Make a Father’s Day Popup Card
Father’s Day Popup Card
You can make this Father’s Day Popup Card even at the last minute for the beloved fathers in your life. The popup on the inside of the card is simple. You can decorate inside, outside, and back of the card if you want to get creative.
Download the Cutting Files
You can download the free SVG cutting files from our Resource Library to make a Father’s Day popup card like this one. The cutting files include pieces for the base popup card, backing card, and decorative layer pieces. The completed popup card measures 7″ wide by 5″ high when closed. You can use the same envelope provided in the Motorcycle popup Card template in the Resource Library .
Happy Father’s Day Popup Card
Supplies to Make a Father’s Day Popup Card
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 receive a small commission. Thanks!
80# white cardstock for the card base.
Medium weight cardstock for the lettering and clouds. I used double sided paper from the Wilderness Retreat Collection for the printed layers.
Wilderness Retreat Collection dies for layer embellishments or use scissors to fussy cut shapes of your choice from the paper collection.
Gold metallic cardstock if desired for the Sun
Electronic Cutter (I used Pazzles Vue) or you can use Cricut Explore or Maker or Cameo 4 or Scan N Cut
Pen holder, pen spacer and pen for cutter.
Art Glitter Glue
Pop Dot Adhesives
Crystal Clear glitter Optional
SVG Cutting File from our Free Resource Library
Cutting Instructions to Make a Father’s Day Popup Card
The cutting files you need to make a popup Father’s Day Card are all included as shown below.
Image of Cutting files to Make Father’s Day Popup Card
The card back is on the left in blue. It has a score line at the center. You can cut this piece from green cardstock. Or you can cut a 6″ wide panel from the Wilderness Retreat Collection paper pad from Heartfelt Creations as I did. Since it is double sided paper, I selected a page that had the blue background that shows up under the cut out pieces on the inside of the popup card. The opposite side of the paper formed the background of the front of the card.
Open Front of Father’s Day Popup Card
This paper included another design on the bottom half that made a nice backing for the card.
Bottom of Father’s Day Popup Card
In the cutting file, the base card is cut from white cardstock. 80 # cardstock works best to keep the popup strong. Be sure to score the red lines first, then cut the black lines. Notice that the score lines are all solid red lines. Use a scoring tool for these lines, or retract your blade and reduce cutting pressure to score the surface of the card with your blade.
Father’s Day Popup Card Layers
The green pieces are for the inside layers of the card. There are two sizes of mats you can use. I used only one. I cut the top portion and the tab layers from a blue printed piece, and the bottom portion from one of the outdoor scenes in the card pack. In order to make the lettering stand out, I cut them from black cardstock. You can cut the sun from the Lux Gold cardstock, which is quite eye-catching, or you can use yellow cardstock.
Before cutting the white cloud with text, use your pen in the pen holder for your machine to draw the text. Then replace the pen holder with the cutting blade holder to cut out the cloud. You may also cut the 2nd cloud at the same time.
If you would like to add more interest in the card, cut out the flowers, critters, eagle, grass, water, etc. to add to your scene. You may use the cutting dies from the Wilderness Retreat Collection, or simply use scissors to fussy cut them. I added the deer and grass layer and an eagle to the back side of the card.
Cutting Instructions for Cricut Explore or Cricut Maker
If you are using Cricut Design Space, upload the SVG file for the Father’s Day Popup Card into Cricut Design Space. Then right click on the design and select Ungroup. You need to designate each of the red lines as score lines in the Line Quality panel at the top of the screen. Select the card and its score line, right click, then click on Attach.
Next, select the base card and its score lines (in black). Right click and select Ungroup. Select the score lines from the layers panel, and set them to Score in the line quality panel. Hold the Shift key to select also the card layer. Then right click and select Attach.
Text Sentiment
Select the cloud with text and ungroup. Select the text and set it to Draw in the Line Quality panel. Change the cloud color to White. Select the cloud and text, right click, then select Attach. Now you are ready to Make it. Check each color layer to make sure the pieces look correct in their layers.
Fathers Day Popup Card layout for Cricut Design Space
Make It
Go to the Make It screen to make sure the score lines show up on the same layer as the corresponding cutting lines. If you get a separate red mat, then the lines were not attached properly to their cutting shapes. Go back to fix that.
