How to choose a cutting machine
So many choices… how do you pick the right one for you?
If you’re new to die cutting and are feeling a little overwhelmed with the many options available, I’ve simplified your choice process in my step by step flowchart below. Just follow each question and you’ll see which machines fit your requirements and you can then check out prices for your preferred options using the links at the end of this page.
Once you’ve got the answers to the questions below and understand what use you are looking to get out of your machine, I have covered in another post what my favourite die cutting machine is and why, so be sure to check that out (it also includes my top 3 recommendations for key die cutting accessories).
If you want to consider other machines not included in my shortlist, there are 4 main factors to consider when deciding which options suits your needs better.
The first two questions you need to answer are the most important to consider, the other factors you can get around, but the size and type of dies you intend on using will determine which category of machine to go for - check out my diagram further down to help you navigate through the options.
What size (max width) of dies or embossing folders are you planning on using? Tip #1: most dies that create 3D objects like boxes for example will be a wider size. Tip #2: you don’t need to worry about the length of the dies, you can always do a second pass of the die (or embossing folder) to cut the bottom portion by sliding your project further along the cutting plates
Will you be using the stronger (and taller) steel rule dies to cut thicker materials like fabric, chipboard, etc? Note that you can still cut thin fabrics with wafer-thin dies unless they are very intricate, but with steel rule ones you can cut several layers in one pass and most quilting related dies are this type.
Larger machines
REGULAR SIZE MACHINES
SMALLER MACHINES
Are you ok with a manually operated machine where you crank the handle to get the plates to move across or are you after an electronic option where you just press a button to operate it? An electronic machine is a better option if you are planning on doing a lot of die-cutting or if you have any health limitations with your hands, wrists or shoulders
Are you looking for a machine with a small footprint that you can easily store away or travel with, or are you ok with a bigger machine? If you don’t have a dedicated permanent craft space, a foldable machine (or a small electronic one) will probably be a better option but these are generally more costly than other bigger manual models.
If you have any questions related to these products, chances are other people do too, so please add a comment below and I’ll clarify. If you’ve tried any of these out please also share your thoughts below with us.
UPDATE: My flowchart includes machines available as of January 2020 and a new Sizzix electronic machine initially intended to be released to the market in May 2020, but this has been postponed. Three models have since been discontinued, the Spellbinders Sapphire and Grand Calibur and the Cricut Cuttlebug but as these were very popular, I’ve left them in the guide so you can still work out their features and if they work for you in case you’re able to find them second hand.
