Search

The article analyzes the problem with die cutting light materials such as paper as it tends to flop rather than lie flat when being cut or creased. The author suggests that this could be managed with proper preparation of equipment, tooling, and staff. He also pointed out that running a paper job with a die rubbered for heavier materials is not a good idea.

The article discusses safety standards for paper cutting operations. Discussed is a two-hand start-and-hold system which prevents the hands from being in the work area. This is done by using both hands to start the cut and then both hands hold down the switches to finish the cut. Another safety standard is maintaining a back-up. An example is having two relays such that if one relay fails the other relay will prevent an accident. It is also mentioned that finger proofing is maintained by covering all moving parts.

The article discusses the proper paper-knife care to achieve the best results in paper cutting. Good quality knives are essential to keep production costs down, achieve good quality products and minimize machinery damage. Information on choosing good knives are offered including the procedures in caring for cutter knives that cutting operators should take.

The article offers tips on avoiding common paper cutting problems. The two important factors that must be considered in paper cutting are the measurement display and the squareness of the back gauge. It is also recommended that a sharp knife be used in cutting paper. Operators are also advised to stack piles as high as possible to obtain maximum productivity on a paper cutter.

Information the Craft & Hobby Association's trade show held in Anaheim, California in January 2007 is presented. The trade show attracted 16,364 attendees across the U.S. Keynote address was delivered by Martha Stewart, who introduced her new product line of paper crafting and scrapbooking. The trade show also served as an avenue for the launching of new products from Noritsu, Lucidiom and Epson among others. Also featured at the trade show was the SMART Store for retailers.

This article presents several new scrapbook products including the Elvis Craft Collection from EK Success, a variety of die-cut dies from AccuCut, and the book "Chicken Soup for the Scrapbooker's Soul," by Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen, Allison Connors and Debbie Haas.

The article looks at the 2006 MemoryTrends Expo & Conference held in Las Vegas, Nevada. This show has launched a wide variety of scrapbooking products for 2007. Comments are made by Tina Battock, publisher of "Craftrends" magazine, organizer of the show, regarding the expanded new exhibitor section.