague that I’m almost convinced that the writer has never used, or possibly even seen the product. This is unfortunate, but as an avid scrapbooker who wants only the best for my readers, I felt an obligation to put that out there. Now, on to my Cricut Expression review…

The Cricut Expression is the newest addition to the Cricut family, ideal for cutting thousands of beautiful letters, shapes, or phrases in a variety of sizes and styles with just the touch of a button.

I love the versatility that the Expression provides. I adore scrapbooking, but find that it’s easy to become frustrated when the image in my head of what I want the end product to look like, requires hours and hours of work. This product eliminated that. I was also thrilled to discover that it used all of the Cricut accessories that I already had. Within a few weeks after I began using my Cricut Expression, I began giving away a lot of the die-cuts I already had to my fellow scrapbooking addicts. So, I can honestly say my friends like my Cricut Expression as well.

That is not to say that I didn’t have any concerns. It really bothered me when I began looking review sites, that so many of these sites seemed overwhelmingly positive. It seemed like there were a series of trite phrases that were used over and over again. Sometimes it even seemed like there were people writing reviews who lacked a basic understanding of what the Cricut Expression was, and what it did. In some cases, I believe the people writing reviews were being compensated for it, and that is when I discovered there are a lot of websites that pay for reviews. This seemed to be especially common on websites that only have reviews of existing products. I just don’t understand how I will be able to make an educated decision on what, for me, is a major purchase, based on the positive reviews of people who have never even used this object.

So, once I found some of the legitimate review sites, my decision was a lot easier to make. I would like to stress that:

• This is not an inexpensive knock-off. It is more appropriate for an experienced scrapbooker, artist, or someone who is using it to create items for professional use.
• This is not particularly portable. In my experience, it is too bulky to be considered a portable item in my opinion, and does best in a place where it will not be expected to move around very much. I would definitely consider this to be a stationary item. But that is a good thing.
• Although you do not have to have a computer to use your Cricut Expressions, if you do have access to one it makes it easier to produce creations. Specifically, the use of a drawing program in conjunction with a Cricut software makes it possible to produce any shape, letter, or number without the need for those particular cartridges.
• The Expression uses the same cartridges and blade housing as the previous models, allowing you to use the entire library of existing Cricut cartridges. So if you are upgrading, this is a neat feature! If you have never owned a Cricut before, don’t worry! There are tons of different themed cartridges available with various designs to suit most artistic projects.
• It can cut a huge variety of materials, not only regular card stock paper, but heavier card-stock, vinyl, vellum, some chipboards, soft plastics, window cling material, poster board, thin magnets and even fabric. All you have to do is attach the material to be cut to the included self-adhesive cutting mat, load it into the machine, insert the cartridge, make a cutting selection, and press cut. The machine will quickly and electronically cut out the desired letter, shape, or phrase in seconds. The new easy-to-read LCD screen shows the typed-in information to ensure cut accuracy.
• Other highlights include six modes and a variety of functions for enhanced cut customization, the option to cut portrait or landscape, and ability to change settings such as language and units of measurement.

Is the Cricut Expression Best For Your Needs?

Anyone who has spent more than a few minutes of time producing multiple images is aware of the hand cramping and pain that appears after only a few minutes. The Cricut Expression, with the use of cartridges eliminates that discomfort, while still allowing for an enormous amount of creativity. You still maintain all of the control as to the size, color, images, and overall appeal of your endeavor.

The significant difference is that you don’t have to do the physical work yourself, and do not have to endure the added discomfort that is common after hours of cutting. It is a simply a matter of making the choices you want, and programming your machine appropriately.

Whether you are using your new acquisition to update classroom decor, create attention getting signs, or any of the many other choices, you are sure to enjoy this new way to express yourself. Although problems with the Cricut Expression are few and far between, there is an available warranty that covers at no extra fee, a standard twelve month warranty.

Is The Expression Worth The Money?

The Cricut Expression is definitely on the pricey side, the retail price being $499. But, if you consider the money and time saved by not having to hand cut your letter and shapes or buying expensive pre-cut designs, it’s clear that the Cricut Expression is a great investment for any scrapbooker or paper crafter. Also, if shop carefully you can find great deals under $300 and bundles at discounted prices. The stocks don’t last for long though… So if you see something you like and within you budget, don’t wait too much!