The Sewing Place
Resources => Courses & Classes => Topic started by: Pearl on May 23, 2020, 08:42:50 AM
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:( :( :(
https://craftindustryalliance.org/nbcuniversal-to-close-bluprint/?fbclid=IwAR32CX6ym4_ewMRVN9dzgSs_2Ps0--90Xhb6U4ppEWyZekh3jm8b3XxFZHo
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I presume no-one wants to pay when there's so much free on t'internet.
I won't pay for something I can't actually download or physically have, maybe others feel the same?
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I don't like video classes for anything - I like things to be written down - but I have used their shop quite a few times, and I will definitely miss that.
There are a lot of very pertinent questions in the comments on that article about whether people will continue to get what they've paid for - I would have thought members should have been told first, although I don't suppose customer relations matter too much at this point.
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Yes, not the right way to tell people about the decision.
I assume they don't care about bad publicity because their future business will be in a different direction.
OTOH I suppose if I had really cared about the classes I bought I would have watched them a long time ago.
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I have a few classes.. but only bought when they were on offer. I would have thought in this climate it would have flourished.
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This the future. There is so much free content, good or bad, all over the net and the business has taken the decision that there is little profit to be made from the Bluprint model.
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Well I hope they make the videos available to download somehow as they were bought on a 'forever' basis and the patterns etc
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Me too, OSS. I bought all mine years ago when on special or free. Still, I would like to own them forever but there is no such thing as forever.
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When you play the videos do you download them to your computer or watch them online? If they are downloaded you should be able to save them - and if not, making that possible would be the only fair thing to do.
I went to the shop hoping for a stunning sale, but although they have 'up to 60% off', I don't think that's any different to their normal pricing, and very little has anything like 60% off.
I also noticed that they are offering 50% off subscriptions, which seems a little odd!
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Thats terrible ... Anita Grossman Soloman (and The Gourmet Quilter) taught me how to Quilt ... I love AGS shes so calm ... and her design made The Opus!
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you Can download them but you still need access to the app or website in order to watch. It’s a strange system. So no app or website means no videos!
I wonder how they and us stand legally
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I have Alison Smith's 3 tailoring classes and have referred to them many times. There was nowhere else I could find the level of detail she has all in one place.
Unfortunately she hasn't done a tailoring book.
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I managed to watch one of her tailoring videos when they did their free days a while ago. I thought she was very good and made it simple with some interesting tips. I had thought of buying them.
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I have 32 classes, probably 25 of those were bought (at discount rate). I've watched maybe half. Serves me right, I should have watched them all before now. :(
I do still have the Craftsy App so have managed to download a few which may or may not still be accessible but there's limited space on my iPad.
Thanks for the warning @Pearl
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I don't think the app works on Android. Has anyone managed it?
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If you are a subscriber now would be a good time to go through the free patterns and 'buy' and download anything you might conceivably want at some point in the future! And if you have any patterns in your library, download and save them - that should be quite straightforward.
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Yes, I’m going to do just that.
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Can't even access that page in the link now. It's apparently overrun with unhappy customers. Gee, the only thing this subscriber got was an email with suggestions on what to watch this weekend.
I've still got 12 free classes to get. Right. Have gotten 3 packages in the last week and sent a gift. High quality fabric.
I've been watching classes but not enough.
As soon as NBC bought them you could hear the dirge start in the background.
All the cooking classes and many others have terrific downloads. Time to get busy. If I can get in. All subscribers will be doing the same I imagine. Poo.
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I have also been reading the PR threads and someone commented that Bluprint is preventing downloads (https://sewing.patternreview.com/SewingDiscussions/topic/112211/6). The same commentator suggested a proprietary alternative, but it looks expensive and possibly an overkill.
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I noticed that the free content, which used to be available to everyone, is now only available to subscribers, or (possibly) when you're buying stuff at the same time.
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This bites! I only spent money on classes that were worth keeping forever- technical, detailed stuff. All of Suzy Furrers classes for making slopers, a couple different jeans classes, and bras and heirloom sewing. Stuff I CAN'T get locally, in person. At the very least they should be allowing us to download the classes we've paid for to make our own "forever" copies.
I got ZERO word from them. I just logged in the for first time in a month, and they didn't even bother to put up any kind of notification on the site.
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Read the terms.
Section 4: " we grant you a limited, personal, non-exclusive, non-transferable, and revocable license to use our Services"
Section 6: " Purchases of online classes, discount vouchers/flash deals, points and any other virtual items available on the Services (collectively “Digital Items”) are non-refundable (except as otherwise stated herein), have no monetary or cash value (i.e., are not a cash account or equivalent), are not redeemable for cash, and are purchases of only a non-exclusive, revocable, non-assignable and non-transferable right to use the specific Digital Item purchased. All Digital Items are our Content and you have no proprietary or monetary interest in Digital Items you have purchased."
Section 16: "WE PROVIDE THE SERVICES ON AN “AS IS” AND “AS AVAILABLE” BASIS"
There are a several more of these statements, however...by using them you agree to these and basically? Own forever was a sales tactic and not a verbal/written contractual agreement because you accepted these terms to use the platform. Unless NBCU decides to be nice, we are all screwed, there can't be a lawsuit or anything else being bandied about.
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Yep, Craftsy/Bluprint gave people 'licence to use' and even if you read and understood the terms and conditions, you only had two options: consent or decline.
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There's also this little gem [my bold]:
"The Services are constantly evolving and may change over time. We may change, suspend or discontinue any or all aspects of the Services at any time for any reason without notice or liability to you. You acknowledge that you have no expectation of continued availability of the Services. We have the right to suspend or terminate access to the Services and your accounts on the Services, including due to a violation of these Terms."
And another paragraph (15) that says, in capital letters, that you waive your rights to take any form of legal action against Bluprint. The contract is (to me) quite shocking.
I don't think the contract would be accepted in UK law, but that really doesn't help.
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Well, legal where you are or not by buying classes or subscribing we all agreed to whatever they said. It does blow. Once it gets too hot here for outside stuff I was going to start watching more.
Wonder if subscribers will get a partial refund. I'm only 5 months in on my subscription. And if we won't be allowed to watch them why do the rest of my downloads?
