In this guide we will share what we think are the best manual die cutters on the market today, the different types of die cutters and what makes a good die cutting machine.
Buying a die cutting machine is a big step for any crafter, and with so many different options on the market it can be overwhelming but don’t worry, we have created this guide to make your decision super easy.
The best manual die cutting machine has to be the Sizzix Big Shot Plus simply because of its massive opening, ease of use and reasonable price tag. Read on for more info!
Die cutting machines vary in price and what you can make massively. The most budget manual options can cut and emboss card and paper where as the expensive electric die cutting machines Can cut, emboss and scan complex designs. The more expensive machines are also compatible with a wide range of materials from paper to leather!
The Types Of Die Cutting Machines
There are two main types of die cutting machines on the market today.
Electric Die Cutting Machines
Electric die cutting machines make die cutting easy, and a lot less labour intensive but typically come with a slightly higher price tag.
We have a full guide on electric die cutting machines you can check it out by clicking the button below.
Manual Die Cutting Machines
Manual die cutting machines which we are going to talk about in this guide are slightly more labour intensive, but a perfect starting point for someone who is just getting into die cutting or doesn’t do enough die cutting to justify the price of an electric machine.
What Can You Use A Die Cutting Machine For?
Die cutting machines are used in so many different craft projects and really do open up a whole new world of things you can create.
Die Cutting Machines Are Most Commonly Used In The Following Crafts:
- Paper Crafts
- Scrapbooking
- Card Making
- Embossing
- Envelope Making
More Advanced Machines Can Be Used For:
- Fabric Crafts
- Leather Craft
- Metal Craft
And there are so many more, the creative possibility’s are endless!
We Have Put Together A Table So You Can Easily Compare Our Picks For The Best Machines
| Die Cutting Machines | Opening Size? | Cut Speed? | Price? | Machine Weight/Size? | Bumblebee craft Rating out of 10 |
| Sizzix Big Shot | 6″ (A5) | Fast cut | Mid Range | Reasonable, easy storage | 8.5 |
| Gemini Mini | 3″ x 6″ | Fast Cut | Budget Friendly | Very Compact | 7.5 |
| Hilitand Die Cutting Machine | 6″ (A5) | Fast Cut | Mid Range | Foldable for easy storage | 7 |
| Sizzix Big Shot Plus | A4 | Fast Cut | Mid Range | A little More Difficult To Store | 8.5 |
| Gemini Electric Die Cutting | 6″ (A5) | Fast And Quiet | Mid Range | Compact For Size | 9 |
More information on all of our top 5 manual die cutting machines below.
The Top 5 Manual Die Cutting Machines On The Market Today
1. Sizzix Big Shot Die Cutting Machine
Our first pic for manual die cutting machines is the Sizzix big shot, this is a great all rounder and will suit many crafters perfectly.
This is the the most budget friendly option in the Sizzix range, there are a good few options to chose form for just a little bit more you can get the starter kit with extra mats and some dies to get you started.
Sizzix also have an electric option and a fold away option so there really is something for every crafter and that’s why we love the Sizzix brand.
Features:
- 6″ (A5) Wide Opening
- Fast Cut Speed
- Embossing And Cutting
- Die-cut and Emboss a multitude of materials, from cardstock and vellum to leather and mat board
2. Gemini Mini Die Cutting Machine
The Gemini Mini is the perfect machine for many with its very reasonable price.
This starter kit has absolutely everything you need to get going with some die cutting projects. With Gemini been a well known brand in the craft world you can rest assured that what your getting will be a very quality product.
The compact size of the mini will be great for many as it can easily be store away until your next project and as a bonus this kit comes with a neat little storage bag.
A great option if you wanted something a little bigger is the Gemini Midi, there are lots of options in the Gemini range so something for everyone no matter what projects you intend to create.
Features:
- Perfect For Beginners
- Die Cutting And Embossing
- Compact Size
- Comes With Everything You Need To Get Started
- Plate Size 3″ x 6″
3. Hilitand Die Cutting Machine
The Hilitand Die Cutting Machine is a great starting machine for any crafter.
Its quite compact and foldable for easy storage and wont look out of place in any craft room.
The main draw back to this budget friendly Die Cutting Machine is the fact that you would need to buy everything separately as this machine comes with just a couple of plates. Perfect if you want an upgrade and already have dies and plates.
The Hilitand die cutting machine is compatible with many different dies and plates which makes it very easy to find accessories for this piece of kit.
Features:
- Embossing And Die Cutting
- Fold Away Design
- Compatible With Many Plates And Dies
4. Sizzix Big Shot Plus
The second Sizzix machine on this list the main difference between the two is the opening size.
The Big Shot Plus has a massive A4 opening meaning its perfect for bigger crafts. If you like to make larger cards, boxes or anything that requires more than an A5 cut this is the pick for you.
There are a lot of electric options for this larger cut size, but these come with a higher price tag this is the perfect entry to mid level product that will last you all the way through your crafting journey.
Features:
- Massive A4 Opening
- Minimalistic Design (fits in every craft room)
- Cutting And Embossing
- Comes With Plates To Get You Started
5. Gemini Electric Die Cutting & Embossing Machine
Okay so technically this die cutting machine is electric but it is still manually operated by holding down the button. Its just so good for its price point we thought it deserved a mention.
This machine is just one small step up from the others on this list and is the entry level into electric die cutting machines.
This amazing piece of kit comes with an 11 piece cutting and embossing kit so its ready to go straight out of the box.
Features:
- Fast And Quiet
- Easy To Operate
- High Even Pressure Every Time
- Cutting And Embossing
- Pause, Resume And Reverse Function
That’s it for our top 5 manual die cutting machines you can buy today!
Below Is Some Useful Extras To Go With Your New Machine
Take A Look At Some Of The Best Die Kits On The Market
These die kits really do have it all, everything you need to get started die cutting common shapes for card making and scrapbooking.
At a very reasonable price too so you don’t have to break the bank to get started.
Its Always A Good Idea To Have A Couple Of Sets Of Plates
There are multiple reasons why its a good ideal to have some spare plates, the first being they don’t last forever they will eventually get so damaged from use with Sharpe dies they will need replacing. The second is you can get plates in different thicknesses and sizes dependant on the project you doing.
You can get some extra or replacement plates by clicking on the button below. (We have found some really great deals)
If You Found This Article Useful You Should Check Out The Cutting Machine Section Of Our Website, We Have Tons Of Useful Content From What To Make, To Which Machines Right For You!
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