Note: Sadly Cricut has discontinued the Cuttlebug. Two high-quality alternatives are the Sizzix Big Shot and the very portable AccuQuilt Go! Me.
If you are looking for a machine specifically for cutting fabric and felt check out my article Best Die Cutting Machine for Fabric and Felt.
Let’s start off by saying that users absolutely love their Cricut Cuttlebug machine, and so will you. The Cricut Cuttlebug machine is an embossing and die cut machine by Cricut. There are two versions out there, but I will be focusing on the newer V2 model in this review. The original version and V2 version work exactly the same. They use exactly the same plates, folders, and dies. The only differences are to the outside body design.
The Cricut Cuttlebug is quite cleverly constructed. The sides of the machine are able to fold up and be tucked away. When the sides are folded down for use, a suction underneath the machine is activated and the machine sticks to the table. This suction keeps the machine from moving around when running materials through the machine.
What’s also great for saving space is that the handle tucks away as well. Sometimes crafters need all the space they can get, so this design is a big help. It even comes with a carrying handle. The machine only weighs 7lbs, which means you can carry and use it anywhere. The dimensions of the machine are 14.4 inches long, 7.2 inches wide, and 12 inches high.
Using Your Cuttlebug
The Cuttlebug (Basic package) comes with the following:
- 1 A Spacer
- 2 B Cutting Plate
- Instruction booklet
- Bonus: 1 5×7 embossing folder
To use your Cuttlebug, use the spacer and cutting pads to create a sandwich with your embossing folder or die. This sandwich is then rolled through the machine by cranking the handle, where the material comes out embossed or cut. Cutting and embossing are quick and easy. It’s also safe for kids to use.
Materials can be added to either side of the machine, so it all works the same whether you are left or right handed. Like all die cut machines, the dies cut into the cutting plates. Over time, these plates will become scratched and warped. It’s best to designate one plate to be your “cutting plate”, and keep the other plate on the bottom. When the cutting plate starts to become warped, flip it over to use the other side.
Now, there is a Cuttlebug C plate. The C plate is sold separately and does not come with the machine. It did come with the original version of the machine, but it does not come in the V2 version. Some people don’t understand why Provo Craft decided to no longer include the C plate.
Well, the C plate is only needed if you are using dies from other manufacturers, such as Sizzix or Spellbinders. If you plan on using dies from other manufacturers, then you may need the C plate. It’s good to know that the Cricut Cuttlebug machine is compatible with most leading brands of dies and embossing folders.
Check out our Cuttlebug Sandwich Guide on how to use the Cuttlebug with other dies and folders.
Here’s a video of embossing without the C plate and using the C plate to cut a Spellbinder die:
As you can see from the demo in the video, the embossing comes out surprisingly crisp, and it cuts smoothly.
The opening of the Cuttlbug is 6 inches. This means you will not be able to use any dies or folders larger than this. If you are embossing, the A2 and 5×7 embossing folders are compatible.
What can the Cuttlebug cut?
The Cuttlebug can cut a variety of materials including:
- Cardstock
- Thin metal
- Thin Wood
- Some fabrics
- Thin Felt
- Poster board
- Chipboard
- Tissue Paper
- Fun foam
Be aware, that the height of your cutting materials should not exceed 1/8″. Forcing materials through the machine could get them stuck.
Maintenance and Warranty
This Cuttlebug is very easy to maintain and requires nothing besides keeping it clean. If you treat the machine nicely and don’t force anything through the opening, it should last a long time.
The machine comes with a 1-year warranty.
Overall Review
Overall, the Cuttlebug is a decent machine, portable, and its price makes it appealing. However, if you are looking for something slightly more expensive, durable, and versatile, consider our Sizzix Big Shot review, and compare the two machines.
One of the cheapest places to buy the Cuttlebug is from Amazon.
Do you own a Cuttlebug? Tell us what you think by leaving a comment!