LOL-ed at your admiration for new plate!! I got some recently and had to restrain myself from cuddling them! I will certainly give this a try. Thanks for sharing :)
HI, Dena! Just reviewed this post again~~~and AGAIN, must tell you IT IS WONDERFUL! As I get ready to do tons of Holiday cards w/lots of die cutting, I’m thrilled to have this tip to keep my plates in “flat form”! Just wanted to send my BIG THANKS to you again for having done this video! HAPPY STAMPIN’, CREATIN’ n’ DIE-CUTTIN’! :-))
Thanks Dena for this video. I love my Big Shot and I too also need new plates. I see I'm not the only one who has things go missing, yesterday looking for my scissors, eventually found them I'd been sitting on them.
My first die cutting machine was a Grand Calibur (which I still use, along my Big Shot). The instructions with that were to cut with the cutting side up, so that's the habit I developed before getting the Big Shot. I'm so glad I never invested in the magnetic & precision cutting plates. More money to spent on paper and other goodies. ☺
Love that idea I have those cracked and very warped plates you were talking about. I’m doing a lot more classes now and I really need some new plates cause they are warped like crazy thanks for the tip have a great weekend.
Thank you so much for this wonderful tip Dena! I tried it & it really works! Wish I hadn’t spent money on all that other stuff they sell for cutting intricate dies. Your method works so much better.
I learned something new so the week wasn't a total loss. I cut out the Detailed Floral Thinlits Dies the way you suggested and it worked beautifully. Wow.
Dena, Thank you for this great advice. I have my big shot stash money in my wallet ready to order, and this gives me a great way of using it to make more consistent cutting results than I have had at classes, and I didn't hear that horrible popping and creaking sound the machine can make when the die is cutting!
Great video. I just want to add that I have (almost) always run my dies through with the cutting edge up and the top plate still warps. My first plates for my cuttlebug did not warp, and I used them for years. I feel like they were much thicker than the plates for the Big Shot.
Linda Mazzola , I’ve just gotten into this die cutting craze, in fact I’ve only had my Big Shot a month and I’ve always cut with my dies facing up...my top plate is warped really bad. I did buy another set for when this one breaks.
This is very helpful, Dena. Several years ago, when I first got my Cuttlebug, this was the recommended method for die-cutting then, and after seeing others do it the way I've observed others doing with either their Cuttlebugs OR Big Shot machines over the years, (I have both) I just figured it wasn't "that" important and got careless, but in recent months, have concluded that it really DOES make a difference, so good for you for bringing this to our attention and confirming what I have discovered myself. You're right about the acrylic plates being too pricy to keep replacing multiple times a year! I am so done with that myself! So good stuff, girl and thanks a bunch!!! (Another SU demonstrator just for the record)
Great tip. I do this but I use it the opposite way. My do not cut plate is always on top. I don’t like cutting with the dies facing up. Just personal preference. My plates last a very long time. Also I have one plate that is just for use with the precision base plate.
i just recently discovered this trick on my own because my big shot is currently broken (it dosnt evenly cut) but i find it cuts better doing it this way rather then putting the dyes downwards
WOW thank you so much! Card is beautiful and tip is super helpful! My plates are not super bowed yet, so hopefully my flattest one will stay flat as I cut with my dies facing up. :D
LOVE THIS TIP, Dena! And I really like this card, too! BRIGHT n’ HAPPY! However, I did check your blog but NO LUCK on finding out directions to make the card....think I figured 2 pieces out....but then not quite sure on a couple more! HELP!! PLEASE! Don’t even know when this video was posted....and I did look through LOTS n’ LOTS of your videos.....sure would appreciate your reply/help on it! THANKS OODLES! :-))
So Dena, have you also found that moving your die cutting area around to different spots for cutting a helpful benefit too? Yes, spreading out the cutting damage is great too! I see Cindy Majdecki also does this method of preserving her cutting plates. Sharing our experiences is very beneficial to everyone!!!
