CTMH Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge... In with the New and Out with the Old

Tomorrow is the day!  The release of the new Close To My Heart Idea Book.  There are so many new and fun things to share that I am going to deviate from my "Color Use" postings in order to share some of the new goodies.  I'll return to that topic shortly. 

One of the best things in the new Idea Book is the Cricut Cartridge.  It is called Art Philosophy and it is probably one of the best cartridges I have ever used.  Really!  :o)  It has 3D items, cards, a font with a shadow, shapes...the list goes on and on.

When you purchase the Cricut Bundle, you will receive the cartridge, 3 "D" size matching stamp sets and 3 sets of matching chipboard shapes.  Wow...  Everything on this card comes from the Cricut Bundle.  I cut the card base in cocoa using one of the shape features.  The oval, flourish and 3D flowers are also cut using the "bug."  Last but not least, "Happy Birthday" is from one of the included stamp sets.

There have been a lot of questions concerning what size Cricut Machine you need to use the cartridge.  Everything for this card has been cut on a "Baby Bug."  The Baby Bug is the nickname for the original Cricut Machine that was released almost 6 years ago.  You can cut images ranging between 1 inch and 5 1/2 inches (the sizing increases by 1/2 inch except for the the ability to cut 1 1/4 inch images.)  There have been additions to the Cricut Family over the years.  There is a Cricut Create ( not very familiar with that one), the Expression Machine and now the Imagine.  The Expressions will cut images ranging from 1/4 inch to 23 1/2 inches and the Imagine cuts the same size but also includes a printer. 

The stamp sets included with the Cricut Bundle include images that are used to stamp the images once they are cut.  The measurements needed to match the stamp to the cut image are included on the plastic stamp carrier.  Some of the images are sizes that aren't available on the "Baby Bug," but, I was able to create this lovely 5 inch card on the baby bug.  Another thing to keep in mind is the 3D items.  There are such as a Pillow Box and French Fry Box on the cartridge.  You may not be able to cut the items as large as you would like with the smaller Cricut.  While I believe you will have more options with the Expressions Machine, don't feel that you absolutely need the larger machine to take advantage of the shapes in Art Philosophy.  The Baby Bug will still cut all the shapes!

Today is the last day to be able to purchase several of our favorite paper packets like Mistletoe, Olivia and Magnifique.  Also, bulk packs of single color card stock is changing and more importantly the cost is increasing.  If you are looking for bulk packs for Holiday Cards or invites, may I suggest that you order it today before the changes.

As with everything, change is enevitable.  Tomorrow, is the big day for many new products at Close To My Heart...especially that terrific Cricut Cartridge.  Big Bug, Little Bug, you are going to love Art Philosophy.  For Now, Happy Crafting!