Instructions Cut Easy

How to use the Cut Easy and Cut Easy Mini

On this page, you can read how to use the Vaessen Creative Cut Easy and Cut Easy Mini. Here you will find the correct sandwich setup, explanations for each technique and solutions for common problems with your die cutting machine.

Which Cut Easy do you have?

The operation of both machines is largely the same, but there are a few important differences:

Cut Easy A5

Suitable for thin and thick cutting dies, such as Bigz dies. This machine has more space and can work with more materials.

Cut Easy Mini

Compact die cutting machine for smaller projects. Suitable for standard cutting dies, but not for large steel rule dies such as Bigz dies.

Basics: How does a die cutting machine work?

The Cut Easy works with a combination of plates. This setup is called a sandwich. You place the sandwich into the machine and turn it through the rollers using the handle.

Important:

• Always use the correct sandwich setup.
• Run the sandwich through the machine multiple times if needed for a better result.
• Adjust the thickness if the cutting die does not cut properly.
• When in doubt, always consult the included manual.

Using cutting dies (standard sandwich)

Use this setup for standard thin cutting dies.

From bottom to top:

1. Platform (A5) or cutting plate (Mini)
2. Magnetic cutting plate C (A5) / cutting plate (Mini)
3. Paper, cardstock or other material
4. Cutting die
5. Base plate

✔ Suitable for paper, cardstock and foam

Carefully run the complete sandwich through the machine. For a better result, you can repeat this a second time if necessary.

Using cutting and embossing dies

Are you using a cutting die that can also emboss? In that case, you usually work in two steps.

Step 1: cutting

1. Platform
2. Magnetic cutting plate C
3. Paper
4. Cutting and embossing die
5. Base plate B

Step 2: embossing

1. Platform
2. Magnetic cutting plate C
3. Silicone mat
4. Pape
5. Cutting and embossing die
6. Base plate S

This gives the cut-out shape extra texture and detail.

Embossing with embossing folders

With embossing folders, you can easily add beautiful texture and extra depth to paper and cardstock. This is ideal for cards, labels and other papercraft projects.

The exact sandwich setup may vary depending on:

• The type of embossing folder
• The thickness of the material
• Whether you are using a standard embossing folder or a deeper embossing folder

Therefore, always consult the included manual of your Vaessen Creative Cut Easy or Cut Easy Mini for the correct plate combination.

The basic setup usually starts with:

1. Platform on the Cut Easy A5 or embossing plate
2. Embossing folder with paper or cardstock
3. Base plate

Carefully run the complete sandwich through the machine. For an even better result, you can repeat this a second time if needed.

Cutting thick materials with the Cut Easy A5

Are you using a thick steel cutting die, such as a Bigz die? Then you need a different sandwich.

From bottom to top:

1. Magnetic cutting plate C
2. Material
3. Thick steel cutting di
4. Base plate S

This setup is suitable for materials such as:

• Cardboard
• Foam
• Cork
• Leather
• Fabric
• Felt
• Non-woven fabric
• Jute
• Magnetic sheets

For thick materials, you always need a suitable steel cutting die.

Using the Cut Easy Mini

The Cut Easy Mini is ideal for smaller projects and easy to use.

Die cutting with the Cut Easy Mini

1. Secure the machine to a smooth surface using the suction cup.
2. Place the cutting plate at the bottom.
3. Place your material on top, for example paper or cardstock.
4. Place the cutting die on top of the material.
5. Place the base plate on top.
6. Run the complete sandwich through the machine.

The Cut Easy Mini is suitable for paper, cardstock, foil and thin foam.

Embossing with the Cut Easy Mini

Are you using an embossing folder or a cutting and embossing die? Then the silicone mat may be needed for extra pressure and texture. Always check the included manual of the Cut Easy Mini for this.

Frequently asked questions about the Cut Easy

Why is my cutting die not cutting properly?

First, check whether you are using the correct sandwich. An incorrect plate combination is the most common cause.

Other solutions:

• Add an extra sheet of paper or cardstock for more pressure
• Run the sandwich through the machine one more time
• Check whether the cutting die is worn out
• Preferably do not use cutting dies from different brands in one single run

Can I use cutting dies from other brands?

Yes, in many cases you can. Please keep in mind that cutting dies can vary in thickness depending on the brand. Because of this, you may need to add extra pressure or slightly adjust the sandwich.

Can I use Bigz dies?

With the Cut Easy A5, you can use thick steel cutting dies such as Bigz dies, provided that you use the correct sandwich setup.

With the Cut Easy Mini, you cannot use large steel cutting dies such as Bigz dies.

Why are my plates warping?

This is normal with a die cutting machine. During cutting and embossing, a lot of pressure is applied to the plates and rollers.

You can reduce warping by:

• Turning the plates regularly
• Not always cutting in exactly the same spot
• Using the entire plate evenly

When should I replace my plates?

Replace your plates when you notice clear signs of wear, such as:

• Deep grooves
• Cracks
• Strongly warped plates
• Less precise cutting results

With intensive use, replacing them after one to two years is a good guideline.

Which materials can I cut?

With the Cut Easy Mini, you can cut materials such as:

• Paper
• Cardstock
• Foil
• Thin foam

With the Cut Easy A5, you can cut materials such as:

• Paper
• Cardstock
• Foam
• Foil
• Cork
• Leather
• Fabric
• Felt
• Jute
• Non-woven fabric
• Magnetic sheets

For thicker materials, you always need a suitable thick steel cutting die.

How do I get more detail from my cutting die?

Use a silicone mat or add an extra sheet of paper to your sandwich. This increases the pressure and helps cut small details more cleanly.

Can I run the sandwich through the machine multiple times?

Yes, you can. With detailed cutting dies, thicker materials or when the cutting result is not complete, you can run the sandwich through the machine again.

Maintaining your Cut Easy

Good maintenance extends the lifespan of your machine and plates.

Tips:

• Turn cutting plates regularly
• Use the plates evenly
• Do not always cut in the same spot
• Remove paper scraps after use
• Replace worn plates in time

The plates wear out through normal use. This is part of working with a die cutting and embossing machine.

Getting started with your Cut Easy

With the Vaessen Creative Cut Easy and Cut Easy Mini, you can easily die cut and emboss. By using the correct sandwich, maintaining your plates properly and following the included manual, you will achieve the best results from your die cutting and embossing machine.