10 Best Embossing Machines – Your Way To Creativity

Manual, semi-automatic, and electric - the best embossing machines for any hobbyist or pro-user.
By
Daniel
Daniel
Writer
Daniel is among our most talented writers: based on the dull expert reports he's able to make up a comprehensive, reader-friendly article which anyone can benefit from. Also read more
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Reviewed By
Tom
Tom
Tom
Expert Consultant
Initially being an engineering specialist, Tom has never stopped learning and acquiring other knowledge and skills. Now he’s involved in technical support for a well-known read more
Last updated: August 30, 2023
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Making your custom-made item is a very economically wise decision, and it also offers an exciting experience for folks that love DIY projects. Greeting cards, scrapbooks, embossed leather, ribbons, fabrics, and so on… The list is endless. By using embossing machines, you can go beyond paper to create beautiful pieces of art right in the comfort of your room.

For your convenience, we’ve tested 22 machines and selected the 10 best embossing machines, with the Sizzix Sidekick 661770 being our favorite. You’ll find manual options for those who seek a challenge, electric ones for ease and efficiency, and even semi-automatic models for pro-level speed and results. Some are perfect for smaller projects like cards, while others can take on larger sheets of 12″ x 12″ scrapbook paper.

Quick Summary

  • Editor's Choice: Sizzix Sidekick 661770
    "This model was designed with versatility in mind and works with both paper and fabric materials, it’s capable of cutting several layers of thin materials at once. And thousands of different embossing folders and dies will give a lot of flexibility when you are designing."
  • "If you are on a budget, then this product will likely be excellent for you. This is the only 3” manual machine that embossed dies, as well as cuts and uses embossing folders."
  • Best Manual Model: Sizzix 660550
    "This unit works with the smallest dies by this manufacturer to the largest embossing tools, up to six inches. The unit is compatible with all the tools in the Sizzix library. Additionally, this roller machine is also portable and stylish. "
  • "This small and portable machine will allow you to create the best and most professional convex embossing characters on cards using time-efficient and high-quality machine."
  • Best Electric Model: Gemini GEMGO-M-USA Go
    "Being automatic, this model is easy to operate. Additionally, it is quiet, fast, and can cut edge-to-edge. The platform used on this machine is large, measuring 9 x 12.5 inches, and you’ll be able to cut and emboss on A4 materials."
  • Best Versatility: Spellbinders PL-001
    "This model can cut about 40 different materials with widths of up to 8.5 inches. It offers reliable power and cutting pressure. Hence, you can cut six to eight layers of material at once. "
  • Best for School: Ellison Superstar A10800
    "This product is an impressive machine that is the best for school. It is very portable and comes with a handle on the top that allows you to carry it around with ease. It also allows for easy storage."
  • Best for Plastic Cards: Happybuy Embossing Machine
    "This model is excellently suitable for DIY use, and it is a versatile device. You can flexibly prepare signs, cards, labels, tags, etc. Generally, this die cutting machine functions well with almost every embossing folder, belonging from multiple manufacturers. "
  • "This product features a compact and lightweight design, has a dependable suction force, is highly portable and comes with two cutting pads, one spacer, and an efficient flower embossing folder alongside a storage compartment."
  • "The machine is equipped with a pressure dial, allowing you to regulate the degree of suction. It may also be used for letter pressing. And it has a height adjustment system that allows you to adjust the height of the machine to suit every project."

Top 10 Embossing Machines Review 2024

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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8201 people in the past 30 days
9.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.8
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.5
9.9
1
Editor's Choice

Sizzix Sidekick 661770

Features
  • Type: manual
  • Jobs: cutting and embossing of small shapes, up to 2.5″ wide materials
  • Material to be used: Thinlits and Framelits dies and small-sized Textured Impressions Embossing Folders up to 2 1/2″ wide
  • Warranty: 1 year, 2 additional years after registration on the Sizzix website
  • Dimensions: 7.75 x 4.75 x 3.5 inches, 2 lbs

More features: comes with 1 Sidekick Machine, 1 Pair of Aqua Sidekick Cutting Pads, 1 Embossing Pad, 6 Framelits dies, 2 Thinlits dies, 2 small Textured Impressions Embossing Folders, 7 Stamps

Versatility is a crucial feature that you want to find in your embossing machine. This is because you want to be able to use it in different projects and with different materials to get the most exclusive design every time. This recent model features a multipurpose platform that will allow you to cut and decorate different materials easily. This roller like machine will allow you to use different materials for your DIY projects from paper to fabric. This means that you can create any project that you can think of from scrapbooks to greeting and wedding cards in addition to quilts, fashion and Avant Grade art projects that will match your taste without resembling anything on the market.