There is a video tutorial showing how to use popup cards with Cricut Design Space here. Cricut Design Space has been updated a bit since the video was made. The updated software now has a Line type Menu at the top of the screen near the left side. The only difference right now is that instead of clicking on the color box on the Layers menu on the side of the screen to change from a cut to a score line as shown in the video, you will select your line in the layers panel on the side of the screen, then click on the tiny down arrow at the top of the screen under Line type. Select Score. After you have designated a line to be a Score Line, hold the shift key, and select the shape of the card. Then Right click and select Attach. The color selection box is next to the Cut Menu as well.
Cutting Instructions for Scan N Cut
There is a set of multiple files for Scan N Cut users for this Father’s Day Popup Card, since Brother Canvas Workspace can accept only a single 11.5″”x11.5″” file at a time. Import one file at a time to cut and score. Make sure that the red lines are designated for score or draw.
Assembly Instructions
After you have all of the pieces cut out, it is time to start assembling your popup card. First remove the loose pieces from the popup card design. This process is called “weeding”. When these pieces are removed, you will be able to see through some parts of the popup card to the backing.
Next, glue the layers to the top and bottom inside of the card. Now glue the black lettering over the letters on the popup card.
Folding the Popup Card
First you need to fold your pieces along the score lines. Fold the backing card in half on the score line and crease it. Next, fold the sides of the white base card, pinching from the back of the card to make valley folds. There are two short fold lines on each side. Now pinch the score lines at the tops of the tabs from the back to make valley folds. Also, make valley folds by pinching from the back on the score lines at the bottoms of the letters. Make mountain folds on the score lines at the top of the letters. Use a bone folder to make crisp fold lines. Gently push the back of the card up.
Then gently fold the card closed all the way, so that it is flat.
Now that the folds are made, check to make sure that the card opens and closes smoothly. Open the card, and glue the remaining decorative pieces to the upper and lower parts of the card background. There are also pieces to glue on the tabs, if you wish to use them.
Once you have all of the decorative pieces in place, fold the card closed.
Final Assembly of the Father’s Day Popup Card
To glue the popup card to its backing card, place the center crease of the folded card in the inside crease of the backing card as shown below. Use quick drying glue around the edges of the white base card, making sure not to get glue on any of the motorcycle parts. If you are using 6″ wide backing card, and 7″ wide popup card base, you will need to center the printed backing to the white base.
Place popup base card inside backing card.
Close the backing card down over the white base card. Then rub all over the backing to make sure it stays in place until the glue dries. Once the glue is dry, turn the card over. Glue the other side to the backing card.
Glue the popup card to the back.
With glue on the other side of the white popup card base, close the card again, and hold firmly in place until the glue dries. Then you can open the card.
Add Decorative Elements
Now you can decorate the front of the card as you like. Use pop-dots to add dimension to the various character animals that you want in your scene. You can use pop-dots behind the clouds and sun as well. Once you have everything in place as you want your scene to be, you can add some glitter if you like. To add glitter, put some thin lines of glue that dries clear in the places where you want some sparkle. Than sprinkle some glitter over those areas, and pour the excess back into the bottle. Let the glue dry completely.
Decorate the back of the card in like manner. Now add a personal note. When your card is complete, place it inside of an envelope. Now it is ready for giving or posting it to a special father in your life!
Get the FREE SVG Cutting File
Happy Father’s Day Popup Card
You will find the cutting files for this Father’s Day Popup Card in the Free Resource Library.
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.
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
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!
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 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 Side Flap
Repeat with the other side flap.
Lift the other side flap.
Pull the front flap down.
Open the Front Flap
Now, fold the side flaps back down, inserting their tabs into their original slots.
Replace Side Flaps in their Slots
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 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
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
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.
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
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.
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 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 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 Assembly Step 5
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 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 Step 8
Now you can add the other bottom piece on the inside of the box.
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
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
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
These boxes have paper clips on top and bottom to join the two boxes together.
Clipped Boxes for 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 – 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
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 Cutter – See 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 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 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 Cuttlebug Special bundle
Cricut Ultimate Fine Point Pen Set Assorted
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 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.
