Week 38 - Which Die-Cutting Machine is Best?

[@PippyKatStamper]

Sorry to hear your Vagabond died!! They are a workhorse in the craft room. After giving my Vagabond to a friend, I purchased a Gemini - horrible purchase - it ended up finding a home at the Salvation Army!! Purchased the Empress, along with the extended plates, a couple of years ago during a fantastic sale on Amazon. Those extended plates come in VERY handy with the ECD elongated dies. So much better than cutting half way and repositioning the die and paper to cut the remainder of the way - LOL!! Long story short - I absolutely LOVE the Empress!!! And, to make cutting even easier for me, I put the Empress on a turntable that sits on the corner of my craft table. Super easy to run the dies through, twist the turntable half way around and catch the dies and plates coming out. Super easy and super efficient. LOVE the Magnetic Magic as well - a must have in the craft room!! Enjoy your Empress and thank you for sharing your experiences with various machines!

[@AnnetteGreen]

Thanks! Yes, I just ordered those extended plates myself for that very reason. Now I'm all set and very happy with the Empress!

[@debbiespaulding2673]

I saw someone on,KZbin suggest wrapping your magnetic plate in press and seal. I tried it and really extends life of magnetic plate, plus little pieces of paper come off plate so much easier. I have only removed the press and seal one time and replaced it. Wish I could remember who it was that posted that to give her credit, but I’m just not sure.I only have the mini, but if I ever do get a bigger one it will be the big empress machine.

[@AnnetteGreen]

I've heard that too! Great tip!

[@barbaraedmondson1596]

Great video. I bought an Empress Mini a few months ago & I love it! Waht a game changer from hand crank ones where you beed yout other hand to hold the whole thing still!

[@cherylwells1266]

Great review Annette!! I also have the Mini and regular size Empress - I've had so many cutting machines, but go back to these. I had purchased the Gemini (I, Go, and Gemini II) just hoping they were what I really wanted, but sold them all - even the manual Spellbinders Platinum 6. The manual I still prefer is my old Sizzix BigKick - the plates never warp and cuts perfect every time. Die cutting machines are like paper trimmers - so difficult in finding what really works for me.

[@AnnetteGreen]

Yes, I agree. It's tough to find the perfect one. Like you, I'm very pleased with the quality and speed of the Empress machines. And now I hear a new pretty one is coming out.

[@caroleanderson1106]

Great video, Annette. I have the Empress machine, but seldom use it, since I don't do much cutting anymore. Used to have the Empress Mini, but sent it back. I'm in the process of sorting through all my supplies and disposing of what I don't use. I've become bored with making cards and journals. Thank you and take care.

[@AnnetteGreen]

Oh Carole, I'm sorry to hear that. I hope you have other hobbies or things in life that you enjoy. It's good though that you are okay to get rid of things you don't use anymore rather than hanging on to them.

[@Wynja75]

Great video! My old, green Cuttlebug is on its last stretch 🐛🥺 so I have to start looking for a replacement soon. About 75% of my die cutting is with small dies, so I bought the Sizzix SideKick this summer in hope to relieve the Cuttlebug and keep it working a while longer 🤞☺ I love that it folds up and tuck away so neatly! 💚 Unfortunately there isn't much to choose from here in Norway.. 🤷‍♀ Chances are I'll end up with the Sizzix Big Shot like everybody else.. 😅

[@AnnetteGreen]

Thanks! From the sounds of it, the Big Shot will be perfect for you when you need to cut bigger dies.

[@stylesformiles79]

Hi Annette, I put my plates al set w/paper and dies thru my switch at the same time you did. Yours still had an inch and ½ left to go when mine came out. You may want to call them. I've been lusting after one of the Anna Griffin ones ever since I saw yours. ❤

[@AnnetteGreen]

Back when I first got it, I tested the same die and plates through my Vagabond and then the Switch and sent a video to Sizzix to show them the difference in speed, asking them if mine was defective and they said no, that's how it's supposed to be. 😞

[@barbaraworthington467]

On your recommendation Annette, I bought the Empress mini a few years ago and absolutely love it to cut. After watching your video I immediately ordered the big size Empress as I find that if I do very much cutting with a manual, my wrist hurts. You should just give me a list of all the supplies in your craft room and I would probably go out and buy each and every one of them. LOL thanks for the great video comparing the different machines.🥰

[@AnnetteGreen]

Haha! Barbara. I'm here for you! I'm glad my recommendations have been working out for you.