Hi Dena, that makes perfect sense why haven't i done this before. As you said there are many conflicting reports on using your plates. I am hoping you can answer my question, I know someone did but cant find it so will try again and jot it down in my Really Important Stuff notepad. Here goes:- My plates are far less scratched than yours are but the lines from previous cuts transfer onto the item i am cutting. Its great for leaves as they look like veins on it but not so great if you are cutting other things. What can i do as i'm spending a fortune buying new plates? Thank you for this video. xxx Wendy
When I keep one "nice" pad, I don't have that problem at all--if I cut into it even once, than that can become an issue, however I only notice it on certain dies--most are good even with really scratched plates. One other tip to try--add a layer of parchament paper or waxed paper between your cardstock and die and that may help. It sounds like your big shot is really tight. I have 4 big shots and none of them are exactly alike.
Thank you will try that I was about to throw away a yucky plate today but i have been holding on to it to see if i can use it for other things. But will try it for cutting using wax paper. Once again there are different ideas about using that, some say not to use it as it clogs up dies. I have used it a couple of times but then saw the DO NOT USE video and stopped. I have discovered lately that its best to try out various tips and do what is best for your machine and you. Hugs xxx Wendy
Lol, I also lose things by sitting still Dena :P.. I will still get up and look for them, fully aware that I didn't move but in my old age I might of forgotten I moved :P Awesome tip thank you :)
Hi Dena, I love your falsetto voice when you sing out instead of talking. I'm just a beginner, but when I get a Big Shot, I will be sure and follow your suggestions. la la la
I love this tip; a local friend does it, too. I am wondering though, what to do with my precision plate & my magnetic platform. I don't really want to get rid of either.
I still use my precision plate on certain crazy detailed dies, but they are now the exception rather than the norm. Again, the magnetic platform can be useful sometimes, too. I am NOT advocating getting rid of them, I am just telling you where I am finding success in my VAST use of my big shot/dies.
If Dena says it - I will do it! I actually started doing it this week when you mentioned it in the FB Live (I think). I have noticed an improvement already. Thank you for sharing! 😘
I just ordered a new BigShot tonight as I broke mine over a year ago :( I will give this a try ... curious to see if it works :) Thank you for the tip :)
thank you for the great ideas, Dena. I am adding new platform and plates to my wish list. Til then, I will cut with my die facing up and see if it helps. (missed you putting on your lipstick this time...LOL)
Thank you so much Dena for sharing this tip. I don't own this die cutting machine but I'm sure it will work in the one I do have. I'm just about to start doing my daughter's wedding invitations with a band new plate ( ooohhh sssoooo clean☺ ) and this tip will hopefully make it last longer than the other one, again, thank you so much for sharing...rita
I've watched your video several times, and I'm trying to get the visual on keeping the die face up. But, when you turn the card stock and die over to run through the big Kick it looks like cutting edge will be down. It's my visual picture that's making me not see the technique correctly, I'm sure. The other thing is, I'm looking for the flexible "adapter" plate and only finding the thin precision base plate in my online searches. I love the concept even though it makes me a bit nervous to see the die cutting edge facing up😳Thank you so much. I'm tired of buying cutting boards as often as I'm doing now.
I wondered if anyone ever had that problem... Why is it that it seems that you can lay down your scissors or a piece of paper or glue and reach back where your laid it and it's gone! I feel quite crazy sometimes, searching and searching talking to myself... Where'd it go? I just had it. What the heck?? 🙄🤔
Dear Dena, so love your advice! I have a cuttlebug and almost broke my wrist trying to use it with a curved plate! Is there any fix for the bent plates? I literally used mine less than 10 times as it bowed out of shape! But I am wondering if cuttlebugs are inferior to big shots? Oh darn for a day to cut a lace design! Hopefully,grace
This is great, but how does this work for die cutting stamped images? I'm assuming you would have to tape your die to the image before placing it cut side up on the plate.