NBC knew word of this would spread like wildfire. It is totally irresponsible of them to not send an email to the subscribers a few hours later. Yeah, things change, companies morph or die but show some class and respect for your customers.
Then I remembered this is NBC we're talking about. Something that feels slimy and underhanded is no surprise.
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There is an update on FB https://www.facebook.com/sarah.bradberry/posts/10158325453136635?hc_location=ufi
According to an instant message, we should be able to keep our own forever classes, but the logistics will take a few weeks.
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Kwaaked, is that an official Bluprint notice? As a non-user (and frankly strong hater) of Facebook it is kind of lame they don't announce this on the Bluprint site itself.
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No, but it's the guy who created and runs Craftsy/Bluprint. Right now, it is also the ONLY thing we have from anyone.
No proof on this, but I have a feeling that this was not supposed to be told to us or the instructors yet, either. I don't trust NBC or any other conglomerate...but this is just bad publicity with NBC coming out with its own streaming service in a couple of months.
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Well I'd better buy my other classes. I had a hunch when they sent codes for the whole year a few months ago. Just been a bit distracted lately.
Also need more fabric! Their line is really nice.
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Yes - I would like to know whether the shop is going to continue in any way. Their FQ packs are my treat once or twice a year (twice so far this year...)
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Yes - I would like to know whether the shop is going to continue in any way. Their FQ packs are my treat once or twice a year (twice so far this year...)
@Acorn ! its only May!
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Just because he says something doesnt mean it will actually get done or even that he has any intention of honouring our lifetime purchases at all ...
just remember the Banks's (Celia and husband) and The Sewing Forum in January 2017 ...
It was always down due to technical reasons, always just about to come back ... and did it ????
Nah! They took your subscriptions and ran.
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@Acorn ! its only May!
I know... :|
It's an unusual year, though.
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I've bought a few classes but always take the 'forever' with a pinch of salt.
If you attend a real/live class you might come away with some class notes, but other than that it's down to what you remember from the day. If it's a series of classes you will get the opportunity to ask questions at the next class but if it's a one-off workshop sort of class once it's over, it's over.
All I can suggest is re-visiting the classes you have bought whilst you still can.
USA is very much more litigious than UK; I'm sure that if it's going to be possible to take legal action someone will.
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There is talk of a 'class action' all over the net, BUT the terms and conditions were clear and users consented to them.
If we actually sat down and read the terms and conditions of the services to which we sign up, it is apparent that there are only two options: accept or decline. We cannot negotiate with the supplier to vary the terms.
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I know it's not the same as 'seeing' but has anyone thought of recording sound only? Get out your old cassette players and connect them up. It's better than nothing.
I have a program called Total Recorder (for more than 15 years now) and it will capture any sound on a computer. You then save it to what formula you want on your computer. Spoken word can take very little space if you reduce the bit rate that you save it in. CD quality is about 192, spoken word can be fine at 56 to give you an idea. There is a free one called Audacity but I found it less easy to use. Mine is like recording stuff in the old days it has sound 'needles' which you can adjust. It's great for radio programmes!
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@Acorn ! its only May!
But it's 2020 - normal rules do not apply!
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cassette recorders ???????
Oh ..... like the thing we used to record Top of the Pops on on a Sunday night, finger hovering over the pause button ready to strike the moment the DJ spoke ???
Haven't seen one of those in years!
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That's them @Iminei!
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cassette recorders ???????
Oh ..... like the thing we used to record Top of the Pops on on a Sunday night, finger hovering over the pause button ready to strike the moment the DJ spoke ???
Haven't seen one of those in years!
I'm still using one out in the workshop kitchen!
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My husband has figured out how to download and save mine using a pirating software. The videos look good, but the audio has an annoying echo.
Recently as I cleaned up part of my basement, I unearthed and sorted out all my kid's cassette tapes- kid music, books on tape, and educational tapes. I packed them all into one box with a player for the grandkids to use when they are here.
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As a subscriber still no email today. But there was a letter on the homepage. So sorry, blah, blah, working on some way for us to keep our forever classes and, most importantly, the refund speech. We're to receive a prorated refund based on their last day of service, to be communicated to us when it's finalized in the near future.
Sigh. At least I'll still have Creativebug. For now anyway.
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There is an open source video recorder, just saying.
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There is an open source video recorder, just saying.
Does it have a name @Kwaaked?
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OBS Studio. Takes a second to learn, like all open source, it's not the easiest to use.
Best way:
On the plus at the bottom toward the left, add audio. Then new browser. Type in the website, then right click the browser tab at the bottom where you added and click interact. Then log in. Just start recording a second before you click on play.
It will get any system sounds, so mute everything but Obs, but you can web surf without it showing up.
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Thanks, I'll have a look at it.
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I am quite miffed about this, plus the fact that with my membership lapse (last week) my credits have disappeared. I will use the video downloadhelper chrome extension to grab what I still have access to.
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I received this in an email this morning https://link.news.mybluprint.com/view/5948ef12e661f02a268b49915ed226caf291c931362e57ef/9a1e8d0c
I don't know what they mean by looking at giving us an extended period to download our classes. Afaik they can only be downloaded on and within the app and who has endless space on their phone or tablet - or for that matter the time?
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There are third party solutions - see some of the replies above.
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Yes I saw those @UttaRetch but if that was what they intend us to do then one would expect some guidance at the very least. Many people will be confused about how to achieve this.
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I have also received the email in which the CEO says, amongst other things:
I wanted to let you know that we are looking at various options to allow those of you who have purchased individual classes to receive a copy of your classes. This includes individual classes purchased with own forever credits. We are also planning to issue prorated refunds for paid subscribers based on the last day our service will be available, which will be communicated when that date is finalized in the near future.
I think Bluprint has handled the shutdown very badly. It should have had means of transferring the content in place before making the annoucement. The adverse publicity should not be under-estimated and people will remember this if ever Levisay embarks on another venture.
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I’ve received the email too.....twice! And I wondered about the downloading. It needs to be able to be downloaded directly to your pc, mac, iPad or whatever. No good telling us they will give us extra time to download it as it is. And they should give instructions on how to go about this.
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I'm assuming a lot here, but one, third party downloads are high on space. 54 classes (of which 4 I didn't download) have taken 75GB of space and each video is in 6-12 parts. They also can't be compressed any further, so this is how much they take up.
