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Prime Day 2021

Prime Day Deals Crafters

Prime Day Best Deals for Crafters

Best Prime Day Deals for Crafters  to Check Out on Amazon.

Amazon Prime Day 2021 for Crafters

Amazon Prime Day 2021 is Monday and Tuesday, June 21-22,  starting at 12 A.M. Pacific time.. Prime Day is a great event for getting the best Amazon prices available all year.  If you haven’t heard about Prime Day before, it’s a once-a-year HUGE sale at Amazon — about 100,000 items get put on sale. It’s bigger than Black Friday, but it is just for Amazon. I’m a Prime member (and you have to be to get these deals) and I’ve been shopping Prime Day for a while now. It is possible to find out in advance what things are going to go on sale. I looked and I found some really interesting DIY & CRAFT deals. I’ll be adding to my shopping list for myself and my family — and I thought you might like to know about these deals, too.

While your other family members are finding lots of important tools and gadgets, this is a great time to anticipate major crafting needs for the coming year. I have posted links to crafting tools that I use the most. Some of the items I use regularly are already marked down, and I found a few that are even at half price!  Be sure to check out the items that you use most to get some great bargains.

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience (which means if you make a purchase after clicking a link I will earn a small commission but it won’t cost you a penny more)!  

What to Expect, How to shop,  and Get Ready

  • Check out the amazon.com/primeday page every day to stay up to date on Amazon’s best deals and offers of the year.
  • Don’t forget to sign up for Prime, as Prime Day deals are exclusively available to members!
  • You can try it for FREE for 30 days! amazon.com/tryprimefree 
  • Download and install the Amazon App. In the top left app menu, tap “Today’s Deals”, then the “UPCOMING” tab. Find a deal that you want and tap “Watch this deal” to get notified when it starts.
  • Make a Wish List and watch for email notifications when items go up for sale. You can use my list as a starting point. Wouldn’t this make a great crafter’s Christmas in July shopping list?

Links to Prime Day Deals 2021for Crafters

Machines

Pazzles Inspiration Vue CutterSee my review here. 

Silhouette Cameo 4- Look for low prices on bundles. Here are some additional Silhouette items to check.

Gemini Die Cutting/Embossing Machine Great price for a power machine! I ordered one, plus the plates for the Gemini Jr to use with this. See my review here.  Gemini Junior.

Here are some Additional items from Crafter’s Companion   

Scan N Cut

Scan N Cut DX85-Latest cutter from Brother. See my SNC review here. A lot of Scan N Cut items have low prices this year.

Scan N Cut DX125EGY

Brother SNC Universal Pen Holder Allows you to use standard pens in your new or older model Scan N Cut machine.

Scan N Cut Standard Blade

Scan N Cut Standard Mat for CM models or SNC2

Scan N Cut Standard Mat for DX models

Scan N Cut Online Activation Card for WiFi connection This is not needed for the newer DX SNC models.

Cricut

Cricut Maker  If you are looking for the latest models, the best price right now may be directly from Cricut. However, Amazon has some very good prices on some of the older Cricut machines and bundles. Check out all things Cricut here. See my  Cricut Explore vs Cricut Maker-Review.

Cricut Explore Air 2 Bundle new low price.

Cricut Joy Newest Cricut machine, compact size.

Cricut Cutting Mats – Standard Grip

Cricut Cutting Mats – Variety Pack

Cricut Easy Press Mini

Cricut Easy Press 2  9″x9″ Higher heat options for Cricut Infusion projects

Cricut Easy Press 2   12″x10.  Necessary for larger Cricut Infusion projects.

Cricut Easy Press Mat 

Cricut Cuttlebug

Cricut Bright Pad

Cricut Ultimate Fine Point Pen Set Assorted

Cricut Infusible Ink Markers

Cricut Heat Resistant Tape

Cricut Coaster Blanks

Cricut Rotary Blade Kit– See my review here.

Nicapa Mats for Cricut– Set of Three  These work well for me.

Xinart Standard Grip Gutting Mats for Cricut – Set of Three . I ordered these to try. The price is right!

Cricut Foil Transfer Sheets Jewel Sampler

My favorite Embossing and Die cutting machines and products.

Crafter’s Companion Products – Lots of their products are for sale at a discount for Prime Day!

Heartfelt Creations Products Lots of their products are for sale at a discount for Prime Day!

 Tools

A4 LED Ultra Thin Light Box Tracer – Not quite as bright as the Cricut Bright Pad, but the price is right and it works well for weeding vinyl.

Crafter’s Companion NEW! Professional Guillotine  Large  13″ long, compact and light weight. Great for trimming! Side arm extends 13″ . Metric and Imperial measurments, scoring stylus, and scoring grid.

Temperature Gun – check the actual heat of your iron, heat press, heated project, etc.

Heartfelt Creations Deluxe Flower Shaping Kit I use this kit for shaping my 3D flowers. See my blog tutorial and my video tutorial for shaping paper roses. 

Spellbinders Tool In 1 Great for brushing the tiny pieces out of intricate cuts.

Tim Holtz Stamp Platform I love this for getting perfectly stamped images.

Sizzix Extended Cutting Plates

Candle Warmer – for shaping thin foam into flowers

Hand Engraving Tool – Insert in cutter pen holder. You may need to wrap tape around it to fit in the pen holder.

Dog Tags for engraving Engrave a blank tag for your pet using your engraving tool with your cutter!

Three Hole Punch – great low price. I use this regularly for organizing craft items in binders.

Pink Tool Set– Every crafter needs their own set of tools handy for everyday use. I got these. My hubby doesn’t like pink, so I might be able to keep them around for awhile. There is an excellent price on tools this year!

Lighted Magnifying Glass – great for callibration tests on cutters. I use mine almost every day!

Adhesives

Dries Clear Adhesive –  My favorite craft glue that dries quickly, and dries clear. Love the fine tip applicator.

Bulk Dries Clear Adhesive Refill – Use this to refill your smaller glue bottle with fine tip applicator.  I have been using this for several years to refill my smaller glue bottles with fine tip applicators.

Alenes Tack It Over and Over – Mix 1 part glue to 2 parts water, and apply to cutting mats using a foam paint brush for the least expensive way to make them sticky again.

Zig 2-Way Glue – Most convenient way to restick cutting mats, and very effective.

Duo Temp Mini Hot Glue Gun – Great for making 3D paper or foam flowers

Mini Glue Sticks – Refills for Mini Hot Glue Gun

Scor-tape Sheets

Self Adhesive Vinyl  I love having this collection of many colors of adhesive vinyl, especially for last minute projects.

Paper and Cardstock

See my Blog Post on the Best Paper for Crafting here.

80# white cardstock Excellent cardstock for print and cut projects. The printer can handle it, and it cuts well.

100# white cardstock Great for cutting popup cards and stamped flowers for coloring and shaping into 3D flowers.

110# White cardstock Great for 3D projects

12″x 12″ Assorted Color cardstock 150 sheets Variety of weights, most between 65# and 80#

Laser Color Copy paper – for use with Infusible Ink products from Cricut

Translucent Vellum 36# Cardstock – great for embossing

Foam

Thin Foam Sheets for Flower Making – 1mm thick

HTV and Sublimation

Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV) I love this quality collection of multi-colored HTV to have on hand for last minute projects.  It works very well.

15″x 15″ Heat Press If you do a lot of Heat transfer vinyl on garments, you need a heat press. The size is right on this one, and the best price I could find.

15″x 12″ 8 in 1 Heat Press combo – This allows you to create your Heat Transfer vinyl projects, Cricut Infusion Projects, as well Sublimation projects, including attachments for mugs, hats, dishes, etc. This is the one I have.

Epson WF 2760 Printer – Use with sublimation ink.

Epson Ecotank Printer

Sublimation Ink for Epson WF 2760– Print designs on sublimation paper, and transfer to project blanks

Mug Blanks for Sublimation 

Sublimation Printer Paper I recently learned that you do not need special sublimation printer paper.  Just use your standard printer paper with your printer’s sublimation ink. You do need proper blanks for sublimation projects, such as white or light colored polyester fabric. Mugs, coasters, plates, caps, etc. need to have a special coating to accept sublimation ink.

