Die cuts
 

Do you HAVE to have a die-cutting machine to make die cuts? I noticed that Hero Art's stamp of the week, a really cute reindeer and tree set, comes with die cuts. Am I correct in thinking they're like hard-framed cookie cutters? Can someone without any machine use the die cuts by just putting them on cardstock and pressing really hard?

Sue

No, you cannot use dies to cut paper by hand. You must have a die cutting machine. Keep your eyes open for a bargain on one. They are on sale a lot at various places.

I bought my Cuttlebug a couple of years ago with a 50% off coupon at Michaels for about $40 or so.

Or you might be able to pick one up on the Buy/Sell/Trade forum. They sometimes show up on ebay also.

I think the Cuttlebug is the least expensive die cutting machine, but I love mine and use it on almost every card I make.

Bugga, thank you SO much for your quick answer, and the great information you went on to give me. I really appreciate it. It's something I've wondered a long time, and I'm glad to know. Okay, on to Michael's with my coupon!

My husband recently bought me a Big Shot on overstock.com (I think it's called o.co now?) and right after he bought it they lowered the price again! I also saw recently that Amazon had a pretty low price for it. I've seen the Big Shot for around $60 or a little less on these sites lately. I've since bought several dies and embossing folders in several different brands with 40% and 50% off coupons at Michaels, Hobby Lobby and Joanns. I was a holdout on buying a diecut machine for many years, but now that I have it I really enjoy it and love how quickly I can create terrific shapes or embossed backgrounds for my cards!