Different manufacturers have licenses with different designers to produce content for their machines. Although metal and steel rule dies from most brands can be used with any of the manual machines, this is not the case with digital cutters that use proprietary files. So if you are a Tim Holtz super fan, you may want to consider the Sizzix eclips 2 over the Cricut Explorer Air. Have a kid that is all Disney all the time? Then the Cricut Explore Air is probably your machine. Each machine has its own licenses and its own aesthetic. Warranties for Die Cutting Machines You all know how much we love die-cutting, here at Crafter's Companion. It's one of our favourite ways to embellish our papercraft projects, especially because there are so many different die designs available. It's a technique that can be used for absolutely any occasion, any kind of papercraft project, like cardmaking, scrapbooking and home decor, and with a huge variety of materials.

GET CREATIVE RIGHT OUT OF THE BOX ★ This bundle kit also comes with everything needed for you to start your creations right out of the box. It includes the electronic die-cutting and embossing machine, 5 x plates, 2 x transparent plates (150 x 210 x 3,5mm), 1 x die release tool, 1 x PP plate (150 x 210 x 14mm), 1 x magnetic sheet (150 x 208 x 0,8mm), 1 x metal shim plate (150 x 208 x 0,3mm), 1 x cutting die, and 1 x embossing folder (100 x 150mm).Manual and electronic models are a good option for those just getting started, and they don’t require an internet or computer connection. For cutting fabric, traditional die cutting machines tend to perform better than digital machines. Digital For a machine that will do a little bit of everything, you may consider buying a digital die cut machine. These machines will do most die cutting tasks (except emboss or cut super heavy duty materials), and although not the best machines for the task, they can be portable or cut large volumes of duplicates if needed. Portability Drawing, piercing, engraving, embossing, and cut-by-color are all extra features that some machines offer. If you know that all you need is a machine that cuts where you tell it to, a straightforward machine without extra features may be the most cost-effective option for you. Die-cutting is the process of using a machine that applies pressure to cut out delicate shapes, achieving effects that usually can’t be achieved with scissors or craft knives. This is done by using dies – a shaped metal with a cutting edge, which is pressed into a material through the die-cutting machine. You’re able to repeatedly create the shame shape with the exact same dimensions, saving you time and giving you a professional finish. What materials can you cut with dies? Nothing can beat the ease of use of a simple manual roller die cut machine, which is simple enough that a child can use it with supervision. You can take most manual cutters out of the box and be creating within a few minutes with almost no reading or training. But recent advancements in the design of digital die cutting machines and software – including the introduction of iOS apps for the Silhouette Cameo and Cricut Explore Air - have greatly enhanced the ease of using those machines. If you are even a little technically inclined, you don't need to feel intimidated by the “computer” aspect of digital die cutting – for a small learning curve, the return in design possibilities can be absolutely worth it. Durability

If you’re running a cutting plate through your machine more than once, you’ll need to flip the plate each time to prevent bowing.

If your priority is a low initial investment, select a machine such as the Sizzix Big Shot, Spellbinders Platinum 6, or We R Memory Keepers Evolution, and then add accessories to it over time. If operating cost over time is your concern, then digital may be the way to go. The initial price for a machine like the Cricut Explore Airor the Silhouette Cameocan be prohibitive, but over time, the lower cost of dies/shapes will help offset those costs, especially for users who like to cut a lot of different designs. Even though dies are mainly designed to cut shapes out from your chosen material, you can also use some dies for embossing! This is the technique of creating a raised impression in your material instead of cutting all the way through and this can achieved by using an embossing mat in your die-cutting sandwich. Magnetic shims – like the plastic shim, this shim adds an extra layer into your sandwich, but as it’s magnetic, it also helps to keep your dies in place while they’re rolled through the machine.

For most digital die cutters, basic cutting begins by designing and arranging your cut in the machine’s software on a computer or mobile device. Then the material to be cut is placed on a cutting mat, and loaded into the machine’s cutting path. After the material is in place, the machine is activated. Yes, this is completely normal! It might sound like your die-cutting plates are snapping or the machine is breaking, but we promise, everything will be perfectly fine. You definitely haven't done anything wrong if this happens! How to care for your die-cutting machine At the beginning of the growth of the scrapbooking movement, one of the big attractions of the corner scrapbook store was usually a huge (and expensive) die cutting machine. These large machines were based on industrial die cutting design concepts, but were made for the craft space. One of the most popular large craft machines was the Accucut machine. Today, many home crafters have their own die cut machines – or even multiple machines - and die cutting is an integral part of the daily crafting experience. What is Die Cutting?You can increase the lifespan of die cutting mats by avoiding cutting in the same area each time. Also, use both sides of the mat, rotating it regularly. Most machines work with material in the range of 12 to 15 inches, though some may have smaller or larger ranges. Make sure your machine is the right size for the projects you intend to work on. The Pogi mini heat press machine is the perfect portable machine for all your iron-on DIY printing projects. This adorable mini heat press is compact and lightweight, perfect for all your personalized patterns. Fast heat-up system - This machine is great for all your intricate vinyl and sublimation projects and can reach an impressive maximum heat of 200°C in a matter of seconds. 5 heat settings. The Extra insulation gives your worktop and your hands maximum protection while working.