It is a chance to get creative in a safe way using a reliable machine that can be utilized with different items and for various purposes. This high-quality device comes with two standard cutting pads in addition to an extended platform. It is compatible with other cutting pads available on the market made by the same manufacturer. It is also compatible with other dies and embossing tools from other brands, but you need to check them properly before installing them. This machine takes cutting and embossing surfaces to a whole new level with its compact and high-quality design.

In addition to its durability and versatility, it comes in a beautiful color scheme for an added sense of elegance. The small size of the machine will allow you to use it on different occasions and even share it with family and friends. The noticeable thing about this device is that it will deliver high-quality results every time. You will get the chance to cut and emboss leather, fabric, felt, foam, craft metal and flexible magnet in addition to paper. You will have clean-cut edges, and a hassle-free high quality result every time with minimum effort. 

    Why are we impressed?
  • Adjustable platform
  • Can cut through several layers
  • High-quality results
  • Can be used on a wide variety of materials
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • It only works on materials of limited sizes
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6174 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.3
9.6
Features
  • Type: manual
  • Jobs: embossing and cutting of smaller shapes as well as 3-D items, up to 3.125” materials
  • Material to be used: all leading brand acid etched dies, embossing folders
  • Warranty: not specified
  • Dimensions: 8.25 x 3.75 x 4.75 inches, 3 lbs

More features: comes with 1 Base Plate B+ 1 Cutting Plate C + 1 Embossing Plate E + 1 Rubber Pad, 1 Embossing Folder, 7 Cutting Dies, 8 Pre-cut cardstock sheets

This little die cut machine performs great! During our testing, we were leery of suction based die cut machines, but we were astounded by the work of this particular model!

It is noteworthy that despite being one of the cheapest options on the market, it still delivers excellent embossing performance. 

The machine cut intricate dies without a problem. This is the only 3” manual machine that embossed dies, as well as cuts and uses embossing folders. The price is very competitive, and the customer service is excellent. If you make greeting cards using stamps and dies and have limited working space, this small machine fits easily into a drawer and will be perfect for you. Thus instead of needing to create more space to use larger machine, you can simply use this machine.

    What stands out?
  • Portable
  • Nice customer service
  • Quality embossing
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • It has poor suction
  • The cutting base needs to be replaced often
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6268 people in the past 30 days
9.5
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.2
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.3
9.5
3
Best Manual Model

Sizzix 660550

Features
  • Type: manual
  • Jobs: cutting larger shapes as well as 3-D items, up to 12” x 14” materials
  • Material to be used: entire Sizzix product library, SureCut Dies from our Ellison Education brand
  • Warranty: 3 years
  • Dimensions: 24.25 x 15 x 7.5 inches, 43.8 lbs

More features: comes with 1 Standard Sliding Tray, 1 Standard Cutting Pad, 1 Premium Crease Pad, 2 Mylar Shims, 1 Standard Adapter Pad, 1 Die Pick

Who said that DIY projects have to be on a small scale? This machine allows you to design and execute in every size you want. You can easily use this amazing embossing machine for 12” x 14” materials using the smallest and the biggest dies available. You will be able to create different and versatile designs because you will not be limited to one size. This incredible machine allows you to control the speed, the precision and accordingly, the outcome thanks to its professional design. It is perfectly designed for comfortable and perfect control which will allow you to have the best results with great accuracy regardless of the material you are choosing for your DIY projects.

