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This us sort of a response to the "why so many ink pads" thread. I have recently been sucked into this line of crafting, and I've noticed through reading lots of different tutorials, blogs and websites that many people have many different machines for this craft and often many machines that accomplish similar purposes. I have brought myself a fiskars fuse and have wished for a long time to buy a silhouette cameo for similar machine.
My questions to the readers are:
What machines do you have.
Do you have two or more machines that do similar things (eg. 2 electronic die cutters, 4 manual, 2 electronic cutting machines), and if so why do you have them (eg. Upgraded and keep the other one around, one is more portable then the other)
I would like to hear your stories for why you have the machines you have, which of all you like best etc.
After buying the fuse I can't imagine wanting to buy another machine (unless it gets broken or for some reason I start to hate it, haven't lived with it long) , because I also got the adapter plates. I could imagine myself wanting a smaller machine for portability of I ever want to travel and craft (because man is the fuse heavy) and I understand the want to upgrade If I had chosen something that wasn't enough to do what I needed.
I would love to hear your replies.
I only have a Big Shot. Waiting to see if SU comes out with an e-cutter this year in the Holiday Catalog like they did with the Big Shot. . One can hope.
I've had a few machines. First one was a second hand Cuttlebug which I loved to death. It served me well but when it was time to update/renew I went with a Big Shot so I could use Sizzix steel rule dies. Then I expanded my options and got an EClips. Still use my Big Shot above all else.
Great topic/question! I have had my share of machines too!
1) Cuttlebug (my 1st. machine purchase.)
2) Big Shot (sold the bug for this purchase)
3) Vagabond (because it is electric!)
4) Cricut create (used only a few times, but had to upgrade to the expression!!)
5) Silhouette portrait (Just rec'd it yesterday! Still in the box haven't had a chance to get it out & set it up!! Sold the expression for this!!)
Yes, my share of machines and I hope I'm done!! Thought I would go with the "Portrait" model of the silhouette since I'm mainly a card maker. I like the idea of the silhouette, no need to purchase or find the room to store cartridges.
I have a couple of machines too. I'm a gadget freak and love tools. My progression with cutting tools went like this:
1. scissors
2. Blade runner (acrylic cylinder with a swivel blade - could use templates, trace & cut, or free hand)
3. exacto swivel blade
4. EZ cutter swivel blade and templates
5. punches
6. Craft Robo (the big jump into the "big boys" arena)
7. Zing (the last step before going "pro")
The only ones I don't use anymore are the Blade runner or the exacto swivel knife. I bought a Cuttlebug when I first started paper crafting and haven't had the urge or need to get anything bigger. I have a few dies but mostly use my CB for embossing and use my Zing for any shape cutting.
I'm also a hoarder with computers & related technologies...
I have a Big Shot and a Scan N Cut. Although the two overlap in some areas, each does things the other can't.
I actually think they compliment each other well. I use both constantly.
__________________ I have come to the conclusion that buying craft supplies and actually using them are two separate hobbies. RachelRose Designs by Robin... GALLERY
I have 2: a Cuttlebug and a Big Shot. They are so simple and easy to use.
I mostly use my Big Shot and really bought it for more detailed dies which my Cuttlebug couldn't cut. I don't want to get rid of my Cuttlebug though as it is still in perfect working order and it's good to have a back-up just in case I break my Big Shot.
I honestly have no desire to invest in any other machine as my Big Shot does all I need - but I do make pretty simple cards and still get excited about being able to diecut a circle instead of handcutting it like I used to
From a little research the Big Shot Pro has a bigger cutting platform? Gee, I wish I had seen it before I bought the Ebosser.
Original Sizzix-In a closet, I just can't let go
Sizzix side Kick--gave to my granddaughter
Cricut Expression-I loved it but gave to a friend when I bought the E2
Cricut Expression 2- I love it and use it often
Cricut Create- to take to crops (took once)
Revolution-Meh gave to another friend
Slice-Why? it was on sale and I wanted something small. I use it a bit.
Sizzix little purse embossing thingy- use it a bit (area it a bit too small for the larger dies)
Ebosser-bought so it would take larger embossing folders and make flip cards easier. It is ok have used it a bit, just wish it was not electrical.
Next purchase? Scan N Cut.
"A craftsman is only as good as his tools"....lol.
I have the original green Cuttlebug that I bought about 8 years ago at Michaels when they first came out. I think I paid about $40 for it with a coupon. I use it on nearly every card I make, and it's still going strong.
I recently got a Big Shot at Tuesday morning on special for only $29, and it's still in the box as my back up if my trusty Cuttlebug ever dies.
I don't have any electronic cutting machines, and enjoy the process of fancy cutting with my Cutterbee scissors when needed.
__________________ Bugga in OK
"Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible." Dalai Lama
1. Sizzix (original Red) just gave to my daughter who is a teacher
2. Xyron 900
3. Cuttlebug
4. Cricut Expression ( have 2) one is packed to give away
5. Grand Calibur
6. Ebosser
7. Silhouette Cameo ( just received and learning to use)
Also have Cinch binding tool, multiple scoreboards, envelope punch board.
