Best software for cutting / print & cut?

[njsigns]

Hello everyone, I am relatively new to the boards here and I have to say they've been very helpful, so thanks for all the information.I recently purchased a Roland Colorcamm PC12 (I know, "boo-hiss" - but it was a solution in my price range), and I plan on buying the new Roland GX-24 plotter from Beacon Graphics very shortly.

Ok now for the question, does anyone have suggestions for software that would be a good solution for both printing and cutting all from the same software? I know it sounds "cheesey", but I am looking for something that has "shortcuts" or templates in the realm of sign making. I have been doing graphic design (mostly web stuff) for a few years, but I've seen some signs that just "pop" and scream "professional sign". It's not that I'm afraid of laying out signs, I've just been doing really different types of graphics for so long that I might need a little "help" getting started.

I am on a pretty tight budget. I have Corel and Illustrator (both of which I find somewhat cumbersome) as well as Photoshop (I consider Photoshop to be a close friend). I am seriously considering buying the package Beacon has to offer at http://www.beacongraphics.com/letter-imager-system.html . Any input and/or suggestions are welcome, as well as anyone with experience with the PC-12, or the software included with the GX-24 would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance, looking forward to what you all have to say!:signs101: Rules!
Gene

 

[SMSupply]

I recommend FlexiSIGN-PRO. It can print as cut as your request. It also supports almost Roland's machine.

If you prefer it, you can send an email to me smsupply@gmail.com

 

[Techman]

Corel draw with Cocut and its companion Pjannto RIP. About 1/3 the price of any dedicated sign software. Plus very easy to use. As far as templaes there are loads of templates available ready made on several CD packages. Im not sure if Fred has some with his. But very likely because there are so many.

-Techman

 

[WVB]

Your #1 concern was budget. I doubt FlexiSign Pro at around $4k is in your budget. I would go with Cocut and Pjannto RIP in conjunction with Illustrator. Cocut works with both apps so just keep what you have and add on if you will. Oh I just re-read your post you have both so just try both and see which one you like best Corel or Illustrator.

 

[Leondo]

anybody ever heard of EasySign? supposedly that is like cocut where it will let you cut from whatever software you normally use.

 

[njsigns]

Just wondering if anyone out there is currently using any of the products here

http://www.beacongraphics.com/interactive-sign-layouts-cut.html

I am seriously considering purchasing this package (below link) from Beacon, and it comes with the above software, I already own a Roland PC-12 and a Roland Stika 15

http://www.beacongraphics.com/letter-imager-system.html

anyone experienced with FlexiLetter or the Bergen Designs software? There just seems to be so much software out there it makes my head spin. I don't need the "best" software right now as I am in somewhat of the "startup phase" and the "best", like stated above, is going to set me back $4000 to say the least. I'm already sweating the $3500 I'll be spending on this kit and some other items

Thanks for your help guys (and gals)!
Gene

 

[gROUND cHUCK]

While everyones asking........

:
Has anyone ever used "Inspire XP Pro"?

http://www.inspirexppro.com/index.html

It's an offspring of "Casmate",
And was engineered by a Co. that
bought the "Casmate" rights from "Amiable".
("Amiable" is the Co. that makes "Flexi")

I'm looking into gettng it, but I thought
I'd ask around first.

 

[Barry]

While everyones asking........

:
Has anyone ever used "Inspire XP Pro"?

http://www.inspirexppro.com/index.html

It's an offspring of "Casmate",
And was engineered by a Co. that
bought the "Casmate" rights from "Amiable".
("Amiable" is the Co. that makes "Flexi")

I'm looking into gettng it, but I thought
I'd ask around first.

Ive played around with the demo a bit and it seems like a nice peice of software, almost like flexi and about half the price.

 

[letterhead101]

If under budget, you might try VinylMasterPro...I paid 495.00 and so far is is worth the
money. I also have other expensive programs which, for the money you may want to check it out.!