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I know this question have been asked before but the technology seems to be ever evolving so...
What die cutting machinebesides Crafters Companion or Sizzix would you recommend these days and why? I am so confused. FYI, I am not interested in a computerized cutter like Brothers.
Well I like my old Sizzix Big Kick (Big Shot), but if you want something different you could check out Jennifer McGuire's blog. She gives recommendations each year on tools, and all kinds of things. I'm not sure if she has tested a die-cutting machine.
I have the We R Memory Evolution Advantage. I bought the motor for it, but it can be used manually, too. I like it because it isn't too heavy and folds to make a smaller footprint. I don't have a lot of room. Guess it will be my go to manual cutter when I can't get cuttlebug plates.
Stacy, here’s the latest Jennifer McGuire review. Manual machines are at the bottom. Electric (not electronic/computerized like the Brother) are at the top.
Not an every day machine, but the tiny Sidekick that she mentions has been surprisingly useful for small dies. The handle motion is very smooth and easy, given that I bought a Gemini Junior electric machine due to hand pain when cranking manual machines. (I bought the white one on sale.)
I don’t think there are many (any?) other companies here. Jennifer McGuire likes the Spellbinders Platinum 6 - she writes about it on her blog at link above and uses it in some videos.
Just my take so take it with a grain of salt - I’d be cautious about any WRMK (aka American Crafts) tool with moving parts, read reviews on impartial sites and wait to see how it’s doing over the long haul, including customer service response to problems. (I’m not ruling out that it could be a really good machine.)
Has anyone used or seen this machine? From searching, it seems like it's being marketed more to quilters. The adjustable pressure is an interesting feature.
Have not heard of it but did a quick search and found it is made by Tattered Lace. It was introduced during/on Create and Craft's anniversary celebration and Joanns carries it I think. I'm going to have to do a search on YouTube when I get time, hmmmm.
It's actually designed by the company that owns Dies Direct, Cheery Lynn, and Maker's Movement. Looks like I may have the opportunity to review one - would that interest anyone?
I thought of another question for those who own multiple machines. Which machines' cutting plates seem to hold up longer or is there not that much difference.
It's actually made by the company that owns Dies Direct, Cheery Lynn, and Maker's Movement. Looks like I may have the opportunity to review one - would that interest anyone?
Another, yes PLEASE!
I really like the adjustable pressure. I guess that's what we do with plates, shims, etc, but it would be nice if this machine is easier to use where that is concerned. I have a Gemini, Jr. and getting the pressure right on different kinds of embossing folders can be tricky.
I thought of another question for those who own multiple machines. Which machines' cutting plates seem to hold up longer or is there not that much difference.
I know you've ruled out Crafter's Companion; however, I purchased the Gemini Jr when it first came out, and I've really put it to the test, including mass producing Christmas cards, and so far no warping of the plates! I've been real happy with the performance of this machine. I own a Cuttlebug, Vagabond, and a Big Shot Plus, and I pull out my Gemini Jr the most, then the Big Shot. Ive been very happy with them both as far as plate warping.
I love my Spellbinders Platinum that I bought last fall. The Cuttlebug was getting too hard on my arthritic hands and arms. The Spellbinders rarely needs more than one pass over a die, even most of the very intricate ones. The plates do warp, however, and I need to use my new ones now. However, I have used these plates a lot. And I do love that the platform is 8 1/2 inches wide.
Thanks for all the input everyone , it is much appreciated! I'm leaning towards getting the Spellbinder Grand, really excited about the larger opening. Now I just need it to go on sale or something.
Can you buy new plates locally at big box stores or are they an online only purchase usually. Just curious if I should get on an extra set when I purchase the machine or wait until I need them.
I’ve had my Big Kick for over 10 years and it’s still going strong. I only on my third set of plates even though I die cut constantly. I do have and use the magnetic plate - best investment ever!
I broke down a bought a Vagabond 2 late last year. The plates are longer and eventually I will buy a magnetic board for that machine but they are $$$$!
I love both machines and use the big kick when I go on crops, but use the Vagabond (electric) when at home.
I have a Spellbinders Grand Calibur (teal) and a Big Shot. I seem to reach for the Grand the most, but maybe because where it is on the table. It is nice to not worry about the paper size when using the Grand since it takes a full sheet. The Big Shot you have to make sure that the paper fits in the opening. Both cut about the same for me.
The teal Grand Calibur is supposed to be stronger than the raspberry colored machine.
May I ask why you ruled out Sizzix? I like my Big Kick and the larger platform Big Shot plus. Though lately because of my wrist I have been using my Gemini's more.
Years ago when I started embossing and die cutting I ended up with a Cuttlebug from Michael's. Right from the start I said they should be adjustable like the old fashioned wringer washers...remember these?
I don't like playing with shims. When my Cuttlebug broke, due to too big a shim, I looked into the Crossover which was fairly new. There were several complaints about a problem it was having and the company was not very accommodating so I backed away and got a Sizzix Big Kick. I'm still frustrated with shimming all the time but it works well otherwise. I would love to see a good quality machine come out that is adjustable. Maybe the new one Dini has a chance to review has the bugs worked out...so yes to a review please! There was a European model as I recall that was adjustable too.
Adjustable tension seems like such a simple and sensible solution and it can't be that difficult to manufacture a quality machine that has it. Yet there are so many of the other style available. I just scratch my head and wonder???
I have the Cuttlebug. it was the first one I got. it is a little workhorse and just about worked itself to the bone yard, but it still keeps going. it's about 10 years old.
