Cuttlebug Sandwich List for Die Cutting

CUTTLEBUG PLATES TO USE WHEN DIE CUTTING


PROVOCRAFT DIES

A PLATE / B PLATE / CARDSTOCK / DIE CUT SIDE DOWN / B PLATE

This is the order I mostly use because I like to see where I'm placing the die, but you can also place the die cut side up with the card on top. I find this method useful when  cutting alphabet dies.  So, it comes down to whatever suits the job best! (as long as the actual sandwich is right).


SPELLBINDER WIZARD DIES

A PLATE / B PLATE / CARDSTOCK / DIE CUT SIDE DOWN / C PLATE

Again you can reverse the order of card and die.

 
SIZZIX/SIZZLIT DIES

A PLATE / B PLATE / CARDSTOCK / DIE CUT SIDE DOWN / B PLATE

NELLEN SNELLEN DIES

A PLATE / B PLATE / CARDSTOCK / DIE CUT SIDE DOWN / C PLATE

If you use a magnetic mat to cut a frame - you will need to change the sandwich by replacing the C Plate with a B plate and possibly a shim.

These dies come fastened together - if your plates are warped you might experience problems cutting all of the frames in one go.  The condition of your plates might also mean you have to place and cut the dies on the side of the sandwich. You can try passing through twice, or try adding a shim if the Bug will take it without forcing. I cut through the paper holding the dies, but did not remove the paper backing.  If you do remove the backing you will find the dies stick to the plates when cutting.  If you have removed the backing - WD2 will unglue it!   You do not have to do anything with the white bits that cut the apertures in the frame.
You can use these dies as a mat, or as a frame.  To make the frame just place one die inside another on a magnetic mat, or you could use a low tack tape to hold them.  


THINGS TO  REMEMBER WHEN DIE CUTTING

GOLDEN RULE : NEVER FORCE : IF IN DOUBT ALWAYS START LESS AND ADD MORE BY WAY OF A SHIM(s)

DIES DIFFER IN THICKNESS WHICH MEANS ADJUSTING PLATES

ALWAYS HAVE THE A PLATE AT THE BOTTOM

ALWAYS USE THE RIGHT PLATE FOR THE RIGHT DIE, OR YOU WILL BREAK EITHER THE BUG OR THE PLATE.

IT IS NORMAL FOR THE DIE TO MARK THE PLATE WHEN IT CUTS.

IT IS NORMAL TO HEAR A CRACKING SOUND AS THE DIE CUTS.

PLATES ALSO BUCKLE WITH USE - THERE ARE VARIOUS THOUGHTS ON THIS...

I ALWAYS CUT ON THE SAME B PLATE AND TURN IT REGULARLY, AND ALSO TRY TO CUT IN DIFFERENT AREAS WHERE POSSIBLE.  I HAVE USED THE SAME PLATE  FOR 2 YEARS AND ALTHOUGH THE  B PLATE HAS BECOME VERY MARKED - IT IS FLAT AND USEABLE.

OTHER THOUGHTS
CUT ON ONE SIDE ONLY.
CUT ON THE C PLATE - it's stronger and less inclined to break or warp.
(I cannot comment on these because it's not what I do, BUT the crafters who use them are experienced die cutters and the methods work for them so I feel confident in sharing their thoughts)

IF YOU ARE HAVING PROBLEMS - ASK FOR HELP - IT'S A SHAME NOT TO USE YOUR DIES!