So they have to figure out:
1. How to make them eat less space.
2. Be more convenient to download in 1 go instead of episodes, making them user friendly and easy.
3. Encrypt them with a password so no one can post them willy nilly on the web (anti piracy), and allow NBC to able to follow copyright violations.
4. Keep resources and CC available.
Frankly, I don't know how they can do it. I can do part of this myself with a bit of editing (make one video, password protect it and pull the CC file) but it takes editing that has nothing to do with bluprint and is not user friendly for most people. (As a caveat, I edit my son's you tube junk.)
Personally? They would have been better off letting this go for another year, creating something like Threads collection on DVD/drive for sale BEFORE the announcement (for each topic) for $200 or so, then announcing they were going to close, create smaller files for those who don't want to buy all of them (because the collection would have already had a platform in use for videos), then give 6 months to download the individual purchased classes/platform. All the work would have been done, and they would have made a tidy profit (because wouldn't you buy the whole sewing library even if you already had some of the classes?)
Thing is, "forever" only is going to work while the technology does. They will still be obsolete in a few years for most, unless they learn to go to a virtual machine.
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I've yet to receive any emails from them. I have probably 50 courses or so. Mine are split between cooking, sewing plus a weaving one.
On PR there are some suggestions for downloading. I was hoping Bluprint would provide a way to download without using a third party since I'm reluctant to use many apps but it seems that may not be an option.
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Bluprint is working on a solution, but nobody knows what it will be. In the meantime people are looking for and finding things that work for them.
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At least you weren't all idiots like me. I've been extremely busy and hadn't gotten to downloading all my free classes with this year's subscription. Email came Saturday afternoon for me but I didn't see it until Sunday (31st) afternoon. Everything at bluprint has expired mountain time, so I would have until 10:59 PM. Idiot me didn't catch it was Eastern time on this. So when I finally got there at 9PM all my coupons were worthless. Plus several of the classes I would have downloaded were no longer there.
I sent an annoyed email, deleted my NBC news app, have told NBC separately to never darken my door again and am just generally in an even more foul mood than before.
Now I'll go back to my Korean drama. Episode 4 of 60 in the Asian history month selection on viki. Just waiting to find it gone or subscribers only on June 1st.
Back to my hole in the ground. :scream:
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They have told the state of Colorado that they are planning on shutting down on or about July 22. Not a whole lot of time to get a solution to us, allow us to download, get the money back for subs and generally not be a huge wanker.
A WARN notice is a Workers Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification, and by law with 100+ employees they have to give 60 days notice to the workers so that they can find other jobs or generally adjust to unemployment.
https://www.bizjournals.com/denver/news/2020/05/26/bluprint-formerly-craftsy-shutting-down-layoffs.html
I am editing this because there is some interesting things about WARN. One is that they don't have to give the notice if the company is faltering and it could hurt them from seeking funds. It's been said in other places this makes no sense, and really with this WARN they are not just doing okay enough to not be faltering, but they just nuked a whole part of their industry.
I also do know a few people in the entertainment industry, and I asked about this. While not really their area of expertise (and a couple are actors so really out of their pay level) they all said the exact same thing: follow the money. I have a theory on what is going on, but no proof. But I do believe this is all hinged on NBCU's new peacock platform.
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@Kwaaked bingo. Peacock is where everything NBC is headed. I was researching yesterday. One has to wonder what the point of buying Craftsy and turning it into bluprint really was. Me thinks a combination of experiment, think of us as lab rats on this, and a nice email list of people willing to watch their streaming that have already given them permission for contact and to share with their affiliates. Peacock opens to the public July 15th. I expect an email touting my valued status and offering a great premium subscriber deal. I think it might include offering to apply my refund from bluprint to my new peacock account.
Back to the hole in the ground.
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Telemundo is also owned by the same branch of NBCUniversal as bluprint, FYI. From what I understand, there is some issue of the on demand with them as well...and they are a silent partner in Hulu. It is actually pretty amazing WHAT they have their finger in, really.
And yes, peacock opens 7-15 and bluprint is closing about 7-22.
My conspiracy theory on this: they made the WARN and had to notify the workers, including the upper echelon, and did so the day that was filed. Educators are technically independent contractors and thus not needed for notification. However, Levisay sent the email to them because he himself had just found out and started a ball rolling NBC did not plan on happening. We, the consumer and the educators, was NOT supposed to know about this.
In the WARN, they are closing on or about 7-22, with everyone gone by 8-31. This latter date allows the IT department to change formats to peacock.
In my theory, I believe that NBC planned on the service to segue into peacock with all of us subscribers being seamlessly integrated sometime by 8-31...all our stuff and content was to be there, but they got rid of "forever" classes on the new platform. They'd be on the platform, but access was changed to just the peacock platform, as long as you paid the sub price.
I do believe this was supposed to be hush hush, we'd get a bit of a free time out of it for the forever classes/paid subscription to bluprint, but that they would come out of it ahead financially. I also believe that the educators weren't supposed to know so contracts could be redone, so they made a smaller amount because of the larger service and no longer on a paid per view or purchase, but smaller royalty rights per quarter based on the whole of peacock's library.
I can't prove a bit of this, and I would be surprised if it happened this way now...but I do believe this was going to benefit NBC immensely, and a fly got into that ointment. Oh, I think some classes will wind up on peacock still (not all now)...but someone leaked and put a huge fly in the ointment for them.
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You can never keep controversial plans under wraps. Someone always blows the whistle.
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Looks like I will be kissing my classes good-bye. I can't get my head around any of the instructions for downloading.
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@Puzzler I can make a video of the best way to do it, and you can get the CC if you need it. It's a little complicated the first few times, but it's relatively easy.
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Looks like I will be kissing my classes good-bye. I can't get my head around any of the instructions for downloading.
Me too. I have downloaded and saved any of the class resources/notes and any patterns that I want, but I can't work out how to download the classes. What is really annoying is that I paid for the beginner serger course just days before this news broke :angry:
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They supposedly updated the app to allow you to download your classes but it only works on phones and pads which isn't really a much of an option. I can't imagine watching these classes on a phone. Far too small to see anything. And while I have an iPad it's a smaller one and quite old so I probably could only download a few of the classes. I may see if I can get the Suzy Furrer ones but otherwise I think I can kiss my classes goodbye.