[@claireg5651]

Like you, I got the Empress mini first when it was on a big sale on her website and I love it! I decided to swap out my Gemini for the larger one a little while ago, and again I bought when it was on a really good sale. I watched the HSN launch of the new one, Elite, and while I do like the look of it, I wouldn't use the turntable functionality myself. Since it's the same size as the Empress, the larger plates that come with the Elite, will work in your Empress and you can buy them separately. Anna was also selling the dust cover for sale recently. Clearly a splurge item, but it is super cute and if you personally think the Empress model looks older, the beautiful cover would take care of that and save you a few hundred dollars. :-)

[@AnnetteGreen]

Thanks so much for the tip-off on the dust cover. I saw the new Elite also, and while I understand the turn-table concept would be good for some, I personally (like you) do not like it. I don't see a need in my craft space to have to spin the machine. And I also thought maybe the new Elite would have a really different modern look to it, but it has only changed just a little in its exterior. So I'm happy I got the Empress when I did and I will have it for a long time. It's a fantastic machine! And I'm glad they will continue to sell the plates and magnet plates for the original Empress.

[@debbiekemp9140]

Thanks for sharing. Looks like a nice machine the Empress. 🐝

[@AnnetteGreen]

It truly is. I've used it a TON since my video and I'm super happy with it.

[@crschwartz380]

Thanks again. Love your review. When I'm ready for a new one I'll know what to buy. Looking forward to next week's video

[@AnnetteGreen]

Thanks Chava, and I hear the Empress is getting a facelift and will be available next week!

[@jodieb4970]

I have only used the manual machines. I'm thinking about an electric one. I have the Tim Holtz Sidekick and love it. I use it more than my other machines, because it suctions to my work surface and doesn't shift. Thank you for sharing this with us.

[@AnnetteGreen]

thanks for watching. I'm glad you enjoyed it. I wish they'd put suction on the bottom of ALL machines.

[@jacquelinegirouard2913]

Thanks for your review Annette. I like my Gemini Jr. I had problem with warping plates until I started cutting with the die facing the upper plate. Like you, I am not fond of having the die underneath the cartdstock, but boy, did it solve my warping plates problem.

[@AnnetteGreen]

Hmm, that's interesting Jacquie.

[@sophiemsmply4you572]

Great Demo! Thanks a bunch. I'd love to see what else it does :)

[@AnnetteGreen]

Thanks! Hoping to find time eventually to do more.

[@CWCrafts330]

I love my Anna machine, I have the mini and the large 🎉

[@CWCrafts330]

I was not a fan of the switch at all….

[@AnnetteGreen]

I love them both too! Great purchase!

[@carrieallen7216]

I’ve been debating on a new machine. Thank you for the reviews!

[@AnnetteGreen]

Thanks for watching. As I understand it, since making this video, Anna Griffin is coming out with a pretty new version of the Empress in a few weeks. Same insides, but a new look to the exterior.

[@ckit8176]

Great info! Thank you:)

[@AnnetteGreen]

Thank YOU. Glad you found it helpful.

[@DavidJudith-w8k]

Very useful! Thank you for that. I have been thinking about purchasing and that has given helpful pointers to consider. 👌🌻

[@AnnetteGreen]

Glad you found it helpful! Just a note, Anna Griffin is coming out with a new updated looking Empress next week.

[@lizasullivan5127]

I also have the big and mini Empress and love them. And, love the fact that they are quiet. Very nice job on the demo.

[@AnnetteGreen]

Thanks. AG really makes nice machines!

[@reneemcgrath2653]

I’m a “Griffinite” and use her Empress machines exclusively. Nothing better. Anna actually advises now to cut into the magnetic mat. It embosses and cuts in one pass. Plus, they are less expensive. Also, you’ll need the shim eventually when the magnetic mat gets well used and thinner than when it’s brand new. She’s actually coming out with a new machine in late October but it does the same exact thing, it’s just an updated look with a built in turntable and only one size plates which are the longer ones. I think we are all going to stock up on our original sized plates and mats bc they are not coming back once they are gone.

[@AnnetteGreen]

Thank you for this information! I wondered about whether a new machine was coming out when I saw it was reduced on some websites. As far as the existing plates, that's also good to know. Now I wish I had waited, but I really can't be without a machine until late October. Wouldn't it be nice if they'd let me exchange it for the new one? LOL! Fat chance.

