I really think that the new generation of die-cutting machines are magical. Easy to use, portable and with a wide selection of dies, no crafter could ask for better.
These machines are also great because of the different materials that they are able to cut. My favorites being aluminum foil and felt. So much can be done with these machines that it would be hopeless to attempt to list all the possibilities. The purpose of this blog is just to list a few of the things that I was able to do with my die-cutting machine in order to get your creative juices flowing!
I love recycling old items or else pick up a bargain and then “alter” it to suit my needs. My die-cutting machine is an essential part of the whole process.
Simple bags, really cheap canvas ones, that come in plain colors can be “altered” using shapes cut from felt. These can be appliqued onto the bag and can be further embellished using fancy needlework or beads. You can really come up with loads of different designs and color schemes to completely change the look of the bag. From chic to funky to elegant, anything is possible!
My family loves eating canned beans and I love altering the cans to make pencil holders or little baskets/containers to hold gifts. You can leave the can the way it is, letting the silver metal be the background and then embellish it using your favorite die cut shapes, ribbons, beads etc. In case you want a different look just cover the can in some plain or patterned paper of your choice before you begin the embellishment process. The same project can be made using ice cream containers, they have the advantage of a lid! or a shoebox…the world of altered containers is now open to you. There are so many variations that you can do…cover the box with fabric instead of paper, stitch on some beads and use some felt die cuts to embellish. Funky foam is another material that is easily cut using your sizzix or cuttlebug and these also make incredible embellishments. Let your imagination run wild…you may never have to buy another storage box for your supplies!
I love funky foam die cuts on a silver background!
I love using unusual folders and trapper keepers but somehow never find what I am looking for at the stores. So what I do is buy the cheapest folders I can and then jazz them up using paper, ribbons, beads and ofcourse die cuts!
Still waiting for the die-cuts...I want paisleys on these.
You can see pictures of some of my projects here…hope these serve to inspire you to die-cut, alter and recycle! I will be back with more…=)
Altered Fantasy 