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
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
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
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.
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.
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
48 Colored Pencils– less expensive, but less dense pigment than Prismacolor colored Pencils.
136 colored pencils – Best deal
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
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 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
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 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
Best Software For Designing SVG Cutting Files
What is the best design software for creating SVG cutting files? There are a number of design software choices available. Learn which is the best for you. The most important factor in your design software choice is that it works with your cutter. The design software does not have to have drivers to cut directly to your cutter. But the design software does need to have options to export designs that will work with your cutter. So the cutter you are using, and its software requirements will be a huge factor for you in your design software choice.
Cutter Software
Software for SVG Designing
Cricut Design Space
Cricut Design Space
Cutters are usually shipped with software that works with the machine. But not all software is created equally. Some machines come only with the drivers necessary to make the machine work. This is true with many professional vinyl cutting machines. Other cutters come with some very basic free design software, such as Cricut Explore and Cricut Maker. Software required to work with these Cricut machines is Cricut Design Space. Design Space allows you to save your designs on their Cloud, but you cannot save them to your computer or export then for use with other cutters.
You may be satisfied with cutter software that allows you to use only designs provided by the cutter distributor for awhile. But eventually you will want to spread your creative wings to make some of your own designs. Some companies do not provide software with their cutters. They prefer to give you a option of purchasing the software of your choice. In this case, you need to make sure that the software you purchase has drivers for your particular machine.
Brother Canvas Workspace
Brother Canvas
Some cutter software allows you to open or import files that you or others have created. But they provide only basic software features. They have very little in the way of creative design and editing tools. For example, Brother has provided the free Canvas Workspace software for Scan N Cut and Design N Cut users. It includes basic design features. But you will likely need to use what is called “third party software”, software made by another company. This third party design software can be used to create your cutting projects. In order for third party software to work with your cutter, it needs to have the option to export designs that will work with your cutter.
Software Import and Export Options
Silhouette Studio
Some cutters are provided with full featured design software. This software allows you to import, customize, and create cutting files. But the software may not allow you to export your work in formats that can be used with other cutters. For example, the free basic version of Silhouette Studio is excellent design software, but importing and exporting files in other formats requires paid software upgrades. Being able to export cutting files from your cutter software will be important if you want to use your cutting files with more than one cutter, or if you want to share or sell your files with someone else who uses a different cutter. Be sure to check the import and export options of the software you choose. Another thing to keep in mind is that Silhouette Studio does not allow the export of purchased designs from their online store in SVG format.
Cutters with Full-Featured Design Software
Finally, there are some cutters that are shipped with full-featured design software, that allows you to import and export cutting files. For example, Pazzles includes full-featured design software with the purchase of their cutters. Their software, InVue, (which may be purchased separately from a machine) allows you to import, create, customize, and export your cutting projects in SVG format. It included basic and advanced design functions. Therefore, this software serves as an excellent low-cost, third party cutting software.
While there are excellent cutters that do not have these important software options, it is essential that you consider creating your designs in software that does have these options. Therefore using additional design software may be necessary. In this case, make sure that the software you have chosen for your design work will work with the software provided with the machine you plan to use.
Design Software Options
The best time to evaluate software options is before you make your cutter purchase. This gives you more freedom as you consider design software options. So if you are looking into purchasing a new cutter, now is the time to consider your design software options. Every design software has a learning curve. So once you select a design software, you will need to stick with it for awhile. Learn all of the basic functions in the software that are needed for creating projects for your cutter. Then you can learn to use many of the advanced features in the software. Have patience as you learn.
Free Design Software
Inkscape
Inkscape
Inkscape is open source software that is free. This software has no plugins for cutters, so it is used strictly for designing. It does have many import and export options. Many cutter crafters use Inkscape for creating their cutting files, then export their designs in a format that can be imported into cutter software. Most cutter software will import SVG or DXF files that Inkscape can export.
