Infotainment Resource

If you are considering buying a cutting machine to enhance your crafting projects, you have probably noticed there are a wide variety of machines from which to choose. How do you decide which machine will be the best for you? Price, of course, is the biggest determining factor, but where do you go after that? Do you want a manual machine or an electronic system? Do you want to purchase individual dies, cartridges with multiple images, or do you want the extreme versatility of a computer based machine? Here are a few facts about the types of cutting machines available.

Manual Die Cutting Machines

Manual cutting machines, such as the Cuttlebug, the Sizzix, the Quickut Squeeze or the Quickut Revolution, are operated by hand and do not need to be connected to an electricity source.

The Cuttlebug is one of the newest models of manual cutters and will use dies sold by many manufactures. This cutting machine also has a very useful embossing feature, allowing you to indent card rather than cutting it. The Cuttlebug will also cut materials as thick as chipboard, as will the Sizzix. The Sizzix may be just as strong as the Cuttlebug but it is much older and is only able to use one or two typefaces.

Facts About Electronic Die Cutting Machines

There are two types of electronic die cutter on the market, those that need to be connected to a computer and those that don?t. The Cricut and Cricut Expression both fall into the second category. Neither needs to be connected to a computer in order to function. These Cricut machines use special cartridges, each containing multiple images, designed specially for them. An additional Cricut software package is also available. This program will increase the versatility of either machine if you do decide that you want to connect it to your computer.

There are several computer-based models available for home use, including the Quickz Silhouette, Xyron Wishblade, and Craft Robo. All three of these machines are basically the same, allowing you to cut any true type font you have on your computer. The Wishbone is the most expensive of the three, but it does come with extra designs and software. Your design possibilities are wide open with any of these machines.

There are also support forums on the internet, just in case you get confused when using the software, where experienced crafters can lend a helping hand and talk you through your problem. Another advantage to buying an electronic cutter is the option to save designs online. You can then show off by sending them to friends via email. As you?d expect, these models aren?t cheap and cost more than manual cutters.

It?s Make Your Mind Up Time

So now you know the basics, it?s up to you to decide which type of machine you want to buy. Consider all of the issues involved. You should also consider your inteded usage of the machine. Will you use it often or infrequently? Is it really worth spending a lot of money if you are not going to use it regularly? Do you have the computer skills required to operate a computer-based model? As I say, it?s for you to decide, but I hope that these simple facts have helped you to reach a decision.