I don't have the CM oval cutter, but I've used it and I must say that I hate it. I wasn't comfortable with it AT ALL. My CMC told me that it took her many tries before she became comfortable with it too. I've never tried any other kind - I still just use templates and cut them out by hand. To me, it's easier than trying to fiddle with that awkward contraption CM came out with. Ok, here's what I don't like about it - I find that it's not a smooth "swing" around the arcs, it leaves sort of a lip around the edge of the picture, and it often leaves a little "hangnail" (for lack of a better word) where you meet up at the end with where you began. I wish they had figured otu a way to make an oval cutter just like their OLD circle cutter - I loved that thing!

Tandy, I can't say I've used this tool before, but I can tell you that I've heard nothing but good reviews about it. Some bits and pieces I also remember reading about it: it works better with 4x6 pics than 3x5, also works better with well-centered photos, and you have to be careful not to accidentally "flip" it the wrong way or you'll end up with pieces that don't fit into the "puzzle". Lastly, have you checked out the Coluzzle website? They have info and samples of layouts using the product on there. The link's below. Hope that helps. Leah Here is a link that might be useful: Coluzzle Home Page

I don't think there is any difference between Coluzzle & Shapemakers. I've used both at a friend's house and it turns out that I thought the Shape maker & coluzzle were the same thing. Haven't used Bladerunner.

Maybe for your very first layout, you could splurge and buy a package deal that includes pattern and solid papers with matching die cuts and stickers. It can be so intimidating when you first start to make choices and cut pictures(not for me, I am one of those forge ahead and work out the details later kind of people) and to see a slick layout your first time can boost your confidence and creativity. I agree with everyone above about "primary" tools, I just know different things work depending on your personality. I started collecting supplies for several years before I actually sat down and did my first page. The first few years of homeschooling absorbed all of me and after my Mom died it was a HUGE blessing to have scrapbooking to get addicted to. I wish she could have seen my stuff. I just started a Heritage album for her. The black and white photo's I do worry about cutting and make copys to work on. Just starting to add toners and those new litle smudgy markers. You may want to check your local scrapping stores, they almost always have classes or open forums where you can use their tools or borrow from each other and buy papers, stickers, die cuts, etc as you go along. Kind of like running a bar tab*G* Good way to learn, share, make new friends and not break the bank! Mostly just have fun. My girlfriend started scrapping but was a wreck all the time that she was "doing" it wrong. I told her this probably was not the hobby for her, at least not now. I think she was relieved!