Storing Metal Dies

  

Hi, 

     And welcome back...

Today I would like to share a quick and easy way to store Spellbinders dies and other metal cutters neatly and securely.  

We all know how easy it is to lose some of the smaller dies and keeping them organized in their original package is not always easy.
But, it can be.

Here is how I store mine.

I place them on a piece of magnetic sheet.

No, I know, it is not entirely a new idea, I just think that these magnetic sheets work better than the ones I had tried before and are quite economical.

I buy them at The Home Depot hardware store at a cost of $4.47.  They come in a pack of 3,  8x15 inch sheets. You can find them in the AC department.  They are air vent covers.
This is also the best price I have seen for strong magnetic sheets.
They are white on one side (non-magnetic side) and black on the other (magnetic side).

Ok, so, this is what I do.

I place the dies on the magnetic sheet.  I play around with them to get a good fit (save space).  You can also make the sheet a little shorter than the die to allow for easier removal.
Then just cut to the size you need.

Once you've got that done, if you still have the package cover that came with dies, you can store them back in there.

I will show the different ways I have been storing them.

Here it is in the older packaging.

                                           Notice I folded a piece of the flap up to hold the the sleeve.
                                                     I glued the pocket on the left to hold the other die.

Here it is with the newer packaging.

                             Just store them in the package and when you take them out they are all together.
                                        It is so easy to find the one you are looking for and keep all the
                                                             pieces together without any extra bulk.

And here if you do not have the original packages, you can just use a CD sleeve or make one yourself.

                     Notice that I also label the sleeves with the die description and the number of pieces per set.

Here is a template for the sleeve.  You can size as needed.

                                   This one is 11 in. x 6 1/4 in.  The folds are at the 2 7/8 and 8 1/4 markings.   
                                                                    The bottom flap is 1/2 in. wide.
                                                                     Again, you can size as needed.
                                                  
Well, I hope you enjoyed the post.
Leave a comment, question or share your ideas.  I would love to hear from you.

 Smiles and  happy crafting to you all...

ScanNCut 2 VS Cricut Explore...

What I think about the ScanNCut 2 (CM350)...
     And how it compares to the Cricut Explore.

Hi... 
          and welcome back.

The only reason I am actually calling this a "comparison" is for the purpose of pointing out what I like most of either machine, not necessarily to dwell on the things I like the least.

So, lets get right to it...

Simply stated... I LOVE  THEM BOTH...  

The ScanNCut 2 and the Cricut Explore!


The ScanNCut2:

I really love how easy it is to cut out pretty much any stamped image or hand drawn design or words.
It has got to be the best cutting machine on the market for this particular job.                              
-And, it does not stop there!  No, there is a lot more this wonderful machine can do.

Ok, so, for cutting out your stamped images you have two options to choose from.

You can either just scan and cut the stamped image.
In this case, you select "Direct Cut" and the machine will scan and cut. Click on two or three buttons and DONE.
And another really good thing about it is that you can stamp on 12 x 12 inch cardstock/paper  and there are no "reading guidelines" to worry about so can actually use most of the 12 x 12 space.  I leave about 1/4 inch edge along the sides blank.  
You can leave a white edge around the stamped image or cut right along the outline.
You do not have to scan, import to your computer, print...and then cut.

                                                  OR

You can scan and save the outline on your machine or a USB memory stick.
Here, you can scan the outline or image, save it, and then you can use it anytime you need it again.
Or you can also save it to your computer via USB cable, or wirelessly (Activation Required...read further)

***I will post some other tips on cutting stamped images soon with pictures.***  

The Best Thing About This Machine Is That YOU DO NOT HAVE TO BE CONNECTED TO A COMPUTER OR THE INTERNET TO USE IT (or at least not for most projects I don't)!!!
You can just work from the screen on the machine.
The screen is actually large enough to read and easy to work on. You can also increase the image by up to  400% for easier viewing.

You will need to be connected to a computer and Internet when you need to convert  SVG files to FCM (format used with the ScanNCut Canvas).
Then once you import your image the software will convert it for you.  It was fairly easy to do.
(This is the only time a computer and Internet connection are needed.)

