A fabric cutting machine is an ideal way to get material sliced to your exact specifications. You don’t need to worry about the risk of fraying the fabric. A good machine will be able to handle all types of fabric, making it the ideal tool for anyone who enjoys crafting. There are dozens of options for you to choose from. To make it easier, we’ll look at some of the top fabric cutting machines.
Top 6 Fabric Cutting Machines
1. Cricut Cuttlebug
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Cricut is one of the most respected fabric cutting manufacturers. The Cuttlebug is a good way to find out why they are so popular. You will be able to use this machine to make precise cuts on a range of fabric types. This includes foil, tissue paper, leather, and ribbon. Though if you want to cut thicker materials, you might want to purchase a more heavy-duty machine.
There are also plenty of accessories included with this machine. It comes with an A2 embossing folder. It also comes with two metal dies and an embossing mat. You’ll have everything you need to get started immediately.
This machine is compact. This makes it easy for you to store when you aren’t using it. This is ideal for people who have limited space at home.
Pros
- Compatible with a range of fabric types.
- It comes with several accessories.
- It’s compact.
- Cricut has strong customer support and a strong online community.
- It comes with a one-year warranty.
Cons
- Might not be suitable for cutting through thicker materials.
- The cutting plate is small. It’s only six by eight inches.
2. AccuQuilt Ready. Set. GO! Fabric Cutting System
AccuQuilt is another respected company. There are a few elements that help their Ready. Set. GO! model stands out. First, it comes with lots of features. You will get two cutting mats. You’ll get a strip cutter, die pick, and an eight-inch Qube Mix and Match Block. Also, you’ll receive a Qube book and access to 70 free patterns. This should be enough resources to get your creative juices pumping.
This device is a pleasure to use. It will cut very quickly, faster than many of the other machines on the market. It will be tough enough to cut through several layers at the same time. This will save you a lot of time.
Because of the extensive die set included there will be a lot of design options you can explore. Despite this, the machines will be easy to use. Like most fabric cutters, there is a lot of resources and help online. Because of this, this can be a good set for a beginner to explore.
Pros
- It comes with a lot of features.
- It is one of the fastest cutting machines available on the market.
- You will be able to cut through several layers at the same time.
- There are plenty of design options you can explore.
- The machine is easy to use. If you need help, there are lots of resources available online.
Cons
- They are expensive when compared to some of the other models on the market.
- They will only be able to use AccuQuilt dies. This can limit your design options.
- Some customers have warned that you should avoid putting many layers on the machine. This risks snapping the roller bars. AccuQuilt doesn’t provide replacements, so this can mean that you’ll need to buy a new machine.
3. Brother CM350 Scannicut 2
If you are looking for a more advanced machine, you might want to try the Scannicut. This is one of the only fabric cutters that will give you the option of scanning your documents. This will make it easier for you to create and cut custom designs. The scanner will be able to recognize colors.
If you prefer, you will be able to make your designs online. The printer comes the ability to connect to cloud applications. It will also be able to read SVG data files. There are over 600 patterns built into the printer. All you’ll need to do is load them up and you can start printing. To make it easier to operate, it comes with a large LCD screen.
The biggest downside to a model like this is the learning curve. Though there are some resources available, it can still take a while for you to get the hang of it. It will also be more expensive than other models. Because of this, it will often only be a good option for more experienced users.
Pros
- Option of scanning your documents.
- You will be able to make online designs.
- Comes with a large LCD screen.
Cons
- Learning curve. Requires time to get the hang of it.
- More expensive than other models.
- Often only more experienced users will require the scanning technology. If you’re a beginner, it’s best to stick to a simpler fabric cutting machine.
4. Cricut Explore Air Wireless Cutting Machine
Another popular option is the Cricut Explore Air. This offers a few high-quality features. First, you will be able to upload your designs. There are lots for you to choose from online. Or you can use the tools to design your own. You can use Bluetooth technology to transfer to the Cricut machine. You can also use a USB connection to form the connection. This ensures that you will be able to operate it from your laptop or tablet.
This machine is well-equipped to cut several types of materials. There is a dial on the cutter, to change it to the right settings. This is very easy to operate, often only taking a few minutes. You will also be able to cut in a wide array of sizes. You can start as small as a quarter of an inch. It will be able to go up to 12 inches. This will give you a wide array of options for you to explore.
The only potential downside is the cost of purchasing this machine. Though it’s one of the more expensive options, the advanced cutting and selection of features justify the expense.
Pros
- There is a multitude of design options.
- You can use Bluetooth technology to transfer the design to the Cricut machine.
- You can cut several types of fabric.
- This is very easy to operate.
- You will also be able to cut in a wide array of sizes.
Cons
- The cost of purchasing this machine.
5. Sizzix Big Shot Pro
Sizzix is another respected fabric cutting brand. The Big Shot Pro is one of their best devices. In this case, you will be able to feed the fabric through the machine, by turning the crank handle. This will give you more control, so you will be getting an accurate cut.
It’s capable of making large cuts. You will be able to cut up to 12 inches of fabric. It’s tough and capable of cutting through thick fabric. You will be able to cut through multiple fabrics, helping to save time. This device is durable and will be able to last for a long time. However, it will be heavy.
Pros
- Accurate cuts.
- It’s capable of making large cuts.