Foiling

Brother Monochromatic Laser Printer – for printing toner sheets to foil with deco foils and laminator.

9″ wide Thermal Laminator – For general laminating and for use with toner sheets and deco foil

12″ Deco Foil – for use with laminator

Gemini Foil Press – For use with Gemini Jr. ( or full size Gemini with Extender plate) and Hot foil  – See my tutorial for foiling.

Gemini Foil Bundles – For use with Foil Press, NOT for laminator.

Electronics

SanDisk 64Gb Flash Drive  The price on this has dropped significantly. It is such a handy device for storing lots of files for craft projects. This will work to transfer SVG files to the Scan N Cut. I keep a dedicated thumb drive for that purpose.

Portable 4T External usb Drive – Great for storing backups of all of your printables, cutting files, and fonts collections

Instant Pot Duo 6 qt.  – I love my Instant Pot. I can do a lot of crafting while it does the cooking! I have the 8-Quart model.  But if you don’t yet have an air fryer, and want one, check out this Instant Pot with Air Fryer lid!  Instant Pot 10 Qt Wow what a deal!

Blendtec Blender – My favorite Smoothie Maker. Check to see if there is a special price on  Prime Day.

Flameless Candles for those lantern projects

Set of 9 Flameless Candles

Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser – Create a relaxing and healthy crafting environment, especially during the current pandemic.

Echo Dot  – Smart speaker with Alexa – charcoal  to add Instant music for your crafting environment.

Pens, Markers, Pencils

Ultra Fine Micro Line Pens set of 16  I couldn’t resist purchasing another set of these at this low price.

12 Retractable Bold Pens

Sharpie Fine Point pen set of 24 colors Can you even have enough Sharpies? These fit in my pen holders to draw with my machines.

Bic 36 colors, permanent pens

Dry Erase Markers

24 Mechanical Pencils

Derwent Watercolor Pencils set of 24  now at a reduced price. I love these for coloring my 3D flower creations.

Artists Choice Watercolor Pencils set of 72 More colors in this set, but the colors are not as intense as those in the Derwent set.

Set of 88 Alcohol Dual Tip Markers with case.

Prismacolor pastel color sticks

Prismacolor colored pencils

Super Doodle 50 Gel Pens Set

48 Colored Pencils– less expensive, but less dense pigment than Prismacolor colored Pencils.

136 colored pencils – Best deal

Acrylic Paint pens set of 18

40 colors Puffy Paints

Arteza Real Brush Pens set of 96 with case. 

Art Media

Prills – Use to embellish centers of 3D flowers

Stamens – Use to embellish centers of 3D flowers

Ultra Fine Glitter This is what I use with the Scor-tape Sheets to make patterned glitter paper. See my tutorial here.

Modeling Clay, 24 colors plus tools – Tools can be used to shape clay, fondant, and/or 3D flowers.

Arteza Watercolor Premium Artist Paints Set of 24 Colors

Art Supplies for Children – Great kit, including crayons, colored pencils, watercolor paints, pastels, tools, etc in a wood case when children want to craft with you.

Stamp set-nice for children

Stamp Pad Set

Tim Holtz Distress Oxide Inks

Tim Holtz Distress Inks  – Excellent for adding color to foam flowers!

Stencil Brushes – Great for “Hot Mess Canvas” painting.

See EVERYTHING available during Prime Day 2021 here

Note that you need to be a Prime member to take advantage of these deals. But the good news is that Amazon Prime offers a free 30-day trial to those curious about trying the service. To access it simply click this link and follow the on-screen prompts. This is how I ended up with Prime — I signed up for a free trial and stuck around because of the free 2-day shipping and free movies. Tip: Anyone with a valid .edu email address can sign up for a 6-month free trial for Amazon Prime Student here.

Tip: I recommend you click “Watch Deal” for anything that interests you. Then you can monitor your deals on this page.

I will add to this list as I find more deals I think could help you. Set your alarms and have fun shopping! Let me know what you scored.

Learn to Use Your New Crafting Machines

Check back here, at Cuttercrafter.com for tutorials and cutting files to use with your new crafty purchases. You will find some FREE projects to try in our Free Resource Library.

Would you like to see some of my FREE SVG projects? Check them out in my FREE Resource Library.

>> HOW TO ENTER THE FREE RESOURCE LIBRARY <<

This resource library is open to everyone for free. All you need is the password to get in, which you can get by filling out the form below.

If you already have your password, enter the resource library here.

Make A Subscription Box Tower

Make a Subscription Box Tower from the boxes that you receive each month.  Are you running out of room to store your subscription boxes on your shelves? Have you run out of room to add more book cases to your crafting area? Are you re-organizing your supplies so that they take up less space, and wondering what to do with the empty boxes? If you answer to these questions is “Yes!”, then making a subscription box tower may be just the project for you!

Subscription Box Tower

Subscription Box Tower

You are not alone, if you have struggles with wondering what to do with your one-to-two year pile of monthly subscription boxes. Some have unpacked the boxes, and reorganized their contents into file folders or zipper envelopes. But then, what do you do with the empty boxes? I hate to throw away the lovely boxes that could be re-purposed to store reorganized supplies, or other crafting supplies.

Make A Subscription Box Tower

 

Supplies Needed to Make the Subscription Box Tower

Please note: Some affiliate links may be used in this post. I am affiliated only with products that I use. When you purchase products using my affiliate links, it does not cost you any more, but I will share some commission. Thanks!

Heavy Cardstock of your choice. 110# Recollections Cardstock is what I used. You will need 6 sheets per box.
Electronic Cutter (I used Pazzles Vue) Cricut Explore or Maker  or Cameo 4  or Scan N Cut with Deep Cut Blade will work.
class=”content-box-red”>Red Line Tape
SVG Cutting File from our Free Resource Library</ class=”content-box-red”>9″ Square Subscription Boxes</ class=”content-box-red”>Free SVG cutting file from the FREE Resource Library
1/4 inch Satin Ribbon – about 7″ per box<
Double Sided Foam Tape
Jumbo Paper Clips – about 4 per box. Clips should be about 2 inches long.

Refolding Subscription Boxes to Make a Subscription Box Tower

I have a stack of 19 subscription boxes so far, from Crafter’s Companion. Instead of throwing my boxes away, I decided to refold my subscription boxes and make a subscription box tower. You can do the same by following these simple step-by-step instructions.  There is no need to destroy the boxes if you simply refold them. Change them from top opening boxes to front opening boxes. This allows you to stack all of the boxes without having to unstack them to access their contents.

Get Started Refolding the Boxes

First, remove the box contents.

Remove the box contents

Remove Box Contents

Next, unfold the side flaps of the box. To do this you will need to lift up  and out on the side flap to slip the tabs out of their slots.

Lift the sides up

Lift the Side Flap

Repeat with the other side flap.

Lift the other flap from its slots.

Lift the other side flap.

Pull the front flap down.

Open the front flap

Open the Front Flap

Now, fold the side flaps back down, inserting their tabs into their original slots.

Close the side flaps.

Replace Side Flaps in their Slots

Prepare the front flap to fold to the Inside

Prepare the front flap to fold to the Inside

Prepare the front flap to fold to the inside of the box. Use some strong double-sided tape to hold the side flaps down. Then fold the front flap to the inside of the box.

Fold the front flap to the Inside

Fold the front flap to the Inside

Fold the front flap to the Inside of the box. Press down firmly on the front flap so that the tape adheres well to the bottom of the box.

Tuck in the front flap.

Tuck in the Front Flap

The front flap can now tuck back inside of the box to close it. When you make a subscription box tower, you will now be able to open the front flap to remove its contents. You will not have to move the other boxes stacked on top of it to access its contents.

Make Drawers for the Boxes to Make a Subscription Box Tower

Make a Drawer

 Cut the Drawers

You can make a drawer to hold the contents of your box. The drawer will make it easier for you to access the supplies you keep inside of it. Make a drawer for each of your subscription boxes using the free template included in the Free Resource Library. Once you make a subscription box tower with front closing panels, your supplies will be easier to access.

