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Your Questions, Answered

Explore CutterPillar's FAQ page for quick answers about our tools, ordering process, shipping details, and product support. From choosing the right tool to understanding warranty options, we’ve got everything you need to make informed decisions and enjoy your creative journey.

FAQs

Paper Trimmers

I have heard that there are different versions of the CutterPillar Pro. Can you explain?

Yes. There are 4 versions of the CutterPillar Pro (Version 1, 2, and 3 with a metal base, and the Pro ABS with an ABS plastic base) plus the new portable CutterPillar Crop. Just like many products on the market, we are constantly striving to improve our cutter and meet customer demand for popular features. The new Pro ABS replaces all previous Pro versions. It is made of nearly indestructible ABS plastic. On the Pro ABS and Crop, both the rulers and grid are embedded right into the mold for increased accuracy and longevity. The LED lights use a new technology that is much brighter and which disburses the light better. They also require fewer batteries. The blades are a higher quality, stronger steel. The ABS Pro provides both metric and imperial measurements. A few other engineering changes were made to increase stability over time and prevent user damage. The Crop features the same cutting technology and LED back lighting as the Pro ABS, but in a smaller, lighter, more portable size. The ruler extends to over 17" when expanded. We know you'll love these new features!

Does the CutterPillar come with metric measurements?

Yes. The new Pro ABS and Crop versions have imperial AND metric measurements.

What can I do to make the numbers on the ruler easier to see?

In some lighting conditions, it may be slightly difficult for some people to see some of the smaller numbers on the ruler.

We have found an easy solution, (especially easy for our talented, crafty customers !). It only takes a minute or two and will bring the numbers out in sharp contrast.

You will need:

  1. a small paint brush
  2. any dark color of acrilyc paint (no oil based paints) or white acrylic paint
  3. a paper towel

Watch this short video for the easy steps:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SzfBcBetSOg

A second option is down-loadable rulers that can be printed onto adhesive paper to adhere to the top of the existing ruler. To print the rulers please click HERE

Note: Neither method is needed to enjoy the funtionality of the CutterPillar. These were made as a courtesy to the few customers who asked us how they could see their rulers better.

Do you offer replacement blades?

Your CutterPillar should cut for years and years with the sharp rotary blade it came with. However, should your CutterPillar blade ever need a replacement, we offer a free replacement warranty on the rotary blade (with regular use--attempting to cut things other than paper and similar stock will void your warranty) within the 90 days from the purchase. Please contact support@cutterpillar.com, and include your model name, date/place of purchase or copy of receipt, and a description of your cutting issue.

We also offer replacement blade-packs at cost (no profit). This pack includes a replacement "round blade cartridge" and a "flat blade". We have added them together because of the difficulty determining on which blade has been damaged. Please visit our parts page for these blades and other parts: https://www.cutterpillar.com/parts

What is the warranty on the CutterPillar Pro?

The CutterPillar Pro is warrantied against manufacturing defects for 90 days. If you discover a manufacturing defect within the first 90 days, please contact customer service. We will repair or replace your CutterPillar with an equal model at our discretion*. After 90 days, we will help you troubleshoot your issue. There are many small adjustments that can be made at home that are likely to fix your issue. Please contact customer service. For user-caused issues, please contact customer service to discuss your options. (*Note: exchanges for a newer model will not be allowed.) support@cutterpillar.com

How much does the CutterPillar weigh?

The CutterPillar Pro ABS weighs 4 lbs. The Crop weighs 2.5 lbs. The CutterPillar Pro V3 metal version weighs about 6 lbs out of the package.

What is the CutterPillar Pro/Crop's power source?

The CutterPillar Pro ABS and Crop both run on 4 AA batteries. Because the lights are LED, they are very energy efficient and should run off one set of batteries for years. Batteries are not included.

Does the CutterPillar come in other colors?

No. Currently the CutterPillar comes in our signature color, fabulous lime green.

Is the CutterPillar blade self-sharpening?

No blade is truly self-sharpening as any blade that comes into contact with another surface will gradually lose metal particles from its tip and become duller. However, as much as any blade can be self-sharpening, ours is! The CutterPillar's two-blade mechanism allows the rotary blade to pass against the stationary blade at the edge of the cutting surface, much like a pair of scissors. This helps keep the blades sharp. In fact, we have found that our cuts actually become cleaner and more precise the more we use our CutterPillars. The rotation of the moving blade also helps keep the blade sharper much longer than standard stationary blades. It provides 360 degrees of cutting edge rather than a tiny spot on the blade that always hits the paper.

How small of a strip can the CutterPillar trim off?

Because there is no paper holder or plastic guard on the CutterPillar, it can trim off the tiniest sliver, so tiny it will curl!

What is the maximum sheet size that the CutterPillar will cut?

Although the CutterPillar Pro was made to accommodate 12x12" paper, it will actually cut 1/16" shy of 13” paper. If you need to cut 13" paper, you can cut down to this last increment and then slide the paper over to eliminate the final sliver of paper. The Crop has measurements up to 17" when the arm is extended.

