CUT ABOVE SVG Design Course

Do you spend too much time searching for just the right design or cut file for your project? Do you have to compromise on what you want just to make something? Or, worse yet, do you refuse to settle and never finish that project?

What if, instead, you could design whatever you wanted, whenever you wanted?

Imagine how it will feel to finally make precisely what you envision, just the way you want, without compromise. Imagine having the know-how to impress everyone, even yourself, with what you can create. Imagine being connected to others who are on the same journey as you... all committed to designing beautiful things that they can upload, share with others, and even sell.

I cracked the code on creating SVG cut files to make gorgeous projects that have been shared over 35 million times. My files even got the attention of a book publisher, who just two months after I learned to do this, offered me a book deal. My crafting projects, my blog, and my entire life, have been forever changed by my ability to design SVG cut files.

IMAGINE WHAT IT COULD DO FOR YOU?

“I am excited to be a part of this group, and Jennifer’s class. I bought my Cricut maker in early December. I have watched many of Jennifer’s videos while I waited for it to arrive. I was worried I had spent a lot of money on something I wouldn’t use very often. It turns out, I use it almost daily. I am the local “expert” and have been holding small classes in my home. I was asked to teach a class at a cancer support facility. When I went to our public library to ask what they provided, they asked me to teach the librarians. As a result, I am now a paid consultant to the library. I am very grateful to Jennifer Maker for her extremely well done lessons, her encouragement, and her generosity. I can’t wait to learn how to make my own artwork come alive through my Cricut.”

Peggy Borrell, Student

“I’ve been using a Silhouette CAMEO software to design cookie stencils for several years now, but it wasn’t until I took Jennifer’s “Cut Above” course that I really mastered the art. Jennifer has a warm, friendly teaching style that is super easy to relate to. She explains things in a way that you can really understand and follow. Before I took her course, I would often get stuck on a design because I didn’t know how to solve my particular problem with that design and would just toss that particular idea. But now I have the skills and confidence to go a cut above! I highly recommend her course. Actually, I recommend ALL her courses – she’s an excellent teacher!”

Gail Till

I began the CUT ABOVE program in October 2017 because I’ve been where you are. So let me tell you my story. I got a Cricut cutting machine, I made a few projects, and then I quickly decided I wanted to create my OWN designs. I wasn’t content to just download what other people had designed — I had ideas, and I wanted to see them come to life. So after I made my first paper flower from an SVG, I started to play around. I opened the SVG in my illustration program — which I already had installed because I am a graphic designer. And I quickly realized how easily it was to modify and create designs. I had the POWER to make precisely what I wanted.

That day, I designed my first paper flower — a peony with petals based on real peony petals from my garden. I was HOOKED. I began designing LOTS of paper flowers — roses, magnolias, tulips, daisies, sunflowers — you name it, I was tracing petals and creating 3D paper flowers that were AH-mazing, if I do say so myself. I was getting more creative and more adventurous as I went along, because I was learning by doing.

Then, about two months after I began my paper flower design extravaganza, I was contacted by a book publisher. They asked if I would write a book about paper flowers. I almost just said no, I can’t do that — I’m not experienced enough. But the truth is, that by this time, I was feeling pretty good about making paper flowers. Thanks to my ability to design them and cut them out quickly right away, so that I could tweak and refine them, I was actually well along at this point. And I’ve authored 60 books already over the course of my career, so I’m experienced at writing and teaching others how to do what I’ve learned. So I said yes, I’ll write a book and tell everyone what I know about making paper flowers.

A part of me thought it was just a dream. How can being able to design cut files translate into a book deal. But, sure enough, I turned in my book draft and received a check in the mail.

Amazing. I still am pinching myself, all these years later.

But the real joy here for me, is not a book or a check. It’s that now, because I learned how to make my own designs for my cutting machine, I can MAKE ANYTHING. You name it, I can do it. When my daughter comes to me and says, "I really like this stuffed animal and I want to make one like it. "Can you make me a pattern on the Cricut, mom?" I can. I did, and now I've taught HER to design own patterns. And that is a feeling like none other. In fact, she designed this 3D cat papercraft!

You can do this, too. And I can show you how.

"I really wanted to try to make my own SVG files, but every time I opened Inkscape It was just too much. Too many buttons, too many options, and it just overwhelmed me. I am so thankful I found Jennifer’s course!

I am growing in confidence as I create and have even decided to switch over to Adobe Illustrator. (I love how she teaches the same skill on both programs!) I have started creating SVG files for my blog readers and I am loving that I now have that option.