Drawer to Make Subscription Box Tower

8.25″ Drawer Template Pieces

Pieces included in the Template to Make a Subscription Box Tower Drawer

The Template for the Drawer includes files in several formats. If you will be cutting your drawer pieces using an electronic cutter such as Cricut, Scan N Cut, Silhouette, Pazzles, or Klic N Kut, you will be able to use the included SVG file. On the other hand, if you will be hand cutting the pieces, you may use the PDF template. The drawer measures 8.25″ square by 2.75″ tall.

Each drawer has three side panels, one front panel, two bottom pieces, and two panels for reinforcing the front panel. The red lines in the template represent lines that are to be scored. Cut each side panel from a single sheet of heavy cardstock measuring 8.5″x11″.  If you are using the PDF file, you will use that part of the template four times.  Notice that the front panel has a slit in the center to allow you to thread a ribbon through it.

Also, there are two pieces for the drawer bottom. One is for the inside of the box, and the other is for the outside of the box. There are two panels with slits in them included to reinforce the front edge of the box. One piece goes on the inside, and one goes on the outside.

Using an Electronic Cutter to cut Drawer Pieces to Make a Subscription Box Tower

The cutting files for this project are zipped together. Download the zipped file to your computer. Double click on the file you downloaded and select Extract All to unzip it. Open your cutter software.

Instructions for use in Cricut Design Space

Cricut Design Space users will upload the SVG file and click on Save. Then select the uploaded file, and click on Insert. Next, right click, and select Ungroup. Now you need to assign the fold lines to score. There are two score lines for each of the four side pieces.  Select one from the panel on the right side of the screen.  At the top of the screen, change the line type from Cut to Score. The lines will now appear to be dashed on the screen to indicate that these are score lines. Finally, select the shape and score lines, right click, and select Attach. Do this for each of the four side pieces. Select a front panel and its center horizontal cut line. Then right click and Attach. Now do this for each of the front panels.

Instructions for use with other Cutter Software

Scan N Cut users should use the FCM files. Notice that there are three files. The file names indicate how many times each file should be cut for a single box drawer.  Load one file at a time into Brother Canvas Workspace.  Select the pair of fold lines in each piece, and assign it to be scored. Score them, then cut.

Silhouette Studio users can use the SVG files. Import them into the Designer or Business edition of Silhouette Design Studio.

The SVG files can be used by all other cutter software. Score the red lines, and cut the black lines.

 

Get the FREE SVG Cutting File for the Drawers for the Subscription Box Tower

To get the free SVG Cutting file for the Drawers for the Subscription Box Tower, go to the resource library and enter the password. I have included the password at the bottom of most of my newsletter emails. If you have subscribed, check your most recent email to find the password. If you have not yet subscribed, I hope you will, so that you can be informed as  I add more new projects to the Free resource library! Once you are in the Free Resource library, right click on the file name of the project. Next, select Save Link As or Save Target As.

Now, save the file to your computer. Next you will need to unzip the file. To do that, double click on the file you saved to your computer to open it. Then, click on Extract All. Now, open your cutter software, and import the SVG file. Select the pieces you wish to cut. Load your paper onto the cutting mat. Do a test cut to find the best settings for you machine, and cut the pieces you need. Repeat with the pieces you want to cut from a different color paper.

Assemble the Drawers

Make a Drawer to Make a Subscription Box Tower

Assembly Step 1

Make valley folds on the score lines.  With the wide tab on the bottom right, place red line tape on the three edges of the upper flap. Turn this piece over, and apply red line tape to three  edges of the wide tab.

Assemble drawer for Subscription Box Tower

Drawer Assembly Step 2

Also add a strip of red line tape along the long bottom edge of the side piece as shown above.

Drawer to Make a Subscription Box Tower

Drawer Assembly Step 3

Fold the wide flap along the score line towards the lower part of the box side to form a corner. Remove the tape liner. Now check to make sure the corner is perfectly square, and press down to secure the flap the side as shown above.

Drawer for Subscription Box Tower

Drawer Assembly Step  4

Prepare all four sides of the box in the same manner as the first.  Now you are ready to put the pieces together.  Remove the  liner from the tape on the end of the box. With the narrow flaps on top, overlap the straight edge of the next side over the corner piece and press together.

Drawer for Subscription Box Tower

Drawer Assembly Step 5

Drawer of Subscription Box Tower

Drawer Assembly Step 6

Remove the tape liner from the flaps before adding another side. Now you are ready to add another side in the same way.

Drawer of Subscription Box Tower

Drawer Assembly Step 7

Adhere the final side of the drawer to complete the shape of a square box, pressing the corners firmly. Be sure to line the corner up squarely. Now remove all tape liner from bottom edge of the box. Square the corners, then press the bottom of the box over the flaps on the outside.  Then turn the box over, and press from the inside.

Drawer Assembly for Subscription Box Tower

Drawer Assembly Step 8

Now you can add the other bottom piece on the inside of the box.

Drawer for Subscription Box Tower

Drawer Assembly Step 9

Remove the tape liners from the other side pieces. Fold these pieces to the inside and press firmly.

Finish the Front Panel

There are two additional panels for the front of the box. Glue one piece to the inside of the front, and glue the other to the outside of the box front. All front pieces have a slit.  Cut a piece of ribbon about 7″ long, and fold it in half. Use a needle or pokie tool to push the folded edge of the ribbon from the inside of the box front to the outside. Then pull the ribbon through the slot about half way.  Separate the inside flaps of the ribbon so that one piece goes up, and the other goes down. Tape or glue into place.

Ribbon for Subscription Box Tower Drawer

Ribbon for Subscription Box Tower Drawer

Drawer for Subscription Box Tower

Drawer Assembly Step 9

Slide the drawer into the front opening of one of the refolded subscription boxes. The ribbon will help you pull the drawer back out.  Now you will be able to slide the flaps of the box into their original slots to close it up.

Drawer for Subscription Box Tower

Drawer for Subscription Box Tower

Add contents of your choice into the box, and close the side front panel.

Add Contents and Create Labels

Now, fill your drawers with whatever you want to store in them, then label the boxes. Then make an index for the box contents so you can find what you need. Also, if the boxes have important information on the sides or bottom that will be hidden once the boxes are stacked, take photos or scan the boxes. Print these on regular printer paper, and place inside the boxes or in a binder so that you can refer to them as needed.

Stack Your Boxes into a Tower

Your tower may be a single box wide, or double box wide, as you prefer. Use jumbo paper clips in the tab slots on the underside of the adjacent boxes to keep them together. To do this, unfold the paper clips. Then refold them with a wider curve at the top. One side of the clip will fit into a tab slot on one box. And the other side will fit into the tab slot on the box next to it. If the paper clips do not slide all the way in, you can use a small craft hammer to tap them into position. Also, you can  use paper clips on the top side of the boxes if you like.

PaperClips for Subscription Box tower

PaperClips for Subscription Box Tower

These boxes have paper clips on top and bottom to join the two boxes together.

Clipped Boxes for Subscription Box Tower

Clipped Boxes for Subscription Box Tower

Bottom Clipped Boxes of Subscription Box Tower

Bottom of Clipped Boxes of Subscription Box Tower

 

You may apply adhesive to the box bottoms to keep them together. I have found that with the contents in the boxes, and having two clipped together side by side, the tower is stable.

Subscription Box Tower

Subscription Box Tower – Julie Flanagan

 

Enjoy!
Julie, cuttercrafter.com

>> HOW TO ENTER THE FREE RESOURCE LIBRARY <<

This resource library is open to everyone for free. All you need is the password to get in, which you can get by filling out the form below.

If you already have your password, enter the resource library here.

Black Friday Deals for Crafters 2019

Black Friday Deals for Crafters 2019

Here are some Black Friday Deals for Crafters 2019. Black Friday is a great time to stock up on crafting supplies. Look for great deals on the high-priced items that help you to be more productive. Do you need a better cutter? Is there a Foil Press on your wish list? Or perhaps you need a more efficient die cutter/embosser to handle those very intricate dies.  Maybe you need a new computer or external hard drive. Do you need a new printer?

If you do not need a new machine, perhaps you need to stock up on consumable supplies for your crafting projects. Is your stash of paper or vinyl, or HTV dwindling? Do you have plenty of adhesives? Be sure to check your supply of blades and mats for your machines! There are lots of Black Friday Deals for Crafters that could save you money on your craft supplies.