I looked into buying a new iPad since I am due for one anyway but there is a four week lead time.
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@Puzzler I can make a video of the best way to do it, and you can get the CC if you need it. It's a little complicated the first few times, but it's relatively easy.
That’s kind of you to offer. I don’t know what CC stands for though. Real dummy here. :S
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Closed captioning.
I just uploaded the video, so it may take a few, but this is the link when it gets done. It is also 3 AM here, so I sound like it. I also managed to not have much of an accent in it, so be glad.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BejKjfvbrDg
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They supposedly updated the app to allow you to download your classes but it only works on phones and pads which isn't really a much of an option. I can't imagine watching these classes on a phone.
Hmm. I don't have an iPad, although one of the children might but it will be years old! I don't like using my phone for things like this either but I may have to bite the bullet.
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Thank you, @Kwaaked . Very generous of you. I'll give it a go when I've had :drink:
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Closed captioning.
I just uploaded the video, so it may take a few, but this is the link when it gets done. It is also 3 AM here, so I sound like it. I also managed to not have much of an accent in it, so be glad.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BejKjfvbrDg
@Kwaaked Thank you! I think I might just be able to manage that :*
PS your accent is fine!
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@Kwaaked I watched your video. Thanks. Except of course now I want to stick pins :pin: in my eyes and :scream:.This will not be fun.
PS. You sound like a California girl now. ;)
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@Renegade Sewist I copy my mom's accent when I have to deal with the public or telephones. She was from Alahambra/LA area.
Personally, I don't sound like this. This is my "work" voice. And I had to pitch it way up for my computer mic to even hear me, plus it's the middle of the night. The first handful of videos were odd sounding.
The process isn't hard, just the first few times getting used to it is a little off putting.
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:scream: :scream: :scream:
I will need more than coffee to get through all that. Wow, thank you for taking the time to create the video. I will give it a whirl but I may be back for more :scream:.
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@Puzzler it's really not hard.
1. Get the code from Reddit.
2. Open a spreadsheet like google docs
3. Go to the overview of your class, right click choose inspect.
4. Paste the code from reddit, hit enter.
5. Paste into your spreadsheet (you don't have to copy anything...it will automatically do that from bluprint)
6. Copy the numbered part
7. Open the video.
8. Right click, save as and paste the name
9. Do the same for the closed captioning, change the name of file slightly if you want.
10. Repeat for each part of the video
Just move to a folder with all your class materials, name that as the name of the class...there ya go.
It looks a lot more complicated then it is. My video was 4 minutes because I slowed down to show how it was done. I can get an entire class in the amount of time it too to explain it.
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I can get an entire class in the amount of time it too to explain it.
Can you do mine ?????
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LOL, technically, yes.
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@Kwaaked Thank you so much for much for posting your how-to video - I am now compiling a spreadsheet with all my URLs so I can download the classes in between other tasks.
One thing I have discovered is that the video URLs are automatically for the highest quality as shown by -high.mp4 at the end of the URL. However you can change high to medium or low to get the different options which are smaller file sizes. For example, a 4 minute intro video for one of my courses is approximately 81.4 MB at high, 52.7 MB at medium and 23.5 MB at low.
When I view the videos in full screen on a 22" computer monitor I can't tell much difference between high and medium, but low has lost some clarity, however, low may be OK if you are going to view them on a tablet.
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Thanks very much @Kwaaked , I don’t understand a word of it but am sure if I take it slowly I’ll get there.
I can put them on my PC so now am just deciding which ones to save. My god I bought a lot of crap!
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@Ellabella , I was talking to a friend who was interested in trying FPP. I told her how much I loved it and she said, "If you can do it, it must be easy." :| >< :D So you will be reassured to know I have saved two classes.
Does anyone have the classes 'Color Play for Quilters' or 'Machine Quilting in Sections'? If so, please message me.
I also have bought "a load of crap." I won't be saving any crochet classes as I won't be crocheting this lifetime.
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Friend you say @Pearl ?!?!?!? :S
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Friend you say @Pearl ?!?!?!? :S
She is lovely and was very :| when she realised what she'd said.
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I too have a friend like that. :hug:
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Thank you for making the video. It appears others have had success.
Okay, I was having a problem then read your written instructions and realised why. I am not up to Step 6 - copy the numbered part. I'm stuck again. I've copied it but where do I paste it? The videos are in column C. Why do we need to copy column B? Something I am not comprehending. Will have another look tomorrow when I am not so drowsy. Off to watch Sewing Bee. That'll put me right out. 0_0
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This is what I got from Reddit, @Puzzler
downgrade",mode:"cors",credentials:"include"}).then(e=>e.json()).then(s=>{const{url:o,vttUrl:c}=s[1],a=0===t?`\t${r}\t"${n.map(e=>e.href).join('"\t"')}"`:"";e(`${lessonName}\t${l}\t${o}\t${c}\tmkdir -p "${lessonName}";curl -q ${o} > "${lessonName}/${lessonName} - ${l}.mp4";curl -q ${c} > "${lessonName}/${lessonName} - ${l}.vtt"${a}`)}).catch(s)})),cp=copy,Promise.all(downloadPromises).then(e=>{console.log(e),cp(e.join("\n"))})
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See above. Told you I need a dummies guide. :rolleyes:
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You copy the B column so that you can use what is there as the name of the video when you save it.
Enjoy the Sewing Bee and try again tomorrow.
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Pearl has it: they're the names of the videos.
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Kwaaked, thanks for posting those directions. I just did one class successfully.
My process is a little more tedious because I don't typically use google (I will delete chrome when I'm done) and I don't have excel. I use LibreOffice but the spreadsheet isn't very robust and often a copy/paste puts everything in one column. I happen to have Pages (part of iMac) and was able to partially paste there ... at least enough to get the title and download link.
As it turns out I have 68 classes. My plan is to make a list and prioritize them in case I'm not able to get all of them downloaded by the end of the time we have.
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I need Chrome for work so had it loaded already.
I managed to copy my first class!!! 8) I got lost on how to marry up the CC with the videos. I think you clicked 'subtitles' at one stage. On my old Mac that option was greyed out. I can live without them as long as I have the videos. I'm wondering about the space available for downloading most of my classes. I do have a portable hard drive already containing some pdf patterns and all of my Craftsy resources so presuming I can load them on to that.