Learning Inkscape
The down side to using Inkscape is finding adequate support for using it for cutting purposes. There are many more tutorials available covering Inkscape features today than there were in past years. Inkscape is so full of features for designers of all types, that finding the tools needed specifically for designing cutting files can be hard to find. The best course I have found for learning to use Inkscape for designing cutting files is one produced by Jennifer Maker called Cut Above SVG Design Course
Affordable Design Software for Sale
Pazzles InVue Software
Pazzles InVue is the most affordable third party design software for sale. It is excellent software for designing SVG cutting files. It cuts directly to the Pazzles Inspiration and Pazzles Vue cutters.InVue also allows for importing and exporting SVG and WPC cutting files, making it a great option to use as third party software for use with cutters that have more limited design tools.
Learning InVue
The Pazzles Craft Room offers excellent video training for using this software. You can find some free video tutorials for using this software on my YouTube channel. I also offer free Cutter Software support for this and most cutter software at the Cutter Software Facebook Group (Join to access free files and discussion group.)
Some third party design software will cut directly to a number of different cutters. This is handy, as you can design and cut your projects from the same software.
Sure Cuts A Lot (SCAL)
The most up-to-date of these software options is Sure Cuts A Lot version 5 . You can download a free trial of this software for 15 days to see how you like it. Even if you cannot cut directly to your particular cutter, you can still create your designs in this software, and export your projects in most common formats, including SVG, SVG for Cricut, and Brother FCM. It can also import a large number of embroidery file types.
Sure Cuts A Lot Cutter Software
Learning Sure Cuts A Lot
ScrappyDew has an excellent course called SCAL Classroom covering how to use Sure Cuts A Lot, including a User’s Manual. There is a special offer for a discount for this course when you purchase the software.
Make The Cut (MTC)
Make The Cut Software
The Make The Cut software is excellent software for designing SVG cutting files. This software is available for purchase online. You can download the free trial version from this site, and use it indefinitely. The trial version does not allow SVG export or printing.
Make The Cut is not cloud-based. It is extremely important to protect your user registration number, in case your computer crashes. Save your entire Make The Cut! directory as well as your registration number to a thumb drive or a CD, in case you need to install Make The Cut to another computer. Copy everything from this folder C:\Program Files (x86)\Make The Cut! to the thumb drive. Then you can plug in the thumb drive to a new computer and copy these files to the new computer.
Make The Cut is full featured cutting software that will cut directly to many different cutters. It includes many advanced design features. The software imports and exports many different file types. There have not been updates to this software in several years, so plugins for newer cutters are not available. But the software is still quite competitive in the market for those designing SVG cutting files. You can create your own cutting files, or customize or edit designs that you have. Then you can select all (ctrl+a) and export as SVG (Ctrl+Shift+S). These SVG files may be imported into your favorite cutting software.
The User Gallery in Make The Cut is partially functional. You can still download thousands of designs from that Gallery. If you own Make The Cut, see this document to learn how to Retrieve your registration key by Sandy McCauley. She has also made some of the archived gallery files available for FREE download:
Files contributed by Dave (AKA Berry One) Dave contributed files primarily in MTC format. There are a few SVG files among his collection that even those who do not own Make The Cut can access.
MTC Gallery Rescue by User Paul Zingah These are primarily files in MTC format with PNG thumbnail images.
Learning Make The Cut
Support for Make The Cut software is available in the free User’s Manual as well as at the Make The Cut Forum, at the free MTC-Tuts Group (join to access free tutorials and cutting files), and at my YouTube channel.
Popup Card Studio
Those interested in making popup card designs will appreciate the option to copy and paste designs from the Make The Cut software to its companion software, Popup Card Studio (PCS). Popup Card Studio is no longer for sale. However, those who have purchased this software in the past can still use it to create popup cards. There are free YouTube tutorials for creating popup cards using Popup Card Studio on my YouTube channel. The user gallery is no longer functional. You can download an archive of most of the designs that were available in the PCS user gallery in SVG format. Even if you do not own Popup Card Studio, you may access these SVG files for making nearly 100 different popup cards.
Not So Affordable Software For Designing SVG Cutting Files
Adobe Creative Suite
Adobe Illustrator
Illustrator is the professional vector design software. This cloud-based software includes tools for a wide variety of design professionals in many fields. Hence, it is quite complicated, and difficult to learn the specific design tools we need for designing SVG cutting Files. Illustrator does not offer plugins for direct cutting to cutters. But the files created in Illustrator can be exported for use with other cutter software. Illustrator became popular among crafty cutters who use MAC computers, when most cutter software did not offer support for MAC. Now it is more common to find cutter software that includes MAC support.