The wider platform will enable you to use more materials at one time, and you will be able to use multiple dies at the same time. The comfort grip makes the process so much easier and less tiring for your hands and wrists. Your kids might also want to share the fun, and this machine will allow you to give them a part in your DIY projects.

This machine is the best to create custom gift wrapping, the best art, and school projects in addition to fantastic fashion and art designs. It gives you the chance to create and decorate everything in a way that is special and unique.

This machine is not just for DIY projects, but it can also be the best tool to use in your retail store. It will allow you to create your specially designed greeting cards, banners and other decorations for different occasions. Every event will be unique and personalized because you will add your personal touch to everything you create, unlike other products that you will find in stores. It is also light enough to carry around and take wherever you want to. The options are endless using this excellent machine.

    What do we love it for?
  • Easy to use
  • Beautiful design
  • Extendable multipurpose platform
    What were we disappointed with?
  • Cutting pads aren’t very efficient
Also Product Ranking:
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9731 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.9
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.9
9.3
4
Best Electric Model

Gemini GEMGO-M-USA Go

Features
  • Type: electric
  • Jobs: cutting and embossing of smaller shapes, up to 3” x 6” materials
  • Material to be used: heavyweight cardstock, vinyl, foil, leather, multiple layers of fabric, compatible with most thin metal dies and embossing folders
  • Warranty: 30-days return policy
  • Dimensions: 4.4 x 6.3 x 7.7 inches, 2.6 lbs

More features: pass through time 16 seconds with battery pack or 14 seconds with main power connection; comes with 2 Clear Cutting Plates, Metal Cutting Plate, Magnetic Shim, Plastic Shim, Rubber Embossing Mat

If you are looking for the best automatic die cutting and embossing machine, the Gemini by Crafter’s Companion will be a great choice. Being automatic, it is easy to operate. Additionally, it is quiet, fast, and can cut edge-to-edge.

Moreover, the platform used on this machine is large, measuring 9 x 12.5 inches. Hence, you will be able to cut and emboss on A4 materials. The A4 size area means you’ll be able to load several if not all the dies you need and have them all in one pass. The product’s compatibility with all thin metal dies ensures you won’t run out of designs to tinker with. It is compatible with a good number of embossing folders and dies in the market, too.

What Gemini by Crafter’s Companion has that other cutters and embossers don’t is the ability to reverse, pause and resume operations. While it may sound superficial to some, experienced crafters will welcome the feature as they’ll be able to complete quicker passes by reversing small dies and stopping the process once they realize that there’s an incorrect sandwich combination.

The Reverse button can come in very handy from time to time. Discovering that you’ve loaded the incorrect combo, or that you want a deeper or more precise cut is a matter of pushing Reverse, making the adjustment and sending the sandwich in again. Reloading is no longer necessary, and you waste less material as well.

You don’t have to worry about compatibility being a factor when you get the Gemini. All embossing folders and thin metal dies are supported and should produce exactly the same results you’ve come to expect from a high-profile cutting machine.

The Gemini die-cutting and embossing machine comes ready right out of the box with some useful accessories. It is powerful enough to cut heavyweight cardstock and several layers of fabric, and yet quiet enough that noise becomes a non-factor. The improved pressure makes precision cutting easy and quick. Set it out, lay it on a flat surface and let the craft project begin!

All Shims are included in the package. Both regular and special shims are already included, which makes it easier for people who want an all-in-one package rather than having to buy separate shims as add-ons.

Inside the box are 3 Gemini dies, a 3D embossing folder, metal cutting and clear cutting platforms, the power cable and a user guide.

    What makes it stand out?
  • Completely automatic
  • Comes with reverse button
  • Has a large cutting area
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • Expensive
  • The cutting plates need frequent changing
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9897 people in the past 30 days
9.4
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.1
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.3
9.4
Features
  • Type: semi-automatic
  • Jobs: metal stamping, embossing characters, numbers, simple symbols
  • Material to be used: aluminum, copper, stainless steel, plastic tags, up to 7.8” x 5.3”
  • Warranty: not specified
  • Dimensions: 15 x 13 x 12 inches, 21 lbs

More features: 2-4 characters/second printing speed; can be adjusted

Creating the best and most perfect embossment requires the use of only the most reliable tools and machines. This machine is the perfect one to create the most professional looking cards. You can create professional business cards, club cards, membership cards and gift cards in the best quality.