I've always used cut side up so I can see if it cut thru without disturbing it. Plus I flip the top plate frequently if it starts to curve it does force it straight. God help anyone that uses my bottom plate for cutting😁
I ordered that brush after I saw you use it here and on the second use every single bristle fell out all at once it was wierd. I called and sent me a replacement. I thought I pressed to hard when rolling over die cut and cardstock, but I see here you press pretty much and rolled it all around and it is fine. I am afraid to press as you did passing it all over and that all the bristles will all fall out. Any advice? Thank you in advance!
I've always cut my dies up they still warp my plates if I don't turn them over between each cut. I still have one original plate that came with my machine 2 yrs ago
TFS!!! I tried it and it worked....well mostly. I'm getting an impression of the die on the clean bottom plate. Is that ok? Have I done something wrong? I appreciate your feedback!
I have experienced the same issue. I recently saw a video that said to use scrap paper like junk mail or typing paper on top of that plate to help. I have also been getting the marks of the top cutting plate on my die cuts. I did the same to help with that.
No you haven't done anything wrong. It happens to just about everyone. With that much pressure squeezing and pushing on the plates it's gonna happen. I've heard of people using the healing cutting mats in their place but haven't tried it. There is a video on TH-cam where they show you how to use them. Good luck. 😊
I'm sorry but the this is and has been the way I cut my dies and the top plate still bends and still crack. Unfortunately using the self healing mats only works on some dies. So you will still have to buy plates! I'm getting my cracked plates cut in to smaller pieces for smaller dies. I'll see how that does to stretch the plate use.
I'm a new crafter and the machine I bought had this in the directions. I didn't know there was another way. I'm glad I was doing it right.
Wow just watched this video was so surprise you need to redo so every one can see this again wow thank you so much
Thank you. Simple. 20 years later, why did I not think of this. x
Thank you so much for this - I’m retired and living on a fixed income, so tips on saving money are always very much appreciated!
LOL-ed at your admiration for new plate!! I got some recently and had to restrain myself from cuddling them! I will certainly give this a try. Thanks for sharing :)
fabulous! I've been using a Big Shot for many, many years and this is the best tip I've ever learned. Thank you!!!
HI, Dena! Just reviewed this post again~~~and AGAIN, must tell you IT IS WONDERFUL! As I get ready to do tons of Holiday cards w/lots of die cutting, I’m thrilled to have this tip to keep my plates in “flat form”! Just wanted to send my BIG THANKS to you again for having done this video! HAPPY STAMPIN’, CREATIN’ n’ DIE-CUTTIN’! :-))
Judith Sigler thanks so much, Judith!! Happy Stampin!!!
Thanks Dena for this video. I love my Big Shot and I too also need new plates. I see I'm not the only one who has things go missing, yesterday looking for my scissors, eventually found them I'd been sitting on them.
Oh, and, what a beautiful card you've created!! Have a happy day!
My first die cutting machine was a Grand Calibur (which I still use, along my Big Shot). The instructions with that were to cut with the cutting side up, so that's the habit I developed before getting the Big Shot. I'm so glad I never invested in the magnetic & precision cutting plates. More money to spent on paper and other goodies. ☺
Can’t wait to try this method!!! Defiantly subscribing to your channel.
Thanks for the tip.i am going to try it. I really need to try and save my new plates. Thanks for sharing.
thank you for this tip I am new to the stamping up and I love watching all the demonstrators videos. I am sure this will be very helpful
I needed new plates anyway, this is a one more good reason to get them! Thanks Dena :-)
Thanks for the tip. I have plates that are really curved. I will now try to remember to cut with the cutting side up!
Love that idea I have those cracked and very warped plates you were talking about. I’m doing a lot more classes now and I really need some new plates cause they are warped like crazy thanks for the tip have a great weekend.
Invest in some new ones!! You'll be glad you did!
What a great tip Dena. I will be using it that way from now on. Thanks from downunder in Melbourne Australia 🇦🇺
I just bought some new plates they’ll be here tomorrow I’m going to try your method thanks
Thank you so much for this wonderful tip Dena! I tried it & it really works! Wish I hadn’t spent money on all that other stuff they sell for cutting intricate dies. Your method works so much better.
