Scrapbooking Tools: Fiskars Shape Xpress Shape Cutting System

Fiskars Shape Xpress is a low-tech system for cutting shapes and decorative edges. The Shape Xpress system requires no batteries, electricity, heat, or computerized components. It's really simple to use, although it seems complicated at first glance. The Shape Xpress system comes with its own educational DVD; the DVD features complete instructions for using the Shape Xpress, plus craft project ideas too. After watching the DVD, I found it easy to use the Shape Xpress cutting system.

There are different shape cutting sets and kits available from Fiskars. I got mine as a complete kit; I purchased it at Costco. It contained the shape cutter tool plus cutting mat, templates, blades, instructions, and the aforementioned DVD.

Each Fiskars Shape Xpress template features multiple shapes plus a decorative edging, complete with corner designs. For example, the circles-1 template, #4850, features a variety of different sized circles, plus a scalloped edging.

The templates each measure about 8.5" x 11", and they are made of thick plastic. They have holes punched along one edge to enable them to fit in a binder. Each template is labeled; the shapes on the templates are each labeled with the appropriate measurements as well.

Fiskars Shape Xpress Disadvantages:

In my opinion, there are only 2 real disadvantages to the Fiskars Shape Xpress system. The first disadvantage is that the blades dull so quickly. The replacement blades cost around $2.00, which is a reasonable price, in my opinion. However, if you use the tool with any frequency, you'll be replacing the blades more often than you'd think.

As often as I use my Fiskars Shape Xpress, I've started to wonder if it wouldn't be more cost effective for me to just buy a die cutter. If you're a casual scrapper, this tool is a low-cost alternative to die cutting machines like the Cuttlebug, Wizard, Sizzix Big Shot, and Cricut. If you're a diehard scrapper, and you use a lot of shapes in your layouts, it might make more sense for you to skip getting the Shape Xpress system, and go ahead and get a die cutter.

The second disadvantage is that, compared to some of the fancier die cutting systems, there are not as many shape templates available. Having said that, you are still going to be able to buy quite few templates for the Fiskars Shape Xpress.

Available Templates For the Fiskars Shape Xpress:

There are lots of options, including all the basic shapes: Circles, rectangles, diamonds, stars, and hearts. Nature themed shapes including butterflies and leaves are available. There are also word bubbles, tags, and alphabets available, plus others. There are 2 different envelope templates you can buy.

Conclusion:

The Fiskars Shape Xpress shape cutting system is a good value for the money you spend on it. It is recommended for casual crafters who don't do excessive amounts of die cutting, but like using die cut shapes in their craft projects. The Shape Xpress system has its limitations, but for what it is, it is a fantastic tool. I use mine often, and I have been satisfied with it. I am delighted to recommend the Fiskars Shape Xpress shape cutting system to other artists and crafters.