We all love our die cutting machines, but there are some lesser known features you’ll want to tap into.
Sue Neal shares 4 things you might not know about your die cut machine.
Make some cute summertime cards! Sign up for Sue’s latest class on her website www.sueneal.blogspot.com. Click the following links to see what you’ll be making!
Cherry Card—Lemonade Card—Popsicle Card—Watermelon Card
You don’t have to be ‘crafty’ to use the die-cutting machine.
Having a die-cutting machine is becoming like having a printer, everyone needs one! Here’s why you need to buy one or get it OUT of the box if you own one.
1. Smarter
Everything is getting smarter, including die-cutting machines. This is how:
a. Wireless – The latest versions of popular brands, like Cricut, Silhouette, Sizzix & Brother Scan&Cut all feature Bluetooth. This may not seem like a big deal, but for me, with a computer, 2 printers and several die-cutting machines, I can move them away from me and have less wires. It also allows for die-cutting on the go (on a trip, or at a friends).
b. Apps – Cricut now has an App for ipad and iphone (Android coming soon).
c. Software – Significant improvement over the last few editions of Software. Learning curve for sure, but well worth the investment of time.
2. Better
a. Cricut new-generation machines (Explore forward) include Cut Smart Technology. Bottom line, the machine cuts like a dream. Much, much better than the Expression. Circles are now perfect! Detailed shapes cut & release perfectly!
b. German Carbide Blades – These are a totally redesigned blade, using a specifically formulated tungsten carbide. It resists wear & breakage. Bottom line, blades are very sharp and will stay sharp longer.
c. Smart Set dial – This beauty take the guess work out of how deep to cut your material. For the most part it work well, but I’ve had to make certain adjustments for cardstock. What I LOVE about it though, is as soon as you dial up to thicker items, it automatically cuts twice.
d. Quieter, working on faster – Definitely quieter, which is very nice. Little bit slower, but that is mainly with detailed cuts. With the latest version you can choose fast cut for simpler shapes.
3. SVG Cut files
a. SVG stands for Scalable Vector Graphics – Think of it as a shape file, not a picture file. Cricut came to this ‘game’ a bit late, but they have joined all other die-cutting brands in allowing crafters to use their own shapes, not just what the brand has to offer.
b. Cartridge vs. SVG file – If you’re like me, you have many cartridges. The good news if they are compatible with the newest Cricut machines. But the days of collecting cartridges are over and I’m pretty happy about it. Instead of spending up to $60 on a cartridge that you may only use a few shapes, you can now purchase just the one shape you want in Cricut’s (or other brands) large library of shapes.
c. Subscribe for a specific amount of money to receive unlimited shapes during a period of time.
d. FREE cuts! Cricut has a free cut of the week, be sure to get it!
e. FREE cuts! The internet has loads of places that offer free SVG cut files. That includes me and the files I created for the projects here. I also include the cut files for each of my card making kits.
4. Creativity
a. New materials (besides paper) – Because of the improvements made to these new generation of die-cutting machines, you can cut more materials, BETTER. You can cut more than 60 materials including fabric, leather, felt, wood veneer, vinyl, etching glass etc. It’s not that you couldn’t cut these things before, but because of all the improvements, it does it all MUCH better.
b. Practical – It’s not just for scrapbooking/card making anymore. A die-cutting machine opens up a whole world of practical ways to enhance your life. If you have children, you NEED a die-cutting machine. From chore charts to school projects you’ll find fun ways to make the most of your machine.
c. Creativity! Think Home decor, Fashion, Gifts, Celebrations, Invitations, holidays! I think of an idea, design it and cut it! I’m pretty much obsessed.
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