There have been major IT changes at work and today I was trying to get to grips with it all. I am told it'll take about two weeks for me to get used to them. Given this steep learning curve I have in front of me, I'm glad I at least managed the Bluprint download. Thanks again @Kwaaked and thank you for your help too, @Pearl.
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I am trying to convince myself that if I cared enough about the classes I bought I would have watched them by now.
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Are these instructions for Windows or Mac or for both?
I'll watch the video later, thanks in advance @Kwaaked :)
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@Helen M Windows, I don't have a Mac, sorry.
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That's great I use Windows!
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Just to say what I've done in case it helps anyone else here. I tried and failed with several methods but came good in the end.
First off I tried the Chrome video downloader extension and managed to download one lesson of one class. but then it refused to download anything in full. I think it was happy with the short 6 minute intro but it gave up during the longer lessons. Next...
@Kwaaked's method unfortunately wouldn't work for me although I watched the video and followed her instructions faithfully. I think I probably needed to download the curl executable for Windows and I felt I'd spent enough time on it by then. I know this works well for many but I decided to move on. Next...
I tried two free video downloader apps but they wouldn't recognise the Bluprint videos as videos. So...
...following a suggestion on Pattern Review, I downloaded the Opera browser and its extension Flash Video Downloader - that took two minutes. It's simple and it works well. The first couple of classes took me a while as I worked out how to refresh the page for each lesson and check that I was downloading the right lesson. But I've done ten classes now and I'm pleased to have found a method that works for me. Each class of 7 or 8 lessons takes me about ten minutes. The lessons are already named - I just number them and create a folder for them. That takes two minutes.
So less than 15 minutes a class. Not as fast as Kwaaked but I probably wouldn't be anyway.
I have another 20 classes to go, some of which I may not bother with. I bought a 1T hard drive which I needed anyway and I'll load them onto that when it arrives. Maybe Bluprint will come up with something but then maybe they won't - I'd give it 50-50.
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I couldn't get curl to work, either.
However, I started off with your method, but not all videos download, so be sure to check to make sure you have them all.
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I am trying to convince myself that if I cared enough about the classes I bought I would have watched them by now.
I was feeling that way a little bit too .. but some of the classes are for things that I'd watch right before I'd do them ... for example the swimwear course or working with lace course.
I was also intending to go through the Suzy Furrer drafting courses once I retired (later this year) and had more free time. I actually paid a lot for most of those unlike the rest of the courses where I only bought on sale when they were at $20-25.
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I am trying to convince myself that if I cared enough about the classes I bought I would have watched them by now.
Ditto. A lot of them I just wanted to stream over the course of the year and take my time buying ones based on having viewed them. Then all the great courses classes which were stream only. Some were earmarked for high summer when it's blasting hot out and quilting classes for the winter when it's nice to be covered in fabric. I'm bummed but unlike many of you don't have a big investment here.
I saw @mudcat post about the Furrer drafting classes. I'd already resolved to be content with the Cal Patch drafting series over on Creativebug where I'm also a member. It's like a VW bug vs a Ferrari but my style is less refined anyway and Cal covers the basics well.
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I've now finished downloading my 30 classes using the Opera browser and extension - about 8 hours in all. That includes indexing and a quick quality control. I used video download speed of 640 for most as a compromise between download time and watchability. I tweaked VLC player settings following some online instructions and they seem to play well on that. Windows own video player was a bit choppy at times. I don't recommend using a lower download speed.
Anyway, done and dusted. I left a few basic classes I'd already watched and didn't want to keep. Glad I don't have 100+ like some!
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Does anyone have the classes 'Color Play for Quilters' or 'Machine Quilting in Sections'? If so, please message me.
@Pearl I don't have the Color Play for Quilters class but I do have the free 2014 Block of the Month course which was called Craftsy Colour Theory and was by Janine Burke & Amy Walsh. It covers Analogous Colour Study, Complementary Colour Study, Colour and Proportion, Warm and Cool Colour Study, Hexadic Colour Study and Value Study.
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I found this on another forum regarding Allavsoft. This link provides to me a good tutorial (similar settings to my audio capture program). It is from sewmodernbags.com.
https://sewmodernbags.com/how-to-download-video-classes-from-bluprint-or-craftsy/
1 month Allavsoft is US$ 19.99 which isn't too bad and you should be able to get your classes downloaded in that time. I'm thinking of giving it a go.
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I’ve been looking into this too @Helen M
Thanks for the link I’ll have a good look.
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I've just completed the final non-cooking course download. Those were my priority. I have 22 cooking courses still to download and hope to complete it by the end of the weekend.
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I just want to add my thanks to @Kwaaked for the download information as I've now successfully downloaded all my purchased classes plus loads of classes I had viewed but not bought. As they took my years subscription in March I felt totally justified in downloading anything and everything I was interested in. I'd forgotten how good some of those classes were.
I'm a daily lurker on this site but rarely post but wanted @Kwaaked to know how much I appreciated her instructions. I haven't bothered with the close captioning but all the rest are downloaded to my PC and some are already on USB sticks ready to be watched/played in the background whilst I'm sewing. I find the classes are excellent for inspiration as much as for information.
So thank you again @Kwaaked , you're my hero :toast:
PS I've watched some quilting classes whilst downloading and may be tempted to the darkside!! Maybe......... :P
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@realale you've inspired me to try to download the bleeping classes. Maybe a few extra since my coupons didn't work and my customer service request went unanswered. I only have 25 and really only "need" half of them.
I did just download 18 patterns out of the 21 I had. Took all of 4 minutes.
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I’ve been looking into this too @Helen M
Thanks for the link I’ll have a good look.
@Ohsewsimple I have just had a look at Allavsoft website and the $19.99 offer ends in 2 days. I'm going to buy mine today! https://www.allavsoft.com/video-downloader-converter.html#head
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@Ohsewsimple I have just had a look at Allavsoft website and the $19.99 offer ends in 2 days. I'm going to buy mine today! https://www.allavsoft.com/video-downloader-converter.html#head
Ooh thanks @Helen M I will sort that today too.
