Best die cut system for someone with arthritis?

[musicmarth]

I have a friend that I got into rubberstamping (I'm sure her husband is thrilled...she's amassed quite a collection!). She is wanting to look at a die cut/embossing machine. She's going to come over and check out my cuttlebug since that's what I own.

I was wondering if one of the other machines might be better for someone with arthritis in their hands. She has days when she can't hardly close her hands it's so bad.

Any suggestions would be great!!

[dougnat]

well, I'd say for sure not the Wizard. Haven't tried the big shot but there is that electric one Big Shot, that is what I would suggest for her, may be more money but then all she'd have to do is push the button and the machine does the rest. I'd really recommend the Cricut Expression but is doesn't emboss

[cardsbynikki]

I would also suggest the Big Shot Express by Sizzix. You can get it with a 40% off coupon at Joann sometimes, and other times on sale. It costs a bit more than the regular BIGkick or Big Shot or Cuttlebug, and it does require an extra plate to make wafer-thin dies like Nesties work. But really she just needs to push the button and it will go through, she can emboss with it and use the Nesties. When my hands get that bad, I'm going to get the Express. Right now I can still use my BIGkick though.

Here is the Express on the Sizzix Website

And here is the Express on Joann's website.

[mynonnie]

I have the Wizard and it is not the easiest to operate. However, they have developed a motor operated one called the Xcaliber that I thought was suppose to be available now and it would be wonderful.

[Moosekrazy]

I have RA and I use a Big Shot. Love it, and its easy to use.

[KimberlyinMN]

I have RA and have the Cuttlebug and Cricut Expression. However, my RA has been in remission for a couple of years. I guess it depends on how severe your friend's arthritis is. I would probably vote for one of the electronic machines - either a Cricut machine or one of the other two mentioned. I don't know if I could operated even the Cuttlebug if my RA came back full force (mine was in my thumb and index finger joints where they connect to my hands).

[tazneeyore]

My mom has arthritis and carpal tunnel and she loves my Big Shot Express. I got mine at Archiver's and it was only $40 more than the regular Big Shot.

[bb&kk]

I have days when I can not close my fingers and I can still use my Big Shot. I would suggest she go to several stores on a bad day and try them out.