Die-cutting & embossing machine - Help!!

ItchieFeet

I'm considering the investment in a die-cutting & embossing machine, to make more professional looking cards & papercrafts in 2013 :-) However, there are soooo many on the market, I'm not sure where to start: Sizzix, Cuttlebug, etc.

Some of the more expensive machines seem to have cheaper die plates, so may be the best long term option - but then some of the cheaper machines claim to be compatible with all die plates.

If you can shed any light and/or recommend any particular machine it would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

craftymiss

I have a sizzix big shot - it can cut most of the dies sizzix make, except the XL dies, and you can use most of the other kit with it too - sizzix letter press, deco etch, embossing folders etc.

Because Sizzix have just released a new version of the Big Shot (in teal) the older version which is pink, is a little bit cheaper now. Hobbycraft sell the old big shot with no accessories for £59.

Hobbycraft also have the Tim Holtz Vagabond - which is an electric machine, on offer for £99.

If you want to buy dies for a bigshot or cartridges for the vagabond the sizzix website, sizzix.co.uk has some good discounts and offers throughout the year, the postage seems expensive, but there are quite good savings with some of the dies being down to prices like £2.

craftymiss

If you buy some of the roller designs, you usually need to spend extra on replacement plates on a regular basis, because the plastic becomes scratched and scores your papers, and it can become warped out of shape too. If you're looking at making a serious investment, the electric machines are probably going to be better, because you don't then end up spending extra on cutting pads etc, and higher end machines allow you to cut several designs in a single go, meaning you can prevent paper wastage.

Eyes_wide_open

I have the pink and black big shot. Perfectly happy with and and it's taken a fair bit of stick!!!

babyfreckles

If you can save up for a electronic machine, do it! I have had a cuttlebug and a grand calibur and now have a silhouette cameo. If your looking at designing your own shapes/card blanks ect, this machine is the one! I love mine and wouldnt be without it. Create and Craft do it on Flexi pay so you havent got to shell out fo rit all in one go aswell xx