Die Cutting Tips that Make Your Cutting Pads Last Longer + Scrapbook LO Tutorial
Let's talk die cutting and embossing tips that give you less resistance in your machine, plus how to make your cutting pads last longer! And you'll get to see how I take the newly redesigned Sizzix Big Shot for a test drive--all in my latest tutorial video!
Hey, crafty friend! I hang out in a lot of crafty groups over on Facebook and I'm always so happy to see more people getting into die cutting and embossing all the time with manual machines like the Sizzix Big Shot!
Shop all the supplies used in this project below!
I also see a lot of frequently asked questions in those groups from newbies and hobbyists alike, so let's talk about some die cutting and embossing tips today. Here's what I'm seeing asked in these groups often:
- Is it normal for the die to leave a cut impression in my plastic cutting pad?
- Is it normal to hear a cracking sound when I roll my dies through the machine?
- What is the correct sandwich for thin metal dies?
- What is the correct sandwich for 3D embossing folders?
- Why am I getting resistance with this die/embossing folder?
- Why is my cardstock tearing/wrinkling when I do 3D embossing?
In today's YouTube tutorial, I answer all of those very questions! Plus, you'll see my process for creating this autumnal scrapbook layout using the new Big Shot Starter Kit and a few additional supplies and tools. And speaking of tools, be sure to check out my favorite crafting tool list--these are my tried-and-true must-haves for die cutting, stamping, ink blending, mixed media and embroidery!
But there are also a few more frequently asked questions that I want to address that I didn't have time for in my video. So let's get into it:
Q: Is it okay to use a homemade shim for better results?
A: No. Always use the recommended sandwich from your die cut machine's maker and only products made to be used in die cut machines. With the proper sandwich, you'll get the best results. Also, using a homemade shim could void your warranty. This is because homemade shims can change the pressure in your machine by stretching the rollers further apart. And this will cause you to have worsening results with embossing and die cutting over time.
Q: My highly detailed dies aren't cutting well. What can I do about it?
A: If you find yourself running a detailed dies with a lot of negative spaces through your machine more than twice just to get a semi-decent cut, I highly recommend using the Sizzix Chrome Base Plate. This plate is specifically designed to be used with highly detailed thin metal dies--and you'll only need to run your die through once and the negative cuts will literally just fall out!
Q: Can I use other brands' products in my die cut machine?
A: Yes! Many thin metal dies are made to about the same thickness and you'll be able to use Sizzix dies in a Spellbinder's Platinum machine or Pinkfresh dies in a Sizzix machine. Embossing folders can vary a bit more and you can get mixed results with them. Make sure you always check a product's compatibility with your machine. And if you feel resistance even with following my tips for smoother die cutting and embossing in my video, stop. You don't want to force something through your machine that isn't made to fit or you could break or damage your machine. Always use your best judgement--and if you ever have any questions, reach out to the brands in question to ask! Companies are always happy to help you get the best experience with their products, even if you want to use a competitor's dies or embossing folders in their die cut machine.
I hope that whether you are new or old to die cutting, that you find this tutorial video with die cutting and embossing tips and tricks helpful! If you are new to this world, welcome to the crafting community! For those who've been here for a long time--think of these tips as a good refresher, because we all need it sometimes. There are so many things to remember when it comes to paper crafting and mixed media.
Until next time, happy crafting!
Adrienne
Shop the Supplies:
Scrapbook.com, A Cherry On Top, Spellbinders, Sizzix, Etsy & Amazon
I am an affiliate with multiple companies. When you shop the links below, I receive a small commission from the affiliate, at no additional cost to you. This helps me balance the costs of the time and love I put into my projects and blog so I can continue to share my ideas with you for FREE. If you shop the links, thank you! I greatly appreciate it.
Below are products that I used for this project.
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