Cuttlebug Embossing

The Cricut Expression: Is It All It's Supposed To Be?

There are a number of die cutting machines on the market including the Cuttlebug and Sizzix. These machines use the traditional method of die cutting which involves placing paper over a template, covering it with a protective board, and running it manually through a press machine to punch out the shape.  This method has proven effective and can cut multiple impressions of an image at once.  However, there are some limitations when it comes to selection, storage, and size.

The Cricut machine has renovated the world of die cutting.  It is a completely electronic machine.  The traditional dies have been replaced with small cartridges jam packed with images and options.  The cartridge is similar to a USB thumb drive in that it has a small plug that inserts into the front of the machine, stores mass amounts of data on it, is small, easy to store, and is portable.  The Cricut functions by having the user insert the cartridge, cover the machine key pad with the custom cartridge key pad, and select the images desired.  By using the cartridge the user has more options.  They can print multiples of the same or different images, choose special effects like shadows or italics, and most importantly alter size!  The ability to alter size is one of the best features of the Cricut machine providing the user with the freedom to change an image to fit their design layout not the other way around.  The Cricut machine has size adjustment that can go as small as desired, although you want to limit this to ensure image quality, and it can max out at size 12X12 or 12X24.  The computer inside the machine tracks previous cuts and knows how much space is left on the remaining paper altering the user if there is space issues and when cutting multiple images knows which sections have already been used.  This opens up a world of creative possibilities that were never possible with traditional die cutting machines.

However, the machine is not perfect.  The Cricut expression like the traditional machines can be used to cut a variety of materials including card stock, paper, vellum, plastic, rubber, and vinyl but the user must remember to adjust the cutting settings or risk a miss-cut and damaging the cutting blade or the material.  The Cricut expression requires the use of specially designed sticky mats which the paper needs to be attached to for insertion and cutting.  This means that these boards will have to continually be purchased and if the company decides to stop making their machine or accessories the users will no longer be able to use the machine; this is not a problem for the traditional die cutters which do not require special equipment.  The stickiness of the cutting mat can also be an issue; when the mats are first used they are very sticky and can actually damage the paper causing it to tear or curl when removed but after several uses it becomes easier to manage.  If a customer finds a design they like by another company such as cuttlebug they are out of luck because they cannot use it in the Cricut but they could use it with their Sizzix Big Shot or Cuttlebug machine which provides more freedom in choosing a company and the images available.  Finally, the nature of the machine only allows it to do die cuts where the Sizzix and Cuttlebug are able to do embossing and put crease marks into paper which produces a wider range of options for their users.

Overall, the Cricut expression is a great tool for any paper crafter.  Like all tools it has benefits and drawback and it is up to the end user to do the research and decide if it is right for them.  The Cricut has recently come out with a computer software allowing users to design a layout on their computer and send it to the machine to cut opening it to the digital and computer world of crafting; a similar device is coming out for Sizzix but will not require a computer instead using a hand held device and electronic cutter very similar to the Cricut.  With all of the options it is just personal choice if you want more freedom in sizes and more options then a Cricut might be for you.  However, if you prefer versatility, the ability to do embossing, and want to use other brand dies then a traditional cutter would be the better choice.

About the Author

Rachel Frank is an art instructor, Stampin' Up Independent Consultant, teaches art therapy to wounded soldiers, and is a full time graduate student.  She hosts a blog with tutorials, articles, videos, and supplies.  You can visit her at www.stampingarmywife.com and http://stampingarmywife.stampinup.net, follow her on twitter at stamparmywife, or contact her by email at stampingarmywife@aol.com.

Provo Craft Cuttlebug 5x7 Winter Embossing Border $10.99 Provo Craft Cuttlebug Winter embossing borders add texture and style to your projectsThese handy folders will work with most die-cutting machinesContains 5 7-inch Winter Borders embossing folders in 5 different designs

Provo Craft Cuttlebug Puzzle Die $13.1 Complete your art and craft supplies with this Cuttlebug dieDies are an ideal tool for scrapbookingAdd creative embellishments to your cards, gift items, scrapbooks and crafts

Cuttlebug Card Combo Dies Damask Frame $13.39 Cuttlebug Card Combo is sure to enhance the quality of your scrapbookingProvo Crafts has brought you a coordinating set of die-cuts and embossing foldersDie-cutting set makes a great addition to your scrapbooking supplies

Cuttlebug Princesses A2 Embossing Duo Set $8.69 Cuttlebug Embossing Duo Set comes with two A2 embossing foldersSimply emboss card front with the first embossing folder and then emboss envelope with second coordinating embossing folderEmbossing set also great for scrapbooking and home decor