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I run the Firefox browser on my PC and have the Video Download Helper extension and another bit of software (can't remember the name, but Firefox prompts you on it so you don't need to go looking). It's all free and you can download the videos quickly and easily onto a Windows based machine. I can't speak for any other system, but I've just started downloading my classes today and it's going along without any problems.
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I'm on a Mac DV. Hope yours works ok. I haven’t got too many classes to download.
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I'm done with all my downloading. :thumbsup:
I even re-downloaded the patterns that were all free as far as I recall. Chrome has been deleted from the computer. And now I'm back to real life. That was putting a crimp in my daily activities.
I want to thank Kwaaked too for putting up the reddit instructions. For people using some of the browser download apps .. what are they downloading as? Someone on PR made a comment that made it seem like they weren't downloading as the mp4 like the reddit solution does. But maybe I misunderstood.
Here's how I organized things: Craftsy, Type (Sew, Quilt, Cook), Presenter Name and then course ordered by "chapter" where I used 0 for any of the pdf course materials. The xCraftsyCourse spreadhseet has a list of course names with presenter and folder name so I can easily find what I'm looking for. This is partly why my process was slow but I wanted to have easy to understand file names especially with the cooking classes where every file is a different recipe or concept.
As you can see the numbers sort the course in the order it is in and I added x to things to keep them at the bottom (though if a presenter had a name after x I would have used z I guess).
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For people using some of the browser download apps .. what are they downloading as? Someone on PR made a comment that made it seem like they weren't downloading as the mp4 like the reddit solution does. But maybe I misunderstood.
@mudcat i used the Opera browser which downloaded them as mp4 files. I was very happy with it - all 33 classes took me a few hours over 2 days but it's a simple system (for simple folk :)).
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I run the Firefox browser on my PC and have the Video Download Helper extension and another bit of software (can't remember the name, but Firefox prompts you on it so you don't need to go looking). It's all free and you can download the videos quickly and easily onto a Windows based machine. I can't speak for any other system, but I've just started downloading my classes today and it's going along without any problems.
Thanks @dolcevita , I have Firefox so got the extension. I’m just wondering which file format to use. I suppose I could download several different ones and see which gave the best quality. Will wait till later though as my broadband runs slowly at this time of the evening.
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@Ellabella I will be interested to know how you get on. I have Firefox but am a complete technodunce and wouldn't know where to start. I just have Alison Smith's 3 tailoring classes that I would very much like to hold on to. I have referred to them many times.
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@Ploshkin I’ll let you know tomorrow when I’ve had chance to play.
I’ve got that Alison Smith too and really don’t want to lose them.
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Anyone checked the quality of the videos downloaded?
The sound is good on all of mine, but after the first couple of minutes on each video, the Picture isn't 100%, smooth or synchronised. It's still possible to follow the class but the picture quality isn't great.
I used Opera + the FVD Downloader Extension and used the highest res on offer of 1920x1080.
Some of the classes I saved using a recording programme I have and those are far better quality than the downloaded versions. However, that requires realtime play/record which takes a lot longer than download. Both recorded and downloaded are MP4 format.
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I’ve managed to get all of mine downloaded. Used Allavsoft. They were really helpful and very quick when I emailed. I’ve had a quick look and they seem to be fine. But I’ll check later.
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@Morgan I used the Opera downloader too.Most of mine were downloaded at 640 x 360 which is much lower than yours and when I first played them back on my laptop they were quite choppy. Then I found a simple tweak to the settings of VLC - a player I already used - which seems to have solved the problem. Now they play fine - I've tried a representative sample. Picture clarity isn't 100% but it's plenty clear to see what's going on. And at 640 I didn't expect more anyway.
Here's my tweak source https://www.remosoftware.com/info/know-how-to-fix-choppy-video-playback. It has a few different options - I used Enable Speed Tricks.
I'm not sure if your problem is the same as mine was but there are other suggested fixes online if none of these work. Here's another https://www.stellarinfo.com/blog/fix-choppy-jerky-videos/
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i'm now struggling to get Craftsey videos to play on my PC. The soundis fine but the picture is very choppy.
I can view them perfectly on my iPad and have the ability to download them but I have downloaded a couple and am unable to find the files.
I was hoping I could download on my iPad and then transfer to an external hard drive but think its beyond my very limited capabilities.
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I haven't watched all of mine but spot checked a few and they all seemed fine. I'm using Quicktime on my iMac to view them.
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Out of interest I decided to test view some of my Opera browser downloads on the iPad. I'm storing them in Google Drive anyway (I have a paid Google cloud storage account for general backup) so can watch them on any device.
...And on the iPad they are not just good but perfect. Which means that if your videos aren't playing well it may be less the download method or speed that's at fault than the player.
My inbuilt Windows player was poor with lag and choppiness, VLC tweaked (see my previous post) was much better, but the iPad player is best of all.
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Mine seem to be playing well on iMac and iPad.
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Just a heads up that there is a concensus elsewhere that Bluprint will shut completely on 22 July so a reminder to anyone needing to download either classes or class resources before then.
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Oh no! We haven't managed to download any of them on our LInux laptops and our Samsung tablet is way too old.
Think we OH may have to particition the hard disk of my laptop to load MS Windows and try that. Which of these methods seemed to work well for UK users with MS Windows?
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I used Allvasoft. They were really quick coming back after adding my Craftsy login and then after about 5 hours I had all my classes downloaded.
I just did another random spot check and they are all clear with good sound.
I think it was worth the investment to not lose the money I'd spent over the years on Craftsy (Bluprint).
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I too used Allavsoft and found it good. In fact I wonder if I should have bought the 1 year subscription rather than the 1 month as I think it could have other uses apart from Bluprint.
To save you searching the previous pages this is a good tutorial https://sewmodernbags.com/how-to-download-video-classes-from-bluprint-or-craftsy/
Also this one https://sewingplums.com/2020/06/13/download-craftsy-bluprint-videos/ from Lisanne who is a member here.
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I bought a months subscription to Allavsoft and found them very efficient.
I only want about 25% of my classes but couldn’t delete the ones I don’t want, so decided to download everything. Of course I didn’t have the disc space and so everything stopped and I got myself in a right tizz.
I then started looking at new external HDs which I don’t really want to buy as DS has promised to give me a couple of his HDs when he upgrades and when he can actually come inside and fit them.