[@sewinlove_co]

@@AnnetteGreen I would reach out to Anna Griffin and see if they will send you a new machine for review. You never know!

[@claremacdonald3261]

I think what she meant is, on launch day on HSN you'll get the large plate system and the standard plate system. But going forward, the standard configuration will come with the large plates - but she stated that all the plates will still be available. I think she's doing this so that people can cut ANY Anna Griffin die right out of the box. In the current configuration you only get the standard plates and have to purchase the large plates before you can cut the larger dies. She has said all plates will be available for the new Empress Elite, since nothing in the mechanics of the machine is changing.

[@reneemcgrath2653]

@@claremacdonald3261 Hi Clare. I must have heard it wrong on the first video she did for members. She made it clear last week (at least to me lol). Thank you. I still stocked up on the plates and mats b/c at some point I think they will become obsolete.

[@stephanietaylor2816]

​@@reneemcgrath265314:47

[@laurabergin1469]

Thank you for showing the different machines. I’m getting ready to buy one and want a quiet and fast machine. You’ve helped me make a decision!

[@AnnetteGreen]

Awesome! Glad I could hellp!

[@sonshinesunflower]

Hi, thanks for this video! I didn’t even know there was a Scout! 😮 Not that I “need” it! I have the largest Platinum, another brand 6” that is quite old called Evolution Advanced & another brand 4” opening that does not use plates-only folders-that I keep on my desk called Diamond Press Marquise, along with a 2” opening-folders only no plates-that I love & keep on my desk for small & quick die cuts by Crafter’s Companion. There’s a We R Memory Keepers mini Evolution kit w/3” opening on my shelf as well! Last but not least an old Fiskars 12” manual die cutting machine that comes in handy for 12x12 paper pad sheets! (Scrapbooking days) I don’t pull that one out hardly ever! Oh, wait! There’s MORE! Lol 😂 I forgot about the TODO machine! It was so cheap that I could not pass it up, but I think I’ve only used it twice & back in the box it went & it’s still waiting to be put back in the game! My newest is the Stacey Park Teal Sizzix Big Shot that I had to buy to support my crafty friend & I love the color of it! (2 older versions of Big Shots were donated to make room for this one!) Now, don’t get me started on my electronic die cutting machines, 6 & 9” openings. I love those for when I want to mass produce die cuts! I need another die cutting machine like I need a hole in my head! 😩🤣 You have made me realize that I may or may not have a slight addiction to die cutting machines! Lol 😂 Phew! 😮‍💨

[@AnnetteGreen]

Hahaha! You said it, not me. I've never had that many machines before, but I'm glad to hear you donated a few when getting a new one. The Empress Mini is the one I tend to use the most, then I go for the regular Empress for larger dies and mass-producing like you do.

[@jengelbrecht6660]

Exactly a year ago I purchased the Sizzix Switch to get back into card making after a 30 year break. My machine broke two days ago so your review was well timed, thank you. I quickly discovered that I couldn’t use the Betterpress system in my Sizzix so I went on to purchase the Spellbinders machine which is what I mostly use. I’ve learned a lot & still playing catch up. But as nice looking as the Sizzix Switch is YOU are correct it is way too slow. But also a bit loud and the plates did seem to warp too quickly I found. Yes, I know about moving my items around to avoid that & how to straighten them in a bath of hot water but maybe bc they are larger that is why the warp quicker. Anyway as much as I don’t like the look of the machine I am going with the Empress. But gosh do I just wish it was white, white! Or Snow White & gold but to me the machine appears to look like old yellowed plastic with gold trim but I’m going to need to get over it if it does the job, right?

[@AnnetteGreen]

I wonder if you've already purchased the Empress? I've learned since this video from several viewers that Anna Griffin has made a facelift to her Empress line and it will be coming out around October 17th. I agree, it looks a bit old fashioned now and if time hadn't been a factor, I would've waited to see this new machine.

[@mariebinkin4365]

Thanks for this informative video Annette. I still have a CuttleBug 😅 My main machine is Amaze by Richard Garay which I purchased years ago at Tuesday Morning. It works great but does leave a small imprint like the Sissix machine. Appreciate your demonstrations as always

[@AnnetteGreen]

Thanks Marie. That Cuttlebug has been mentioned by others, so that must've been a pretty good machine to last all this time. I have never heard of the Amaze. I'm glad it's working well for you.