Black Friday Deals for Crafters

Black Friday Deals for Crafters

Items on this page may contain affiliate links. You don’t pay any more for your purchase, but I do get a credit for it.

More Black Friday Deals for Crafters

Machines

Pazzles Inspiration Vue CutterSee my review here.   Best deal of the year for this machine! Don’t miss this best buy of the Black Friday Deals for Crafters! Grab this excellent electronic cutting machine for up to $300 OFF on Nov. 29 through December 2. Plus if you order by Cyber Monday you’ll get a free mat pack and spatula too! $239 + 6 months FREE to the Craft Room or an Inspiration Vue for $169 with a 1 year Craft Room commitment!  Or go here to pay only $99 with a two year commitment to the Pazzles Craft Room.

Silhouette Cameo 3 – Look for low prices with newer model coming out.

Silhouette Cameo 4 Get a great deal on a bundle. Check out the Pre Black Friday Sale Nov. 20-22 for a great bundle special.

Gemini Die Cutting/Embossing Machine Great price for a power machine! I ordered one, plus the plates for the Gemini Jr to use with this. Get this machine or the Gemini Jr. to use with the new  Gemini Foilpress. Gemini Jr is only slightly less than the full size Gemini. So unless you really need the smaller size of the Jr. 6-inch width, I recommend the full size Gemini. You will need an extended plate for the Foilpress to work in the full size Gemini.  See my review here.

Gemini Mini Die Cutting/Embossing Machine I really like this new little machine. Use a folder to cut or emboss with no need to fret about a stack of cutting plates. This is a hand crank machine, with a 3″ cutting or embossing width.

Empress Mini Die Cutting/Embossing Machine This is a quiet electronic die cutting/embossing machine with a 4.25″ cutting or embossing width.  Light weight, but will handle dies and folders for a full A2 size card.

Spellbinders Blowout Sale Lots of goodies. They have a great buy on their Prizm Die Cutting/Embossing machine if you are in the market for a mini hand-powered machine. Also great prices on some amazing dies, and card kits as well.

Scan N Cut

Scan N Cut2  – Great Clearance options.

Scan N Cut DX-Latest cutter from Brother. See my SNC review here.

Brother SNC Universal Pen Holder Allows you to use standard pens in your new or older model Scan N Cut machine.

Scan N Cut Standard Blade

Scan N Cut Standard Mat for CM models or SNC2

Scan N Cut Online Activation Card for WiFi connection This is not needed for the newer DX SNC models.

Cricut

Cricut Maker  New LOWEST price ever!  Cricut Explore vs Cricut Maker-Review.

Cricut Explore Air 2 Bundle new low price.

Cricut Cutting Mats – Standard Grip

Cricut Cutting Mats – Variety Pack

Cricut Easy Press

Cricut Easy Press 2  9″x9″ Higher heat options for Cricut Infusion projects

Cricut Easy Press 2   12″x10.  Necessary for larger Cricut Infusion projects.

Cricut Easy Press Mini for those smaller projects.

Cricut Easy Press Mat 

Cricut Cuttlebug Special bundle

Cricut Bright Pad

Cricut Ultimate Fine Point Pen Set Assorted

Cricut Infusible Ink Markers

Cricut Infusible Ink Markers Set of 30 Great deal on a bundle of markers to give you a large selection of colors for your infusible projects.

Cricut Heat Resistant Tape

Cricut Coaster Blanks

Cricut Rotary Blade Kit– See my review here.

Nicapa Mats for Cricut– Set of Three. These work just as well for me as the original Cricut mats.

Crafter’s Companion Products

Tools

A4 LED Ultra Thin Light Box Tracer – Not quite as bright as the Cricut Bright Pad, but the price is right and it works well for weeding vinyl.

Crafter’s Companion NEW! Professional Guillotine  Large  13″ long, compact and light weight. Great for trimming! Side arm extends 13″ . Metric and Imperial measurments, scoring stylus, and scoring grid.

Temperature Gun – check the actual heat of your iron, heat press, heated project, etc.

Heartfelt Creations Deluxe Flower Shaping Kit I use this kit for shaping my 3D flowers. See my blog tutorial and my video tutorial for shaping paper roses. 

Spellbinders Tool In 1 Great for brushing the tiny pieces out of intricate cuts.

Tim Holtz Stamp Platform I love this for getting perfectly stamped images.

Sizzix Extended Cutting Plates

Candle Warmer – for shaping thin foam into flowers

Hand Engraving Tool – Insert in cutter pen holder. You may need to wrap tape around it to fit in the pen holder.

Dog Tags for engraving Engrave a blank tag for your pet using your engraving tool with your cutter!

Three Hole Punch – great low price. I use this regularly for organizing craft items in binders.

Pink Tool Set– Every crafter needs their own set of tools handy for everyday use. I got these. My hubby doesn’t like pink, so I might be able to keep them around for awhile.

Lighted Magnifying Glass – great for callibration tests on cutters.

Adhesives

Dries Clear Adhesive –  My favorite craft glue that dries quickly, and dries clear. Love the fine tip applicator.

Bulk Dries Clear Adhesive Refill – Use this to refill your smaller glue bottle with fine tip applicator.

Alenes Tack It Over and Over – Mix 1 part glue to 2 parts water, and apply to cutting mats using a foam paint brush for the least expensive way to make them sticky again.

Zig 2-Way Glue – Most convenient way to restick cutting mats, and very effective.

Mini Hot Glue Gun – Great for making 3D paper or foam flowers

Mini Glue Sticks – Refills for Mini Hot Glue Gun

Scor-tape Sheets love this for making boxes and other 3D projects

Self Adhesive Vinyl

Paper and Cardstock

See my Blog Post on the Best Paper for Crafting here.

80# white cardstock Excellent cardstock for print and cut projects. The printer can handle it, and it cuts well.

100# white cardstock Great for cutting popup cards and stamped flowers for coloring and shaping into 3D flowers.

110# White cardstock Great for 3D projects

12″x 12″ Assorted Color cardstock 150 sheets Variety of weights, most between 65# and 80#

8.5″x11″ Recollections 65# cardstock Variety color pack

Laser Color Copy paper – for use with Infusible Ink products from Cricut

Translucent Vellum 36# Cardstock – great for embossing

Recollections Cardstock 12″x12″  8.5″x11″  Several shades of each color make this a great package for multi-layered projects. These are less expensive if you purchase using a coupon or 40-50% off sale in store or online.

Foam

Thin Foam Sheets for Flower Making – 1mm thick, assorted colors, 24 pieces, 9.8″ square.

See the foam flowers I made using these here and here and here and here.

White Flower Making Foam .8mm thick, 30 sheets

Thin White Foam Paper for Flower Making

HTV and Sublimation

Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV)

15″x 15″ Heat Press If you do a lot of Heat transfer vinyl on garments, you need a heat press. The size is right on this one, and the best price I could find.

15″x 12″ 8 in 1 Heat Press combo – This allows you to create your Heat Transfer vinyl projects, Cricut Infusion Projects, as well Sublimation projects, including attachments for mugs, hats, dishes, etc. This is the one I have.  Check out this bundle that has all you need to get started with Sublimation, or purchase items separately.

5 in one Heat Press combo 15″x12″ Nice sale price on this for Black Friday.

Mug Heat Press You can get this if you do not want to do shirts or plates or hats that the 5 in 1 or 8 and 1 presses do.

Epson WF 2760 Printer – Use with sublimation ink.

Sublimation Ink for Epson WF 2760– Print designs on sublimation paper, and transfer to project blanks

Mug Blanks for Sublimation 

Sublimation Printer Paper

Foiling

Brother Monochromatic Laser Printer – for printing toner sheets to foil with deco foils and laminator.

13″ wide Thermal Laminator – For general laminating and for use with toner sheets and deco foil

12″ Deco Foil – for use with laminator

Gemini Foil Press – For use with Gemini Jr. ( or full size Gemini with Extender plate) and Hot foil  – See my tutorial for foiling.

Gemini Foil Bundles – For use with Foil Press, NOT for laminator.

Foil Quill Starter Kit Great tool for use with your electronic cutter to add lovely foiled designs to your projects. Let the machine do your drawing and writing for you!

Foil Quill Freestyle Pen Starter Kit Add elegance to your hand-drawn or traced sentiment and signature.