There is a free software program for the ScanNCut2.
The ScanNCut Canvas.  It is a downloadable software program.
It is fairly easy to learn and is really good.  I like how we can "really" alter shapes with this program.
It is for more than just welding and sizing, you can actually change shapes; bend or straighten,  add and remove parts of the image at different points.

I do, however, find it easier to "Clean" an imported image on the Explore, than on the SNC2. 
Or maybe I just have to learn the right way to do it...Lol

The CM350 model that I am using is "wireless" ready. But you will need to buy the "Activation Card" separately at a cost of $44 - $50.00 more.  (See Amazon)

At the moment I am using mine via USB cable, on the rare occasion I do need to connect to the computer, and it works just fine, but I do see where the "wireless" method would make it even easier when using the ScanNCut Canvas program.  Definitely when you are importing and image.  The wireless method would be much faster as it would go straight from scanner to ScanNCut Canvas. For now I have to save it to the machine or a USB Stick and then to the computer.  Not that big a deal, but -I'll probably get the Activation Card later on.

You can also watch many "how to" videos on  www.brother-usa.com   click on "Products" and then  Click on ScanNCut.
You will find lots of information about the ScanNCut 2 .  
Note:  There are 2 different Models.  CM 350 and CM650w.
Here I am talking about the CM 350 model.
The videos are easy to understand and follow.  And they are very informative.
Also, watch videos on YouTube.  There are tons of great videos there.

I pretty much was able to do all that I wanted  to do within 2 or 3 days. 
Now that does not mean I know how to do everything it can do already, just that I can do what I want to do without any hassles.  There is so much more for me to learn and do.  I keep learning something new everyday. It's so exciting...

The only thing I would say I wish were a bit better are the mats.  But although they feel somewhat flimsy they actually work well. 
But I guess I am used the stronger Cricut mats.
And they are pretty pricey, too.
Shop around for prices because sometimes you can find them at big differences in price.
- Also check for freight charges  AND return policies.

Sometimes if the material I am using, which is usually 110 lb. cardstock does not stick well, I gently run a brayer over the cardstock to make sure it adheres well.  It always works for me.
- And if needed, for added security, I use clear tape on the four corners.  (But that is seldom needed.)

However, if you find that your mats are too sticky, just place the palms your hands flat on the mats and lift.
Do this a couple of times all over the mat, or just on the area you are currently using.
But be careful not to over do it or you will lose too much tack. 
 You do not want either.

So far I have only used the Standard Mat (purple and turquoise).  I have been using it for about 3 months now, and so far so good.  I cleaned it once with a baby wipe to gently remove some of the residual paper fuzz.  (Whichever wipes you use, just make sure they are alcohol and aloe, or any lotion/oil free wipes.)


About the blades:

So ,yes, of course it comes with a blade. but it is the "Standard" blade.
This one would be for regular paper and cardstock and some fabrics.
-Not for cutting thicker materials like cardboard or chipboard.

They do have a "Deep Cut" blade holder/casing that they sell separately.
But the BLADE is NOT INCLUDED with the holder. Blade is sold separately.


Blade Settings: Blade Depth and Pressure

I have read and heard of some people having problems with the blade depth and pressure.

The way I understand it is, the blade depth refers to the setting for the thickness of the material to be cut and the pressure refers to how much "pressure" is needed to push the blade through the material.

Hopefully I am correct but, nonetheless, these are the settings that have worked for me: (With the Standard blade)

Cardstock:  110 lb.  #6 Depth and 2 or 3 Pressure (This setting also works with the                                                                                                                      Recollections Brand Cardstock from Michaels Craft Store 65 lb.) 
Paper:           24 lb.   #2 Depth and 0 - 1 Pressure
Stabilized Fabric:   #6  Depth and 3 Pressure  (I use freezer paper as a stabilizer.  Iron shiny side of the paper to the                                                                                                   back of the fabric (Cotton or cotton/poly).)

But you should start at lower numbers and work yourself up or down to the right setting for the cardstock, fabric, paper or whatever material you plan on using.

Results will vary and you will have to make a few "Test Cuts".
They have a "Test Cut" option, too.

