Comments on: Is there a more inexpensive product comparable to the Cricut?

By: Susan

Susan — Sat, 23 Jan 2010 22:37:59 +0000

I own a Cuttlebug which is worth it’s weight in gold. You can use die cuts in it or use it for embossing.
It is a really easy machine to use and with very little practise you can turn out professional looking results every time.
It does have its limitations – it is a manual machine and you cannot alter the size of the die you are using.
On the plus side it’s far cheaper than the Cricut and the embossing folders and dies are reasonably priced. It folds up so doesn’t take up a lot of space on a worktop.
I don’t think you can go far wrong with this machine.
You can use other brands such as Sissex and Nestabilities in it.

By: drip

drip — Sat, 23 Jan 2010 22:08:57 +0000

I have the Sizzix Big Kick (Big Shot and Big Kick-same machine, different color) I love it and use it all the time. I have been scrapbooking and card making for years.
It is a manual die cut machine. It uses dies, not cartridges like the Cricut. You can not manipulate the size of what you are cutting out. But you can use all other brands of dies. Like Quickkutz, Cuttlebug and Spellbinders. If you are going to get her a die to go with it I suggest the circles or any basic shape. The circle and square die cuts were the first I bought years ago and I still use them the most now.
JoAnn’s with a coupon would be the place to get it. RIght now the Sizzix machines are 40% off at JoAnn’s.
If that is still too much money- get her a Xryon 510. This is an adhesive machine, and one I would not be without for scrapbooking. The Xryon 250 is smaller and less money-both great tools to have for scrapbooking

By: Bianca

Bianca — Sat, 23 Jan 2010 22:07:57 +0000

The Sizzix Big Shot is a great idea. It can be purchased on sale at a Joann fabrics for about $59. If it is not on sale…print a 40% off coupon for your purchase.