Monday, June 12, 2017

Choosing a Die Cutting Machine

Last week, a post with the snowflake pieces cut by a machine generated a conversation with another blogger about die cutting machines. So I thought it high time for a discussion about what to consider if you are wanting to purchase a machine.

The quilting world has certainly been turned on it's head with these time saving fabric cutting machines, also known as die cutters. You know, those machines that easily cut strips and shapes, making our quilting life easier. There are those that are manual, such as Accuquilt 


Accuquilt
Accuquilt
 and Sizzix,


Sizzix
Sizzix

meaning they require shaped metal dies to do the cutting.

There are also machines that are digital, like my Silhouette Cameo, 


Silhouette Cameo
Silhouette Cameo

or the Brother Scan n Cut
Brother Scan n Cut
Brother Scan n Cut

Both of these machines require software to design the cuts to make.

Now this discussion is not meant as an endorsement for any one machine, nor is it a detailed discussion of the features of each. Links are provided for each machine pictured, so that features, costs and the fine details can be explored further. But today's discussion is about choosing between a manual or digital die cutting machine, which should be based on what your quilting needs are. 

Manual die cutting machines
These machines, such as Accuquilt and Sizzix, are wonderful if your style of quilting features a lot of the same shape, such as strips, squares, triangles, etc. These machines (whether hand crank or motorized) make quick work of cutting numerous pieces, making the machines especially handy for quilt groups, business owners making kits, or those with hand and/or shoulder issues who have difficulties with rotary cutters. 

The downside? The dies are limited to the variety and size set by the manufacturer, and can be expensive. And not all dies work in all machines - size and manufacturer determine which dies work with which machine.

Digital die cutting machines
These machines, made by Silhouette and Brother (and others), use software to create designs that are sent to the cutter for cutting. The software, which is usually easy to learn, allows for unlimited creativity in designs, from the most simple and basic to the elaborate and intricate - the sky's the limit!

The downsides here? Large quantities of a shape are time consuming to cut, as the system uses a 12" x 12" sticky mat to hold the fabric, paper or vinyl. Certainly can't stack layers of fabric as for the manual machines. And eventually, blades and mats need replacement after numerous cuttings.

Here's a handy chart, based on my observations of both types systems:
   
                            



 Best Used for:


   Extra Costs


    Limitations


Manual

Large numbers of strips, squares, triangles, etc

Cutting dies

Limited to the manufacturers variety and size of dies


Digital

Cutting your own designed shapes – unlimited possibilities

Mats and blades


Time consuming to cut large numbers of pieces.

Though manual die cutting machines have certainly revolutionized quilting for many, I chose to purchase the Silhouette Cameo digital die cutter.


Silhouette Cameo

My reasons? I wanted a machine that gave me the ability to cut my own designs, such as the snowflake parts above. And because I don't make quilts with predetermined sized strips, squares, triangles, etc, the manual machines with dies just wasn't the right fit.

So, if you're considering investing in a die cutting machine, think about your style of quilting, and how your going to use the machine, along with the cost and features. Whichever you choose, enjoy your machine and the new directions it takes your quilting!

Happy Quilting!






9 comments:

  1. I have not heard of some of these! I have the accuquilt and like it but do not use it as much as I could - I really need to look and see what dies I have and use it more

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    1. I think there's a machine out there for every need. It's just figuring out what your need is!

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  2. I just ordered the Sizzix because the prices (125$) was a lot better than accuquilt (325$) it will be perfect for how I do the background of my quilts.

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    1. Congrats! Wonderful that you found a machine for your needs! Have fun!

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  3. Thank you for sharing that. If I ever decide to step off into that realm, I will certainly keep all of those points in mind.

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  4. Thank you for such an effective, but uncomplicated post. The table at the end is a great summary. I use the Accuquilt simply because I didn't know about the other options at the time. It suits my needs, for now. My daughter purchased the Silhouette and loves it. I'm so glad we live less than 2 miles apart! Makes for sharing supplies fun!

    I highly recommend that those with arthritis/hand/wrist issues make the investment for a die cutter. It has enhanced my quilting experience immeasurably!

    Slightly off topic, the large Stripology ruler is fabulous for same shape/size pieces! It cuts down on cutting times and has minimal waste.

    Thank you for such an informative post!

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  5. Interesting. Thanks for the information on all the choices.

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  6. Good intro into what is available, their strengths and weaknesses - thanks!!

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  7. Thanks for the information! I have been wondering about the difference and experience of people with these machines, so your post is a precious resource! Thanks for sharing!!

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Thank you so much for commenting...you just made my day!