Write your settings down on a pad so you can refer back to it as needed.
For example the, material type and weight and the settings that worked.

I also do this with any new project so that I can remember how to do it the next time.
-I write down the steps.  (and my friend Dolores asked that I mention this so you all keep your own "Checklist".  It is very helpful when we are newbies.) 

 So, remember, just start with low settings or you may just cut right through your mat too.
(But if that happens just tape your mat from the back. Lol)

You can also use the ScanNCut Canvas on the iPads.  Check out  how it works online.
I have not used it yet because I do not have the wireless access code (Activation Card).

So, this is just a brief description of my experience with and observations of  the ScanNCut 2 so far.

I LOVE IT!

If you decide to buy one, I am sure you will enjoy it too.



Oh, and as for the speed, I keep it at 3.  I have not worked on any project or design that has required it to be changed from its default setting.


Who would benefit the most from the ScanNCut 2 vs. the Cricut Explore?

Well, let's see...

I already own a Cricut Explore, so the best way to offer my opinion is to compare the two machines.

First, let me state that  I do absolutely ADORE my Explore and all that I am able to do with it.  I really do.  I also like all the new beautiful cartridges that they have released in the past few years.  Oh, all of Anna Griffith's collection.  So beautiful!
These are more adult themed than their former ones.

So, if you are the type of crafter that needs pre-designed projects, then the Explore may be the right machine for you.  Go on their site and read and watch their videos. 

Their Design Space software is very useful and colorful.  I find it to be a great application and truly enjoy using it.

But, to use it YOU MUST ALWAYS BE CONNECTED TO A COMPUTER AND STRONG INTERNET SERVICE.  Call Cricut and ask if your computer meets the requirements as not all computers are compatible.

You can use their cartridges only if link them to your Cricut Online Account (Required) or  have a subscription to their "Cloud Based" Image Library. 

 You can also create and cut your own designs or use downloaded JPG and SVG designs (some other formats may also work).

It also has a Print then Cut feature.  It is pretty good, but quite limited and wastes a lot of paper.  They are working on that.

You can use the Design Space on an iPad or iPhone via Bluetooth.  You can read about it on Cricut.com. 

The ScanNCut 2 does not use cartridges. You would have to design, download images or SVG files, or, again, use stamped images.  They do have some basic designs to choose from on their built in library.

I believe it also works on the iPad via the Wireless Activation.  But, honestly, I would need to read up more about it.

They both cut a pretty wide variety of materials.  And both provide very clean cut results.

The Explore has preset cutting choices for materials to be cut.  You just set the dial to your material; so you will not have so much trial and error cutting.  -you'll have less waste. 

As, I explained above, with the ScanNCut 2, you may have to practice the cutting till you get the right setting at first.  Not that big of a flaw, once you find what works for you.
I have not had any waste since I set it to the aforementioned settings.

So, which machine would be best for you depends on how you intend to use it.
If you are not interested in cartridges (pre-designed images) than the ScanNCut 2 may be the best choice.  

But if you need the cartridges, well, the Explore would  be your answer.

I cannot compare either of theses machines to any other machine because these are the only two brands I own and have worked with.

I would never give either one up, though. They are both wonderful in their own practical and wonderful ways.

But, again,  the MOST ATTRACTIVE  FEATURE I do love about the SNC2 is that I Do Not Have Be Connected to a Computer and Internet All of The Time to use it.

Keep in mind that Internet Service Providers are No Longer Offering Unlimited Internet Service like before.         *** You go over = you pay extra.***

- And the Explore (or any other cutting machine) is not the only thing I use my internet service for.

Let me know what you think?

I will be posting some pictures of projects I have made with the SNC 2 and "how to's".

Feel free to offer any information or ask any questions.  

Happy crafting.


And remember, this blog is not a venting venue, rather a place where we share fun and useful information.

Comments will be moderated.

A few of my Polymer Clay projects

Some of the items I have made using my Cricuts...

(The tiny butterflies were made with a punch, but I don't know who makes it.)

(I actually made the cake and the flowers I used for this card when I owned my bakery.)

These are just some of the cards I have made.  Let me know what you think and  if you have any questions...

