Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a mixing bowl, cream 1 cup butter, gradually add 1/2 cup sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Beat in 1 egg and 1/2 teaspoon almond extract. Gradually blend in 2 1/2 cups sifted regular all purpose flour. Chill dough for ease in handling. Roll out dough on lightly floured surface to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes with floured assorted cookie cutters. Place on baking sheets. Bake 8-12 minutes. Remove immediately to wire rack to cool. Decorate with confection frosting and raisins or candies. Basic recipe may be put in cookie press, using star attachment and dough formed into circles or "S" on baking sheets. Drop cookies can be made by stirring 1 cup cut up gum drops (omit licorice) and 1 cup flaked coconut into basic recipe. Drop onto baking sheets.