This machine will allow you to create the best and most professional convex embossing characters on cards using a time efficient and high-quality machine. The best thing about this machine is that its small size will allow you to use anywhere you like, and its smooth and manageable operation will make every project easy.

This high quality and reliable machine is of great quality. It will not malfunction no matter how many times you use it. It is made of high-quality steel and is a semi-automatic machine, and this makes it more usable for personalized and small scale jobs where you still want to create the best cards.

The machine allows you to emboss 72 different characters in small and large scale to suit every design you can think of. Using a straightforward and small dial, you will be able to select the size that perfectly matches your criteria so that every card you create will show nothing but exceptional quality.

The depth of the characters is something that you can easily adjust every time. This is the best machine to use if you want to start printing professional business cards in an easy and convenient way. It is appropriate for use by small businesses or for people who want to save money while creating something that speaks their mind.

    What makes it special?
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Fast embossment
  • Easy to use
    What cons did we find?
  • Lacks durability
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6180 people in the past 30 days
9.1
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.0
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.8
9.1
6
Best Versatility

Spellbinders PL-001

Features
  • Type: manual
  • Jobs: cutting and embossing of medium shapes, up to 8.5” materials
  • Material to be used: most standard Wafer thin/etched dies, embossing folders, texture plates, and Contour steel rule dies, cuts over 40 different materials including wool, Balsa wood, chipboard, craft metal, leather
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Dimensions: 16 x 10 x 12 inches, 22.3 lbs

More features: solid steel core construction; cuts up to 8 layers; comes with 2 LARGE Cutting Plates (8.5 x 12.25 in), 1 LARGE Embossing Plate (8.5 x 12.25 in), 1 LARGE Tan Embossing Mat (8.5 x 12.25 in)

The Spellbinders PL-001 Platinum Cut machine may not be a lightweight option but is a very versatile unit. It can cut about 40 different materials with widths of up to 8.5 inches.

Although it is a manual model, it offers reliable power and cutting pressure. Hence, you can cut six to eight layers of material at once. Additionally, this machine is compatible with embossing folders, etched dies, contour steel rule dies, and texture plates by other brands, too.

Buying a multipurpose machine doesn’t only mean that you will have a versatile machine to create any design you like but also means that you will be to create the best and most versatile creations.

This user-friendly versatile crafting machine will allow you to create the best art projects using different templates. It is also compatible with various dies offered from different manufacturers and will enable you to create the best embossment using brass stencils to create different decorative items.

This machine features a high-quality base plate, a cutting plate, an embossing plate, embossing mat in addition to detailed instructions. The machine will accommodate different sizes of paper and easily handled using the crank, allowing you to create different pieces every time. Creativity and versatility are not a problem using this excellent machine because you will be able to create different designs and use different materials for the best and most personalized art project every time.

You can easily use it with other blades that are not made by the same brand. This means that you can create the most versatile art pieces to prepare a family album, a scrapbook for your kids in addition to different decoration items that will make every event special. With this incredible machine, you can say goodbye to all commercial items that look pretty much the same.

    Why are we impressed?
  • 8.5” platform is very durable
  • Compatible with accessories from other brands
  • Can emboss over 40 types of materials
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • Heavy
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8304 people in the past 30 days
9.0
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.5
9.0
7
Best for School

Ellison Superstar A10800

Features
  • Type: manual
  • Jobs: cutting and embossing of medium shapes, up to 6″ wide materials
  • Material to be used: all AllStar Dies, with Sizzix Bigz dies (with the exception of Bigz Plus and Bigz Pro dies)
  • Warranty: 3 years
  • Dimensions: 14.25 x 12.37 x 12.62 inches, 7.5 lbs

More features: comes with 1 Pair of Cutting Pads

Designed specifically with educators in mind, this heavy-duty hand-powered press-style die cutting machine is made to withstand years of frequent use. This machine can cut more than just paper. It can cut felt, thin balsa wood, magnet sheets, foam sheets and more! We love the idea of being able to make all kinds of felt sets easily and crafting supplies. It can easily cut through multiple layers of any material that scissors can cut through, including card stock, magnet material, construction paper, cling vinyl and many recycled materials. It works with various Ellison dies as well as dies from some from other brands, including Sizzix and Bigz (using an adaptor).