Cuttlebug 'Mickey Celebrates' A2 Embossing Cartridge Set $8.49 Add some whimsical fun to any scrapbooking project with this embossing duo setDie cutting cartridges comes with two A2 embossing foldersScrapbooking accessory features Disney's Mickey Mouse celebrating with confetti

Cuttlebug Magic Happens A2 Embossing Duo Set $9.39 Cuttlebug Embossing Duo Set comes with two A2 embossing foldersSimply emboss card front with the first embossing folder and then emboss envelope with second coordinating embossing folderEmbossing set also great for scrapbooking and home decor

Cuttlebug Machine Designer with Tool Kit and Embossing Machine $76.99 Cut a shape, emboss a shape or cut then emboss shapes with the inspired designs from Cuttlebug. Expressing your creativity has never been easier than with this die cutting machine.

Cuttlebug A2 'Best Friends' Embossing Duo Set $8.99 Cuttlebug A2 Embossing Duo set is perfect for your next scrapbooking projectEach art and craft set comes with two A2 embossing foldersCrafting kit great for scrapbooking and home decor

Cuttlebug Happily Ever After A2 Embossing Duo Set $8.89 Cuttlebug Embossing Duo Set comes with two A2 embossing foldersSimply emboss card front with the first embossing folder and then emboss envelope with second coordinating embossing folderEmbossing set also great for scrapbooking and home decor

Cuttlebug A2 Combo Die $14.69 Provo Craft Cuttlebug A2 Combo Die features a Mickey Mouse party themeEach set comes with one A2 die and one A2 embossing folder Simply run the A2 die through the machine to get your cut then emboss it

Cuttlebug A2 Combo Die $14.49 Provo Craft Cuttlebug A2 Combo Die features a Mickey Mouse party themeEach set comes with one A2 die and one A2 embossing folder Simply run the A2 die through the machine to get your cut then emboss it

Cuttlebug Thin Die Adapter/ Cutting Pad $11.17 Provo Craft products help your scrapbooking dreams come trueCuttlebug Thin Die Adapter and Cutting Pad C is an adapter for thicker dies from other die-cut systemsMade of clear, durable plastic

Cuttlebug A2 Tag Team Dies $15.49 Provo Craft products help your scrapbooking dreams come trueCuttlebug A2 Tag Team Dies combine cutting and embossing in an exciting wayCan be used for card making, scrapbooking and home decor

Cuttlebug 2x2 Die Set (Set of 4) $13.12 Update your art and craft supplies with this Cuttlebug die setIntricate, cutting-edge designs are unique in the industryThemed 2x2-inch dies come in a set of four

Provocraft Cuttlebug Honeycomb Dies (Set of 2) $12.79 Add to your art and crafts supplies with these Cuttlebug diesIncludes two (2) 2 inch x 6 inch diesDesigned for use with the Cuttlebug machine that is sold separately

Cuttlebug 3x3 Combo Die $8.19 Provo Craft Cuttlebug combo die cut set includes one die and one embossing folderSimply run the die through the machine to get your cut then emboss it Mickey Mouse theme die cut size is 3 inches x 3 inches

Cuttlebug A2 Combo Die $14.59 Provo Craft Cuttlebug A2 Combo Die features a Mickey Mouse ocean themeEach set comes with one A2 die and one A2 embossing folder Simply run the A2 die through the machine to get your cut then emboss it

Cuttlebug A2 Combo Die $13.89 Craft your own greeting cards with the Cuttlebug A2 Combo Die by Provo CraftCutting die is perfect for scrapbooking and will be a significant addition to your arts and crafts suppliesA useful tool for all your home and school art projects

Cuttlebug A2 Combo Die Cut $13.09 Provo Craft Cuttlebug A2 combo die comes in a Mickey Mouse holiday themeSet comes with one A2 die and one A2 embossing folderSimply run the A2 die through the machine to get your cut then emboss it

Cuttlebug A2 Combo Die $14.49 Craft your own designer greeting cards with the Cuttlebug A2 Combo Die by Provo CraftA fun tool for all your home and school art projectsWonderful for scrapbooking and could be a amusing addition to your arts and crafts supplies

Cuttlebug Bubble Frame Combo Die $8.11 Combo die set includes 1 die and 1 embossing folderSimply run the die through the machine to get your cut then emboss it with the coordinating embossing folder to complete the designPerfect for scrapbooking and paper projects

Cuttlebug A2 Holiday Die Cuts $12.54 Provo Craft Cuttlebug holiday die cuts will spruce up your scrapbook projectsCut large, more refined designs with the A2 cutting diesDies make unique 3D creations with clever designs