[@huginanenvelope]

I love the Empress she is amazing. I love that I can cut even quicker by sending regular sized plates in sideways.

[@AnnetteGreen]

Hmmm, now I never thought to do that! Thanks for that tip!

[@and1964rea]

Waiting for the Anna griffin to be available in the uk. Thank you for sharing.

[@AnnetteGreen]

I just looked at her website and it says they ship to the UK and Canada. I wonder if her new machine coming out in late October will be adaptable for those outside the U.S. as far as the electrical option.

[@hopeeisman811]

You're right about the Swich but if you want to use glimmer or letterpress or Eileen Hull dies you cannot use the Empress. The wide mouth is what slows he switch down

[@AnnetteGreen]

Yes, agree. That's why I'll keep my hand-crank Big Shot for those types of dies. Now I'm all set.

[@karenjohnson3495]

Your video of the different machines is just great. All machines are different. I do not use the switch much because I broke the first one using smaller plates. But I do find it does a good embossing using the larger plates. Did not know it ran slow. I also wanted to let you know that there is a new empress coming out. It is called the empress elite. Anna should have it for sale in the next week or so and it will be on HSN mid Oct. All the inside workings are just the same on the inside. It just got a facelift.

[@AnnetteGreen]

Thanks! And another viewer mentioned the new machine coming out also. I'll keep an eye out. Perhaps they'll let me trade this one in for the new fancy looking model!

[@karenjohnson3495]

@@AnnetteGreen I am sure you will be ok with the first one. There are many people on ine that just love the empress machine.

[@lisannesv2569]

Great video, lot's of tips. I would love to have a Empress mini, but it's not for sale in The Netherlands. Do you have a tip for me? Been looking everywere😢

[@AnnetteGreen]

Hmmm, I hear that Anna Griffin is coming out with a new machine in late October so perhaps she will start making them adaptable to your electrical requirements? Otherwise, you may be better off with a non-electric machine.

[@JamieAndrick]

I just purchased a 9 inch wide Bira Craft Die Cutting & Embossing Machine, has dial settings.. so no need for shims, extra plates. Being delivered tomorrow, and I'm all geeked up about it. I've never had one, nor used a die cutting/embossing machine, but I researched for over a month before deciding on this one.

[@AnnetteGreen]

I've not heard of that one before. I hope you like it once it arrives. You'll have to let me know.

[@cacomine]

Hi Annette, great video. Could you tell me if the Sizzix Big Shot works with the Elizabeth Craft Design dies? Thanks.

[@AnnetteGreen]

YES! It absolutely does. Just follow the Sizzix directions for cutting thin metal dies.

[@DiEtta]

Just a heads up…..Anna Griffin is coming out with a new Empress. It will premiere on HSN. It will be the Todays Special on October 17.

[@AnnetteGreen]

Thanks for the update. I wish I had time to wait for that new one, but time was of the essence for me. I'll keep a look out for that new machine though.

[@CandySpiegel]

Thank you so much for this. I'm afraid my original Vagabond will die and was asking for the Switch for Christmas, but now I see I need to do more research.

[@AnnetteGreen]

It's always good to have a back-up plan. Just a note about the Empress if you're thinking about asking for that one for Christmas, I understand Anna Griffin is coming out with a new updated looking Empress machine next week.

[@juliepoole6391]

Hi Annette I use the Switch and I’m sure mine is faster than your was and after having it more or less since its release it’s suddenly got quieter lol. I hope someone can answer this question for me please: can you use/get the Anna Griffin machines in the Uk, we have different voltage power in the Uk Thanks for the video. Ps I love my little TH machine. All of Josets dies go through it xxx

[@AnnetteGreen]

Hi Julie. To answer your question about the Anna Griffin machines, they are made for U.S. voltage standards, but you can use a converter which Devid Roodenburg uses. Just note that by using a converter, it will void the warranty if anything goes wrong. Thanks for watching. I'm glad your Switch is faster. I contacted Sizzix with a video and they told me that was normal.

[@katianavarro2697]

Hello Annette, very useful info! Do you know which one would be best for cutting felt?

[@AnnetteGreen]

Any of these would be good as long as you use the right sandwich and shim. I've cut felt before and it works perfectly.