Foil Quill Magnetic Mat Magnets hold your foil in place to simplify foiling with machine or by hand.

Electronics

Dell Laptop Computer – Here is a top rated laptop computer for the $199 price, posting on Thanksgiving Day starting at 7:00 AM Pacific Time  online: Inspiron 15 3000 Laptop
You will have to grab it fast at that time as there are limited quantities.

HP Laptop Computer –Hp Pavilion Gamin 15-inch Laptop, Intel Core i5-8300H Processor, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti, 8 GB RAM 1 TB hard drive and 128 GB SSD, Windows 10 Home (15-cx–30nr, Black)

SanDisk 54Gb Flash Drive This will work to transfer SVG files to the Scan N Cut. I keep a dedicated thumb drive for that purpose.

Portable 4TB External usb Drive – Great for storing backups of all of your printables, cutting files, and fonts collections

6TB External Hard Drive- back up your entire computer. It would be a shame to lose it all!

Instant Pot Duo 6 qt.  – I love my Instant Pot. I can do a lot of crafting while it does the cooking!

Blendtec Blender – My favorite Smoothie Maker at a great price!

Flameless Candles for those lantern projects

Set of 9 Flameless Candles Great for use with your holiday luminary projects.

Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser – Create a relaxing and healthy crafting environment

Echo Input  – Alexa sent to your computer speakers  to add Instant music for your crafting environment.

 

Pens, Markers, Pencils

Ultra Fine Micro Line Pens set of 16  I couldn’t resist purchasing another set of these at this low price.

12 Retractable Bold Pens

Sharpie Fine Point pen set of 24 colors Can you even have enough Sharpies? These fit in my pen holders to draw with my machines.

Bic 36 colors, permanent pens

Dry Erase Markers

24 Mechanical Pencils

Derwent Watercolor Pencils set of 24  now at a reduced price. I love these for coloring my 3D flower creations.

Artists Choice Watercolor Pencils set of 72 More colors in this set, but the colors are not as intense as those in the Derwent set.

Set of 88 Alcohol Dual Tip Markers with case.

Prismacolor pastel color sticks

Prismacolor colored pencils

Super Doodle 50 Gel Pens Set

48 Colored Pencils– less expensive, but less dense pigment than Prismacolor colored Pencils.

136 colored pencils – Best deal

Acrylic Paint pens set of 18

40 colors Puffy Paints

Arteza Real Brush Pens set of 96 with case. 

Art Media

Prills – Use to embellish centers of 3D flowers

Stamens – Use to embellish centers of 3D flowers

Ultra Fine Glitter This is what I use with the Scor-tape Sheets to make patterned glitter paper. See my tutorial here.

Modeling Clay, 24 colors plus tools – Tools can be used to shape clay, fondant, and/or 3D flowers.

Arteza Watercolor Premium Artist Paints Set of 24 Colors

Art Supplies for Children – Great kit, including crayons, colored pencils, watercolor paints, pastels, tools, etc in a wood case when children want to craft with you.

Stamp set-nice for children

Stamp Pad Set

Tim Holtz Distress Oxide Inks

Tim Holtz Distress Inks  – Excellent for adding color to foam flowers!

Stencil Brushes – Great for “Hot Mess Canvas” painting.

 

Learn to Use Your New Crafting Machines

Check back here, at Cuttercrafter.com for tutorials and cutting files to use with your new crafty purchases. You will find some FREE projects to try in our Free Resource Library.

Would you like to see some of my FREE SVG projects? Check them out in my FREE Resource Library.

>> HOW TO ENTER THE FREE RESOURCE LIBRARY <<

This resource library is open to everyone for free. All you need is the password to get in, which you can get by filling out the form below.

If you already have your password, enter the resource library here.

Baby Crib Popup Card FREE SVG

A Baby Crib Popup Card FREE SVG file is available for download now in the free Resource Library.

Do you need a nice card for a baby shower or gift? This lovely card is decorated for a girl, but it could just as easily be decorated suitably for a baby boy. The card folds flat for delivery. When it is opened, the crib pops out. There is plenty of room inside for you to write a message and sign the card. You can put a gift card inside as well. The card measures 5.25″ wide by 7″ tall. You can resize the card according to your needs.

 

Baby Crib Popup

Baby Crib Popup Card

Supplies Needed for the Baby Crib Popup Card 

Please note: Some supplies may include my affiliate links. I am an affiliate only for products that I use. Your purchase from my links will not cost you any more, but they will help support my blog. Thanks!

Free SVG file for Baby Crib Popup Card

Recollections 110# cardstock for popup card backing

81# text weight Stardream Quartz metallic paper for small Magnolia Flower

81lb Text  Green  Metallics paper for card mats and Pink Metallics paper for the front sentiment and the crib skirting.

80# white cardstock for Crib

12″ 1/8″ wide white satin ribbon

80lb Text Botanic Green Curious Metallics paper for Small Magnolia Flower leaves.

Small dogwood Flowers – Free SVG cutting files from CutterCrafter.com

Dries Clear Art Glitter Glue: Heartfelt Creations

Pearl Stickers

 

Assembly Instructions for the Baby Crib Popup Card

Cutting Instructions for the Baby Crib Popup Card:

Cut out all pieces in your choice of colors. If you wish to resize the card, select all, and resize proportionally so that all pieces fit together well. When importing the SVG file into your cutting software, check the sizing, and resize as necessary. The outside card measures 10.625″ wide by 6.875″ tall. The crib pieces together measure 10.5999″ wide by 3.791″ tall. The sentiment pieces measure 4.973″ wide by 3.182″ tall. The crib skirting piece measures 10″ wide by 1.579″ tall.

The red lines are score lines, set to cut with tiny dashes. If you are importing the design into Cricut Design Space, ungroup all first. If you prefer to use a scoring tool rather cutting dashes, you can import the score line from Shapes, and place those over the dashes. You can then delete the dashes, or hide them on the Layers toolbar. Next,  select each piece with its score lines, right click, and select Attach.

In case you need to change the sentiment, or add more cutting text, the font used was  GE Curviture. 

Folding Instructions for the Baby Crib Popup Card

Make valley folds for the score lines on the outer and inner cards. Make mountain folds on the white crib pieces and the skirting piece. Crease the scored lines using a bone folder or other folding tool.

Shaping and Assembling the Magnolia Flower

See the instructions for shaping and assembling the small Magnolia flower included in the Tips for Cutting Basswood on the Cricut Maker blog post. Scroll down to the paragraph on Decorate Your Cut Basswood Tree. The cutting design for the flower is available in the Free Resource Library.

Glue Crib Pieces

There is a tab on one end of each of the crib piece. Glue the end without the tab over the tabbed end of the other piece. When dry, glue the plain end of the crib over the tabbed end. This will form a 3D box. Press the box flat from side to side to make sure it folds and unfolds easily. The skirting, the piece with the scalloped edge, is next. Glue the plain end over the tabbed end. Place the skirting inside of the crib piece so that the scalloped edge show below the crib rails. The straight edge of the skirting is visible through the crib rails. Glue the skirting at each of the corners formed by the legs. Also, put a dab of glue in a few other places along the bottom crib rail to hold the skirt in position.

Putting the Baby Crib Popup Card Together

Glue the inside mat piece to the inside of the card. Be sure to line up the score lines. Make sure that the card opens and closes easily. Glue the sentiment for the front of the card on to its mat. Glue the mat to the front of the card. Put glue on the back side of the crib. Line up the feet of the crib just inside the bottom of the card. Glue the back side of the crib, with the back left corner snugly in the center fold of the card. Add glue to the left end of the crib piece. Next, close the card, and hold firmly in place. When dry, check to make sure the card opens and closes properly.

Decorate the front of the Card

Add pearl stickers to the ribbon strips. Now glue the ribbon to the top and bottom of the front of the card. Fold three of the butterflies that were cut out of the inner mat piece, and glue just their centers over the butterfly shapes connecting the sentiment on the card front. Next, add a row of 4 pearl stickers to the center of each butterfly. Now, assemble a small magnolia flower, and glue it over the ribbon on the bottom front of the card.

Add Pearl Stickers to the butterflies  on the Inside of the Baby Crib Popup  card.

