Which Die Cut Machine is Right for You?

I want to talk about just three of the manual die cut machines that are on the market.  I have used them all and can tell you that they all work really well.

Presently I use a machine that I wanted to recommend to you, but find now that it is discontinued and I can't even find one on Ebay.  I use the Big Shot Express which is a motorized manual die cut machine.  I cut so many dies that it made sense to have a motorized model.  The company (Sizzix) has replaced it with the Vagabond, so I will tell you about it first.

The Vagabond is the most expensive of the three that I am reviewing for you.  It has a powerful motor so it can easily cut through various materials.  This is what it looks like:

Super cute.  Right?

With the Vagabond you get a pair of Standard Cutting Pads, as well as the Solo Platform & Shim, which make all Sizzix components compatible with the Vagabond. Add a Solo Adapter (sold separately), and the Vagabond Machine can even work with other brands' dies and embossing tools.  On Amazon the cost is $199.95.

The next machine is the Big Shot.  I have seen it on line in pink and black and at Michael's in blue and black.  Same machine.  On Amazon the cost is $64.94.  Locally I have seen it at that price as well.  It looks like this:

 

Included with the Big Shot are a pair of Standard Cutting Pads and the Multipurpose Platform, which makes all Sizzix components compatible with the Big Shot and even works with other brands' dies and embossing tools! Nothing extra to buy with this one. 


The final one I want to show you today is the Provo Craft Cuttlebug:

Also adorable!  The absolute best part of this machine is its lightness and small footprint.  It cuts as well as the rest - but it takes up less room.  This little gem works with all leading dies and comes with everything you need to get started.  It retails for $59.70 on Amazon.

There are more machines on the market now including one that cuts dies up to 8", but these are the ones I have used.  If you go to Scrapbook.com and do a search, you will find more reviews on these and other machines.

But while you are here, I will recommend the Sizzix Big Shot to you.  It is a great, inexpensive and sturdy choice.  I would love to know which machines you like too.

See you tomorrow with another fun die cutting project.

Susie