Learning Illustrator
Those aspiring to become professional designers may want to dive in to learning to use this software. Comprehensive support for cutter users is severely lacking for this software. I do recommend that if you want to be a design professional, that you get the entire Adobe Creative Suite, as you will likely need more than just Illustrator. I find that I use Adobe Photoshop and Acrobat Pro as much or more than Illustrator. If you plan to tackle Illustrator for designing SVG cutting files, I highly recommend Jennifer Maker’s Cut Above SVG Design Course . Jennifer is extremely diligent to provide personal help for her students in learning to use advanced software tools to create some amazing cutting projects.
Corel Draw
CorelDraw
The CorelDraw suite is another expensive vector design software that imports and exports files in many formats. Many professional cutters use this software, especially those who work with laser cutters and wood cutting machines. However, there is not much support for home cutter crafters using CorelDraw.
Favorite Features of CorelDraw
There are only a couple of features that I use in CorelDraw for my design work. My favorite is the Word Envelope that automatically fills a shape with text. See my video tutorial on how this works. The other feature in CorelDraw that I use is their TTF file export. I use this for creating fonts. CorelDraw does not provide plugins for cutting to our craft cutters, but many laser and CNC machines are shipped with plugin software that works with CorelDraw. If you have a machine that requires the use of CorelDraw, then you will need to invest in this software.
Design Software for Cricut Machines
Your older Cricut machine did not come with design software. You learned to use designs available on cartridges to create some amazing scrapbook pages, cards, 3D projects, and decorations for events. But there are times that you have some very creative ideas that you would like to try with your cutter, and you cannot find exactly the right cutting files in your cartridge collection. So perhaps it is time to learn to use cutter software so you can bring those creative ideas to life.
Cricut Expression
There are some older software versions that work with your older Cricut, including Cricut Craftroom, Make The Cut 4.1.0 or earlier, Sure Cuts A Lot 2.0, and FairyCut. But those are no longer being produced, and Cricut Craftroom is being closed. If you happen to have one of these, it would be a good idea to start learning to use it. Even very basic software can be used to create some amazing projects. The latest versions of Make The Cut and Sure Cuts A Lot allow you to use the latest and greatest software features, and transfer your designs to the older software so you can cut to your machine.
Cricut Upgrades
After Cricut Craftroom closes in mid-July, 2018, you will need to make some decisions. If you have a huge collection of cartridges to use with your older Cricut, you might want to consider upgrading to a Cricut Explore or Cricut Maker. Cricut Design Space, which is required for using these machines, does allow you to register your cartridges. Hence you can use all of your cartridge images and fonts on the newer machines. Cricut Design Space does have some nice design features to help you use your cartridge design collection more creatively. The software also allows you to import images and SVG files from other sources. For more information on how to use SVG files in Cricut Design Space see my post on How to Use SVG files in Cricut Design Space.
Do You Need a New Cutter?
You may need a new cutter if your creative needs have outgrown the features available with your current setup, or if support for your cutter has been discontinued.
Discontinued Cutters
If you decide you do need a new cutter, it is important to consider your cutter software needs as well. Take some time to research the options available to you. An electronic cutter requires some kind of software to drive it. You need to make sure that the machine and software combination suits your needs. If you already have a favorite software for designing SVG cutting files, will it work with the cutter you are considering?
Note: I use some affiliate links in this post 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!
Julie
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.
How to Use the Regal Split Monogram Font
Learn to use the Regal Split Monogram Font in your cutter software to create lovely personalized gifts for weddings, anniversaries, and other occasions. You will find the FREE font in my Free Resource Library.
Split Regal Monogram on a Ceramic Tile
Supplies Needed
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!