Cuttlebug Tricks and Treats A2 Combo Die $14.37 Add a bit of Halloween fun to any project with this combo die from CuttlebugDie cutting accessory features Halloween-themed cutsScrapbooking accessory comes with one A2 die and one A2 embossing folder

Cuttlebug 3x3 Combo Die Cuts $7.51 Provo Craft Cuttlebug combo die cut set includes one die and one embossing folderSimply run the die through the machine to get your cut then emboss it Ariel themed die cut size is 3 inches x 3 inches

Cuttlebug Cutting Pad Replacements $9.19 Cuttlebug Cutting Pad Replacements BCutting pads made of clear durable plasticIncludes two pieces per package

Cuttlebug A2 Tag Team Dies $12.99 Provo Craft products help your scrapbooking dreams come trueCuttlebug A2 Tag Team Dies combine cutting and embossing in an exciting wayCan be used for card making, scrapbooking and home decor

Cuttlebug 2x2 Die Set $12.59 Complement any scrapbook page with elegant circlesDie cut set includes four circles in varying sizesCuttlebug dies cut through a variety of materials such as paper, cardstock and thin metals

Cuttlebug 'RIP' Combo Die Set $7.19 Cuttlebug Combo Die Set by Provo Craft includes one die and one embossing folderDie cutting set theme is 'RIP'Scrapbooking accessory is easy to use

Cuttlebug 2x6 Bundle Dies (Pack of 2) $12.59 Update your art and craft supplies with this set of Cuttlebug diesScrapbooking supplies designed for use with the Cuttlebug machine (sold separately)2 x 6-inch bundle dies ideal for any scrapbooking enthusiast

Cuttlebug 2x2 Die Set (Set of 4) $11.69 Update your craft supply with adorable Cuttlebug die setIntricate scrapbooking designs are unique in the industryLabel-themed 2x2-inch dies come in a set of four

Cuttlebug 2x6 Bundle Dies (Pack of 2) $14.49 Update your art and craft supplies with this pack of 2 bundle diesCuttlebug scrapbooking supplies designed for use with the Cuttlebug machine2x6-inch bundle dies ideal for any scrapbooking enthusiast

Cuttlebug 2 x 2-inch Winter Die Set $11.89 Cuttlebug die set features a fun winter time themeDie set comes in a set of four Make scrapbook pieces from paper, cardstock, even thin metals offering unlimited possibilities in scrapbooking, card making, and paper crafting

Provo Craft Cuttlebug Harlequin A2 Die Cuts $12.09 Cuttlebug Harlequin die cuts let you make unique 3D creations with clever designsScrapbooking supplies add creative embellishments to cards, gifts and scrapbooksDie cuts from Provo Craft come in a variety of styles and sizes

Cuttlebug 'Beware' Combo Die Set $7.29 Cuttlebug Combo Die Set by Provo Craft includes 1 die and 1 embossing folderDie cutting set theme is 'Beware'Scrapbooking accessory is easy to use

Set of 4 Cuttlebug Die Set (2 in. x 2 in.) $14.81 Update your art and craft supplies with this Cuttlebug die setIntricate, cutting-edge designs are unique in the industryThemed 2 x 2 dies come in a set of four

Cuttlebug A2 Tag Team Dies $13.19 Provo Craft products help your scrapbooking dreams come trueCuttlebug A2 Tag Team Dies combine cutting and embossing in an exciting wayCan be used for card making, scrapbooking and home decor

Cuttlebug 2 x 6-inch Ornamental Dies (Set of 2) $18.46 Cuttlebug die set features fancy ornamental designUse this die set in your Cuttlebug machineDie set comes in a set of two

Cuttlebug 2x6 Bundle Dies (Pack of 2) $14.59 Update your art and craft supplies with this pack of 2 bundle diesCuttlebug scrapbooking supplies designed for use with the Cuttlebug machine2x6-inch bundle dies ideal for any scrapbooking enthusiast

Cuttlebug 2x6 Bundle Dies (Pack of 2) $12.59 Update your art and craft supplies with this set of Cuttlebug diesScrapbooking supplies designed for use with the Cuttlebug machine (sold separately)2 x 6-inch bundle dies ideal for any scrapbooking enthusiast

'Persia' Cuttlebug Card Combo Dies $12.59 Provo Craft brings you a set of die-cuts and embossing folders for your scrapbooking projectsCraft tools will help you make your scrapbooking look just the way you like'Persia' design is perfect for any decorating theme

Cuttlebug 2 x 2 Die Set $12.29 Themed 2x2-inch die cuts come in sets of fourCraft tool with intricate designs are uniqueDie set can be used for scrapbooking and more