[@mariewerle1543]

I do not own the Empress (either one) yet I have been thinking about it. I have the Blossom Big Shot Switch Plus. However, have not been pleased with it, Very noisy, slow, and sometimes very difficult to get the plates to enter without a good push to start. Do you know if I can use the Better Press plates with the Empress? I am also considering getting the Glimmer for foiling would those plates work in the Empress? This is the first of your videos and I did subscribe today. Forgive if you have answered these questions before.

[@AnnetteGreen]

Hi Marie and thanks for subscribing! I'm glad you're here. I am super happy with both of my Empress machines (the mini and the full size) but the Better Press Plates are too thick for the Empress. I have a Big Shot machine that I use for that. As for the Glimmer plates, I don't have that machine or plates, so I'm not sure about whether they would fit or not. Maybe another viewer can help.

[@pamelasertich9850]

I was confused on the Empress sizes. I bought the large size. It came with the smaller sized plates. Then they kept calling the mini plates and the large plates. I finally discovered you can get a really large plate that goes through the large machine. So there are only 2 sizes.

[@AnnetteGreen]

Yes, you are right. Two sizes of plates for each machine. I'm waiting on my extended plates to arrive soon.

[@shandip]

My wife loves making cards but is finding the arthritis in her fingers is making using her manual Sizzix Big Shot. I know nothing about die cutting machines but want to buy her an electric one for Christmas. Is there one you would recommend that would work with her pre-existing die cutting plates (?) for her old Sizzix ? It looks like the Sizzix Switch Plus in your video is rather difficult to find here in Canada. Thank you in advance !!

[@AnnetteGreen]

The Sizzix Switch is the only electronic machine I know of that will accommodate the existing Sizzix plates. If you purchases the Anna Griffin machine, it will come with the necessary plates, shims and magnetic mat. I wonder if that is more accessible in Canada?

[@shandip]

@@AnnetteGreenit is more accessible than the Sizzix but will the learning curve be different or will it be the same as using the Sizzix Switch

[@vickygoodwin9771]

Fast is good, Anna is faster yet because you can turn your plates and put it through.

[@AnnetteGreen]

Yes, that's a great tip I'll be using too!

[@donniekostar9644]

Did they discontinue this version of the Empress you show in the video? On the Anna Griffin website, the Empress has physical buttons on the right hand side.

[@AnnetteGreen]

Yes, shortly after my video, Anna Griffin came out with the Empress Elite. As I understand it, the mechanics of that new machine are the same as the original Empress, they just gave it a facelift. The plates and magnetic mat still work in both machines.

[@donniekostar9644]

@ ah, I didn’t catch the “Elite”. Thanks for the quick reply. Is the Empress still your favorite electric machine? If I go manual, I am thinking of getting the Big Shot Plus (unless there is a better manual one you would recommend).

[@AnnetteGreen]

@@donniekostar9644 Yes, I love both sizes of the Empress and would highly recommend them. I have, as I show in the video, the regular Big Shot for when I don't have or need electric. It's great to have as a back-up too. With the extended plates for the Big Shot, I don't see the need for the Big Shot Plus for me personally. Hope that helps.

[@sheilagraber5577]

I just got the full size empress. Cheapest price was from her site. She had it for $200

[@AnnetteGreen]

Great! I think it's because she's coming out with a new, updated looking Empress from what I hear. Same insides, just a facelift.

[@kathyupchurch8184]

my canton kind died too!! but it was narrow

[@AnnetteGreen]

Bummer

[@beverlyjohnson8796]

What die cutting machine do you recommend. I don’t need anything fancy just something to cut dies with. Thanks

[@AnnetteGreen]

As I show in the video, I really like the Anna Griffin Empress machine the very best. I also like the Empress Mini for smaller things. It might be helpful for you to watch a second time and make the best decision for your needs. Thanks for watching.

[@kathyupchurch8184]

i just wish they woul put suction on bottom of the crank machines!!

[@AnnetteGreen]

Oh I agree totally!

[@kathyupchurch8184]

scout is nice 3” wide

[@AnnetteGreen]

Yep, great for those small projects, especially on the go.

[@nancykerswill7190]

The big shot is being discontinued which is such a shame.

[@AnnetteGreen]

WHAT? Well, clearly they're coming out with a new machine. The Big Shot is the standard!

[@pamkenel7534]

Oh no....your vagabond died!?!?!

[@AnnetteGreen]

Totally dead, but I love my new Empress machine.

[@pamkenel7534]

@@AnnetteGreen I have the mini one and I love it. Wishing I got the Empress instead of the Sizzix Switch.