The Ellison Superstar A10800 has a simple design and a cutting pad that slides in and out alongside rails, making it very easy to load materials and dies. Because no software is required, this is an easy machine to start using right away, in the workplace or at home. Simply sandwich the die and material to be cut between two cutting pads and use the handle to pull the sandwiched pieces through the machine.

    What stands out?
  • Super-easy to use
  • Designed for school use
  • Durable build
  • Affordable
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • Lacks features of more expensive models
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2914 people in the past 30 days
8.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.7
8.9
8
Best for Plastic Cards

Happybuy Embossing Machine

Features
  • Type: manual
  • Jobs: card embossing, 72 characters
  • Material to be used: 3.36” x 2.16” normative PVC cards
  • Warranty: not specified
  • Dimensions: 15.8 x 9.8 x 14.6 inches, 22.3 lbs

More features: heavy duty steel construction; character rosette turnplate; equipped with indicator and sample card for raised type location indication and 1 correcting characters for error correction

Excellently suitable for DIY use, this cutting embossing machine is a versatile device. You can flexibly prepare signs, cards, labels, tags, etc. Generally, this die cutting machine functions well with almost every embossing folder, belonging from multiple manufacturers. Moreover, it functions seamlessly with all your cutting dies. All you need to do is just make sure that the dimension of one of the embossing folders is 3 inches or less in width.

Due to its superb portability, any DIY enthusiasts or professional users can easily carry it from one room to another. Hence, this roller machine is proficient to cut and emboss several different materials. Now it is not at all tough to create your unique cards, scrapbook pages, invitations, fashion show, home decor, quilting and much more. Taking a look at the things packed in this cutting embossing machine set, it comes with almost all the essential items. Its pack contains this machine, an embossing mat and 2 standard embossing plates. Overall, its build quality is durable and capable of withstanding the wear & tear.

    What are our favorite features?
  • Steel construction
  • Comes with indicator and sample card
  • Decent performance
    What could be better?
  • Somewhat inflexible to materials
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9491 people in the past 30 days
8.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.6
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.3
8.8
Features
  • Type: manual
  • Jobs: cutting and embossing of medium shapes
  • Material to be used: tissue paper, foils, acetate ribbon, and thin leather
  • Warranty: 90-days
  • Dimensions: 14.4 x 7.2 x 12 inches, 10.45 lbs

More features: collapsible handle; fold-and-store profile; comes with 1 A Spacer, 2 B Cutting Pads, instruction booklet and 1 5×7 flower embossing folder

With the Cricut 2000293, not only are you going to be able to do die cuts and embossing in style with its sleek design, but it is also compact. Worried you’re not going to be able to do your crafts at even away from home? No longer worry, because it is completely versatile and works with you and your needs. Having been designed to emboss small-sized designs, this product features a compact and lightweight design. However, don’t let that fool you: This embossing machine still offers a rather dependable suction force.

Moreover, it boasts a handle as well, making it highly portable. Thus, with this machine, you will have an easier time embossing on curved designs. In this regard, you are guaranteed to not experience any tearing or folding while working.

Therefore, if you are looking for a professional finish on your designs on leather, paper, tissue paper and ribbons, this is your pick. Its pack features two cutting pads, one spacer, and an efficient flower embossing folder alongside a storage compartment.

One of the best parts about this machine is that it can cut a wide range of materials. It loves whatever materials you love, and for that, we are grateful. 

The set is also one that can change out different sizes so that you can go from large to small with a click of the machine. You’re able to make the most of your die cuts and embossing through the use of this tiny, compact machine that truly packs some power.