Cuttlebug Olivia Alphabet Die Set $50.99 This alphabet die set is the perfect addition to any crafter's tool kitThis die kit features 2 x 6 inch alphabet, number and shape diesThis craft accessory has a thin design

Cuttlebug 'With Gratitude' Card Combo Dies $13.19 Enjoy scrapbooking with this charming 'With Gratitude' die cut from Provo CraftDie cuts are designed by industry-leading artistsCutting dies offer crisp precise cuts every time

Cuttlebug Card Combo Dies $13.09 Enjoy scrapbooking with this adorable 'Welcome Baby' die cut by Card Combo DiesDie cuts are designed by industry-leading artistsCutting dies offer crisp precise cuts every time

Cuttlebug Magic Happens A2 Embossing Duo Set $8.24 *Cuttlebug Embossing Duo Set comes with two A2 embossing folders *Simply emboss card front with the first embossing folder and then emboss envelope with second coordinating embossing folder *Embossing set also great for scrapbooking and home decor *Measures approximately 4.5 inches long x 5.5 inches wide

Cuttlebug Princesses A2 Embossing Duo Set $7.63 *Cuttlebug Embossing Duo Set comes with two A2 embossing folders *Simply emboss card front with the first embossing folder and then emboss envelope with second coordinating embossing folder *Embossing set also great for scrapbooking and home decor *Measures approximately 4.5 inches long x 5.5 inches wide

Provo Craft Cuttlebug 5x7 Winter Embossing Border $9.64 *Provo Craft Cuttlebug Winter embossing borders add texture and style to your projects *These handy folders will work with most die-cutting machines *This package contains five 7-inch Winter Borders embossing folders in five different designs *Especially designed for the Cuttlebug Die Cutting System (not included)

Cuttlebug A2 'Best Friends' Embossing Duo Set $7.89 *Cuttlebug A2 Embossing Duo set is perfect for your next scrapbooking project *Each arts and craft set comes with two A2 embossing folders *Crafting kit great for scrapbooking and home decor *Simply emboss a card front with the first embossing folder and then emboss an envelope with the second coordinating embossing folder *Comes in a variety of themes *Size: 4.5 inches wide x 5.5 inches long

Cuttlebug Happily Ever After A2 Embossing Duo Set $7.8 *Cuttlebug Embossing Duo Set comes with two A2 embossing folders *Simply emboss card front with the first embossing folder and then emboss envelope with second coordinating embossing folder *Embossing set also great for scrapbooking and home decor *Measures approximately 4.5 inches long x 5.5 inches wide

Cuttlebug Machine Designer with Tool Kit and Embossing Machine $61.4 Cut a shape, emboss a shape or cut then emboss shapes with the inspired designs from Cuttlebug. Expressing your creativity has never been easier than with this die cutting machine.*Perfect for cards, scrapbook pages and home decor *Works with leading dies *Cuttlebug machine *Trimmer *Scissors *2-inch x 2-inch cutting die *4-inch x 2.75 inches embossing folders

Cuttlebug A2 Embossing Duo Set: Mickey Celebrates - Limited Time 20% Off Sale! Price shown reflects discount. $7.79 Each Cuttlebug A2 Embossing Duo Set for the Cuttlebug Machine (sold separately) comes with (2) A2 embossing folders. Great for scrapbooking and home decor. Simply emboss a card front with the first embossing folder and then emboss an envelope with the second coordinating embossing folder. Available in a variety of themes. Size: 4-1/2" x 5-1/2".

Cuttlebug A2 Embossing Duo Set: Magic Happens - Limited Time 20% Off Sale! Price shown reflects discount. $7.79 Each Cuttlebug A2 Embossing Duo Set for the Cuttlebug Machine (sold separately) comes with (2) A2 embossing folders. Great for scrapbooking and home decor. Simply emboss a card front with the first embossing folder and then emboss an envelope with the second coordinating embossing folder. Available in a variety of themes. Size: 4-1/2" x 5-1/2".

Cuttlebug A2 Embossing Duo Set: Best Friends - Limited Time 20% Off Sale! Price shown reflects discount. $7.79 Each Cuttlebug A2 Embossing Duo Set for the Cuttlebug Machine (sold separately) comes with (2) A2 embossing folders. Great for scrapbooking and home decor. Simply emboss a card front with the first embossing folder and then emboss an envelope with the second coordinating embossing folder. Available in a variety of themes. Size: 4-1/2" x 5-1/2".

