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Choosing Between Manual and Electronic Cutting Machines |
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Written by Sammy DeOrtha
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Friday, 04 September 2009 20:41 |
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So you?re thinking of purchasing a cutting machine to help with your crafting projects but you don?t know which one is best for you? It?s tricky I know. There are so many products to choose from, it?s hard to decide. Cost, of course, is a big determining factor but there are other aspects you should consider. For example; would you prefer a manual or electronic cutting machine? Would you prefer to purchase separate dies, multiple image cartridges, or do you require the ultimate adaptability of a modern, computerized die cutting machine? Here are some useful facts that I hope will help you to reach your decision.
by SammyDeOrtha
So you?re thinking of purchasing a cutting machine to help with your crafting projects but you don?t know which one is best for you? It?s tricky I know. There are so many products to choose from, it?s hard to decide. Cost, of course, is a big determining factor but there are other aspects you should consider. For example; would you prefer a manual or electronic cutting machine? Would you prefer to purchase separate dies, multiple image cartridges, or do you require the ultimate adaptability of a modern, computerized die cutting machine? Here are some useful facts that I hope will help you to reach your decision.
Facts About Manual Die Cutting Machines
Manual die cutters are hand operated and require no electricity whatsoever. Being much simpler than electronic models they are much less expensive but offer fewer advantages. A few manual cutters that come to mind are the Sizzix, the Cuttlebug, the Quickut Revolution and Quickut Squeeze. These machines all require separate dies, sold individually, one for each pattern that you wish to cut.
The Cuttlebug, one of the newest models of manual cutters, will use dies from most manufactures and has a nice embossing feature. Both the Cuttlebug and the Sizzix will cut fairly thick materials like chipboard, fun foam and felt. The Sizzix, however, is one of the oldest die cutting machines available and is limited to one or two fonts. All of these units are portable for taking along to crops or vacations.
Electronic Cutting Machines
You can choose electronic cutting machines that stand alone or ones that require the use of a computer. The Cricut and the Cricut Expression do not need to be plugged in to the computer. These machines use cartridges designed specifically for these machines. Each cartridge much be purchased separately but contains multiple images. There is optional software available for the Cricut if you want to supplement the versatility of these systems.
When it comes to computer based models there are also several machines on the market. A few examples would be the Quickz Silhouette, Xyron Wishblade, and Craft Robo. These are all very similar machines and allow you to cut paper and card using any font that your computer has available.
They are fairly simple to use but if you run into trouble using either the machines or the software there are help forums available online. Another advantage to these machines is that you can share designs online via email. As you might expect, the major drawback is that they are considerably more expensive than manual cutting machines.
It?s Make Your Mind Up Time
Now you must decide which cutting machine is the best match for your requirements. Do your research and be honest with yourself. How much are you willing to invest? How much time do you have to use your machine? Will it be too difficult for you to learn the techniques of the more sophisticated models? Will buying individual dies or cartridges restrict your creativity and cost more in the long run than a bigger up front investment? Once you answer these questions, you will be better prepared to choose a cutting machine that will best suit your personal needs.
About the Author:
Sammy DeOrtha enjoys quality time with her kids and her cricut cartridges. Of all things in life she loves finding some nice cricut cartridges on sale. |
