Cuttlebug Cutting

Yesterday we introduced the Cuttlebug machine, the most high-tech crafting tool that we use at Spark a Smile. There are more complex machines out there for cutting shapes out of paper, but the Cuttlebug is our favorite because it doesn’t need electricity, the cutting implements aren’t very costly compared to other die-cutting systems, and the machine is super-portable, great for card get-togethers. If you are interested in more advanced die-cutters, simply search google and you will find many comparisons.

OK, here we go with cutting! As we demonstrated yesterday, here is the Cuttlebug platform.

Cuttlebug “cutters” are usually made out of metal. They almost always come in sets of four, and start at $15 retail, but as always, you can keep an eye out for deals (I’ve found one set of four at Hobby Lobby for only $5!) or use a 40% off coupon. 
Choose your paper. Sometimes I choose a larger piece of paper than what I need, so I can use the “negative” image on another card.

Place the styrofoam cutting side against the paper, then sandwich the two between the two “B” plates.
Tip: The cutter will cut into the plastic “B” plates, so place the same side against the cutter every time to keep your plates looking newer longer.

As with embossing, stack the “B” plate/cutter/paper sandwich on top of the white thingy and place it all on the platform, then crank the sandwich through the rollers.

Out pops your crisp die-cut, ready to adhere to your project!

If you have any questions, please post them in the comments, or ask at our next Spark a Smile party – Wednesday, November 10th, from 5-7 PM!