    What do we love it for?
  • It is easy to use
  • Compatible with almost all dies
  • Compact, foldable design
  • Requires little storage space
    What were we disappointed with?
  • Instruction manual is somewhat difficult to follow
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5466 people in the past 30 days
9.2
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.0
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.0
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.0
9.2
Features
  • Type: manual
  • Jobs: cutting and embossing of small shapes, up to 3″ materials
  • Material to be used: most leading brand die-cuts and embossing folders
  • Warranty: not specified
  • Dimensions: 5.25 x 9.5 x 6.25 inches, 10.9 lbs

More features: light-weight-fold-up design; detachable handle; can be attached to the Evolution Advanced Removable Motor (sold separately); comes with 2 Cutting and Embossing Platforms, 10 Metallic Dies with Different Sizes, 1 Buffer Plate (Marked With A B), One Cutting Plate, 1 Embossing Plate (Marked With An E), 2 Embossing Folders 3 X 5 Inches, 1 Nesting Circle Die (Eight Different Sizes), 50 Sheets of 5 X 3 Inch Cardstock

Although this is a relatively affordable embossing machine, you will be surprised at the additional features it offers. To begin with, the machine is equipped with a pressure dial, allowing you to regulate the degree of suction. Its main goal is to offer you a universal crafting platform. Hence, this machine may also be used for letter pressing. Consequently, it has a height adjustment system that allows you to adjust the height of the machine to suit every project.

Even though this is a generally moderate embellishing machine, you will be amazed at the extra highlights it offers. In any case, the machine is outfitted with a weight dial, enabling you to manage the level of suction. The Evolution Advanced Die-Cutting and Embossing Machine was intended to offer you an all-inclusive making stage. Notwithstanding embellishing and bite-the-dust cutting, this machine may likewise be utilized for letter squeezing. You will likewise adore the stature change framework utilized on this machine. This enables you to alter the stature of the machine to suit each extension.

With this machine, you can make sure that every cut that you make is ideal, precise and easy to do!

Not only does this machine come with everything you need, but you can use the older tools from your previous machine with it. It is complete and utterly versatile. So you won’t have to throw out that old stuff anyway. You can keep it and use it with this machine. The silver and teal look is stylish, but it also folds up nicely, so you can use it on the go, wherever you decide to go. It is just that easy to craft and go. Just choose your folder and die, and the material you want it to cut through, and you can get started since it does not hate any materials out there!

    What are its best features?
  • Compact
  • Highly versatile
  • Compatible with several accessories
    What could be improved?
  • It cannot emboss all materials
Also Product Ranking:


Things to Consider

Buying the best embossing machine for your personal use can be tricky. In compiling the list of products we reviewed above, we considered several important features. This section will discuss these features and how they will affect your buying decision.

Features to consider

10 Best Embossing Machines - Your Way To CreativityBefore purchasing an embossing machine, you should specifically look at the features described further, in order to buy exactly the unit that will suite your needs.

Type

Embossing machines are usually divided into 3 main categories: manual, electronic, and computer operated. Depending on the type of project and your needs, you should choose one that will do the job just fine and work best for you.

It’s best to pick one that can suit almost every project. Let’s shed some light on each type of die-cut machines and see what they can do:

Manual die cutting machines: This type of machines usually uses some kind of handle to push the dies through during operation. They are also useful when you want to make impressions using embossing dies. To operate them, you do not need a computer or electrical outlet. An example is the Happybuy Embossing Machine.

Electronic die cutting machines: As you may assume, it’s necessary to plug these machines into a wall outlet to operate them, as they use electricity as a source of power. So make sure there is a wall outlet in the room where you’re planning to work. One example is the Gemini GEMGO-M-USA Go.

Computer operated die cutting machines: Some die cutting machines need a computer to operate. You will also need an internet connection sometimes. These machines allow you to download shapes, designs and fonts. That means you will be able to cut just about any design regardless of the size.

Versatility

What types of material you want to work with should help you determine the type of machine that’s best for you.

If you just want to do simple work with paper and vinyl, then a basic machine is probably fine. On the other hand, if you want to be able to use a variety of different materials—like cork, foam, and wood—you’ll probably need a more sophisticated model. Additionally, you also need to check the number of embossing patterns your preferred embossing machine can produce. In this regard, you should go for a unit that allows you to produce multiple embossing patterns.