I love them all but running of of space to put anything new without getting rid of something old
a cuttlebug that must be 7-8 years old - use it often
an original silhouette (long story but hope to use it soon).
a Cricut expression (got Black Friday sale) and don't use it enough but hope to use more
a Grand Caliber - I make big cards and sometimes want to send an embossing folder through with the cardstock perpendicular. I have to use a combination of cuttlebug plates and Caliber plates so I wouldn't keep one without the other now.
I need to get my laptop and scanner fixed. Oh joy! so I can use my Silhouette. This is going to happen! LOL!
I'm tempted by the scan and cut but keep talking myself out of it.
Big Shot pro is electric and I've heard it takes 12 x 12 paper. The Big Shot does not take 12 x 12 paper. Sorry can't give you better info.
The BSP is not electric. It does take materials and dies up to 12" wide. The material/die can be longer than 12" if you have the BSP extended tray and pads. I have the machine and the extended accessories and love it.
I also have a number of other manual, electronic, and computer-driven cutters. I admit to being a cutter (and die and punch) junkie, though I do use them. I like tech and I like new, and that's a deadly combination in this hobby!
__________________ Hi! I'm ISO the Fun Stampers Journey stamp "Say Cheese" AT-0167. Thank you!
1. Big Shot - 1st machine - wanted to cut thick as well as thin material
2. Slice - wanted a digital die cutter and cordless option - so many great dies on the cards
3. Slice Elite - can't remember but I think the Elite resolved some original Slice issues
4. Vagabond - electric version of Big Shot - now I use the Big Shot as a back up - use Vagabond all of the time
5. 24" KNK Maxx Air - moved into the pro arena - wireless and large format plus I want to cut thick and thin, vinyl, custom - do anything; complete novice but will be diving in next month to learn this bad boy; I don't even know all the capabilities this machine has yet
6. Scan N Cut - wanted an easy peasy way to fussy cut my stamped images; use it all the time - so convenient and so easy
__________________ "May your mind whirl joyful cartwheels of creativity." - Jonathan Lockwood Huie.
Last edited by QueenOfInkland; 05-12-2014 at 03:28 PM..
Big Shot (Backup now)
Big Shot Pro (Not unpacked)
Cricut Expression (Used some)
Cricut Bug (boxed to go away)
EBosser (I use this now instead of the Big Shot)
Silhouette
Silhouette Cameo (Used frequently)
I may still have my original red Sizzix, but I haven't used it in years.
__________________ Denise
"If a person who indulges in gluttony is a glutton, and a person who commits a felony is a felon, then God is an iron.�
― Spider Robinson
1. Cuttlebug - 1st purchase, now relegated to my On-the Road kit since it's smaller and lighter. It was replaced in daily use by #2 (my Vagabond)
2. Vagabond - Use it with almost every card I make.
3. Silhouette Cameo - Use it every couple of months. (Trying to use it more often.) More for larger projects, banners, decor stuff, 3-D items. (Before the Cameo, I had an Expression, but I donated the machine and cartridges for a local crafter who had lost everything in a fire. I had already purchased the Cameo and honestly it was just easier than selling it.)
I have a bigshot that I love anbd a mark 2 craft robo. Naturally, that has been improved and released as the silhouette cameo since I bought it. It's hardly been out of the box but that is due to space at the moment.
Lets see.......
original big red Sizzix (rarely bring it out but still want it)
Big Kick (use all the time)
Sizzix side kick ( let granddaughter use that one)
Sizzix boutique (Pink purse one got it cuz it was cute! LOL) big kick can do same job tho
Cricut (use sometimes...but have issues trying to remove paper from matts)
Scan and Cut (love, love, love)
About 130 punchs from 3" size to 1/4' size (use frequently)
Rotory cutter Fiskars (use alot)
regular fiskars cutter ( love the wire for procision)
Shape cuttters from Creative Memories (use once in awhile)
Ok I don't want to take up the entire thread! LOL But I love tools, machines and gagets and I just keep on buying. Also love my 2 score boards from Martha Stewart and envelope punch board. Oh my gosh make me STOP! HAHAHA Funny how nearly everything I own I just can't live without.
Oh my WAIT!!!!! I forgot to add I also have the Slice..Love for cutting just 1 little thing, and my Your Story laminator! Also have first Xyron die cut machine where you have little booklets you attach to machine. Ok that one is quite a relic but I still have it tho I don't really use it. I might have pulled it out about 3 years ago. Goofy me ...I know! haha
I started with a big shot when I wanted a cutter, and I love that it embosses too.
My husband got me a silhouette cameo this passed Xmas and I love it.
I like having both machines because the big shot embosses and I can still use the dies I have which saves wear and tear on the cameo blade. I dont really intend on buying more dies though since i have the SC, but embossing folders are a possibility.
