Are you a scrapbooker, craftsman, or designer hoping to make some extraordinary items for your customers? If the answer is yes, a great die cut machine can be very valuable to you. There are numerous brands and models available, so which one should you buy? This can be a hard choice, but you want to find one that meets your particular design needs and budget.
In this review, we will take a look at three of the best die cut machines on the market today. Hopefully, we have found one that will be able to meet your needs.
Comparison Chart
Best Die Cut Machine Reviews
Sizzix Big Shot Die Cutting Machine
Our first die cut machine is an easily portable option that is a manual cutting and embossing machine. The Sizzix team has brought detailed attention to the things that really make a great machine. In turn, they have given us a high-performance option for all our DIY needs.
Review
You may look at this die cut machine and think that the manual operation seems a bit technologically backward. Even with its manual hand crank, this model offers so many rich features. Having to put a little muscle into it will not even cause you to break a sweat. In fact, the features that this model is designed with are:
- Crafted with an A5-sized opening
- Able to emboss and cut materials up to 6” thick
- Comes with a large library of die-cut
Even with manual labor needed to work this model, it is comfortable and easy to use. Plus, it is lightweight and compact, which makes it perfect for those that are looking for a highly portable option. The versatility of the machine is also well worth the investment. If you have already owned a Sizzix machine, there is a good chance that the dies are compatible.
It does have its limits, though. You will have to stick to premade dies. This limits its customizability and creativity. Plus, if you have any type of injury or medical condition that limits the movement or grip of your hand, the hand crank may be a problem for you.
Even with these few minor drawbacks, you can see why this model had to be included on our list.
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CONS
Gemini by Crafter's Companion Die Cutting Machine
This entry is an automatic option that is designed to give you flexibility and high-quality cuts. The Crafters Companion team has worked hard to deliver this well-built, high-performance option.
Review
Some may say that it takes a crafter to create the right tools for fellow crafters, and that is what Crafters Companion does. This die-cut machine is built with many awesome features that are included to elevate the unit's efficiency and performance. These features include the following:
- Designed for edge to edge cutting
- Compatible with most dies and embossing folders
- Fitted with a pause, resume, and reverse control
- Lightweight and compact design
Where do we start? There is so much to love about this die cut machine. To begin with, it is automatic. This may make it a viable option for those that can’t benefit from the Sizzix manual model. This model from Gemini is easy to use and has a level of versatility that is simply outstanding.
There isn’t much wrong with this model. It is a well-built and efficient option. However, there have been some reports of warping. This is not a universal issue. However, it is still one that you should be aware of as you make your final decision.
Once again, the one issue is not something that is a global concern. Taking into account all the wonderful advantages you are afforded with this machine, it is clearly one of the best available today.
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Spellbinders PL-001 Cut & Emboss Machine
Our last entry is by far one of the best embossing machines on the market today. It also cuts incredibly well. Two machines for the price of one can’t be bad, right?
Review
This little machine is a durable and hard-working die cut machine that was designed with everything you would want. The features and materials used and included in the build of this machine are exceptional. They offer a level of performance far beyond what its tiny frame should be able to execute. Some of these features that make it such a great option are:
- Crafted with a solid steel core
- Capable of cutting thick materials or multiple layers
- Able to cut 40 different materials
- Able to be used with most thin dies, folders, plates, etc.
Its steel construction makes this machine able to withstand the rigors of the road. Therefore, it is extremely easy to transport. Not only that, but it is a powerhouse when it comes to cutting. Its ability to cut multiple layers makes your job that much easier.
The steel does cause it to weigh a bit more than some other models, but even that doesn’t impact the portability. Other than that, you may find the fact you have to use a shim with the blades slightly annoying. In the end, even the drawbacks aren’t enough to outshine what you get from investing in this die cut machine.
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FINAL VERDICT
It's valid to say that each of our choices for the best die cut machine has its own specific advantages and disadvantages. That being said, the ones we have chosen definitely offer you high-quality, superior performance. Whatever your taste and crafting needs are, we trust you'll have discovered a unit that meets your needs.
