The Die-Cutting & Embossing System makes it easier to add detailed designs, custom shapes and dimensional texture to your memory keeping projects. Whether you’re creating a title, adding a border or giving a piece of paper a little more dimension, the Creative Memories Die-Cutting & Embossing Machine gives you more ways to make your projects your own.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the basics of die-cutting and embossing, introduce the parts and plates you’ll use, explain how the different “sandwiches” work and take you through creating your first die cut and embossed design.

What Is Die-Cutting & Embossing?

How Does the Machine Work?

The Die-Cutting & Embossing Machine uses even pressure to create clean, detailed cuts or textured embossed designs. For die-cutting, the machine presses a thin metal die into the paper to cut the desired shape or design. For embossing, the machine presses paper inside an Embossing Folder to add texture and dimension to the paper.

To get started, simply layer the correct plates, paper and metal die or embossing folder in the recommended “sandwich” configuration, then roll it through the machine.

Meet Your Machine

The machine itself is just one part of the system. Once you understand what each component does, building the right sandwich becomes much easier.

Plates:

Plates create the correct amount of pressure needed to cut or emboss. Different plates are used depending on what you’re creating.

Dies: Thin metal tools with raised edges that cut shapes and designs from paper.

Creative Memories dies include:

Embossing Folders:

Embossing Folders are reusable plastic folders with a design molded inside. Instead of cutting the paper, the folder presses the design into it to create raised texture on one side and recessed texture on the reverse. Creative Memories Embossing Folders are available in a 12.5″ size.

Paper:

For the most consistent die-cutting results, smooth cardstock typically provides a clean, precise cut. Results may vary depending on the paper’s thickness, texture and finish. The machine can be used with a variety of Creative Memories papers, including:

For best results: While some metal dies may work with our Die-Cutting & Embossing System, for best results and longevity of the products, we recommend only using with Creative Memories Die-Cutting & Embossing products

Understanding Plates + Sandwiches

One of the most important things to understand when using your machine is the sandwich. A “sandwich” is simply the order in which you stack your plates, paper and metal die or Embossing Folder before rolling them through the machine. Using the correct sandwich helps ensure the right amount of pressure for clean results while protecting your machine and materials.

A Few Things to Remember:

Die-Cutting Sandwich:

Build your die-cutting sandwich from the bottom up:

Embossing Sandwich:

Build your embossing sandwich from the bottom up:

Create Your First Die-Cut

Now that you know the parts and the sandwich, you’re ready to make your first die-cut.

Having Trouble Releasing Your Die-Cut?

Some die-cuts may need a little help releasing from the metal die. Turn the metal die over and use the pointed end of the Dual-Tip Die-Cutting Tool in the small release holes to gently push the die-cut shape out. Use the tool to remove any small paper pieces that remain inside the metal die. Avoid pulling or forcing delicate die-cut pieces, which could cause them to tear.

Create Your First Embossed Design

Embossing uses a similar process, but instead of cutting through the paper, the Embossing Folder presses a design into it.

Explore What’s Possible

Tools, Accessories & Storage

You only need a few essentials to start die-cutting and embossing. As you get more comfortable, a few additional tools can make the process easier, and the right storage can help keep your metal dies, folders and plates organized.

Start With the Essentials:

Helpful Tools:

Nice to Have: Extra Cutting Base Plates, Silicone Craft Mat, Precision-Point Adhesive Pen and Micro-Tip Scissors.

Keep Your Supplies Organized:

Storage Tip: Creative Memories metal dies come packaged with a magnetic backer. Keep the magnetic backer to help keep your metal dies organized, secure and easy to store.

Make It Your Own

From detailed titles and borders to embossed textures and layered embellishments, die-cutting and embossing give you even more ways to bring your ideas to the page.