Welcome Back
Well I’ve had my Cuttlebug since June and having had a good play I think it is time for a review.
Advantages
- The Cuttlebug can cut die cuts.
- It can Emboss using its own brand of embossing folder.
- It can cut other brands of dies as well as it’s own.
- It can emboss other brands of embossing stencils including brass stencils.
- It has a suction system to attach the machine to a smooth surface, this keeps the machine in place during use.
- Side platforms fold up, so it is a small size for easy storage.
- Portable, includes a carry handle making it simple to move around your craft room.
- Competitively priced given how much it can do.
- Simple to use
- Manufacturer’s website has advice for how to use other brands of dies in the machine
- Smooth to use, no MAN muscles required. REALLY, you won’t need to be big n strong to use this machine. I have limited dexterity and I found it easy to use.
Disadvantages
- Lime green in colour.
That’s it that is my only down that I can find on this product, I just don’t like bright lime green. Hardly a reason not to buy an otherwise excellent machine.
Results
- Value for money; Excellent does a lot for a good price
- Build Quality; Excellent although the outer casing is plastic the main body of the machine is metal
- Would I buy it again; YES
Links
One of the best places for on-line demonstrations using the Cuttlebug is to be found on You Tube. Simply type ‘Cuttlebug’ into the search box and you will find all kinds of information.
- Erin Michelle has some very good videos http://uk.youtube.com/user/erinmichele
- Provocraft themselves have a few videos on there http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=l7nmTIPL3m4
- Inspirational cards and projects including Cuttlebug creations shown on the gallery http://www.heartprints.net/
- Provocraft main site for the makers of Cuttlebug its accessories and other great craft products http://www.provocraft.com/index.php
- Cuttlebug area of Provocraft http://www.provocraft.com/products/index.products.php?cl=cuttlebug
- This is to Spellbinderssite who make the Wizard, this is a rival system but they have excellent dies that can cut and emboss within the same die. At the bottom of the page is a link to a PDF which describes how to use their dies with the Cuttlebug and other systems http://www.spellbinders.us/ct/store/ct_dynamicIndex.asp?idAffiliate=
There are other systems out there it is really a matter of personal choice. I chose this for the ability to use any manufacturers dies. I did not want to be tied to a system where you could only use one type of die. The suction system that holds the machine to the table is a HUGE plus. Others have told me that other systems that do not have this can wander around the table as you try to use them!
My best advice is to look at all the systems available, but also to look at the dies/embossing folders available with those brands too. If you get a system that does not support multiple brands you will be stuck with just what that manufacturer makes. I love the Wizard dies as they cut and emboss, they have a wonderful range called Nestabilites which are available in many shapes and sizes. Their range of dies are much broader in designs than others on the market which I found were a bit cartoonie and more aimed at children’s themes. Before I tried the Cuttlebug I was going to buy a WIzard, for me the suction plate available with the Cuttlebug was what swung it for me.
Best wishes and thanks for reading, if you have any questions or comments just leave me a comment and I’ll get back to you.
Billie xx
Did you find that the suction actually worked? My work surface often has glitter and other things on it and I’m concerned that it won’t work anyway. It looked like it wasn’t really necessary for the wizard to stay in one place as you are pulling it toward you…but I don’t know yet how compatible it is with other products.
Hi Maggie
Thanks for you comment here’s some tips that I hope will answer your concerns.
I’ve had no problems with the suction on the Cuttlebug, as with any item that uses suction as the base the simple soloutions to the concerns you mention are
1. Use the bug on a flat surface. If you are working on a tiled or textured worktop there may not be enough surface area for the the sole plate to get a good grip.
2. Wipe the area you wish to use with a damp cloth before you place the Cuttlebug down. This will remove any surface particles (dust/glitter paper scraps etc) and the bug should stick just fine.
3. If your bug already has ‘dirty feet’ ie they are dusty or glittery etc just wipe the base plate with a damp cloth to remove any residues and it will work fine.
4. If you have the mobility and the floor is a smoother surface to your worktop consider using that instead.
**DISCLAIMER** Be sensible about number 4, the Cuttle bug really does have a GOOD grip, if you have laminate floor that could lift then best not attach it to that
As for which machine is best for your needs, it is a matter of personal choice. I have limited dexterity so the smooth action of the bug and the fact that the suction pad makes it stays in place was for me a big factor for choosing this machine over the Wizard.
I believe that the Wizard is still compatible with other manufacturers dies but as to which ones it can handle please follow the link to their manufacturers website and download the compatibility charts; http://spellbinderspaperarts.com/
If you are able to get to a craft store or class where either machine is being demonstrated that is the best way to help you decide which one is for you.
Hope this helps let me know if you have any other questions and I’ll try to help.
Thanks for your comment
Billie