Do Your Kids Want To Learn How To Die-cut?

This is an easy lesson on how to use a die-cutting machine to die-cut. And it’s designed for kids! Bonus: links and descriptions to 5 die-cutting machines.

My nephew, Jens, wanted to learn how to make cards. So I sent him a couple of boxes of crafty stuff and a Cuttlebug die-cutting machine and its plates were some of the things that were in them. We met on zoom and recorded the “class” so that Jens could refer to it afterward.

We had so much fun together in that first “class” that we decided that we would like to share what we’re doing with you in hopes that you can learn too.

What Is Die-cutting?

Die-cutting is when you use a machine that applies pressure in order to cut shapes from different materials. For cards, we use the machine to cut cardstock. You can also use the machine with embossing folders which we’ll cover in another article.

In order to cut with a die-cutting machine, you also have to have a die.

What is a Die?

A die is a shape made from steel. It has a sharp cutting edge that cuts through cardstock or fabric when you use it with a die-cutting machine. And, you can use the same die over and over to create the same shape. As a result, each time you’ll end up with exactly the same size and shape.

Dies come in many shapes and sizes. And as a result, you can get them for words, numbers, sentiments, stars, balloons … you name it, you can find a die for it. And, there are many dies available that coordinate with stamp sets.

What is a Die-cutting Machine?

There are many kinds of die-cutting machines. And many sizes too. And, there are die-cut machines that are called manual – that means you have to turn a handle to make it work. Or you can get electric ones. But, they all have one thing in common: they apply pressure in order to cut things out with dies. In other words, they squeeze the die and the paper together until the paper is cut, very cool!

And, all die-cutting machines come with a set of cutting plate. We use combinations of those plates, which we call a “sandwich”, with are cardstock or other material. And then we feed our sandwich through the machine. When it comes out the other side, the cardstock has been cut in the shape of our die.

How To Die-cut

We learned how to use a die-cutting machine during the first class. We also learned a little bit about stamping:

Which Machine Should I Get To Die-cut?

The die-cutting machine that Jens uses in the video is a Cricut Cuttlebug. There is a lot of love for the Cuttlebug die-cutting machine and it’s perfect for Jens. Unfortunately, they have been discontinued so you can’t get them unless you buy them second-hand. But there are a lot of fantastic die-cut machines that are available.

Die-cutting machines are one of the more expensive tools that we use for card making. And it’s hard to know which one to get. We will try to help you decide by providing you with a selection to choose from with some details that might help you decide.

Mini Die-cutting Machines

A mini could be the perfect solution for children for a number of reasons. Being that they are smaller, lighter, and easier to use and put away. They are also perfect for taking along when you travel. And they come at a lower price point.

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Sizzix Sidekick

The Sizzix Sidekick Machine can be used with dies up to 2 1/2′ wide and includes an embossing pad, and a pair of cutting pads. You can buy it separately or in a starter kit that includes 6 Framelits dies, 2 Thinlits dies, 2 small Textured Impressions Embossing Folders, and 7 Stamps.

This roller machine has a special vacuum seal that holds it securely into place on any smooth work surface. It weighs 2 pounds and stands 4 3/4″ tall.

Check out the Sizzix Sidekick here

Altenew Mini Blossom

The Mini Blossom Die Cutting Machine, Altenews mini version is compact and portable measuring 6″ x 4 1/2″ plus the handle and it weighs 2 lb 3 oz. and has suction feet to secure it to your work surface. It comes with two 3″ x 6 1/4″ cutting plates and is designed to work with metal dies. It can be used to quickly and easily die-cut a variety of materials, including cardstock and specialty papers.

This machine has suction feet.

Check out Altenew Mini Blossom here.

Gemini Mini

This is a manual die-cutting machine that comes with a plastic shim and cutting folder for cutting and embossing. It’s super lightweight and measures 9″ x 6.25″ x 4.5″.

Check out Gemini Mini here.

Small Die-Cut Machines

Spellbinders Platinum 6

If you are looking for a mainstay in your craft room it’s hard not to like this little machine. It is light enough so that it is easy to move around in your workspace yet it is big enough to do almost anything you want to with regard to die-cutting and embossing.

It measures 12.6” x 9.5” x 7.5” and comes with a standard platform, two cutting plates, an embossing plate, and an embossing mat. And it can cut foam, balsa wood, metal, wood veneer, fabric, paper, felt, cardstock, cork, chipboard, vellum, foiled paper, or other materials!

The sides of the machine fold up and the handle can be removed making on-the-go crafting and storage a cinch.

Check out Spellbinders Platinum 6 here

Sizzix Big Shot

The Big Shot Machine has an opening of 6 inches and is compatible with many dies and embossing tools. The machine is 14 1/4″ L x 12 3/8″ W (with handle) x 6 5/8″ H and comes with 2 Ocean Sparkle Standard cutting pads, and an adjustable Multi-Platform with diagrams and guidelines.

Check out Sizzix Big Shot here

Personal Experience with Die-Cut Machines

I own a number of die-cutting because I just wanted to try them all. Here is my take on each of them:

Manual Die-cut machines

Sizzix Big Shot

• Best machine I have for using with embossing folders
• The extended platform is great for long dies
• Does not fold up and;
• it’s cumbersome

Spellbinders Platinum 6

• Great for just about any kind of die-cutting or embossing
• Folds up
• Light and maneuverable
• Cutting plates warp
• Leaves little scraps of paper on your cardstock

Spellbinders Platinum – 8″

• Perfect for cutting large dies
• Very heavy

Electric Die-cut Machines

Anna Griffin Empress

• Love it!
• Comes with a thick magnet that holds dies in place beautifully
• Plates don’t warp
• Powerful
• Does the work for you
• You can run the plates through along the long edge
• Expensive

Gemini Junior

• Love it!
• Powerful
• Does the work for you
• Plates warp

We Want To Hear From You

If there are topics you would like for Jens and me to cover in our Kids Making Cards series please leave tell us what they are by leaving a comment.

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