If you want to create your own calendars and bind them with twin loop wire then you are most likely going to want a thumb cut calendar punch. However, finding a low cost solution for punching documents with a thumb cut is actually quite difficult. One solution for accomplishing this task is to convert an Akiles Diamond 1 corner rounder into a thumb cut punch.

Here is a quick overview of what you need in order to use the Akiles Diamond 1 Corner Rounding Device for this application…

If you want to use the Akiles Diamond 1 as a thumbcut punching for calendars you first need to make sure that you have both the Akiles Diamond 1 and the half moon cutting die. The Diamond 1 comes standard with a ¼” radius die for rounding corners. However, the half moon die will need to be purchased seperately. The half moon die is designed to punch a thumb cut with a diameter of 2cm (20mm) into your documents. This thumb cut is the same diameter as the thumb cut punched by the Renz TC20 and is perfect for the calendar hanger wires that are available on the market.
The other component that you need in order to use your Akiles Diamond 1 corner rounder as a thumb cut punch is the Depth Guide for the Half Moon die. This depth guide will allow you to position your pages in the correct spot with your Akiles Diamond 1 to ensure that the thumb cut is located in the appropriate place. In order to use the Depth Guide for the half moon die along with your Akiles Diamond 1 you will need to remove the two paper guides from the machine using the allen key that was provided when you purchased your machine. These paper guides can easily be reinstalled when you need to use your Diamond 1 as a corner rounder again.
After you have installed the depth guide onto the machine and removed the two angular paper guides you also need to install half moon cutting die into the machine. Once you have installed the cutting head you will be ready to use your Diamond 1 as a calendar punch.

With all of these options the Akiles Diamond 1 is slightly more expensive than the Renz TC20 which is the only other low cost option for adding a thumb cut to your documents. However, the fact that the Akiles Diamond 1 is capable of handling more than twice the amount of paper than the TC20 and that it can also be used as a corner rounder seems to make it a logical choice for a ThumbCut punch for use along with your Twin Loop Wire Binding Machine.