Regal Split Monogram font in TTF format from the Free Resource Library
12″ square ceramic tile
outdoor vinyl 12″ square
12″ square vinyl transfer tape
Alcohol wipe
Vinyl Pick Tool for weeding
Squeegee Tool
How to Download and Install the Regal Split Monogram Font
To use the Split Regal Monogram font, you will need to first download it. You can get the zipped font from my Free Resource Library. Save the zipped file to your computer. Double click on the saved file, and select Extract All. Now you can right click on the extracted font, and select Install. The font will be installed into your computer’s system fonts folder, and will be available for you to use in any software that allows use of True Type Fonts. You can use it in your cutter software, just as you use any other font.
How to use the Regal Split Monogram Font in your Cutter Software
Once the Regal Split Monogram Font is installed in your computer’s system fonts folder, you can access it from your cutter software. Select the font in your cutter software by clicking on the T. Scroll through the font list to the R fonts. Select the Regal Split Monogram1.ttf font. Now type the capital letter you wish to use for the monogram. The design for that letter should appear on your screen. Resize the design to 10″ with the aspect ratio locked. If your project will be smaller or larger, size the monogram to fit. Since my tile is 12″ square, I chose to size my monogram to 10″. This allows for some room under the monogram for additional text.
Using fonts in each software is slightly different, so I have made some video tutorials on how to use this Regal Split Monogram Font in the most popular cutter software programs. Click on the software name to view the video.
Brother Canvas Workspace – Scan N Cut
Adding Custom Text to the Regal Split Monogram
There is a space in the middle of the monogram for you to add customized text to the design. You will need to select a font from your collection for this text. I used Caslon BD BT for my text. Upper case letters may work easiest, although I used upper and lower case letters for this particular project. After you have selected the font you would like to use for the remainder of the project, type your text. I used the last name of the couple for whom I made this tile plus the word “Family” in the space in the middle of the monogram.
Resize Your Custom Text
Resize your text to fit the space in the middle. You need to unlock the sizing tool, and drag the text to fit the available width and height. You may slightly overlap the top edge and bottom edge of the text with the bars of the two sections. Then select All (Ctrl+A) and weld all pieces together. Another way to do this is to make the text slightly smaller than the opening in the middle of the monogram. The text can fit in between the two parts of the monogram. But I think the welded version is easier to weed and apply.
Adding Custom Text Below the Regal Split Monogram
You can leave space below the monogram design where you can add additional text such as an important date. My project is a wedding gift for friends, so I added their wedding date under the monogram design. I used the same font that I used in the middle of the Monogram. Once you have added the text of your choice, resize it to the same width you used for the monogram design. You can change the height of the text to fit your available space.
Save Your Completed Monogram Design
Next, give your design a name, and save the file in your software. I like to save the design before I weld the customized text, so that the design will be ready to use for another gift. But once the design is saved, I weld overlapping letters. It is also a good idea to group everything together. But if you are using Cricut Design Space, rather than grouping, you should select all, right click, and select Attach. This keeps all of the design together when you go to cut your project.
Cutting your Regal Split Monogram Design
Be sure to do a test cut on your vinyl before cutting the large design. See the post on Performing a Test Cut . You need a very accurate blade depth and cutting pressure for this project. Make sure that your blade cuts cleanly through the vinyl. The blade should NOT cut through the backing material on the vinyl. If the cutting pressure is inadequate, you will have an extremely difficult time weeding the vinyl that will not be used on your project. Too much pressure may also cause bunching and tearing of your vinyl. Use a slower cutting speed, as the monograms contain some very intricate, fine lines.
Cut the vinyl. Notice the test cuts in the lower right corner. The first two tests cut all the way through the backing.
Weeding Your Regal Split Monogram
Weeding involves removing all of the vinyl that you do NOT want to place on your tile. I put boxes around the text at the bottom and around the main monogram design before cutting, so that weeding was a bit easier. Use a sharp, pointed object to lift the unwanted outside vinyl pieces away from the backing. Use scissors to trim away sections of the vinyl that you are pulling away. Don’t allow vinyl pieces to attach themselves to portions of the design that will be placed on your tile. After you remove the large outer pieces, work very carefully to remove the tiny pieces inside of letters and designs. Be careful not to lift any of the design pieces away from the backing.
Weeded vinyl still on the backing.
