AThanks for all of this info. Can.t wait for my cricut delivery..

anyone had luck making patterned gumpaste letters? (stripes, etc) don't want to go through the trouble if I should just cut them out with a knife instead.

If you have the older version of the software, DO NOT updated it. you will not be able to use your computer with your Cricut if you do. Also, we have come out with a full line of Icing Sheets that are colored and lustered. They are primarily for use with the electronic cutters and they work great. Gumpaste is  economical and it also offers the stability when standing cutouts up, but it takes time to work with it and you have to have it just right in order to use it.  Premium Icing Sheets run about $2 per 12x12 sheet and will save you alot of time over gumpaste.  Just a suggestion.

Good Day

What's the latest version of SCAL that would work with Cricut?

I just recieved a Cricut cake machine from my sister, problem is no manual! Any suggestions on how to get one of these?

http://content.cricut.com/c/downloads/CricutCakeManual.pdf