How many sheets of paper will the CutterPillar cut at a time?

We prefer that you cut one sheet of paper at a time for maximum accuracy. The CutterPillar was designed to be a precision cutting instrument, trimming off even the tiniest slivers of paper perfectly. However, the CutterPillar will easily cut 4-5 sheets of 24 bond computer paper and 2-3 sheets of light card stock, but the more paper you cut at a time, the more you may sacrifice accuracy and precision. We also recommend only cutting ONE sheet of heavy cardstock or chipboard at a time. DO NOT cut heavier stock than 40 point chipboard. Cutting heavier chipboard or multiple sheets of heavy cardstock can bend the cutting mechanism and will void the warranty. A good rule of thumb is never force the blade. If you're feeling resistance, like you need to lean into the cut, STOP. The blade should slice easily. If not, your stock is too thick or you're cutting too many sheets at a time. Remember, this is a precision trimmer not meant for mass cutting.

Can the CutterPillar be used for photographs?

Yes! The CutterPillar is perfect as a photo trimmer. The under-lighting of the LED lights shines clearly through photo paper and allows you to see exactly where you are cutting. No more accidentally trimming off hair or ears or backgrounds!

Will the LED lights shine through all paper?

No. The new LED lights will shine through most paper, including photo paper, card stock, and patterned paper, but some dark or thick card stock is opaque and no light will shine through it.

Is the CutterPillar safe for kids to use?

We have tried to take all safety precautions with the CutterPillar. The blade does not swing all the way around on the gear rod so that it can’t be left facing up. Also, the blade has a safety guard on it to keep fingers out of the way during cutting; only a small portion of the blade nearest the paper is exposed. HOWEVER, it is still a blade. We recommend that children do not use the CutterPillar unsupervised.

Is the CutterPillar Pro available for purchase outside the US?

Yes! Well, it depends on where you live. We have a warehouse in Canada, a retailer in the UK. Prices may vary. If you are interested in ordering outside the US, please contact customer service: support@cutterpillar.com. (If you are interested in carrying the CutterPillar in a different country, or if you'd like to see it carried at your favorite local store, you or your local store can contact us for purchasing information at sales@cutterpillar.com) New countries are being added frequently, so please ask!

Do you ship internationally?

Yes. For countries outside the US, we do ship internationally, however, duties levied by the various governments, as well as brokerage fees levied by the carrier, will apply and are the responsibility of the buyer. They are usually required upon delivery.

How long will it take to get my CutterPillar?

Handling time is same day or next day. Your CutterPillar will be shipped UPS ground or USPS, which takes 2-5 days in the continental U.S., depending on how far away from the shipping center you live. We can not guarantee times for international shipping.

Can I contact someone if I have additional questions about the CutterPillar?

Yes! Please contact our customer service at support@cutterpillar.com for general CutterPillar questions, or performance concerns, or order questions and someone will respond shortly.

How do I replace the blades?

If you are experincing trouble, please first contact us at support@cutterpillar.com and we will help troubleshoot the issues. If it is determined you need a new round blade, we will send the blade in the cartridge. To replace simply unscrew each end of the bar and slide off the old cartdrige. Slide the new cartridge on, put the bar back and screw back in the ends. For the flat blade replacement (the flat metal piece that the rotary blade runs against) simple remove the four screws, saving them to use to attach the new blade. Be careful to not tighten too much, it may end up making the edge crooked.

Crease

Where are my scoring tools?

The left side of the Crease Scoring Board opens to store your Stylus Tool and your Reverse Scoring Rule.

How do you use the Reverse Scoring Rule?

Use the red tab at the top of the Rule to find the measurement you are looking for. Place the rule in the grooves. *note that the Reverse Scoring Rule is meant to sit into the grooves of the scoring board, not snap in*
Place your cardstock, paper or other media on top of the Rule.
Use the back end of the Stylus tool, place the channel on top of the paper and slide back and forth to create your 'crease'

Can I use the ball end of the Stylus tool?

Yes! Use the ball stylus like you would use a bone folder. It is less likely to rip through paper using the ball stylus.

What if I lose my Stylus Tool or Reverse Scoring Rule?

Easy! We have replacements available on our "Parts" page here:https://www.cutterpillar.com/parts

What paper can I score with the Reverse Scoring Rule?

You can score anything from tissue and vellum up to 100 lb cardstock
You can score against the grain and fold in either direction with no cracking of your thick or textured cardstock!

Glow Light Board

I have heard that there are different versions of the CutterPillar Glow. Can you explain?

Yes. There are 3 versions of the CutterPillar Glow Light Boards. The Glow Basic, Glow Premium and Glow Ultra. The Glow Basic and Glow Premium are approximately 13" x 19" and the Glow Ultra is approximately 19" x 26".

What is the difference between the Glow Basic and Glow Premium?

Yes. The only difference between the Basic and Premium is the rechargeable battery inside the Premium. The Basic must be plugged into a power source while the Premium can be used off the power cord for up to four hours after it is fully charged.

Is the Glow Ultra rechargeable?