I appreciate this tip for sure and I just bought new plates! Yay!
Thank you for this video! I just got a new big kick today and my plates started warping.
I learned something new so the week wasn't a total loss. I cut out the Detailed Floral Thinlits Dies the way you suggested and it worked beautifully. Wow.
Put this into my crafting! It works wonders!!!
Thanks so much for the tip. I have a whole family generation of bendy bowed almost bowl-like plates. Thanks for sharing. Love it.
I will give it a try, I have been buying new plates like crazy. I have a cuddlebug.
Thanks for sharing.
Dena, Thank you for this great advice. I have my big shot stash money in my wallet ready to order, and this gives me a great way of using it to make more consistent cutting results than I have had at classes, and I didn't hear that horrible popping and creaking sound the machine can make when the die is cutting!
Thanks for the tip. Sometimes I am running the dies thru several times as they don’t cut thru. I hope this will help with this as well.
The platform I use makes a big difference--the old one with the tabs is no good!
You're so silly! I just opened a new pack of acrylic plates today, too! And yes, I did the angel hum, too :)
Great video. I just want to add that I have (almost) always run my dies through with the cutting edge up and the top plate still warps. My first plates for my cuttlebug did not warp, and I used them for years. I feel like they were much thicker than the plates for the Big Shot.
Linda Mazzola , I’ve just gotten into this die cutting craze, in fact I’ve only had my Big Shot a month and I’ve always cut with my dies facing up...my top plate is warped really bad. I did buy another set for when this one breaks.
This is very helpful, Dena. Several years ago, when I first got my Cuttlebug, this was the recommended method for die-cutting then, and after seeing others do it the way I've observed others doing with either their Cuttlebugs OR Big Shot machines over the years, (I have both) I just figured it wasn't "that" important and got careless, but in recent months, have concluded that it really DOES make a difference, so good for you for bringing this to our attention and confirming what I have discovered myself. You're right about the acrylic plates being too pricy to keep replacing multiple times a year! I am so done with that myself! So good stuff, girl and thanks a bunch!!! (Another SU demonstrator just for the record)
Great tip! And it works beautifully! TFS!
Wow! Thanks for the great tips! My plates are much worse than the ones you showed in the video, haha! I will definitely try this.
Thanks so much!!
Thank you so much for the tip. I learned something new. I was wondering how to keep the plate from bowing so much. Love your videos.
Great tip. I do this but I use it the opposite way. My do not cut plate is always on top. I don’t like cutting with the dies facing up. Just personal preference. My plates last a very long time. Also I have one plate that is just for use with the precision base plate.
Excellent video tutorial, thank you so much. I have gone through so many cutting plates its ridiculous!
Thank you for this game changing and wonderful tip. The card is beautiful! TYFS
Great tip, thank you and the card is gorgeous.
i just recently discovered this trick on my own because my big shot is currently broken (it dosnt evenly cut) but i find it cuts better doing it this way rather then putting the dyes downwards
Thank you so much for this! I have been going through so many plates that it is was ridiculous!
Great tips and intro to new plates. Thank you.
Great tips..thank you. Would you be willing to do a tutorial on how you made this beautiful card..little confused on layering the die cuts.
WOW thank you so much! Card is beautiful and tip is super helpful! My plates are not super bowed yet, so hopefully my flattest one will stay flat as I cut with my dies facing up. :D
LOVE THIS TIP, Dena! And I really like this card, too! BRIGHT n’ HAPPY! However, I did check your blog but NO LUCK on finding out directions to make the card....think I figured 2 pieces out....but then not quite sure on a couple more! HELP!! PLEASE! Don’t even know when this video was posted....and I did look through LOTS n’ LOTS of your videos.....sure would appreciate your reply/help on it! THANKS OODLES! :-))
What a great idea. Did you put it in the sandbox?? SU should know this technique. Tfs. Inky hugs, Terry ~~
I always love your videos. Thanks for the tip.
thanks so much, Alberta!
Love it! Can't wait to try it. Thank you.
Thanks for this great tip. I was wondering how to avoid the warping.