Bridge Cutters Blades for Cricut

Dear Crafters,

A few months ago I needed to buy some blades for my Cricut Expression and while shopping on Amazon I came across an ad for Bridge Cutters brand blades for Cricut machine.  
The price seemed quite economical so I thought I would give them a try.
And I am glad I did.

I was so impressed that after trying them on my Expression, I thought I would be daring and try it on my Explore, and what do you know... they work just fine with it too.

I was so pleased with their performance.

I then thought I would do an actual comparison test.  Although simple, here is what I found:

I'll start by saying that I had not used these blades before this test and the German Carbide blade I have is the one that came with the new Cricut Explore. (At least Provo Craft says that's what the Explore comes with. I asked them to make sure before conducting my test.)

Here, I just cut this one to see how well the Bridge Cutter blades cut.
It is the first time I use this brand.  Very pleased with the results.  (Cut at 3" x3")

Here, you see that I used both blade brands on the Cricut Expression, and, again, the results are the same on both.  (Cut at 2.5" x 2.5")

Here, we can see that there is no noticeable difference between the blade cuts.  They both cut equally clean and sharp.   (Cut at 2.5" x 2.5")
Note that I used Bridge Cutters blades on the new Cricut Explore, too, on this test.
They do work on the Explore.  I must admit I was a bit hesitant to try, but it worked.
(You can decide for yourself if you would try them on your machine.)  But they do seem to work just fine with both the Expression and the Explore.

Here, again, I used both brands of blades and there is no noticeable difference.  Bridge Cutters blades worked great! Used on small and intricate design to show the detail and sharp cuts. 

Here, I do see a noticeable difference. However, note that I cut these using the German Carbide blades on both machines and still got very different results.  (Cut at 2.5" x 2.5")
-This leads me to believe that the difference could be due more to the two machines different designs and possibly the change and improvement in blade casing (maybe the way it moves or pivots in the Explore) rather than on materials used to make the blades themselves.

What has been said (in the marketing) of the new  German Carbide blades is that they have a longer cutting life when compared to other brands.
To that I cannot speak of  with certainty yet, as both brands are too new for me so far.  
Although, it has been a while now and I have done a great deal of cutting,  I  am still using the same blade, so Bridge Cutters' blades do seem to last quite a while. 

I  have based this personal review on the cut comparison results alone.
And, in conclusion, I think that Bridge Cutters brand blades work wonderfully.  -And the price is great!

Although basic, I find my test to prove (to me) that Bridge Cutters brand blades are of very good quality.  I would (will)  certainly  buy them again.

And, really, another thing I like is the price.  

Go on to Amazon.com and look for Bridge Cutters Blades and you will see the prices and different packages.
The 6 pack sells for $7.50 plus shipping.  

Well...what do you think of my test, the results, and my summary?
Drop me a little note below or ask any questions you may have.  I will try to answer to the best of my ability.

Smiles,

Madeline

P.S. - I will be posting some pictures of items I have cut using Bridge Cutters blades  with the  Cricuts just as soon          as my blogging skills improve.

Cricut Explore

Hello Crafters,

I thought I would take a few minutes to talk about the Cricut Explore.  This is Provo Crafts' latest electronic cutting machine.

I have had mine for several months now and really think it is GREAT!

I must say I did have some problems with it at first having to do with the website kicking me off  and internet service failures.  There are days when the problems still do exist, but things seems to be improving for now...

But potential buyers do need to be very well aware that you cannot use your cartridges straight on this machine like we have been able to do with the older Cricut models.
It is online based only.  Meaning, you will need a computer and strong internet service/connection to use it.
This also means you cannot use your Explore at crops or anywhere where you do not have a computer and internet service.

We are able to use all of our cartridges.  You just have to link them to your Design Space account.

If you already have a Cricut Craft Room (CCR) account, you can use that information to register/go on Design Space (DS) and all of the cartridges you previously linked to CCR will automatically be available.

Although we can use the cartridges we have previously linked to the CCR, we are not able to transfer our files to DS.  Meaning, any projects you saved on your CCR will not transfer to your DS account. The two software programs do not seem to be compatible.  I can understand that issue, but I would think they (PC) would have been able to figure a way to do that.
But still don't understand why we cannot cut straight from the machine as well.  That is a huge negative for me.