I have the Big Shot. I try not to purchase "uni-tools"....I like that it cuts and embosses...not just one or the other. The dies used with it are not as expensive as some others. Doesn't take electric...my stamping "dungeon" doesn't have a lot of electrical outlets available. I've been very happy with my "one and only" and feel like I've got good use from it.
When I first started scrapbooking, I bought the original red Sizzix machine....and all the dies that I could get that could be used with it! ;). Then, I got a Cuttlebug for Christmas one time and I never used the Sizzix again (too heavy to carry back and forth to scraps....the Cuttlebug is so much more portable!!!). THEN, I became an SU! demo and couldn't use the Cuttlebug for demos. So. I found a Big Shot on Craigslist and switched with the seller....my Cuttlebug for her Big Shot. I use the Big Shot just about for every card. However, it is heavy to transport back and forth to scraps. If I had my preference, I would have the Cuttlebug again. LOVED IT!
__________________ Lesley Proud Fan Club and RAK Member He is the GOD of the Impossible!!!! Kookzi the Rookzie Punchkateer It is by the grace of God that we take our next breath.
Got a Cuttlebug when they 1st came out. Fell in love with embossing folders! Then we learned you could use Spellbinders in it! When my daughter was married I had to get something electric to do invitations fast! Got the Big Shot Pro it is not 12x12. Motor burned up fast. Sizzix replaced it. Gave my CB to niece. BShot I use still for dies and embossing. But I got the Silhouette Cameo for Christmas 2012. Love it for being able to cut any font on my computer, cutting all those beautiful 3D purses, boxes and darling things and joy paying $20-50 for a fancy die! Just $1 for most things on Silhouette website! Plus you can make the design any size you want! LOVE IT use it almost daily!
I started with the original green Cuddle-Bug & used it for a very long time. I wanted to upgrade, so I went to the Big Shot. I noticed with the Big Shot, it is much easier to use--crank the handle. And the bed is larger, which I really like, not to mention, I can use the Bigz Dies with it! I haven't graduated to the Electronic Machine yet! I'm SURE that will eventually come!
ATTENTION TOOL JUNKIES: I see that Cheery Lynn Designs is coming out with a new machine, THE CROSSOVER, any day now. It is like the Cuttlebug but has a adjustment for pressure (no more shims. Yeah!). Just like grandma's old wringer washer. I'm not sure what size platform it has (looks about letter size). Also they are coming out with deeper wafer dies that will cut fabrics and thicker materials as well as paper. Here is a youtube video demo, plus see side bar there for more.
I have a good old cuttlebug and an old silhouette (still learning the designer edition features). But still love the quickness of punches too...Grab punch and move on.
I keep telling my husband I don't need to get rid of stuff, I just need more space or a warehouse please. LOL!
I got a Big Kick first. I still use it because it uses the magnetic platform for thin dies. I also have an eBosser. I love it. No more cranking and it does 8.5 x 11 paper. I also have a Cricut Expression, which I rarely used. I just became a Close to My Heart Consultant and got the Artbooking and Artiste cartridges. They make the Expression really useful. I may someday get the Scan n Cut. I hate fussy cutting and have tons of stamps. The Scan n Cut can cut out anything it can scan. It looks fabulous.
Got a cricut expression and sold it months later. Bought a big shot and use it daily! Bought a Vintaj on clearance at Michaels for $24 just to have a back up machine.
1. cuttlebug
2. big kick
and that is all I have for now lol when i get my forever home and have an actual craft room i plan on saving up for the scan n cut
I have the original green Cuttlebug that I bought about 8 years ago at Michaels when they first came out. I think I paid about $40 for it with a coupon. I use it on nearly every card I make, and it's still going strong.
I recently got a Big Shot at Tuesday morning on special for only $29, and it's still in the box as my back up if my trusty Cuttlebug ever dies.
I don't have any electronic cutting machines, and enjoy the process of fancy cutting with my Cutterbee scissors when needed.
Bugga, you need to dig out that Big Shot - your Cuttlebug plates will fit; you use the same sandwiches as with the CB; but it's SO much easier to use.
To the original poster:
1) I started out with the Cuttlebug, which I still have, but got tired of having to fight to get something to stay on the bed long enough to get it started rolling thru the machine.
2) Got the Big Shot which I love and use almost every time I make a card.
3) Had a Cricut, but sold it even though I had lots of cartridges - used it once.
4) Got the Silhouette Cameo, which I love. The more I use it, the more I love it! There are tons of free cutting files available, plus I love buying only what I need and will use.
__________________ Linda E
Caution: You are entering an artistic zone. This is not clutter - this is creating. These are not pajamas - it's my work uniform.
I have a big shot,, a big shot pro (that was a hard decision....sooooooo expensive!), the old red sizzix one (tehe, don't clean very often). I also have a Cricut, which I love.
__________________ Meet the cutest apricot pug ever...Honey!
What machine(s) do you have