No. Only the Glow Premium has a rechargeable battery

Can I use the light board for tracing without the included mat?

Yes. The surface of the light boards are made of a plexi/acrylic and you can do many crafts right on the board. Tracing, coloring, drawing etc can all be done without the cutting mat.

Can I cut on the light board without the mat?

No. You must have a cutting mat on top of the board before you cut any paper or fabric.

How much does the CutterPillar Glow weigh?

The CutterPillar Glow Basic weighs 1.4 lbs. The Ultra weighs 9.6 lbs.

Can I iron on the light board?

No. Not directly on the light board. You can use our Tempered Glass Mat on top of your Glow to spot iron your applique. Do not leave the iron sitting on the mat in one place, but you may iron your applique pieces, seams and hems directly on the Tempered Glass

Does the CutterPillar Glow come in other colors?

No. Currently the CutterPillar Basic comes in our signature color, fabulous lime green. The Premium is Silver and the Ultra is white.

What cutting utensils can I use on my Glow?

You can use any rotary cutter or exacto-type of cutting utensil on the translucent cutting mat on top of the Glow.

Will I need to replace the cutting mat?

Yes, eventually. No cutting mat will last forever. As the mat is self-healing, the surface of the mat will remail smooth. You may see some of the cuts in the middle layer of the mat, but most of those disappear when your Glow light is turned on.

Will the LED lights shine through all paper & material?

No. The new LED lights will shine through most paper, including photo paper, card stock, and patterned paper, but some dark or thick card stock is opaque and no light will shine through it. For material, it is the same, some fabric is too opaque for the light to shine throught. However, with the Glow your entire work space is lit and you can see your project much better.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes. For countries outside the US, we do ship internationally, however, duties levied by the various governments, as well as brokerage fees levied by the carrier, will apply and are the responsibility of the buyer. They are usually required upon delivery.

How long will it take to get my CutterPillar?

Handling time is same day or next day. Your CutterPillar will be shipped UPS ground or USPS, which takes 2-5 days in the continental U.S., depending on how far away from the shipping center you live. We can not guarantee times for international shipping.

Can I contact someone if I have additional questions about the CutterPillar?

Yes! Please contact our customer service at support@cutterpillar.com for general CutterPillar questions or performance concerns and someone will respond shortly.

There is a sticky residue on my CutterPillar Glow, how do I remove it?"

Sometimes you will see some residue come off from your non-slip, self-healing mat onto the surface of your Glow Light Board. If you do see this, try washing it off with warm water and mild soap. In rare occasions more of the residue will have transfered to your board and you may need to use another cleaner. Orange citrus cleaner is a great option. If it is still super sticky, Goo Gone is also a great option.

I lost the power cord to my Glow, what can I do?

If you have a Glow Basic or Glow Premium, you can use any micro USB or USB-C cord to power your light board. If you have a Glow Ultra, that unit does not use a USB cord. You can use a typical 12V power cord with a barrel plug, or you can order one at www.cutterpillar.com/parts

Is there a grid-less mat for the Glow Ultra?

Not at this time. We do have a Grid-less mat created for the Basic & Premium called the Edge-to-Edge mat. There are measurements along the outside of the mat, but no grid in the middle. You can use that mat on your Ultra as well. It will fill up right about half of the light board. You can do your tracing on the light board and your cutting on your Edge to Edge mat all on the same Ultra surface.

Swivel

Do I need the Glow Light board to use the Swivel?

Absolutely not. The Swivel is a stand-alone product that has features that make it valuble on its own; for cutting shapes, paeper-piecing, etc.

As a bonus the Swivel was made translucent to work on any light-board.

 Why does the Swivel include a rubber foot?

Attach the included rubber foot to stick on the underside-center of your light-board. This self-adhesive foot assures that if you use the Swivel on top of a light-board, the board will be completely flat. Remove the backing and firmly press it to the bottom-center of your board. The Swivel works best on a very flat surface. If the Swivel isn’t rotating smoothly, check to make sure the surface is completely flat. Extra feet are available from www.cutterpillar.com/parts

Q: How much does the Swivel weigh?

Q: What is the warranty Swivel?

Q: Can I cut on both sides of the PVC mat?

Q: Is the Swivel available for purchase outside the US?

Q: How do I replace the the PVC cutting mat?

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A family business focused on bringing the best crafting and quilting tools. Trying to make projects and finding frustration with the trimmers on the market, Kelly Thompson decided there had to be a better way. The Cutterpillar Pro was created and cutting was never the same.

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How much does the Swivel weigh?

The Swivel weighs 2.6 lbs out of the package.

What is the warranty Swivel?

The CutterPillar Swivel is warrantied against manufacturing defects for 90 days. If you discover a manufacturing defect within the first 90 days, please contact customer service. We will repair or replace your CutterPillar with an equal model at our discretion*. After 90 days, we will help you troubleshoot your issue. Please contact customer service. For user-caused issues, please contact customer service to discuss your options. (*Note: exchanges for a newer model will not be allowed.)support@cutterpillar.com

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