Sizzix, Cricut or Something Else?

nobrechick

I'm sure this question and topic have been posted many times, so I apologize if you've seen this before. 

So here we go..

I bought felt to try and make headbands with felt flowers, which led me to DIY felt flower videos on Youtube, which then led me to a tutorial using the Sizzix, which is how I found out about it. Of course, I wanted it instantly. I love how it cuts felt and also how it embosses paper. 

But after a lot of research and learning about die cutters, I saw the Cricut. Looks awesome and so versatile as far as sizes and what you get with a cartridge, but doesn't seem to cut felt very well (correct me if I am wrong) and doesn't emboss.

I was thinking about getting the Sizzix for 50% off now, since it's not that expensive, and getting the Cricut for Christmas.

My question is: Do you think it is overkill to have both or a good idea? Or is there another machine that can do all of the above and is as versatile as the Cricut? 

I appreciate your thoughts on this!

WishesSheCouldCook

I have both a cricut and a cuttlebug (basically the same thing as a sizzix) 

I use them both for different things.

The cricut has a difficult time cutting felt because of the long fibers

The cricut cannot emboss 

CatGal

If you're going to just cut felt for now, get a Sizzix. I have both and I have used Sizzix for felt and Cricut for fabric.

Sizzix worked AWESOME for felt. It really did. I'd highly recommend it. You can get really good deals at Sizzix.com and their outlet on different dies.  I get mine there because they're usually cheaper than in the stores.  However, you can also watch for sales. I feel that paying full price isn't needed - there's always a sale going on somewhere.

The Cricut does ok with fabric, though some ladies on here have had trouble with it. Cricut is good for other things, and is more efficient at cutting a variety of shapes (more options because of the cartridges - Sizzix you only have ones size).

The bag below has felt flowers on them - I cut them with Sizzix. 

 

 Close up of flower:

nobrechick

CatGal:

If you're going to just cut felt for now, get a Sizzix. I have both and I have used Sizzix for felt and Cricut for fabric.

Sizzix worked AWESOME for felt. It really did. I'd highly recommend it. You can get really good deals at Sizzix.com and their outlet on different dies.  I get mine there because they're usually cheaper than in the stores.  However, you can also watch for sales. I feel that paying full price isn't needed - there's always a sale going on somewhere.

The Cricut does ok with fabric, though some ladies on here have had trouble with it. Cricut is good for other things, and is more efficient at cutting a variety of shapes (more options because of the cartridges - Sizzix you only have ones size).

The bag below has felt flowers on them - I cut them with Sizzix. 

 

 Close up of flower:

These are great examples! Thank you so much. I'll definitely get a Sizzix for now

Saxgrl1

I know Lollychops primarily uses a Sizzix for felt.  And from what I've seen, its a great choice if you just want it to do a few things. 

Now if you were interested in papercrafting/cardmaking or other cutting needs, please know that there are other cutting machines out there that are wayyyyyy better than the Cricut which limits you to their designs and creations on expensive cartridges and quite honestly doesn't cut as great.  Look into Klic-n-Kut, Pazzles, Black Cat, and Silhouette which all have great reviews.  The may be a bit more than the Cricut, but the quality and ability to CREATE are built into the price you pay.  They also cut a wide variety of medias easily as well. 

nobrechick

I actually just found out about the Silhouette Cameo which should be released by Christmas. I think that's the one I want

Johlise

I have the Big Shot from Sizzix, through Stampin' Up! LOVE the machine and wouldn't trade it for anything else!