So Dena, have you also found that moving your die cutting area around to different spots for cutting a helpful benefit too? Yes, spreading out the cutting damage is great too! I see Cindy Majdecki also does this method of preserving her cutting plates. Sharing our experiences is very beneficial to everyone!!!
Hi Dena, that makes perfect sense why haven't i done this before. As you said there are many conflicting reports on using your plates. I am hoping you can answer my question, I know someone did but cant find it so will try again and jot it down in my Really Important Stuff notepad. Here goes:- My plates are far less scratched than yours are but the lines from previous cuts transfer onto the item i am cutting. Its great for leaves as they look like veins on it but not so great if you are cutting other things. What can i do as i'm spending a fortune buying new plates? Thank you for this video. xxx Wendy
When I keep one "nice" pad, I don't have that problem at all--if I cut into it even once, than that can become an issue, however I only notice it on certain dies--most are good even with really scratched plates. One other tip to try--add a layer of parchament paper or waxed paper between your cardstock and die and that may help. It sounds like your big shot is really tight. I have 4 big shots and none of them are exactly alike.
Thank you will try that I was about to throw away a yucky plate today but i have been holding on to it to see if i can use it for other things. But will try it for cutting using wax paper. Once again there are different ideas about using that, some say not to use it as it clogs up dies. I have used it a couple of times but then saw the DO NOT USE video and stopped. I have discovered lately that its best to try out various tips and do what is best for your machine and you. Hugs xxx Wendy
hi love this tips. Couldn't get any video about the card
Thank you for this tip, I will certainly give it a go.
Lol, I also lose things by sitting still Dena :P.. I will still get up and look for them, fully aware that I didn't move but in my old age I might of forgotten I moved :P Awesome tip thank you :)
Okay!! Gonna try this to see if my plates stay flat!!
Thanks so much. Anxious to try it.
Thanks so much for this fabulous idea!
Lovely card and tips thank you.
Hi Dena, I love your falsetto voice when you sing out instead of talking. I'm just a beginner, but when I get a Big Shot, I will be sure and follow your suggestions. la la la
Lol....maybe that is why the instructions say "put cutting side up"! But of course, I never did! I'm going to try this, thanks Dena!
You are welcome!!
Love this tip. Thanks so much for sharing.
I love this tip; a local friend does it, too. I am wondering though, what to do with my precision plate & my magnetic platform. I don't really want to get rid of either.
I still use my precision plate on certain crazy detailed dies, but they are now the exception rather than the norm. Again, the magnetic platform can be useful sometimes, too. I am NOT advocating getting rid of them, I am just telling you where I am finding success in my VAST use of my big shot/dies.
I more than love the tip - amazing! I will order new plates and start doing this! I hate warped plates!!!! Thank you.
You are very welcome!!
If Dena says it - I will do it! I actually started doing it this week when you mentioned it in the FB Live (I think). I have noticed an improvement already. Thank you for sharing! 😘
What if you run it through with the precision plate on top upside down?
that won't help and will be very awkward.
I just ordered a new BigShot tonight as I broke mine over a year ago :(
I will give this a try ... curious to see if it works :)
Thank you for the tip :)
thank you for the great ideas, Dena. I am adding new platform and plates to my wish list. Til then, I will cut with my die facing up and see if it helps. (missed you putting on your lipstick this time...LOL)
Sherry Kovell LOL
Good luck--the lipstick is just on my FB lives! ;)
Thank you so much Dena for sharing this tip. I don't own this die cutting machine but I'm sure it will work in the one I do have. I'm just about to start doing my daughter's wedding invitations with a band new plate ( ooohhh sssoooo clean☺ ) and this tip will hopefully make it last longer than the other one, again, thank you so much for sharing...rita
It should! Good luck!!
Great tip! Pretty card!
Dena: Will give this tip a try. TFS!
Awesome!