I can promise you that you will not find a teacher who genuinely cares for and helps her students more than Jennifer. She has proven time and time again how kind and giving she is. I’m not only thankful for finding this course, but for being able to learn from Jennifer. This is one course you won’t regret!"

Brandi Dickerson, CreativeCuttingClassroom.com

The CUT ABOVE SVG Design Course is packed with actionable techniques and hands-on projects that teach you how to create beautiful and cuttable designs on a whim. Use your designs for your personal projects, share them with friends and family, or even sell them to earn extra money!

Just imagine...

How amazing it will be to make that design you need for your project NOW.
How wonderful it will be when you see a friend, family member, or even a complete stranger replicate something from a design file you made yourself?
How exciting it will be when you sell one of your own designs for real money!

This comprehensive and powerful course includes 8 units and 50+ video lessons designed to get you results in much less time and with far less frustration than if you tried to figure it out on your own.

Check out some of the gorgeous projects designed by CUT ABOVE students in a previous class here!

"I had tried learning how to make SVG cut files from YouTube videos, but there are none that focus on exactly what I needed to learn. Cut Above is very appropriately named because it provides all you need in a pressure free, friendly environment where you can learn at your own pace and repeat lessons as needed. I haven’t quite finished the course yet, but I’ve been able to design some unique cards, and have gained an understanding of how to use Inkscape. I’m extremely happy with the course and recommend it to anyone who desires to learn how to make their own SVG designs."

Margaret Ball, Student

"I make paper crafts for my blog - paperglitterglue.com. And that means that I need to make patterns for my blog library. At first I drew them all by hand and scanned them on my computer, then laboriously deleted extra pixels on the scanned hand drawn pattern. I knew I needed to learn a drawing program, but Illustrator is too expensive and Inkscape seemed so mysterious.

Then I found Jennifer's A Cut Above design course. It was exactly the foundation I needed to learn Inkscape so I could start making house patterns for my blog. Jennifer's teaching style makes it so easy to learn the basics so you can quickly make your own designs on either Inkscape or Illustrator. Jennifer's A Cut Above design course is a game changer for me. Thank you so much, Jennifer."

Lucy Foxworth - PaperGlitterGlue.com

"I am a retired software engineer. After years of working at Eastman Kodak, I was an experience user of photo editing software, however, I’ve never used a vector graphics editor. I got my first Cricut (a Maker) in January. I had so many design ideas in my head, and was able to translate many of them using a raster (jpg) editor like Photoshop or Affinity Photo and Cricut Design Space. But I wanted to do more. I downloaded Inkscape. Trying to learn the tool myself and through YouTube videos and help pages was driving me crazy! Then Jennifer’s CUT ABOVE class opened, and I decided to take the plunge.

I breezed through the first few units as she starts with the basics (choosing your vector editor, installing it, and making basic shapes) and I’d already figured that out myself. Then she got into the harder bits - pen tool, tracing images, editing nodes, oh my! Between Jennifer’s videos, and the Cut Above Facebook group members (class alums), I have expanded my skills exponentially.

I really enjoy Jennifer’s calm manner and detailed instructions (there are oodles of free project videos at her jennifermaker.com site, so you can see if her style of teaching matches your style of learning). Having the videos allows me to pause, try things, and rewind if necessary. There is also a manual that walks through everything in writing. I love that I have the class for life. Several alums in the Facebook group talk about re-doing the class and learning more new things each time. As my skills grow, so do the crazy ideas I have of things I can make! I highly recommend this class to anyone looking to expand their crafting design skills.

This is a card that I conceived, designed, and made, all using new skills learned in the CUT ABOVE Design Course. "

Robbin K., Student

"Jennifer's "Cut Above" course expanded my skill-set for designing my own cut files that I use on my crafting blog. I was new to using Illustrator and also wanted to learn Inkscape to help some of my blog readers. I now recommend her course to everyone who asks me how they can create their own SVG files because there is so much value in what she provides.

She does an amazing job of teaching in a way that supports multiple learning styles by using a mixture of text, video, and hands-on projects (the projects are great!). The course interface makes it easy to go back and review topics, which I found extremely useful. I love the Facebook group she created for students. It has grown into a wonderful community of people (current and former students) who are friendly and eager to help each other - and Jennifer is right in there with all of us being her naturally friendly and helpful self!"

Tracy DeGarmo, tracylynncrafts.com

What are the system requirements to take this course?

