When most people think of a personal die cut machine, they think of a tool used for making cutouts for scrapbook layouts, handmade cards, and other paper crafting projects. Very few think of using die cuts for home decorating, but cutouts can be used in a number of ways to inexpensively add a special decorator's touch to your home.
Following are three of the many ways you can transform your home using die cuts:
1. Artwork
Even on sale, artwork can be a pricey investment, but it's hard to deny the impact of artwork and pictures on the ambiance of a room. With a little time and creativity, you can make your own custom art for a fraction of what you would pay in the store. Even if you think of yourself as artistically-challenged, it is very easy to make your own pictures using custom made cutouts. Assuming that you already own a personal die cut machine, you will only need to invest in card stock or paper that coordinates with the room's theme, as well as a nice frame and mat that highlight the cutouts.
2. Vinyl Wall Letters
A popular trend among home interior experts and homeowners alike is to use words or phrases as wall accents in various rooms. Perhaps you envision the word "Dream" painted on the wall above your bed, or "Home Sweet Home" spelled out over your entrance door. Of course, you could try your hand at painting the letters on your wall. Many people, however, opt for purchasing vinyl wall letters, which tend to be expensive. Some models of personal die cut machines are capable of cutting through vinyl, and if your model has this capability, you will be able to create your own vinyl wall letters in minutes. As an alternative, you can also use your machine to cut through wallpaper, to create your own wallpaper cutouts.
3. Decoupaged Accent Pieces
Wall clocks, benches, shelves, end tables, kids' furniture, and other accent pieces in your home can be personalized with die cuts using a technique called decoupage. Using a special adhesive, such as Mod Podge, it is easy to affix your cutouts to the accent piece you are personalizing. After the die cuts have been decoupaged to the surface, you may want to consider following up with a layer or two of clear varnish to further protect your design and ensure that it will last for many years to come.
There are countless other ways to use custom cutouts to decorate your home, but hopefully this will serve as a source of inspiration to try something new with your die cutter.
If you are thinking of buying a used personal die cut machine to save money, you are in luck. As scrapbookers and paper crafters upgrade and buy newer models, there are many older models that are available for sale on sites such as eBay and CraigsList. Many times, these older models are in excellent condition, and can be purchased for a fraction of the cost of buying new, a thrifty bargain for those looking to save money in these tough economic times.
However, before you plunk down your hard-earned cash to buy a used personal die cutter, there are a few things that you should ask the seller to make sure that you are actually getting a good deal:
1. Does the machine have any known defects?
Even if the item description does not state the existence of defects, it is a good idea to get direct verification from the seller. When asked directly, the seller may be more inclined to fully disclose the condition of the machine.
2. Is the seller willing to provide a short-term warranty?
If the seller asserts that the machine is in excellent operating condition, find out if they would be willing to provide a short-term warranty, such as one for thirty days. This shows that the seller is willing to stand behind their product, and gives you the opportunity to test it out to verify that it is indeed defect-free.
3. What accessories are included with the machine?
Find out what accessories are included, and the condition of those accessories. For example, if you purchase the Cricut Personal Electronic Cutter new in the store, the following add-ons would be included: George cartridge, cutting mat, cutting housing and blade, cord, USB cable, and instruction manual. If these items are not included, the cost of replacing them should be factored into your total expense.
4. What are the shipping costs?
If you are purchasing a used personal die cut machine from a local seller, this may not be a concern. However, if the seller is shipping the machine to you, make sure that the shipping and handling costs are reasonable and affordable.
5. Will the seller provide shipping insurance?
Shipping insurance is relatively inexpensive, but for a product that can potentially be damaged in the shipping process, it is good practice to have the carrier service, such as USPS, UPS, and Fed Ex, provide insurance, in the event that the item is damaged during shipping.
Final Thoughts...
Purchasing a used die cutter can be a great way to save money. As long as you have an open line of communication with the seller, and take the necessary steps to protect your investment.
Dawn Hall has sinced written about articles on various topics from About Branding, Painting and Health. This article was written by Dawn Hall. She recommends shopping for the machine, which is capable of cutting. Dawn Hall's top article generates over 9900 views. to your Favourites.