I've watched your video several times, and I'm trying to get the visual on keeping the die face up. But, when you turn the card stock and die over to run through the big Kick it looks like cutting edge will be down. It's my visual picture that's making me not see the technique correctly, I'm sure. The other thing is, I'm looking for the flexible "adapter" plate and only finding the thin precision base plate in my online searches. I love the concept even though it makes me a bit nervous to see the die cutting edge facing up😳Thank you so much. I'm tired of buying cutting boards as often as I'm doing now.
Great video. 💕 So Dena, does this way of cutting cut the more difficult dies well too?
Great idea. I'll try it. I have plates that now look like bowls. Lol.
I know!! THat is the worst!!
can you show using the old base plate which is what I have and its in good shape still I do have a precision plate
I wondered if anyone ever had that problem... Why is it that it seems that you can lay down your scissors or a piece of paper or glue and reach back where your laid it and it's gone! I feel quite crazy sometimes, searching and searching talking to myself... Where'd it go? I just had it. What the heck?? 🙄🤔
Glad I found you, Thanks
Me, too! :)
Great tips Dena! Do you still use the die face up when using the Precision Base Plate ?
Dear Dena, so love your advice! I have a cuttlebug and almost broke my wrist trying to use it with a curved plate! Is there any fix for the bent plates? I literally used mine less than 10 times as it bowed out of shape!
But I am wondering if cuttlebugs are inferior to big shots? Oh darn for a day to cut a lace design! Hopefully,grace
Really interested in this video. Thanks! Marsha
Should I just buy replacement plates for the bottom one and reuse the old ones for the top?
I am cutting just like that but my top cutting plate terribly warped almost immediately!
Thank you for this tip!
Would like to make this card
Great tip, thanks for sharing!!! 😍😍😍
Awesome tip! 🙏🏽
Thank you so much for your video!
Great tip. Thank you.
where did you get the wood grain table mat or back drop, i love it
This is great, but how does this work for die cutting stamped images? I'm assuming you would have to tape your die to the image before placing it cut side up on the plate.
I have always put my dies with the cutting blades up. My plates continue to bend and brake.
I've always used cut side up so I can see if it cut thru without disturbing it. Plus I flip the top plate frequently if it starts to curve it does force it straight. God help anyone that uses my bottom plate for cutting😁
I ordered that brush after I saw you use it here and on the second use every single bristle fell out all at once it was wierd. I called and sent me a replacement. I thought I pressed to hard when rolling over die cut and cardstock, but I see here you press pretty much and rolled it all around and it is fine. I am afraid to press as you did passing it all over and that all the bristles will all fall out. Any advice? Thank you in advance!
I’ve done that and then I have a brain fart and go back to the old way. II wrote on the plate on the bottom Do Not Cut and that helps those moments.
Thanks so much, I love it.
I'm new to this ..what difference does it make to cut into one of the clear plastic or another...they are the same type of material right?
So helpful will try this tip
I've always cut my dies up they still warp my plates if I don't turn them over between each cut. I still have one original plate that came with my machine 2 yrs ago
Genius! TFS.
TFS!!! I tried it and it worked....well mostly. I'm getting an impression of the die on the clean bottom plate. Is that ok? Have I done something wrong? I appreciate your feedback!
Every big shot is different so it is hard to say. I don't have that happen but that doesn't mean it won't.
I have experienced the same issue. I recently saw a video that said to use scrap paper like junk mail or typing paper on top of that plate to help. I have also been getting the marks of the top cutting plate on my die cuts. I did the same to help with that.
No you haven't done anything wrong. It happens to just about everyone. With that much pressure squeezing and pushing on the plates it's gonna happen. I've heard of people using the healing cutting mats in their place but haven't tried it. There is a video on TH-cam where they show you how to use them. Good luck. 😊
thank you for the tip..
I do this yet my top plate still bows. I also turn it over after each use. Nothing seems to work
I'm sorry but the this is and has been the way I cut my dies and the top plate still bends and still crack. Unfortunately using the self healing mats only works on some dies. So you will still have to buy plates! I'm getting my cracked plates cut in to smaller pieces for smaller dies. I'll see how that does to stretch the plate use.
Great tip. Tfs
Thank you for sharing