The Cricut Cuttlebug Cutting Machine Reviewed | Versatile and practical

by Joost Nusselder Updated on: July 8, 2021

Let me start by saying that users love their Cuttlebug machine.

The Cricut Cuttlebug is an embossing and cutting machine designed by Provo Craft. It is a versatile and sturdy device that you will enjoy for a long time.

(view more images)

The Cricut Cuttlebug slicer is very well built. The sides of the machine can be folded and stored.

When the sides are flipped open for use, suction is activated under the machine, securing the machine to the table.

This suction prevents the machine from moving when the materials are being machined. Sometimes creatives need all the space, and this machine doesn't get in the way easily.

It also comes with a handle. The machine weighs only 3,5 kg, which means you can take it with you and use it anywhere.

The dimensions of the device are 13 inches in length, 6,5 inches in width and 11 inches in height.

From toddler to toddler activity book collection

Educational games and coloring pages for 3 to 6 years

Your toddler and preschooler will love this e-book, along with the accompanying printables. He or she can play with it at every stage of development, together with mom and dad.

Buy at Bol.com

Using Cuttlebug

To use the Cuttlebug, use the spacer and cutting plates to make a sandwich with your embossing or die cutting folder.

This sandwich is rolled through the machine by turning the handle where the material is embossing or being cut.

Cutting, embossing and punching is quick and easy. It is also safe for children to use.

The materials can be fed through either side of the machine, so everything works the same whether you're right-handed or left-handed.

As with all cutting machines the dies are cut into the cutting plates. However, over time these plates damage and deform.

It is better to designate one plate as a “cutting board” and keep the other plate upside down. When the cutting board starts to warp, turn it over to use the other side.

Watch this video for this slicer to see in action:

The Cricut Cuttlebug is a manual die cutting and embossing machine that has a large following.

It has a clever design where the sides can be flipped up for easy storage, and when the sides come down it activates the suction power underneath the machine so it can't move. Smart isn't it?

(view more images)

The Cuttlebug also has replaceable parts meaning you won't be harmed whether you're right or left handed.

Read more about Choosing the right cutting machine | What do you pay attention to?

Did you know that there 3 kinds of die cutting machines exist? Check out all your crafting options!

What Can the Cuttlebug Cut?

Cuttlebug can cut a wide spectrum of materials, including:

• Paper
• thin cardboard
• Fine metal
• Wood
• Some fabrics
• Foam
• blotter
• thin leather
• ribbon

Please note that the height of the cutting materials should not exceed 3 millimeters (or 1/8 inch). Forcing the materials through the machine can cause them to get stuck.

Also read: Die-cut fabric flowers with your Cuttlebug in 6 easy steps

Warranty

Cuttlebug is easy to maintain and requires nothing more than to keep the unit clean.

If you treat the machine well and don't force anything during use, it should last a long time.

The machine comes with a 1 year warranty.

Features

• The unit comes with a shelf and two plates, both 6 to 8 inches.
• The rubber mat is included
• It is compatible with a wide range of embossing folders.
• The dimensions of the product are 13 x 11 by 6,5 inches.

The Pros and Cons of the Cricut Cuttlebug

(view more images)

Benefits

• Cuts a wide variety of materials ranging from tissue paper and ribbon to foil and leather.
• Works well with other embossing and die cutting folders and dies.
• It is a durable machine of good quality.
• The supplied user manual makes it easy to use the machine
• Fast shipping
• Easy-to-open packaging

Cons

• The machine sometimes seems to have trouble cutting to the end.
• The pressure level is not high enough to cut complex patterns.
• The manual is not very clear, and several customers have had problems using it.

Would you rather have an electronic one? slicer? Check out my review of the Cricut 29-0001

Conclusion

This machine is of high quality and certainly has useful features to help you create impressive designs. It has a fresh color, and the handle makes it easy to use.

It is a small device that does not take up much space; it is a powerful machine that makes it one of the best cutting machines makes those there are.

Did you know that there 3 kinds of die-cutting machines exist? These are your craft options

Joost Nusselder, the founder of Speelkeuze.nl is a content marketer, father and loves trying out new toys. As a child he came into contact with everything related to games when his mother started the Tinnen Soldaat in Ede. Now he and his team create helpful blog articles to help loyal readers with fun play ideas.