Apply Vinyl Transfer Tape to the Weeded Vinyl
Apply a 12″x 12″ piece of vinyl transfer tape over the cut and weeded vinyl design, a little bit at a time. Avoid getting air trapped between tape and weeded design. Pull away the backing material slowly, while pressing down on the transfer material from the top.
Apply vinyl transfer tape over the weeded vinyl a little at a time.
Use a squeegee tool to burnish the transfer tape securely to the vinyl design.
Use a squeegee tool firmly across the front of the design to remove all air bubbles and wrinkles. Rub firmly on front and back of design to get the vinyl pieces to stick to the transfer paper. At the same time you want the backing to release the vinyl pieces. Check the front and back of your design to make sure that everything is firmly in place where it belongs on the transfer tape. This is the time to fix any crooked pieces of vinyl.
Pull up on a top corner of the transfer tape. Make sure that the cut vinyl pieces stick to the transfer paper as you slowly peel it away from the backing.
Clean the Tile and Apply the Vinyl Design
Remove all dirt and oils from the tile. Use an alcohol wipe to clean the entire surface so that the vinyl will stick to it.
Clean Tile
The large 12″ square design may want to jump onto the tile before you are ready. Once this vinyl sticks to the tile, it will NOT want to come up. So it is very important to place the vinyl exactly where you want it to be the first time.
Start placing the vinyl on the tile.
Place the backing paper over most of the tile to prevent the design from sticking to the tile prematurely. Place the lower edge of the design where you want it on the tile. Use the squeegee to remove bubbles and apply the vinyl design smoothly to the tile. Move the backing back little by little, as you press the cut vinyl to the tile. Inspect the vinyl to make sure that all air bubbles and wrinkles are smooth and flat to the tile surface. If you have some bubbles, use the squeegee to move the bubbles to the edges of the cut design. You may use a heat tool to remove stubborn bubbles or wrinkles. Poke smaller bubbles with a needle or tip of your pointed tool to let the air escape.
Remove the Vinyl Transfer Material
Once all of the vinyl pieces are in place on the tile, slowly peel back the transfer material 180 degrees over itself to remove it. Make sure that the vinyl pieces stick to the tile as you peel away the transfer material.
Remove the Transfer tape.
Check your vinyl to make sure it is all secure on the tile. You special gift is now ready to give. The vinyl will last for many years. Your project is sure to be a blessing for its recipient.
>> 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
Cricut Explore or Cricut Maker
You have done your due diligence, and have decided that you must have a Cricut machine, but you cannot decide which would be the better purchase for you. Should you get the Cricut Explore or Cricut Maker. You want one of these machines because they allow you to use your huge collection of Cricut Cartridges with the Online Cricut Design Space software. Third party software can be used to create your own designs to cut, and import them into Cricut Design Space to cut on one of these cutters. Import images, and the software will create cutting lines for you. What does one do that the other cannot do? We will take a close look at the differences to help with this tough decision.
Cricut Maker
Cricut Explore Gold
Price
All of the models of Cricut Explore and Cricut Maker use the same free software, Cricut Design Space™ . The prices for these machine vary greatly. Depending on the package or bundle that you select, you may purchase a Cricut Explore for as low as $149.99 plus tax or a Cricut Maker for as low as $399.99 plus tax. The price difference is about $250.00. Are the extra features available on the Cricut Maker worth the price difference for you?
Cricut Machine Basic Features
The original Explore machine was produced with dual tool holders, a single speed, and no built in wireless. The Explore Air machines boasted of the added wireless feature. A lower priced version, the Explore Air One had only a single tool holder, plus the wireless feature. Next the Explore Air Two came out, with its dual tool holders, built-in wireless, and a new dual speed option. All of these different versions of the Explore machines were sold in a variety of “bundles” and colors. But they are all basically the same machine with the same cutting ability. You can see a comparison chart for the available Explore and Maker models here.
Cricut Maker Features
The Cricut Maker, the newest of the Cricut machines, has the added ability to use two new tools. The Rotary Tool shipped with the original Cricut Maker.
Rotary Blade Kit for Cricut Maker
The new Knife Blade tool is a separate purchase. These two new tools can only be used with the Cricut Maker. They cannot be used with the Cricut Explore machines.