A desktop or laptop computer (Windows or Mac) capable of running Inkscape or Adobe Illustrator (you cannot run either of these on a tablet, phone, or Chrome Book) — 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: If you are unable to get the software installed, you can get a refund for the course -- no worries!)
Either the Inkscape software (free software at 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)

When this course is completed, you will have a basic foundation for creating virtually any cuttable design! Your options will be limitless.

What else should I have for this course?

A mouse is useful when drawing curves. It's possible, but much harder, to do this with a trackpad. I strongly recommend you use a mouse once you get past unit 2! You can get one for under $10.
A basic understanding of computers, such as how to use to use your computer, how to open ZIP files, how to copy and paste, and how to attach a file to an email.
A basic understanding of how to use your design software, such as Cricut Design Space or Silhouette Studio. You should also have watched or read my free training, SVGs Made Simple. (Note: My Custom Cut workshop or Cricut College program is a great pre-cursor to this course if you're not completely confident with your design software!)
It helps if you have a cutting machine so you can test your designs, such as a Cricut Explore, Cricut Maker, Cricut Joy, Silhouette Cameo, Brother Cut 'N' Scan, Siser Romeo or Juliet, Sizzix Eclips, Pazzles Inspiration, Boss Cutt Gazelle, Craftwell Ecraft, or ANY cutting machine that can use SVG files — this includes the Glowforge laser cutter. Older machines like a Cricut Expression can only cut SVG files if you also have Sure Cuts a Lot software.

What if I am not talented at drawing?

No worries! I'm not either. The beauty of the vector software I'll teach you in this course is that you have total control over your design and can reposition lines until you are satisfied. This allows those of us without a steady hand the ability to make straight lines, curved lines, and everything else look good! I am not talented at drawing either. Check out the two images below made by me -- one is my best freehand, the other was done in illustration software. Night and day difference!

When does the course begin?

Enrollment is currently CLOSED. I like to make sure that all of my students have my support so we keep our courses limited!

Can I go at my own pace?

In order to keep you on track and not overwhelm you, the course presents a new lesson and practical, hands-on creative project each week over the course of eight weeks. You may go at a slower or faster pace, if you wish. You may start at a later date, too, so long as you are enrolled before enrollment closes. This is a self-paced course that you can access at any time you wish, re-visit whenever you want, re-play videos on demand, and re-download files as needed.

What if I am busy and can't start right away?

The course is completely on-demand — it starts as soon as you enroll and never ends! It is a completely self-paced online course - you decide when you start and when you finish. You can pause and restart whenever you wish, too. Enroll now to secure your spot.

How long do I have access to the course?

How does access for the lifetime of this course sound? After enrolling, you have unlimited access to this course for as long as you like - across any and all devices you own.

My CUT ABOVE SVG Design course is the FIRST online course to teach crafters how to design SVG files for their cutting machines (first class was September 2017) and all students who joined in years ago continue to enjoy access to it, even as I update and expand it ... and so will you!

How much does it cost to enroll?

The CUT ABOVE SVG design course is available at three different pricing tiers, as well as convenient payment plans, to accommodate a wide range of budgets. Our payment plans are quite affordable and easy to use.

Which tier is right for me?

It depends on your budget and needs. If you're on a budget or a hobbyist who will want to make files for your personal use, I think you'll be happy with the Silver Starter Tier. The Gold Enhanced Tier is a good compromise, and is best for those who want dedicated assignment reviews. If you are interested in sharing and selling your SVGs, I highly recommend the Platinum Professional Tier as that gives you all of the support, extra training, and resources you need. Most students opt for the Platinum Tier.

Will this course help me start a craft business?

Oh yes! Designing, sharing, and selling SVGs is a winning formula for many bloggers and Etsy shop owners, as well as crafters who want to make and sell unique designs locally. The CUT ABOVE course will help you learn how to create unique designs that people are willing to buy! Many of my students have gone on to become income-generating designers, business owners, and craft content creators after taking this course. I even show you how to distribute your files with a license in the last unit of this course!

What if I am unhappy with the course?

I would never want you to be unhappy! If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, contact me within 30 days of your enrollment and I will give you a full refund if you have not progressed past unit 1. Please view my refund policy here for more details.

Can you really teach me how to design?