My next one was spellbinders grand calibur in the dark pink color. it's about 8 years old. I haven't been real impressed with it. it takes a lot of shims to get the delicate ones to cut and even then, the cuts are less that desirable. I just about wear my arms out, so it just collects dust. I really wish I had the money back that I spent on this one, because I never got enough decent cuts from it to feel like it even began to pay for itself. I don't know if they ever do pay for themselves, but when you have fun, that to me is the biggest and best part of the payoff. I never had fun with this one. maybe it was a dud to begin with, I don't know.
The final one I have is one of the sizzix big shot, it's floweredy teal and of course it's a big shot, so it's a workhorse too. it's about 4 years old. this is definitely a pleasure to work with.
I have seen some of the other manual cutters, but haven't checked into them yet. but I definitely will when and if my cuttlebug dies all together. I use it mostly for my steel rule dies from sizzix. it still cuts them perfectly and as long as it does, then I'm happy.
I was a Joann's on tuesday, made a quick run into the store and sashay thru the craft area and paper cutting and out of the corner of my eye, I seen a pinkish machine, appeared to be a cuttlebug, but not the usual color. I was in a hurry, but I have been kicking myself wishing I had stopped for just a second at least. It wasn't on sale, I don't think it was anyway. I don't know if it's a "new" machine on the market, or what. Maybe someone here knows. I may check into it before they go completely extinct. hahaha
It would be nice to have info on all that is available to us now, just to see what the options are and to be able to make well informed choices.
interesting topic and lots of good info. hugs, patty
Patty, Cuttlebugs are still available on Amazon and eBay! . (On eBay search on “cuttlebug machine,” not just cuttlebug. And plates are around too, though self healing cutting mats work too.
I now use a Gemini junior due to hand pain when cranking, but have kept one of my two.
rosetreasures my Joanns has the rose cuttlebugs. That may be what you were seeing. Blue can be obtained from their web site.
I love my Cuttlebug and as you said it's a work horse. I use self healing mats in place of the cutting plates. I might just buy another machine to have on hand lol.
Thanks for the info bjeans and hobbysue!!! I think the cuttlebug is truly a great machine and I would love to one on standby for when this does finally call it quits. hahaha I will check into these. thanks again!! patty
Also, from the company rep, since we were wondering: "Some people may have heard of the Crossover machine - that was an older machine by Tattered Lace. Similar concept, just some gear and other technical improvements based on customer feedback."
Great review!! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you... including the left info.
Hubby is going to have a fit over the price but a die cutting machine is an essential piece of equipment these days and one that performs well will make me a happier and therefore easier to live with person. That's my story anyway ;)
Another happy owner of the original Cuttlebug for at least 20 years. A friend broke a C plate, so that is the only plate I've had to replace. I did buy a set of B plates to keep for embossing and the two original B plates get rotated for die cutting. If it dies someday, I will probably buy another Cuttlebug, as my only complaint about mine has been corrected with the newer models--a wider opening. I like that it folds up so the Spellbinders Platinum may be an option, as well.
Another happy owner of the original Cuttlebug for at least 20 years. A friend broke a C plate, so that is the only plate I've had to replace. I did buy a set of B plates to keep for embossing and the two original B plates get rotated for die cutting. If it dies someday, I will probably buy another Cuttlebug, as my only complaint about mine has been corrected with the newer models--a wider opening. I like that it folds up so the Spellbinders Platinum may be an option, as well.
I too am a big fan of the Cuttlebug. I hate to be the bearer of bad news but you did know the Cuttlebug has been discontinued right? Makes me sad
I too am a big fan of the Cuttlebug. I hate to be the bearer of bad news but you did know the Cuttlebug has been discontinued right? Makes me sad
No, I did not know that! Makes me sad, too. SU's Big Shot has also been discontinued. Gee, I'm way older than either of them. Hope I don't get discontinued so easily!
Cranking that cuttlebug and fitting for pressure became a literal pain to me. I purchased the Empress by Anna Griffin and bought the larger plates as well. It is a dream for me! The original magnetic mat was white and became warped because a paper top was applied for measurements. Now there is a black plate that has been great. I run that machine weekly with the dies and embossing folders from many companies. There are even instructions online for using the new 3D embossing folders. I also got a great deal on the Gemini junior and use that for portability with its case. That only takes the smaller plates. My Big Shot plus is reserved for those Bigz dies. The electric machine Empress bundle is on HSN and there are specials from time to time.
I love love love my Evolution Advanced die cutter!
I had a Big Shot but the handle kept coming off. Sizzix sent me a repair kit but I encountered the same problem.
I looked & decided on the Evolution Advanced. I like that it 1. folds up,
2. the handle can be removed & stored in the machine,
3. the self healing mats,
4. the motor attachment,
I can adjust the pressure for embossing, which is a great option.
I wish there were shorter mats, & platforms at times when I am cutting little items, but I solved that problem by cranking the handle just past the end of the die or embossing folder then reverse the cranking.
I've had one minor problem with the motor not being level so it appears as if it could snap off the gear the handle used. I solved that problem by adhering a piece of a foam sheet to the bottom of the motor & it's all level now. Easy fix.
Thanks again for all the responses. I ended up getting the larger Spellbinder Platinum and am loving it, cuts like a dream. Dies that I could never cut properly in the BS not come out perfect with only ONE pass. Woohoo!! Yes it is larger and heavier but it has a dedicated spot and because of weight and size, it doesn't move and wiggle around as I'm cutting something!
Thanks again for all the responses. I ended up getting the larger Spellbinder Platinum and am loving it, cuts like a dream. Dies that I could never cut properly in the BS not come out perfect with only ONE pass. Woohoo!! Yes it is larger and heavier but it has a dedicated spot and because of weight and size, it doesn't move and wiggle around as I'm cutting something!
While it may not move and wiggle around, maybe you move and wiggle a bit in happiness at how perfect this is for you! Congrats!
What non electric die cutting machine besides...