Cricut Maker Knife Blade
Material Settings for Cricut Explore
All of the Cricut Explore machines cut with up to 350 grams of pressure. Pressure settings may be adjusted in the software, when Cricut Explore machine is chosen, and the dial on the machine is set to Custom. Here are some instructions for using Custom Settings with the Cricut Explore. See the Cut settings for the Cricut Explore machines here.
Material Settings for Cricut Maker
The Cricut Maker can cut all of the same materials as the Cricut Explore machines, plus many, many more. When using the Cricut Maker with Cricut Design Space, a much longer list of Material Settings is available. The Cricut Maker can use the same standard and deep cut blades used by the Explore machines to cut similar media. The pressure settings for those materials may be adjusted up to 350 grams of pressure. Settings for materials requiring use of the Rotary Blade may be edited for pressures up to 4,000 grams! Settings for materials requiring use of the Knife blade may NOT be edited. The heaviest built in pressure for use with the Knife blade is 750 grams. The advantage of using the Knife blade is the length and thickness of the blade itself. Tough materials are managed by the software using a combination of multiple passes and pressure settings.
Material Settings for Cricut “Legacy Machines
The older Cricut “Legacy” machines, Personal, Create, Expression I, Cake, Cake Mini, Expression II, and Imagine, were able to cut heavier media to a certain extent. See the Legacy Settings Chart for Cricut machines, for use on the older Cricut machines.
Cartridges
The “Legacy” Cricut machines primarily used cartridges. Your cartridges could be linked to your Cricut account by signing in to Cricut Craftroom, and linking your cartridges to your account. All cartridges that have been linked with the Cricut Craftroom automatically become available for your use with your account in Cricut Design Space. However, the Cricut Craftroom is soon to be shut down. While it is still open, you can use it If you have cartridges still not linked to your account at Cricut.com.
Using Cartridges with Cricut Explore or Cricut Maker
The Explore machines include a port on the top left side of the machine. Use that for linking cartridges to Cricut Design Space. To use it, go here , Login, and click on Home in the upper left corner of the screen. Select Link Cartridge, and this window opens.
Link Cartridge
Select the green Link Cartridge button. Then the cartridge will automatically be linked to your Cricut account for use with either Cricut Explore or Cricut Maker machines.
However, Cricut Maker does NOT have a port for linking cartridges to your account. You can purchase an optional Cartridge Adapter for linking your cartridges to your account. The process for using this adapter will be the same as Linking a Cartridge on the Explore, except you will plug the adapter into the small USB port on the side of the Cricut Maker, and plug the cartridge into the adapter.
Cartridge Adapter
If you have the Cricut Maker, but do not have the Cartridge Adapter, you can take photographs of the front and back sides of your cartridges, contact Cricut Support. Send these photographs to them, and they will manually link your cartridge to your account. Then you can use the cartridge content with your Cricut Design Space account on your Cricut Explore or Cricut Maker without charge.
Will Your Choice be Cricut Explore or Cricut Maker?
Think carefully about what you want to cut. If you want to cut some of the materials that only the Cricut Maker can cut, consider saving your money to get that machine. But if you want to get started cutting right away, and have a limited budget, you could purchase the Cricut Explore now. Then later you can upgrade to the Cricut Maker.
For example, I have always wanted to cut tissue paper, crepe paper, and inexpensive construction paper on my cutters. But the Cricut Maker is the only machine in my collection that will cut these very light weight papers without some kind of stabilizer. Cricut Explore can cut through felt and fabric, but you will need to stiffen them or use a backing of some kind. But the Cricut Maker cuts all of these very nicely without needing a backing or stabilizer. Cricut Explore cannot cut through basswood, but Cricut Maker does an excellent job cutting through Basswood that is up to 1/16″. The Maker’s knife blade cuts through thicker and tougher media better than blades in other machines.
What Will You Cut First?
Once you make your choice, get ready for a great new cutting adventure! Check out some of the resources available to you in our FREE Resource Library. Whichever machine you choose, these posts will help you get ready.
I would love to see a photo of your first project! You can send it to me at hello@cuttercrafter.com
Julie
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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!
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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.
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.
Cutter has arrived!
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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.
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.
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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.
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.
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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.
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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.
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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?
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