Place the pearl stickers across the centers of each of the cut out butterfly shapes on the inside card mat. If desired, use more butterflies with folded wings and pearl centers on the front side of the crib. Add any additional greeting on the inside. Now your card is ready to bless its recipient.

Baby Crib Popup

Baby Crib Popup Card

Get the FREE CUT FILES FOR the Baby Crib Popup Card and the Small Magnolia Flower 

You can get the SVG cut files for the Baby Crib Popup Card and the Small Magnolia Flower as well as  some of my other FREE SVG projects from my FREE Resource Library.

 

>> HOW TO ENTER THE FREE RESOURCE LIBRARY <<

This resource library is open to everyone for free. All you need is the password to get in, which you can get by filling out the form below.

If you already have your password, enter the resource library here.

Love,

Julie, cuttercrafter.com

Impossible Butterfly Popup Card

You can make this lovely Impossible Butterfly Popup Card with the SVG cutting file from the Free Resource Library. It will make a lovely gift for someone special. The card base is made from a single piece of heavy cardstock, and yet the center pops up in a seemingly impossible way! This special Impossible Card includes a dimensional butterfly, whose wings pop out from the card base. The card makes a lovely conversation piece when displayed on the mantle or coffee table.

Impossible Butterfly Popup Card

Impossible Butterfly Popup Card

 

Supplies Needed to Make the Impossible Butterfly Popup Card

Please note: Some supplies may include my affiliate links. I am an affiliate only for products that I use. Your purchase from my links will not cost you any more, but they will help support my blog. Thanks!
Digital Paper from Pazzles.
Medium Weight Cardstock
1 sheet 110# cardstock
Strips of Double-Sided sticky tape 1″ wide
6”x6” grey square jpg file included with the cutting file.
Electronic Cutter (I used Pazzles Vue)
SVG Cutting File from our Free Resource Library
Pop Dots
Art Glitter Glue Dries Clear Adhesive
The Font used for this project is Aubrey Script

 

Printing Instructions

I used Digital Paper from Pazzles. But you may use printed papers of your choice.
Resize the digital paper to the following measurements, and print on medium-weight cardstock.

Impossible Butterfly Popup Card

Printed Digital Papers

Light Pink paper is cut from Stripes resized to 8.5”x7”
Yellow pieces are cut from yellow paper resized to 8.5”x6”
Blue resize to 8.5″x5″
Dark pink resize 8.5″x3″
Print the 6”x6” grey square jpg file.
When printing, use the Best Quality setting on Plain Paper in your printer Preferences.

Print the sentiment on pink paper and cut around it using the piece for it in the SVG cutting file.

Impossible Butterfly Popup Card

Printed Sentiment

SVG files are provided All in one file or in three separate files for your convenience. However, if using the All in one file, you do not need to use the separate files.

Impossible Butterfly Popup Card

Cutting Pieces

Cut the File Pieces

First cut the file pieces with the black lines on 110# heavy cardstock using the chipboard setting. Next, score the red line without removing the mat from the machine. Do not move the cutting head. You may use a scoring tool, or cut the score line with a retracted blade and lower cutting pressure.

Impossible Butterfly CArd

Cut Card Base

Folding Card Base

After you finish cutting and scoring the card base, remove it from the cutting mat. Then fold the center portion of the card towards the front, and use a bone folder on the crease.

Impossible Butterfly Popup Card

Twist right side to back

Now, twist the right section of the card to the back, and press the side portions flat, allowing the center to pop up.

Impossible Butterfly Popup Card

Twist right side to back

Make Glitter Paper

See detailed instructions for making Glitter Paper in a previous post. In this project I used 1″ wide double stick tape instead of a sheet of scor-tape.
Use double sided sticky tape over the entire printed grey piece that you printed. To use it, first remove the backing. Next, adhere the sticky strips to cover the grey paper. Then Remove protective layer off the front of the tape.

Impossible Butterfly Popup Card

Cover the grey paper with double sided sticky tape strips.

Sprinkle the sticky tape with glitter. Next, brayer over the glitter. Now, rub the glitter with your finger. Finally, sprinkle off the excess glitter, and pour it back into the jar.

Impossible Butterfly Card

Glitter paper ready to cut.

Next you can cut the large and small grey butterfly pieces, as well as the sentiment mat from the glittered paper. Use your poker tool to remove small inside pieces that did not stick to the mat. See the resource document for information on cutter crafting tools in the Free Resource Library.

Impossible Butterfly Popup Card

Cut Butterflies

Assembly of the Impossible Butterfly Popup Card

Now, your cut pieces are ready to assemble.

Impossible Butterfly Popup Card

Cut pieces are ready to apply to the card.

Butterfly Assembly

Bend the butterfly wings forward. Glue only the center body part of the butterflies when assembling layers.
Next, glue body of the large lacy butterfly to the solid pink butterfly. Then glue the body of the pink butterfly to the striped mat. Finally, glue that mat to the blue mat, aligning the tops of the pieces to each other.

Impossible Butterfly Popup Card

Assemble the butterfly layers.

Now you can glue the butterfly layers to the card base, aligning the tops of the design. The edge of the bottom layer should line up with the score line.

Impossible Butterfly Popup Card

Glue the butterfly layers on the card.

Next, center yellow panels to the card base and glue in place.

Impossible Butterfly Popup Card

Add decorative panels.

Tag Assembly

The larger tag and mat for the back side of the card is for writing your personal greeting. First, glue the yellow journaling piece to its mat. Then center the tag on the back side of the card with the edge flush against the fold line to give support for the butterfly popup. Now, glue in place. Finally, to finish the back side of the card, glue the striped panel to the back side of the butterfly.

Impossible Butterfly Popup Card

Back side of the card.

Card Front Embellishments

Now you are ready to add the embellishments to the front of the card. First glue the long narrow rectangle to its mat. Center it on the front bottom part of card. Then glue in place.

Impossible Butterfly Popup Card

Front panel

Now, add pop dots to the back of the sentiment, and place on the grey mat. Then glue the assembled sentiment at an angle on the left front side of the card over the decorative strip.

Impossible Butterfly Popup Card

Add the Sentiment

Next, bend the wings of the small butterflies upward. Then glue the body of the smallest butterfly to the pink butterfly. Finally, glue the body of the pink butterfly to the bar on the front, over the open space.

Impossible Butterfly Popup Card

Small Butterfly Embellishment

Finished Impossible Butterfly Card

Now you can display your finished card.

Impossible Butterfly Popup Card

Finished Impossible Butterfly Popup Card

When it is folded flat, the card will fit in a 7″ square envelope for mailing.
The recipient of your card is sure to be encouraged by your lovely card.

Love,
Julie, cuttercrafter.com

>> HOW TO ENTER THE FREE RESOURCE LIBRARY <<

This resource library is open to everyone for free. All you need is the password to get in, which you can get by filling out the form below.

If you already have your password, enter the resource library here.

Easy DIY Tool Organizer

You can make an Easy DIY Tool Organizer to keep your most used tools for cutter crafting handy on your desk next to your cutter. This is a great first project to try after you have set up your cutter  and  finished performing some test cuts.

Easy-DIY-Tool-Organizer

Easy-DIY-Tool-Organizer

You will find the cutting files for this project in the Free Resource Library. There is also a special file in the Free Resource Library with a list of Five Must-Have Cutter Crafting Tools  which you likely have around your home already. This Easy DIY Tool Organizer will provide a place to keep these important tools so that they don’t get lost, and they remain handy while you cut and craft!

Supplies Needed to Make the Easy DIY Tool Organizer

Two sheets of heavy 12″x12″ cardstock
Glue that dries quickly.
Cutting File from the Free Resource Library
Five Must-Have Cutter Crafting Tools 

Assembly Instructions for the Easy DIY Tool Organizer

To make this Easy DIY Tool Organizer, use the heaviest cardstock that you have that your cutter can cut. Be sure to do a test cut to determine the best pressure and blade extension for the cardstock that you have chosen. Since the cardstock is heavy, it is important that you use a brayer or other similar implement to press the cardstock firmly on the cutting mat. Heavy pressures can cause the paper to move around the cutting mat during cutting if the cutting mat is not sticky enough.

