Cutting machines have a limitless range of uses, and are becoming more affordable and accessible to the hobby artist; however, while the manufacturers provide copious instructions and project ideas, these are not easy for the newcomer to navigate.

The Cut & Craft series serves to reveal all of the secrets and the potential of these appealing machines to the keen beginner, as well as explaining to the more established die-cutting artist some new tricks and techniques.

Getting Started... is the first in this new series, and aims to introduce the reader to all that the machines can achieve through projects ranging from simple paper-cut and gifts to more complex endeavours, involving the cutting of fabrics and other materials. The instructions can be applied to any die-cutting machine, whether this is a Sizzix or a Cricut, or any other die-cutting machine on the market. and the author provides useable, adaptable templates for each project.

This first title explores the basic techniques and materials that can be used and applied; followed by 30 inspirational step-by-step projects that can be easily personalised, for events such as birthdays, Christmas and baby showers and so on. The second title in the series will focus exclusively on die-cutting projects for weddings.