I will certainly do everything in my power to help! I am very patient when teaching and quite experienced at teaching a wide variety of levels of students. Also, I taught my extremely headstrong (stubborn) daughter how to design when she was 13. It was NOT easy, let me tell you. But I still did it and she now designs her own projects. (I am most proud of this.) I also now employ a whole Design Team to help me help you make the most of this course — these are not volunteers, but paid designers (my employees) who help me support my students. We are here for you! If you're still not sure if I can do this, check out all of the awesome testimonials offered by my students below!

I have now taught more than 18,000 crafters how to design SVG cut files over the lifetime of the CUT ABOVE SVG Design Course ... and I can teach YOU, too!

"I am really enjoying this course and also learning a lot. I find it easy to learn from your videos and have even gone back and replayed lessons to refresh my memory. I love that there is lifetime access; this is one of the main reasons I signed up for it. The added bonus of the binder was totally unexpected and a fantastic reference." -- Sherrie Lou

"Jennifer, I have enjoyed this class so much! You’re a wonderful teacher and you’ve given me a path to a new outlet for my creative energy. I know that, with practice, I can go anywhere and do anything I want to from here on out. The sky is the limit! You’ve taught and encouraged each one in this class to try and fail until we try and succeed—and it’s OKAY! We learn from our mistakes and, boy, have I learned A LOT! LOL! The information you’ve taught us consisting of step-by-step instruction for simple to complex projects has given us confidence to tackle even the most complex instructions and come out on top, excited to have accomplished the completion of each and every project with your tips and pointers including personalized trouble shooting. THANK YOU! High five please!" -- Judy Krull

"Oh Jennifer! Where do I begin?!? I had seen your post several times talking about learning how to make your own SVG Files and saving them to either share or even to sell them. I knew the first time I read about it, that this course was my chance to open a door leading to many adventures for me. Each lesson has been a new learning experience. Some of the lessons were lots of fun and some of them were more challenging, but All of them are very informative. I think the biggest challenge is just learning how to use all the buttons on the drawing program to get the finished project ready to download on Circut Design Space. And the one thing that I was REALLY impressed with was the ability to get one on one help!! That makes any problem less daunting. And, believe it or not, it helps to see others posting their questions too. More than once I've found answers or easier ways to do things. I just can't say enough good things about the CUT ABOVE COURSE. I would absolutely recommend this course to ANYONE that likes paper crafts of any kind. I can promise that if you do take this course, you will have fun and you WILL LEARN A LOT!!" -- Lelia Dorado

"I was terrified of my Cricut machine at first. Everything I attempted was a disaster! By taking Jennifer’s course, I have tamed that beast called Cricut & I am making many, many projects! Thank you Jennifer!" -- Renee Banbury

"I love the Cut Above Design Course! I have learned so much. When I started I had no clue how to navigate Adobe Illustrator and now I can make awesome SVG cut files. You have been a great teacher and I am so happy I invested in this class!" -- Debbie Berke

"Taking your Cut Above course was one of the best learning adventures I have been on in a long time. I was so out of the loop on crafting and doing this course was just what I needed. I found your course to be a great learning adventure. I recommend it to as many people as I can, as often as I can. Love your easy way of teaching. You have a true talent and skill set that is rare with so many of the e-courses. Thank you for all you do." -- Helen Roberts

"I learned so much thanks.. I am just making flower designs and selling digital designs in SVG and PDF. It is a great workshop.. I have saved everything in case I have to refresh myself." -- Judy Hall

"Everything you have out there has helped me learn how to use my Cricut, personalize gifts for friends and family, and try things I would have never dreamed I could do. I have taken a bit of a break on the course, having lifetime access removes any pressure to finish the course in a set amount of time. However, I recently had some issues with installing fonts and was able to go back and look at videos at the beginning of the course that helped. I am having great fun with the Cut Above course making images that I could never draw on my own, I am looking forward to finishing the course after the holidays." -- Patty Valker

The Ultimate Crafter's Design Course

Discover how to bring your visions to life and make designs you can share and sell.

Learn what it could do for you in Cut Above!

Read my students' rave reviews for Cut Above...

Learn from someone who has been where you are.

This step-by-step course teaches you everything you need to know to design SVG cut files that work with minimal fuss and bother.

Take a Peek at the Course Curriculum

Check out some of the wonderful projects designed by my students during the course!

THE COURSE ALSO INCLUDES ACCESS TO A PRIVATE FACEBOOK GROUP WITH JENNIFER AND OTHER DESIGNERS!

Watch Jennifer teach you how to customize SVGs in Cricut Design Space

Answers to Your Questions

Praise from Jennifer's Cut Above Students

Join the waiting list to be notified when we open registration in the fall!