 

Easy-DIY-Tool-Organizer2-cuttercrafter

Adhere cardstock firmly to the cutting mat.

Cutting the Easy DIY Tool Organizer

Download the zipped cutting file from the Free Resource Library and Extract All. Open your cutting software and import the appropriate file. Most cutter software can use the SVG file, but there are other formats included for those who need them. Follow the instructions for using SVG files with your cutter. If you are using Cricut Design Space, see How to Use SVG Files in Cricut Design Space. If you are using Scan N Cut, open the FCM files. There are two files for Scan n Cut users. See also How to Use SVG Files with Scan N Cut. Open the MTC file to cut the design from Make The Cut. Or see this video tutorial on how to find and use SVG files with Make The Cut. Open the PVGC file to use with Pazzles InVue software. If you are using a Silhouette or Cameo machine, open the Studio2 file. If you are using Sure Cuts A Lot, open the SCAL4 file.

Once you have the file open in your software, send it to cut. There are two design sections, represented by two different line and fill colors. Select one portion of the design and cut. Remove the cut pieces for that cut. This piece may require a 24″ long mat. However, if you place your 12″x12″ paper strategically on your cutting mat, you may get it all to cut on the standard cutting mat.

Easy-DIY-Tool-Organizer3-cuttercrafter

Cutting file part 1 pieces.

Now you are ready to cut the pieces for the second part of the Easy DIY Tool Organizer.

Easy-DIY-Tool-Organizer4-cuttercrafter

Second part of the box.

Fold and Glue First Box

Fold on all of the score lines using mountain folds, folding towards the back of the pieces, for the first part of the Easy DIY Tool Organizer.

Easy-DIY-Tool-Organizer5-cuttercrafter

Fold towards the back on all score lines on this piece.

Put glue on the outside of each of the glue tabs for the main box. Fold up the side pieces, and hold the tabs in place until the glue is dry to form a box.

Easy-DIY-Tool-Organizer9-cuttercrafter

Glue the tabs to the end pieces of the box

Add glue to the outsides of the tabs on the dividers, and place inside of the box, about 3/4″ from the ends of the box, or wherever you wish to place them to fit your tools.

Easy-DIY-Tool-Organizer10-cuttercrafter

Glue the dividers inside of the box.

Fold and Glue Second Box

Fold on all of the score lines using mountain folds, folding towards the back of the main box piece. The long narrow strip has folds that alternate between mountain and valley folds, as shown in this photo. From left to right the folds are as follows: valley, mountain, mountain, valley, valley, mountain. The partitions on the left side of this box are larger than those on the right.

Easy-DIY-Tool-Organizer6-cuttercrafter

Fold tabs for Box 2 as shown.

Glue the tabs on the main box piece to the end pieces. Hold in position until the glue is dry, forming a box.

Easy-DIY-Tool-Organizer7-cuttercrafter

Glue the second box together.

For the inside partition piece of this box, place glue on the two flat sections where they will line up against the front and back of the box. The small tabs need glue as well, where they attach to the main box. Make sure you have the narrower compartments on the right side. Place the right side into the box, lining up the tab with the front right corner of the box. Make sure the the sides of the compartments are straight. Then hold in position until the glue is dry.

Easy-DIY-Tool-Organizer8-cuttercrafter

Partitions inside of the second box.

Assemble the Easy DIY Tool Organizer

You may use the two boxes separately, one on either side of your cutter. I like to use strong double stick tape to adhere the boxes securely to the cutter end caps.

Easy-DIY-Tool-Organizer11-cuttercrafter

Use a box on either end of your cutter if you like.

But my current setup makes it easier to access my important cutting tools by having them both on one side of  my cutter. To make the two boxes into a single unit, glue the back of the smaller box to the front of the taller box. Be sure to line up the bottoms of both boxes against your desktop.

Easy-DIY-Tool-Organizer12-cuttercrafter

Glue the two boxes together to make a single Easy DIY Tool Organizer

Now you can fill your Easy DIY Tool Organizer with the tools you use the most in your crafting. Be sure to see the special file in the Free Resource Library with a list of Five Must-Have Cutter Crafting Tools  which you likely have around your home already. This Easy DIY Tool Organizer will help you to organize those Must-Have cutter crafting tools.

Easy-DIY-Tool-Organizer13-cuttercrafter

Place your most used tools in the Easy DIY Tool Organizer

Decorate Your Easy DIY Tool Organizer

I used one of the large peony flowers that I made for my Lovely Peony Basket. You can decorate yours with any number of beautiful ornaments from your supplies.

Easy-DIY-Tool-Organizer16-cuttercrafter

My Easy DIY Tool Organizer on my desk.

Completed Project

Here is my finished Easy DIY Tool Organizer. I would love to see yours! What are you going to put in it?

Julie, cuttercrafter.com

Would you like to see some more of my FREE SVG projects? Check them out in my FREE Resource Library.

 

>> HOW TO ENTER THE FREE RESOURCE LIBRARY <<

This resource library is open to everyone for free. All you need is the password to get in, which you can get by filling out the form below.

If you already have your password, enter the resource library here.

Get Your Cutter Out of the Box

You were so excited to purchase a new electronic cutter so you could start creating fabulous projects. Is that Cricut, Cameo, Scan N Cut, Pazzles, Klic N Kut, Silver Bullet, or other fine cutter still sitting in its unopened box? It is time to get your cutter out of the box!  Don’t let the warranty expire on your machine before you even have a chance to use it! Do you need some help getting started using your cutter? Do you want to make some of those lovely projects you have been admiring for so long? I have helped many crafters get their cutters out of the box, set up, and started using them. If you  live near me in the Pacific Northwest, you might want to come for a visit. Or perhaps you can attend a class that I am teaching in your area. Alternatively, the following tips can help you get started. You can begin to create some of the projects you envisioned when you invested in your cutting machine.

Cutters are great tools for crafters if you use them.

I was frightened to take my cutter out of the box when I first received it, about 13 years ago. It took me 4 months to actually start using it! Some private help from the company who sold me the cutter gave me courage to get my cutter out of the box. Perhaps you don’t have the advantage of hands-on help where you are. If not, I hope I can help you a bit here to get you started. Here are some steps to help motivate you get your cutter out of the box, and set up. Then you can get started using it for some creative and fun crafting!

  • Prepare a Space for your Cutter .

    While you are waiting for your new cutter to arrive,  decide where you will be putting it once it arrives. This is a great time to prepare a space for your cutter. You need a space as wide as your cutter, and about 36 inches deep. Your machine  can sit on a desk, or under a shelf on your desk. Leave some room behind and in front of it to allow the cutting mat to move in and out  of the machine smoothly without interference. If you don’t have room on your desk, you can set up a sturdy table, stand, or rolling cart behind or beside your desk. Cutters equipped with bluetooth may be used further from your desk after you get it set up. You will find it much easier to get bits of crafting done if you don’t have to worry about taking care of these details each and every time you want to create something. You will use your cutter more if it is within arm’s reach of your computer work space, plugged in, and ready to use.

    Ready to Craft

    Cutter on Desk near Computer

    Cutter ready to use on desk.

  •  Prepare a place for your cutting supplies near your cutter. Having a shelf above the cutter could be a workable solution. Do you have some space under or near the table, stand or rolling cart where you can keep your cutting supplies? You will need a place for your mats, blades, and frequently used tools. Mats need to be stored flat. I keep my covered mats stacked neatly on top of my drawer cubes. Get the free list of Five Must-Have Cutter Crafting Tools in the Free Library.
  •  Learn while waiting for delivery day. You can watch some unboxing  YouTube videos . Find the company’s support page, join some cutter support groups, and learn about your new purchase. Unboxing videos will help you to warm up to the idea of getting your cutter out of the box, and  become  friendly with the possibilities waiting for you with this new tool.
  •  Delivery Day! Think about why you purchased this machine in the first place as you head toward that box. Place the box on a large table with room for all of its contents.

    Big Box

    Cutter has arrived!

  • Unpack the Box

    . You can use scissors, a box cutter or knife to cut through the packing tape and open the box. There is another box inside of the shipping box, so you don’t have to worry about damaging the machine when you are opening this outer box. You may see a packing list which you can check as you unpack the contents of the box.