Capacity

The capacity of the machine is something that you need to consider depending on the type of projects you want to create. Most of the time, the best embossing machine will be versatile enough to fit different sizes of paper and materials which will allow you to create different projects. A big machine will offer more and different options but will not be appropriate to move around or share with others.

Cost

It’s easy to get wowed by all the awesome features and functions of some die cut machines, but they also can push up the price tag quite a bit. If you just need some basic functionality and won’t use your machine very often, you probably don’t need to pay top dollar, as it is by Bira Craft Die Cutting & Embossing Machine Combo. However, if you’ll use yours regularly for a variety of tasks or use the machine commercially, for example Happybuy Semi-Automatic Sheet Embosser, you may want to invest in one that meets your needs and can potentially grow with you, as well.

Ease of Use

10 Best Embossing Machines - Your Way To CreativityYou do not want to end up buying a machine that is hard to calibrate and operate, right? While some of the machines available today are relatively easy to use, others are a bit complicated.
In this regard, you need to choose between manual and automatic embossing machines. If your preferred embossing machine is manually-operated, you need to ensure that it is easy to operate.

Compatibility

What embossing powders and dyes do you intend to use with your embossing machine? Ensure that those dyes and powders are compatible with your preferred embossing machine. Basically, the leading models come with different dyes and are compatible with accessories from other manufacturers. You would not want to buy a model that only works with specific dyes and powders because the functioning of the machine will then depend on the availability of the specified dyes and powders. The top pick, the Cricut 2000293, is compatible with many embossing powders and dyes.

How to Use an Embossing Machine

If you’re eager to purchase an embossing machine but have no idea how it works, follow these simple steps:

  • Choose a die set design and material for your DIY project – Many embossing machines come with die sets. No matter what kind of fabric you’re going to cut, there will probably be various forms to pick from. Select your first die design and go from there.
  • Follow a layered pattern – There will be a few layers between the material you want to cut and your die. You will notice a dense layer of foam or rubber at the bottom. Place a piece of paper on the top and position your die according to your needs. Then top it with an extra layer of foam/rubber.
  • Turn the crank slowly – Once you get your layered sandwich arranged, you will need to turn the crank toward the press. As the tray moves through the press, the machine will cut your material. Keep cutting and embossing until the tray reaches the other side.
  • Raise the top layers – This will let you know whether your material is properly cut in place. If so, simply take out the shape, and you are good to go. If it’s not fully cut in shape, you should move it back and continue the process.
  • Turn the crank of your machine in the opposite direction if you should cut again – Sometimes it will be necessary to cut the shape one more time. Make sure the crank is turned the other way. Lay your pieces back and cut them again.

If you didn’t get the final cut even after repeating the process several times, the material is likely too thick for your die cutting machine.

FAQ

Are embossing machines safe for kids?

As long as the kids are supervised, embossing machines are safe to use by kids. Our top pick, the Cricut 2000293, is safe to use by children who will love to create something of their own.

What are the common trouble shootings by embossing machines?

Some of the common problems found in embossing machines include: Heavy print in certain areas causes large thickness differences across the sheets; knife bevel is too sharp and deflects easily, overcut, undercut, arc cut, and knife rubbing. 

Our verdict

From the round-up, we strongly recommend the Sizzix Sidekick 661770. It is designed with versatility in mind. It simplifies your cutting and embossing process. Additionally, it also offers you thousands of different embossing folders and dies, which gives you a lot of flexibility when you are designing. For folks on a budget, the Bira Craft Die Cutting & Embossing Machine Combo is likely an excellent choice. This is the only 3” manual machine that embossed dies, as well as cuts and uses embossing folders. The price is very competitive, and the customer service is excellent. Our third pick, the Sizzix 660550, works with the smallest dies to the largest embossing tools, up to six inches. And it allows you to have the best results with great accuracy regardless of the material you are choosing for your DIY projects. We hope this comprehensive review and guide will help you to choose the best embossing machine.

9,9
Total Score
Sizzix Sidekick 661770 - Editor's Choice
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