Suddenly realised I can put them in my Dropbox :facepalm:, so upgraded to Plus and download is going fine (It may take some time).
Once everything is downloaded I can get rid of the dross, sort it to my PC when DS has done my upgrade and cancel the extra Dropbox.
Feeling quite smug now :rolleyes:
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If there are any classes that you don't want to download you need to 'archive' them on the Bluprint site. They then wiĺl not get downloaded when you start the process.
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Thank you @Kitten @Helen M and @Ellabella DH has had a look and thinks that software should work on Linux anyway (he wasn't getting any joy with Opera at all). Going to give it a try tomorrow.
:)
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Just checked, 17 hours to go 0_0
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Phew! Finally got there. Unfortunately the Alvasoft is no longer an available option as Bluprint have stopped that route - apparently auto notifications were sent to them each time a video transfer procedure was launched so I guess they must have been pretty overwhelmed!
DH tried the Opera method again and this time it worked for a few lessons but then they started freezing part way through the transfer and he couldn't find out why or another way around. :headbang:
In the end he searched the internet and found this way (https://cybertext.wordpress.com/2020/05/25/bluprint-getting-your-forever-classes/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter) of copying from the app download. Not sure if this specific method has been mentioned earlier in this thread but it's worth repeating as it seems a very stable method and despite being described here for Windows it also worked for us on our Linux set up.
It's been a labour of love to copy my 33 classes, lesson by lesson closing the app immediately and copying it to my laptop before reopening the app to copy the next lesson. Because of the problem with the video freezing, I also opened each video on my laptop to click into it at intervals to the end just to check it plays okay. I do wonder if any subscribers may have tried this method to download & copy lesson-by-lesson too! Not fair to the tutors perhaps who will undoubtedly be thinking about recreating their lessons to sell themselves.
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Not sure I'm even going to bother.
Was cheered last night. I like some of The Great Courses offerings they had but you couldn't pick them as free classes. It's close to $400 to buy the drawing class by David Brody. My library offers free streaming of movies etc through Kanopy and this class is one of them.
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@Marniesews Allavsoft is still working for me. I've just downloaded a single class using the 2nd method that the https://sewmodernbags.com/how-to-download-video-classes-from-bluprint-or-craftsy/ describes. No problem.
I used Allavsoft for something else yesterday and they offered an update to the software. I declined just in case it messed up any method that I use. I only have it for 1 month so not much longer and I'd rather stick with what I know works.
Anyway it seems there is still hope if you haven't got your classes down yet.
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That's good, @Helen M . I don't understand the tech aspects of these things at all but I know we didn't go further once DH had found the reference to those login issues with Bluprint and wasn't keen to pay for the software subscription after that, not least one designed to be used with a different operating system. Unfortunately he doesn't have the link now so I can't give any details. Hopefully I haven't got entirely the wrong end of the stick.
You having got your login previously may have something to do with it but it might still be worth others trying still perhaps. Certainly it's been clear from this thread that some things work well for one and then not for another even when using the same operating system.
Going through this process has made me realise how many of them I hadn't watched or only dipped in and out of. Hopefully I'll find some time over the rest of the year to sit down to watch and learn with a bit more perseverance! But right now, Bluprint videos are the last thing I want to spend more time watching! :rolleyes:
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I used Allvasoft. They were really quick coming back after adding my Craftsy login and then after about 5 hours I had all my classes downloaded.
I just did another random spot check and they are all clear with good sound.
I think it was worth the investment to not lose the money I'd spent over the years on Craftsy (Bluprint).
I am in the process of downloading my classes, as I type! So good to hear that they down loaded well.
It seems that a new company called 'Skillshare' is jumping into the gap left by Bluprint. Hope it works well for them.
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Unfortunately the Alvasoft is no longer an available option as Bluprint have stopped that route - apparently auto notifications were sent to them each time a video transfer procedure was launched so I guess they must have been pretty overwhelmed!
Wow, luckily for me I transferred mine with Alvasoft on Sunday. It was pretty painless. I just downloaded everything and will decide which to delete at a later date, although I've not checked the sound quality.
That is pretty poor of bluprint if they have stopped Alvasoft being used. They are taking away what people have paid for and yet not allowing them to obtain them by any other means.
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Sound and picture is good on mine @Missie
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That is pretty poor of bluprint if they have stopped Alvasoft being used. They are taking away what people have paid for and yet not allowing them to obtain them by any other means.
They haven't stopped Allavsoft from working. I'm using it right now to download another class that I forgot.
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Did it mean that whilst existing users are ok, they are not taking new subscriptions?
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It's unclear @Ellabella I was explaining that we'd not taken it further after DH found an online piece saying that was so but it looks as though it may not have been correct. In the end I got all mine downloaded but using a more laborious process. It's unclear if Alvasoft would have worked with out Linux systems too.
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Did it mean that whilst existing users are ok, they are not taking new subscriptions?
The Allavsoft website is still allowing you to buy any of their subscriptions @Ellabella.
I need to contact them to see how I can extend my month. You can use it for many other sites and there is not the problem of the password that there was with Bluprint. I think that was probably because we 'owned' the classes. I recorded a Radio 2 (I know, sound only) show as a trial and the method is the same as the 2nd method described in the Modernbags tutorial. It worked well, I have other software that allows me to record any sound so I was just wanting to do a comparison.
It would seem that Bluprint are also allowing you to subscribe, which I think is a disgrace considering they are supposedly closing sometime later this month or next (according to Colorado newpapers as reported on Pattern Review).
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It would seem that Bluprint are also allowing you to subscribe, which I think is a disgrace considering they are supposedly closing sometime later this month or next (according to Colorado newpapers as reported on Pattern Review).
Absolutely agree. I will be cancelling my payment when I've downloaded everything.
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There is an update from Bluprint to say that TN Marketing are taking over. There is a letter on your Bluprint with details.
Apparently we will still have access to our Library and subscribed classes.
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I just want to know whether anybody is going to be selling their lovely quilting fabrics - which, as I understand it, were exclusive to them.
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@Acorn where did all that stock go? I for one had loads of it in my basket saving up for a big order then phut! Gone! :o
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I sneaked an order in a few days before the end, but my basket was still full when they closed down... :scream:
They didn't reduce the prices beyond their normal reductions, so they can't have wanted to get rid of it. :thinking: That must mean they have plans for it - or someone else does.
