CUT ABOVE Software, Supply & Tool Lists

About this List: Here are the suggested hardware, software, supplies, and tools to find success in this course. You are welcome to use any different supplies and tools you have on hand, as always! This suggested supply list is subject to change based on availability and student feedback.

Important: This list is subject to change at any time due to the nature of teaching, the need to accommodate a wide variety of students and machines, the discovery of new potential materials, and whether stock of items at Amazon and craft stores. Thank you for understanding.

Note: This list contains affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission when you make a purchase at no extra cost to you.

• Hardware: A desktop or laptop computer (Mac or PC) capable of running Adobe Illustrator and/or Inkscape (you cannot run either of these on a tablet, phone, or ChromeBook) — generally speaking, you need at least Mac OS 10.7 (for Inkscape) and Mac OS 10.11 (for Illustrator), and Microsoft Windows 7 with Service Pack 1, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, or Windows 10. (Note: Inkscape is not currently working on the Mac Ventura OS) (Tip: If you are unable to get the software installed, you can get a refund for the course -- no worries!)
• Peripheral: A mouse (here's an inexpensive one and here is the one I use) — I do not recommend using a trackpad after you pass Unit 2.
• Sofware: Either the Inkscape software (free software at https://inkscape.org or the Adobe Illustrator monthly license (a free trial is available for Windows at https://jennifermaker.com/windows-illustrator and for Mac at https://jennifermaker.com/mac-illustrator)

Project Supplies & Tools

If you intend to cut and make the projects you design in this course, here is a list of materials and tools I recommend you have on hand:

Materials:

• 8.5" x 11" or 12" x 12" card stock in a white and a variety of colors (I recommend AC Cardstock, Recollections, and Cricut brands as I feel they cut very well and are high quality, solid core cardstocks)
• Vinyl (adhesive or iron-on, depending on how you decide to use your designs)
• Your favorite paper crafting glue (I like to use Bearly Art Precision Craft Glue)
• Spray adhesive (I like to use Scotch Permanent Super 77 Adhesive Spray)
• Hot glue gun and glue sticks

Tools:

• A cutting machine (I recommend the Cricut Explore or Cricut Maker, but you can use any cutting machine that accepts SVG files, like the Silhouette Cameo and the Brother ScanNCut)
• Weeding tools
• A quilling tool (you can learn to make your own here)
• Toothpicks (for applying very small bits of glue where needed)
• Good lighting

A Note About Your Workspace:

If your cutting machine is currently out of arm's reach while you are seated at your computer, I recommend you move it closer so you can touch it. This makes SUCH a huge difference in how willing you are to use it and how easy it is to make cuts. My machine sits to my right and is within about two feet. If you don't have room, make room. This will really make a big difference!