    Packing Sheet

    Inside the Shipping Carton

  • Remove the inner box from the shipping carton. You may need help pulling it out. It may be easier for you to get the inner box out by turning the carton on its side or upside down to  pull the outer box off.

    Inner Box

  • Open the inner box.  The cutting mat is often wrapped loosely around the body of the machine. Take it out and allow it to lie flat  while you unpack the remainder of the box contents.

    Inside the Inner Box

  • Remove packaging. The machine is wrapped in plastic foam or bag to protect it from moisture during transit. Remove this wrap and other packing material used to stabilize the machine during shipment. Save all packing materials. If you ever need to ship your machine for service or repairs, etc.,  it will be much easier to ship if you have the original packing materials.

    Wrapped Machine

  • Look for the “Quick Setup” instructions that are most likely near the top of the box. This will guide you through each step of setting up your new machine. Continue unpacking the contents of your box, to make sure everything is present that you will need. Your Quick Start Guide will list everything that should be in the box.

    Quick Start Guide

  • Power Cord and Converter Box. The converter box may look like many others that you have around the house. However, this one is unique to this cutter. Do not use other power supplies intended for other cutters or devices, as not all electronic devices have the same input and output power ratings. Use some tape to label these cords with the cutter name to avoid confusion in the future.

    Power Cord and Converter Box

     

    One end of the black cord plugs into a surge protector strip, and the other end plugs into the black box. You should invest in a surge protector power strip if you don’t already have one, in order to protect your machine from sudden surges of power that could destroy your machine.

    Labeled Box

     

  • USB Cable   If your cutter connects to a computer via USB, it probably shipped with an A toB USB cable, similar to one that a printer uses. One end of the cable plugs into the cutter, while the other plugs into a USB port on your computer. Plan to use a primary USB port on the back of the computer, rather than an auxiliary port or hub. If a hub becomes necessary, use only a self-powered hub. Even if your machine is equipped with blue tooth wireless technology, you may still need a USB cable when first setting up your machine. Check your instructions and follow the recommendations for setting up the machine and software used to run it.

    USB Cable

    Software – If your cutter purchase included software, there may be a software CD in the box. Some companies provide software downloads in lieu of an installation CD. Software frequently requires updates, so even if you do have an installation CD, you will need to install software updates once your machine is set up. If there is a registration number in or on the CD packaging, be sure to put that number in a safe place. Be sure to register your machine and software with the company. This software has the License Key number on the back of the CD envelope.

    Software CD

    Software License Key

    Warranty

  • Don’t let your warranty run out without doing some test cuts on your new machine. There should be a warranty document included in your box. Take a look at that to see if you have any warranty time left, if you delayed in opening your box. Most electronic cutters come with a one-year warranty. If that time is drawing short, you should plan to dive right in to using your cutter as soon as possible! There is likely a warranty registration card. You should definitely register your machine right away, either by sending in the card, or registering its serial number online with the company.

    Support and Warranty Information

    Find and record the Serial number on your machine. You will need this number to register your cutter. It is usually found on the bottom of the machine.

    Serial Number

  • Remove packaging Tape. Moving parts of your cutter may have been taped down for protection during shipping. Your quick setup instructions should direct you to locate the positions of the tape or other packing materials, so that you can remove it before starting to use your craft cutter.
  • Blade Setup

  • Insert the cutting blade into the blade holder, and insert the blade holder properly into the carriage on the cutting head. The blade should barely be peeking out from the end of the blade holder for most cutting purposes.

    Cutter Blade Holder

    Insert blade into the blade holder as instructed.

    Cutter Setup

    Blade holder sits in the carriage.

    Be sure to position the blade holder in the carriage so that the depth setting is visible from the front of the machine. This will make it easier to make adjustments to blade depth without having to remove the blade holder from the carriage.

  • Plugging in your Cutter

  • Take a look on the machine to find the power port. The USB port will be located near the power port. Plug in the power cord to the converter box. Plug the other end of the power cord into the machine, and plug in to a power source. Don’t turn the power on until you are directed to do so by the instructions that came with your machine.

    Plug the USB and power cords into the machine.

    •  You may  find some extras in your box such as sample materials to cut, depending on the machine package that you purchased.
    • Software Installation

  • Install the software that will be used to drive your machine as directed by the manufacturer’s instructions. Some cutters use online software, while others come with stand-alone software that you will install on your computer. Some also have apps for your mobile devices. Go ahead and get the software loaded on your computer and/or your mobile device.
  • Once you get your cutter power plugged in and get it to connect with your computer or mobile device, you may be directed to do some firmware updates. Most cutter manufacturers provide updates for the machines they produce. You may need to access the most recent Firmware updates for your machine online. Firmware is the programming that is built in to the machine. The update process is usually simple, and often it runs  automatically. During the  software installation process, the drivers necessary for your computer to communicate with your cutter will be installed as well.
  • Get Support if Needed

  • Don’t let this process get in the way of setting up your machine. You can always contact the company from which you purchased the machine for direct help in setting it up. Don’t be afraid to call them, email them, fill out a support ticket on their web site, or post your questions in online forums. Even if your machine is now out of warranty, most companies are willing to provide the help you need to get your machine and software up and running.

Congratulations!

You now have your cutter out of the box, set up and ready to use! Don’t forget to grab your free  list of Five Must-Have Cutter Crafting Tools from the Free Library, and get them  in their new home near your cutter. Then you are ready to move on to making some test cuts and get started on making some of those great projects you have envisioned!

Would you like to have the free list of Five Must-Have Cutter Crafting Tools  as well as some FREE SVG cutting files for a variety of projects?

Get the password for the Free Library with free SVG files  by filling out this form:

 

 

 

You can make a Lovely Floral Gift Box

Would you like to make a lovely Floral Gift Box for someone special in your life? That someone is sure to be wowed by a lovely handmade creation such as this. After making this floral gift box, topped with this special heart flower, I filled it with chocolate bon-bon candies, and gave it to my Step-Mother as a birthday-Valentine’s gift. She absolutely loved not only the chocolates, but she also appreciated the handmade heart flower that I used instead of a bow to decorate the top of the box, as well as the lovely box that she can now use to hold jewelry or other small household items.

Two part gift box with decorative 3D Heart Flower ornament

Two part gift box with decorative 3D Heart Flower ornament

The floral gift box has a magnetic closure to  keep it closed. You might want to decorate your floral gift box with more masculine papers for male recipients. The flower may be used to decorate other DIY projects such as cards, frames,  scrapbooks and more. You could even make an entire bouquet of these flowers and place in a vase for some lovely home decor.

You can make this box out of ordinary cardstock, which cuts nicely on electronic cutters such as Pazzles Vue or Inspiration, Cricut, Silhouette Cameo, Scan N Cut, KNK Zing, Zing Orbit, or Force, Silver Bullet, or other cutters that have software that can use SVG, AI, or WPC file formats. The heart flower ornament can be cut out of cardstock or from lighter weight paper. I used some lovely iridescent text weight paper for mine.

Illustrated, printable, step-by-step assembly instructions accompany the cutting file, to make the assembly process quick and easy. It amazes me that we can make such gorgeous gifts out of something as mundane as paper! Do you need a box for a gift for a special occasion coming up soon? The box measures about 3.5 inches square, and it is 1.5 inches high, making it a perfect size for a watch, jewelry, a special sweet treat, as well as a gift card. I hope you will give it a try  for an upcoming occasion.

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>> HOW TO ENTER THE FREE RESOURCE LIBRARY <<

This resource library is open to everyone for free. All you need is the password to get in, which you can get by filling out the form below. If you already have your password, enter the resource library here. Forgot your password? I put the password at the bottom of nearly all of my emails. But if you can’t find one of my emails to you, you can either fill out the form above again or email me at hello@cuttercrafter.com Password Tip: I recommend you copy and paste the password in to avoid any accidental mistakes. If you ever forget your password, please email hello@cuttercrafter.com Not working? If you enter the password and the same page refreshes, without any contents, that means you put in the wrong password. Double-check your email, copy the password, and paste it in to the link above. Still not working? I promise the password works—I haven’t changed it since I opened the library.   Try the copy/paste method again and make sure the URL you are going to has https at the start of it (that’s a secure page and it makes a difference). If that still isn’t working, try a different web browser.
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