having trouble with encoding avi files onto vcd

im using nero and trying to make vcds. i have selected make vcd from the menu, dragged the the two video files into the correct box and then clicked burn. the trouble is the video is avi and when it is burning it just seems to take forever to encode. does anyone have any suggestions or help? or any other programs you could recomend me using? all help wil be very appreciated. thanx. Ben