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There is an update from Bluprint to say that TN Marketing are taking over. There is a letter on your Bluprint with details.
Apparently we will still have access to our Library and subscribed classes.
I have been following this thread and putting off the day to do something about my classes. I'd got to the point of looking at Allvasoft, wondering about the free download, looking for an external hard drive then saw this.
Does that mean I don't have to go to the expense - time and money - of keeping them all? Although it would be well worth it I suppose.
Where do I find out how many megabytes each class takes up? (for the external hard drive)
"Would that it were so simple"
CR :angel:
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Each class takes about 5 gigs.
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Downloading my classes filled my hard drive up to 1.2 TB. I'm not completely sure what it was before but I think it added about 450 GB. My backup drive only held 1TB so I bought two new ones. We swap them out periodically and keep one in the safe.
It's unlikely I'll ever go to TN Marketing unless I find an issue with one of my downloads. But, I'm glad someone is taking over since it appears on other sites some people were holding out for a solution and not downloading as a precaution. I was feeling a little worried for them.
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I received an email saying I could keep using all my classes so happy with that for now
Will possibly look into ways of downloading it sometime because it will probably happen again :rolleyes:
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I received an email saying I could keep using all my classes so happy with that for now
Will possibly look into ways of downloading it sometime because it will probably happen again :rolleyes:
Me too I kept putting off doing anything and feeling bad about it, still cross that I didn’t get to use all my keep for even classes
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I'm relieved too. Since I screwed up there at the end and wasn't able to buy all the classes I've had a bitter taste in my mouth. Fueled by zero response from customer disservice. There were classes I planned on watching in the fall and now I can. Of course I'd planned to buy some of them if I liked them but oh well. That's one less annoyance from this wretched year.
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I'm glad I downloaded mine but also pleased that we will still have access via this new place. hopefully with an app. so I can watch on my tablet. It also renewed a bit of my confidence in software/downloading etc that I'd not done in a long while.
I had thought of getting a USB flash drive stick (still might) large enough to hold some classes that can be attached to tablet it in case this new setup fizzles out and I don't want to use laptop to view.
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Just an update re Allavsoft and Bluprint for those who have bought the software.
I have just read on Pattern Review that somewhere on Allavsoft's website they say they will cease to let you download 'Own Forever Classes' in 10 days time.
I can't see it on their site and have asked poster for a link, but if you have the software maybe use it soon!
It has loads of other uses, if you have a Spotify account you can convert music to MP3 with Allavsoft, just one thing that may appeal.....
Edited to add
Just located it, it's on the support page. Reading it I think if you have already got them to 'unlock' your Bluprint account you will still be able to download but they won't do any new requests. I may be wrong though.
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Glad I got mine downloaded. Don’t need to worry now.
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Just realised that I never joined Blueprint when they took over Craftsy so I never had access to my Craftsy classes anyway.
Anyone wonder how I became Queen of Procrastination?
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I've only got one actual class that I paid for but loads in the My patterns, however most of those are from So sew easy and available on their website, so I wasn't too bothered. Good news that everything will still be accessible.
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Just realised that I never joined Blueprint when they took over Craftsy so I never had access to my Craftsy classes anyway.
Anyone wonder how I became Queen of Procrastination?
One day at a time @Sewingsue . One day at a time.
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I never joined Bluprint either but still had access to my classes. I used to search for Craftsy & log in that way.
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I have a feeling that Craftsy members were automatically transferred to Bluprint when they acquired Craftsy. I still access mine from a Craftsy icon on my desktop and don't recall joining Bluprint.
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Same here @Helen M
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Good news! Below I have copied two letters that are now posted on the Bluprint site. Another company has bought them out and intends to maintain/continue the service.
*********
Dear Valued Member of the Bluprint Community:
We are excited to announce that your access to your subscription services and individually purchased classes will continue. In addition to classes, your access to course materials and course patterns will also continue.
Our friends at TN Marketing have acquired certain assets of the Bluprint business, and the Bluprint and TN teams are working together to ensure a smooth transition. As part of this transition, TN Marketing has agreed to honor previous customer purchases for classes and subscriptions and will preserve your access to Bluprint content.
The Craftsy/Bluprint team have spent the last decade working to build the world’s best learning content and community. We are confident that TN Marketing will continue this legacy and feel that their customer centric approach, deep understanding of content and hobbies, and technical acumen make them uniquely positioned to do so.
I speak for myself and the entire Bluprint staff in saying that it has been a profound honor to be a part of this decade long journey, and that you are in good hands moving forward. With that, I’d like to introduce Cal Franklin, CEO of TN Marketing.
Thank you, stay safe, and craft on.
Sincerely,
John
From Cal:
I’m Cal Franklin, the CEO of TN Marketing and the new CEO of the wonderful Bluprint community. We are eager to serve you with new and exciting content and just as importantly keep the subscriptions and classes you purchased over the years available for you to enjoy. The TN Marketing and Bluprint community combined will now represent over 3.5 million hobbyists with over 17 million crafting classes sold, and will continue on as the leader in the crafts and hobbies education space.
My team and I have long been connecting passionate crafters with their hobbies and providing online learning and instruction. We understand your passion and are focused on continuing the excitement, enthusiasm and loyalty you have had for Bluprint, and previously, Craftsy.
There are many exciting things to come and our team is working fast in concert with the Bluprint team. Rest assured that access to your classes, and subscriptions will remain available.
We understand how important this community is to you and we are honored to be joining it. Stay tuned for more communications coming soon.
Sincerely,
Cal Franklin
CEO and President TN Marketing
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That's useful to know. Thank you, @WendyW !
Doesn't give any idea whether we'll continue with the same access links but I suspect I'll see that info on here before I see it on Bluprint. :)
It was a heck of a long palaver downloading all my classes but it's great to have them without the dependence on the online site and, if I do buy more, hopefully the same procedure will work again...assuming they still continue with the app.
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I’ve had an email to say they’ll be up and running on 1 September. TN promises “special events” on the launch date and will honour Craftsy customers etc.
CR :angel:
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...and apparently in the interim we just continue with the normal Bluprint login. I notice they seem to revert the name Craftsy more often for the new service so perhaps it will return to that for the September launch of the new platform.