Die cuts

[Stamps'nBooks]

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

[buggainok]

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.

[Stamps'nBooks]

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!

[fairsinger]

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!