Cuttlebug A2 Embossing Duo Set: Best Pals - Limited Time 20% Off Sale! Price shown reflects discount. $7.79 Each Cuttlebug A2 Embossing Duo Set for the Cuttlebug Machine (sold separately) comes with (2) A2 embossing folders. Great for scrapbooking and home decor. Simply emboss a card front with the first embossing folder and then emboss an envelope with the second coordinating embossing folder. Available in a variety of themes. Size: 4-1/2" x 5-1/2".

Cuttlebug A2 Embossing Duo Set: Night At The Ball - Limited Time 20% Off Sale! Price shown reflects discount. $7.79 Each Cuttlebug A2 Embossing Duo Set for the Cuttlebug Machine (sold separately) comes with (2) A2 embossing folders. Great for scrapbooking and home decor. Simply emboss a card front with the first embossing folder and then emboss an envelope with the second coordinating embossing folder. Available in a variety of themes. Size: 4-1/2" x 5-1/2".

Cuttlebug A2 Embossing Duo Set: Princesses - Limited Time 20% Off Sale! Price shown reflects discount. $7.79 Each Cuttlebug A2 Embossing Duo Set for the Cuttlebug Machine (sold separately) comes with (2) A2 embossing folders. Great for scrapbooking and home decor. Simply emboss a card front with the first embossing folder and then emboss an envelope with the second coordinating embossing folder. Available in a variety of themes. Size: 4-1/2" x 5-1/2".

588926 - Cuttlebug Diecutter with 4 Large & 4 Small Embossing Folders and Accessories $90 Unleash your creativity with the CuttleBug die-cutting and embossing machine. It comes in a new pink and cream design with accessories and materials to get you started straight away. Included are four large embossing folders each with different designs, a Celebrations cut and emboss set, a spacer and two cutter pads as well as 10 sheets of A4 Primary Essentials Core'dination paper and a pack of four sanding mats to buff away the outer layer of these papers. The CuttleBug can cut and emboss paper, cardstock, thin felt, metal sheets and foam rubber sheets.

Cuttlebug 'Mickey Celebrates' A2 Embossing Cartridge Set $7.45 *Add some whimsical fun to any scrapbooking project with this embossing duo set *Die cutting cartridges come with two A2 embossing folders *Scrapbooking accessory features Disney's Mickey Mouse celebrating with confetti *Simply emboss a card with the first embossing folder and then emboss an envelope with the second coordinating folder *Great for scrapbooking, card-making and home decor *Measures approximately 4.5 inches long x 5.5 inches wide

Cuttlebug 2x2 Die Storage Binder Insert - Limited Time 20% Off Sale! Price shown reflects discount. $5.3 Includes 1 sheet that can hold (24) 2x2 Cuttlebug Dies, or 2x2.75 Cuttlebug Embossing Folders.

Cuttlebug 3x3 Die Storage Binder Insert - Limited Time 20% Off Sale! Price shown reflects discount. $5.3 Includes 1 sheet that can hold (8) 3x3 Cuttlebug Dies, or 3x3.75 Cuttlebug Embossing Folders.

Cuttlebug 3x3 Combo Die $7.19 *Provo Craft Cuttlebug combo die cut set includes one die and one embossing folder *Simply run the die through the machine to get your cut then emboss it *Mickey Mouse theme die cut size is 3 inches x 3 inches *Scrapbooking theme ideas: Disney, characters and heroes

Cuttlebug A2 Combo Die $12.8 *Provo Craft Cuttlebug A2 Combo Die features a Mickey Mouse ocean theme *Each set comes with one A2 die and one A2 embossing folder *Simply run the A2 die through the machine to get your cut then emboss it *Size is approximately 6 inches x 4 inches

Cuttlebug A2 Embossing Folder: Birds & Swirls - Limited Time 20% Off Sale! Price shown reflects discount. $3.94 Embossing folders bring any project to life by adding texture and style. They are just the right size for handmade cards and perfect for scrapbook layouts. Size: 4-1/2" x 5-1/2". For use with the Cuttlebug Machine (sold separately).

Cuttlebug A2 Embossing Folder: Shell Collage - Limited Time 20% Off Sale! Price shown reflects discount. $3.94 Embossing folders bring any project to life by adding texture and style. They are just the right size for handmade cards and perfect for scrapbook layouts. Size: 4-1/2" x 5-1/2". For use with the Cuttlebug Machine (sold separately).

Cuttlebug A2 Embossing Folder: Forest Branches - Limited Time 20% Off Sale! Price shown reflects discount. $3.94 Embossing folders bring any project to life by adding texture and style. They are just the right size for handmade cards, and perfect for scrapbook layouts. Size: 4-1/2" x 5-1/2". For use with the Cuttlebug Machine (sold separately).

Funky backgrounds for your embossed images

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