It’s Monday and it’s my turn to post today! I thought I might let you into a secret… I love die cutting – I love the fact that’s so versatile and that you can cut the same image again and again (it makes birthday invitations a doddle!) I tend to use three main types of manufacturer though there are lots to choose from. I tend to use Sizzix the most as I use a lot of Tim Holtz dies and for me these are the most reasonable financially as I use them so much. I cut a variety of materials with these dies, including fabric! I also use Cuttlebug as I have a ‘thing’ for alphabets! These are thinner dies which I generally just cut paper with. Spellbinders are also well used and PaperArtsy make dies which are very similar and fit their stamps perfectly.I have yet to really use the embossing function of Spellbinder dies but I have seen the amazing results that others get. I have two diecutting machines (I know, greedy right?!) my original Cuttlebug that I use for Cuttlebug and Spellbinder dies and a wonderful Vagabond that I used for everything else. Of course once you start buying dies you also then buy the embossing folders that the manufacturers make! I did show you on an earlier post (here) that I like to use embossing folders!
Once you have a die cutting machine there are three main ways to use your image. The first is to use the shape you cut out, the second is to use that shape as a mask and the third is to use the ‘waste’ left behind as a mask! So not only is it pretty cool at creating an image, nothing need be wasted! Now that is music to my ears! How do you use your dies? What are your favourites and why? I’d love to know! Have a great week,
Gabrielle
ps - the 'die cuts' was cut using Tim Holtz's brand spanking new Word Play die - told you I loved alpahbets!
I am so jealous, those new dies have not landed here in South Africa yet...I also love dies and use them for EVERYTHING. I only have Tim's dies and 3 Sizzix ones.
Posted by: Belinda Basson | February 27, 2012 at 12:10 PM
I love the Word play alpha you have.... i want it :)
I don't use my die cutting machine enough so thanks for the inspiration for me to get my machines out again :)
Posted by: jayne | February 27, 2012 at 03:05 PM
That is sooo organised (mine are all in a drawer that I rifle through to find :)
Posted by: Katherine | February 29, 2012 at 06:04 PM