- It’s tough and capable of cutting through thick fabric.
- Durable and will be able to last for a long time.
Cons
- It is heavy.
- It might move around while you’re cutting, so you’ll need to hold it down.
- The Big Shot Pro can have a bit of a learning curve. You might need to watch a few videos to get the hang of it.
6. Spellbinders PE-100 Platinum 6.0
Finally, you might want to consider the Spellbinders PE-100 Platinum 6.0. This comes with two cutting mats, an embossing plate, and an embossing mat. This is a manual machine. It comes with instructions, so you’ll be able to get the hang of it fairly quickly.
You will be able to get plenty of power from this machine. This ensures that you will be able to cut through tough materials. It will be able to cut through things like cotton and paper. But it will also be tough enough to get through balsa wood. You can cut up to six layers of fabric at the same time.
If you want to take your craft with you on holiday, this can be a good choice. You will be able to compact it into a more portable size. It’s light enough to carry with you.
Pros
- It comes with two cutting mats.
- Comprehensive instructions.
- You will be able to get plenty of power from this machine.
- You will be able to fold it into a more portable size. It’s light enough to carry with you.
- Affordable price.
- Comes with a one-year warranty.
Cons
- It’s not as durable as the other devices on this list.
- Some people have complained about the pressure on the fabric, saying it’s too high.
What to Look For When Choosing a Fabric Cutting Machine
As we’ve seen, there are plenty of fabric machines available on the market. This can make it hard to find the right one for you. To help you make this choice, here are some of the things to consider when choosing a fabric cutting machine.
Choose Between Manual or Digital
There are two types of fabric cutting machines. Each of these comes with a set of pros and cons. A manual machine requires you to place the die into the machine. Then, you will need to turn the handle to cut the fabric. These machines tend to offer more precision. They are more portable, and they don’t need a power source to operate. Manual machines will often last longer.
On the other hand, a digital machine uses virtual designs. This eliminates the need for die, so you can make a wider array of designs. Many digital machines include the ability to create a unique design. Others will let you choose between hundreds of free options. This machine can also be best for those with arthritis. These people might struggle to turn the knob of a manual device.
Size of the Machine
Another important factor for you to consider is the size of the machine. Some people will prefer a bigger machine. This will let them cut more fabric at once. It will also make it easier to cut bigger pieces of fabric.
Other people might prefer a smaller machine. This will be more compact. It will be simple to store and easy to transport when traveling.
Accessories
It’s important to consider the type of accessories that are included with the fabric cutting machine. Before you purchase, you should be clear about what you are getting. For example, some manual machines will come with a basic set of die. This will be enough to get you started. But if you want different designs, you will need to purchase the dies separately. As we mentioned, some models will come with things like a free e-book or patterns.
Ease of Use
Most fabric cutting machines will come with a set of instructions. Usually, it won’t take you too long to figure out how to work them. However, some more advanced models come with more complex features. For example, you might be able to create designs online, then transfer them to the machine.
If you are new to fabric cutters, it’s important to find a machine that has plenty of support. Most of the bigger brands will have informative websites. Also, there will be plenty of fans sharing tips and tricks to make using your machine easier. If you are still having problems, you can try using forums. This can be a great way to get personalized support.
Cutting Power
It’s important to get a clear idea of how difficult it will be to cut through fabric. For example, some models will only be tough enough to get through a thick card. Others will be strong enough to cut through leather. How important this aspect is will depend on the craft you are pursuing. You can turn to user reviews. This will give you a good idea of how good it is at cutting and how easy it is to operate.
Versatility
Most crafters will have a few hobbies. You might like both cardmaking and quilting. You might also want to get something that can be used for embossing. Because of this, you will need to find a fabric cutting machine that will be versatile. When purchasing a machine, think about how you intend to use it.
Cost
Lastly, it’s important to consider how expensive the machine will be. There are plenty of fabric cutting machines on the market. Because of this, you should be able to find one that will suit your budget. Usually, the expensive machines will come with more advanced features and more cutting power.
F.A.Q
Who Uses a Fabric Cutting Machine?
A fabric cutting machine is a very useful tool, which has a wide range of uses. For example, some people might use it to cut fabric for quilting. Other people will use it to cut cards for scrapbooking. Some people might like to use it to make decals or stickers. A fabric cutting machine can even be used to make jewelry. This makes a fabric cutting machine a highly versatile tool.
Is a Fabric Cutting Machine Worth the Money?
At first glance, a fabric cutting machine can seem very expensive. But, if you love crafting, it will be worth the money. It will save you a lot of time. You can get more advanced shapes, which will be difficult to cut by hand.
Will You Need to Replace Parts?
Over time, you will need to replace some parts. Dies can sometimes get blunted. To keep cutting, you will need to replace them. Typically, the die will be affordable. But you need to make sure that you choose something that will be compatible with your device. Over time, you might want to purchase more accessories to increase the functionality of the machine. For example, you might also want to get new dies, which will give you more design options.
Conclusion
Fabric cutting machines are one of the most popular craft items available. Though we’ve looked at six options, there are plenty more out there. There are a few things to bear in mind to help find the right one for you. If you want some more tips, you can check out this guide. It will go into more depth on this area and provides a ton of useful advice. So, get a fabric cutting machine today and discover how much easier your crafting can become.