Design Space is the new software that will work with the Explore. This software is free and downloadable.  It is fairly easy to download, but I do suggest doing so while you are on the phone with a Cricut customer service rep just in case you are not sure how to do it or run into any problems.
They are extremely friendly and most willing to help you through.
(Open Monday -Friday only  1-801-932-1144  1800-937-7686  then press 1)
-This is the best customer service team I have ever had the pleasure of working with.  I feel like I am talking with a friend every time I call them.  Great team!

The software works with both MAC and PC computers.
However, ProvoCraft does suggest you use Google Chrome or Firefox as your web browser.  It definitely made a huge difference on the MAC instead of using Safari (specially when using SVGs and other downloaded/uploading cutting files and your own design files).

The Design Space is a very user friendly software.  The colorful graphics are really beautiful. I feel like I have rediscovered some of my older cartridges again.  And I have also found more ideas and ways  to use them.  It's fantastic.

The  Explore cuts beautifully.  Even intricate lace cuts can be achieved.  I made some in small (2.5") size just to test.  I was very impressed.  Seeing that it would work this well, I went ahead and purchased the Splendid Soirée cartridge.  (I think it may be available only digitally.)

I have used the scoring tool to make fold lines for my cards, boxes and other projects. But remember, this is mainly a scoring tool and not necessarily an embossing tool.  I love using it.  Makes my crafting easier.

I have also used the pens and loved them. We can also use the fonts on our computer as well as Cricut cartridge fonts. Or even create your own and cut it too.  Love that we can write then cut too.

Used it to cut paper.  -There is a setting for this.  Just keep in mind that the mat you use needs to be of low tack. ( not too sticky.)  I used it with printer paper and I was impressed.  We can cut so much more now.

I have also watched some videos where others have tried cutting other thicker materials and I am looking forward to trying it out myself to see how it works out.  I am interested in thin cereal box cardboard.  I have done it with the Expression and it worked great.(Using the Deep Cut blade and casing -on both machines.)

The Print then Cut does work quite well.  The only thing about it is that I feel it does waste a lot of paper space as you have to stay within the reading marks.  -Or maybe I am doing something wrong.

Also, now, for those who have the Imagine and had registered it with PC, we can use all of the Imagine Cartridges for free with the Explore using the Print then Cut feature.  The images will show up in your account automatically.  This was a nice thing they did for those of us who bought it and were somewhat disappointed with it.

Well, now that I have been able to work/stay on it longer without getting kicked off the site, the more I  am able to use it, the more I seem to like it!!!

Although the Explore is a great machine...
I will never get rid of my Expression; it helped me out when the DS wouldn't work and I can take it with me anywhere I go. I just plug it in and use a cartridge right on the machine.

So, this has been my experience so far and I just wanted to say that overall it is a very good machine.

I am a happy Cricut Explore crafter/designer.  So glad I own one!

I give it a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.  I really do enjoy using it to design and cut my work and all the great features it does have.
-The only reason I do not give it a 5 is because we cannot use it as a stand alone electronic cutter like the  Expression.

I would love to hear about your experience and any comments or questions  you may have.

Note:  Comments will be monitored and moderated before being published as this blog is intended to help make the experience with the Cricut Explore an enjoyable one not a venting venue.
-A happy site to visit.

Take a look at the post showing some of the cards I have made using the Cricut machines.
Please keep checking in.

Leave me a note below...

Smiles,
Madeline

Polymer Clay Roses and Leaves

                                                                                               

These candle holders were decorated with polymer clay.  I like to use Premo.  
I made the flowers and leaves and baked them first. Then I glued them to the glass
candle holders.

To make the rose, I first made a small cone and attached it to a wire. I used three different sizes five petal flower cutters, starting with the small one an increasing in size as I added more rows of petals. For the leaves I used different sizes and leaf shape cutters. I glued a thin wire through the bottom portion of the leaves, secured it tightly before baking them.

Once everything was baked I made the bouquet and glued it to the glass candle holder. 

I will try to post picture instructions or a video later on.


Hope you have enjoyed  it.

Smiles,
Madeline