Electric Die Cutting

​The question most asked across the internet by crafters is weather purchasing an electric die cutting machine is worth the investment.

Lets be honest, these things are not cheap.  They can range from $200 on upwards (mostly because of version and accessories).  Because of the high cost most people are hesitant to get one.

 
You will have to ask yourself this:

1) How much are you spending on purchasing dies?
2) How long is it taking you to cut out items using dies?
3) What else can I use my dies for?

Here is the thing.  If you are spending a lot on simple dies that don't have a lot of detail and that do not require embossing, then it may just be worth it.  If it is taking you too long to hand process the die cutting, then it may be worth it.  If you can only use your dies for simple things, then I think you should invest and that is if you looking to make more than just paper craft.

Die cutting machines are not just for paper, but can be used for so many crafts.  I have used mine to add art to walls, make window cling designs, make cards, Banners,  and even t-shirts!   The best thing to do is join a group specifically for electric die cutting users.  This will be the perfect forum for you to ask all the questions you would like relating to each machine type.

Now, do I think you should throw away your Cuttle Bug, Big Shot or other die press machine?  Heck no!  Those are still wonderful for the more intricate items and for embossing.  I had my Cricut for a year before I realized that I need to get my Cuttle Bug.  I still use it for embossing as well as stamping.

Some questions you may want to ask about each machine in order to help you determine which one you want to buy:

1) How much does each one cost?
2) Does each one use a design space and how easy is it to use?
3) What are the capabilities of each one?
4) How much are the cartridges or image files?
5) Does it require that i have a computer/laptop?
6) How often do I need to replace the mats and cutting needle?
7) Do I have enough space to keep it in?

Sometimes you can get the answers by simply reading through the groups.  I say using groups before blogs because there are more opinions there than you will find on a person's blog.   You can find tons of them on Facebook.

Lets just say that my machine lives on my desk and I will not have it shoved in a corner by my husband no matter what he may want.  It's my second husband :P.

​
​

Below are a few items I have made with my machine.

Glow in the dark t-shirt, key fob cut outs, glow in the dark Trick or Treat bag, birthday banner

Hope this was helpful to you in making a choice or finding out how to make a choice for a die cutting machine.