If you re really into scrapbooking and other types of crafts, you may want to check out Xyron s Wishblade. The Wishblade is a computerized die cutting machine that s an upgrade of Xyron s previous Personal Cutting System. The Wishblade makes it easy to make cutouts of anything you can dream of and it offers the chance to include your computer in your crafting, bringing the art of scrapbooking into the 21st century. To find out more about this great product, keep reading.
First off, the Xyron Wishblade is designed to be used with a computer via a USB cable. The machine is compatible with both Macs (OS X) and PCs (Windows 2000, XP, and Vista) and comes with two different software programs. These programs allow you to draw objects for cutting, and you can also download any True Type font or clip art and the Wishblade will allow you to cut it out. Also, the included Create and Cut software allows you to weld words and create shadows, leading to new and interesting design possibilities. You can also print out your designs on your color printer and use the Wishblade to cut them out, so really, the creative possibilities are endless.
The Wishblade is capable of cutting sheets from to ½ to 8 wide and up to 39 long, and it can cut almost any material you can think of including paper, cardstock, vellum, and vinyl. If you want to make stickers, you can use the Wishblade in conjunction with the Xyron 900 Creative Station laminator. (Sold separately.) You won t need to worry about the Wishblade taking up too much room on your desk or crafting table because it s the size of a standard desktop printer. The machine is also available in pink, which is a nice touch. Finally, the Wishblade comes with everything you need to get started, including software CDs, a USB cable, cutting mat, and an instructional DVD. The machine also comes with a one year warranty, just in case something goes wrong.
If there s a drawback to the Wishblade, it s the price. When the Wishblade was originally introduced, it retailed for around $600.00. The price has now dropped, but at a current price of $400.00, ownership of this cutter may be out of reach for some, especially in this economy. You may also find it difficult to use the machine, especially if you re not mechanically inclined. However, the enclosed DVD should be able to help. Also, the fact that a computer is needed to operate the Wishblade may be off putting to some people. The need for a computer also cuts down on the machine s portability, so unless you have a laptop, it ll be impossible to use the Wishblade at a scrapbooking party. However, the computer really expands the abilities of the Wishblade when compared to other machines such as the Xyron personal cutting system. Finally, the Wishblade isn t the quietest die cutter on the market, so if you re someone who s planning on using the machine late at night, you might want to make sure that you close the door to the kids rooms.
Overall, the Wishblade is a great die cutter, despite its handful of shortcomings and its higher price tag. For technically savvy crafters who can afford it, the Wishblade is the way to go. Try it out for yourself and discover a whole new world of possibilities.
Author Resource:
Jeff McRitchie is the designer and Director of Marketing for http://www.mybinding.com .He has written over 500 articles on binding machines,binding covers,binders,laminators,binding supplies,laminating supplies,paper handling equipments,index tabs, and shredders.