This is a guest post by Mari Koegelenberg of The Cutting Files.
Digital Die-cutters are fully automated cutting systems that are either Cartridge based and/or able to connect to a Computer. Most require additional software to use graphics that are on your computer. This probably sounds all Greek to you but I am hoping to shed some light on this subject for you.
Cartridge based systems include the Cricut, Making Memories Slice and the NEW Sizzix Eclipse. Systems that can be connected to a computer are the Silhouette, Wishblade and Cricut. These are just a few of the mainstream cutters available. When considering a Die-Cutting machine it is important to not just consider the initial cost of the machine and software but also the availability of replacement blades and mats.
The possibilities are endless in my opinion when it comes to Digital Die-Cutters. You can cut and create projects from Paper, Chipboard, Vinyl, Material and even Fondant for Cake Decorations. You can create your own Vinyl Wall décor or custom designed Stamps and Stencils for various creative uses.
As a Hybrid Scrapper you might wonder how this relates to you? Most Cutting Files available include PNG Files which enables you to clip your Digital Scrapbooking Papers to the template and decorate it.
Here are my Top 5 Reasons to consider investing in a Digital Die-Cutting Machine:
1. Mass Production
Do you shudder at the thought of creating more than one of these Cupcake Boxes? It is so fast and easy with a Digital Die-Cutter.
2. Saves Time
Your Digital Die-Cutter takes just a few seconds to cut intricate designs while you can relax and have a cup of coffee.
3. Saves Money
Create your own Embellishments for Cards and Scrapbooking.
4. Endless Possibilities
You can print and cut almost any design you have on hand. If you can imagine it you can do it.
5. Perfect every Time
Your Digital Die-Cutter makes a perfect cut every time. No more uneven edges from shaky hands.
I consider my Digital Die-Cutting machine absolutely essential and I cannot imagine ever creating without it. It makes my life so much easier and I am not limited in what I can cut or create.
The Cutting Files is a revolutionary new way to use your Digital Die-Cutting Machine to its fullest extent. High Quality Vector Designs perfect to use with Vinyl, Paper, Fabrics and more. For Tutorials and more be sure to visit the Cutting Files Blog. Stay updated with The Cutting Files on Twitter and Facebook.
I went to the cutting files blog and read part 1 of choosing a machine. I would like the links to parts 2 and 3, which I was unable to locate. I don’t have amchine and hadn’t thought of any need for one. More info needed!
Thank you regarding your comment, although I am not sure about the choosing a machine part blog post you are referring too 🙂 here is a wonderful comparison of the available Die-cutting machines: http://www.paperthreads.com/bonus/paperthreads_machine_compare_112008.html
Two other things to consider are the new eCraft and the new Cricut that will be coming out. The new Cricut may be especially interesting for hybrid scrappers as it’s a combination of a cutter and an inkjet printer. I’m not sure what the options will be for creating your own files at first, but when software like Sure Cuts a Lot catches up it’s going to be a HUGE boon to hybrid crafters of all sorts
I agree! I have watched a few video demos of the new Cricut Imagine and I am so excited about it!
Great article, Mari! You’ve just added more reasons for me to get one!
Great post Mari! I linked to your 5 reasons in today’s daily scrapbook news article at http://exm.nr/9MvuDP 🙂
I’ve been dong so well at NOT spending money on a electronic cutter. But you are really tempting me!!!! The idea of time savings has me wanting one.
Great post. I have a Silhouette SD and love using it. So easy and magical!
You don’t mention the Gazelle, which cuts chipboard, plastic and even Balsa wood! These are wonderful machines and you can not do without if you need to do more than one of any item.
Ooh, that sounds neat! It’s a new one to me.
What about the Brother Scan N Cut? Doesn’t need a computer. Am considering it to add to my craft area.
The new eClips 2 will have bluetooth which means you don’t even have to be next to your machine if you have bluetooth on your computer! I’m imaging sitting in the living room and cutting where my machine sits!
And in case you want to preview the software: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMUZs5zzRls&list=UUyaqU0sl2MZExH014iWrL9w
{cameo, eClips 2 and Cricut Explore}
Whoops! wrong link. That’s the speed. This is preparing the files, which shows you the software used:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97vrj_23eTI
I scored a great deal on a Silhouette Portrait during the Black Friday sales; with all the extra download cards and tools, it was practically free, except for the shipping. Finally took it out of the box, and am having so much fun with it, and am excited about all the possibilities. I really don’t know what I am doing yet, but I was able to use the negative block space from a title I had cut out to complete a layout very quickly. I love that I can use any font from my computer, and don’t have to acquire cartridges!
so I just realize that this is a post from 2010…but I have one big reluctance to buying the Silhoutte…. in theory is all brilliant for me….and I was almost at the check out…when I saw some people having difficulties even with proper cut files….. lots of people have problems getting the right alignment and it seems like is not an easy road for the ones like myself… I have a few health conditions one of which is arthritis and the other the slow reading and comprehension….which made me give up trying to scrapbook on PSE (I ended up crying my head of, LOL) It isnt much of a problem as I scrap in a program by Serif which does all PSE does and more…. and is cheap, but if I was to spend £200 in a Silhouette…. I need to be 100% sure I can use it….and as you may know, there aren’t many scrappers here in the Uk …like I could go and have a go on someone’s machine to see if I will be able to use…. so for the time being…is digital ior scissors for me LOL
I haven’t had any problems with the Silhouette, but you do need to operate it from the software. You might find that a Cricut, that allows you to select images from the machine itself, meets your needs a little better.