Die cuts are a must have for the paper crafter in my opinion. They add so much texture and dimension to all types of projects from scrapbook layouts to cards and tags. You can purchase ready made ones, which I have in big supply, but you can also make your own. In this post, I will show you the die cut machines I own and why I like them so maybe it will help you make a choice if you are thinking about purchasing one for yourself. I also have a video HERE where you can see the machines up close as I review them.
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My Silhouette Cameo was an upgrade from my older Cricut with the individual cartridges you needed to purchase. The great part of owning this electronic type of die cutting machine is that you have endless possibilities for cutting out images and adjusting their size or even creating your own. You don’t need cartridges or metal dies, just the program that comes with your machine and your PC. All you need to do is purchase the cut files which are very reasonable in price and some are even free depending on where you go.
I don’t use this all the time, but it really has come in handy when I need to create letters for kids’ school projects and titles and backgrounds for scrapbook pages. There are a ton of other uses for it too if you look online. I’ve seen beautiful greeting cards made using this machine (which I need to try) as well as fun DIY projects with vinyl and other types of materials. It’s just one of those machines that is great to have around when you need it.
This Cameo is an older model which needs to be hooked up to a computer with a cable. Now, they have wireless versions that are really convenient. Other than having to be close to my PC to use this, I have no other issues with it. There is a bit of a learning curve in the beginning just to get the hang of using the program, but YouTube videos got me through it and now it’s very easy to use. There are other options like this as well, from the Brother ScanNCut to the Cricut Maker, so you can definitely shop around to see which one would fit your needs.
Another die cutting machine that is definitely not a necessity, but is nice to have, is an electric die cutting machine that uses metal dies. I have the Gemini Jr. which I really like. I’ve had it for a few years and it’s still running strong. It cuts using metal dies and plastic cutting pads and also embosses using dry embossing folders.
I bought this machine initially because I was making a lot of cards for sale and wanted a faster and less strenuous option for cutting out images. A manual machine can get a bit tiring with the crank so this made sense. It quickly cuts out dies, plus it has extra strong pressure to cleanly cut those intricate dies like doilies and words. This lets you spend more time crafting and less time punching out the little pieces that don’t cut completely out. I recently added the Foilpress machine that works with the Gemini to make heat foiled greeting cards. I have a video HERE demonstrating it. It gives such gorgeous results.
The one drawback is that you have to have it near a power source to plug in and it’s a bit noisy. You also will need to replace the cutting pads from time to time. Again, though, I find it’s worth it because of the great results you get.
My workhorse that I’ve had for over a decade is my manual die cutting machine. I have the Sizzix Big Shot. The one in the photo is a special edition color I got awhile ago. This machine does not take up a lot of space and does not need batteries or a power source. It cuts using metal dies and also embosses so it is great for all types of paper crafting projects. I like that you can also purchase longer cutting pads for border dies or just to allow more dies on the platform if you want that option. If you have issues with your arm, the manual crank method may be an problem. As with the Gemini, you will also need to replace the cutting pads over time. This is probably the only machine you really need if you are just making cards and small die cuts.
We all need some fun tools in our craft room and this little Sizzix Sidekick is one of mine. It’s a tiny version of the Big Shot and has just enough room to die cut those little hearts and word dies. I like to keep mine on my desk to quickly cut out a heart or word to finish off a greeting card. Again, not a necessity, but convenient and portable.
Please leave me a comment if you have any questions about the machines in this post and be sure to head over to the video to see more.
Blue Scallop Creations 