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Top 13 Best Embossing Machines

Last Updated October 28, 2024 By Krista Perry.

Embossing machines represent indispensable instruments when it comes to making beautiful crafts.

If you’re passionate about DIY projects for your scrapbook, sewing, baking, and greeting cards, perhaps it’s time to consider buying an embossing machine.

Customized projects and nicely decorated and textured paper and cards can help small businesses win an edge over their competition. They can help you grow your business.

In retail shops, the proper tools can give you specially made cards, banners, and decorations, according to how you and your clients prefer them. But how to select the right tools?

It’s hard to choose the best embossing machine with so many brands on the market. That’s why I wrote this article. Below, you will find my embossing machine reviews for this year.

Hopefully, my buying guide can help you select the embossing machine that responds to all your needs.

Here Are The Best Embossing Machines:

Let’s take a closer look at some of the embossing machines you will come across in this article along with their key features.

  • Best Overall: Spellbinders GC-200 Grand Calibur Die Cutting & Embossing Machine
    “Perfect for any DIY project, user-friendly, advanced, perfect for embossing, takes full-size papers.”
  • Best Budget: Bira Craft Die Cutting & Embossing Machine
    “Great for limited working space, real plates instead of plastic ones, quality embossing, lightweight.”
  • Best for Beginners: Sizzix Sidekick Die Cutting and Embossing Machine
    “A complete starter kit, perfect for craft projects on the go, a multitude of materials, easy to store.”
  • Best Embossing-Only: Sizzix Texture Boutique Embossing Machine
    “Modern design, it works with Sizzix embossing folders and other brands, fast work, budget-friendly.”
  • Best Manual: Spellbinders PL-001 Platinum Die Cut & Emboss Machine
    “Cuts over 40 different materials up to 8.5 inches wide, unsurpassed cutting pressure and power.”
  • Best Electric: Anna Griffin Empress Mini Die Cut & Emboss Machine Bundle
    “Compact and superb, superior and fast cutting ability, automatic reverse feature, versatile, affordable.”
  • Best for Metal: Gemini Junior Portable Die Cutting and Embossing Machine
    “Works with heavyweight and lightweight materials, lighter, quieter and faster than other machines.”
  • Best for Leather: Sizzix 657850 BIGkick Machine
    “Extended multipurpose platform, versatile, large but portable, cuts and embosses different materials.”
  • Best for Card Making: Cricut 2000293 Cuttlebug Die Cutting & Embossing Machine
    “Fold-n-store design, compatible with Cricut and other brands’ embossing folders and dies, versatile.”
  • Best for Scrapbooking: Sizzix 660425 Big Shot Machine
    “Solid construction, flawless results every time, diagrams for easy guidelines, adjustable platform.”

What Is Embossing Machine?

Embossing units are a perfect example of a modern take on traditional production ways. Usually, making an embossed tag utilizes a die set to push a complete design into the metal.

In comparison, a metal tag embossing device utilizes a set of striking heads to apply each letter into the material separately. Embossing machines can help you make unique crafts.

What Is Embossing Used For?

Embossing is usually used to create paper projects like envelopes, letter writing paper, thank you notes, paper gift bags, and other creations.

With a simple embossed design, your paper projects turn very appealing to consumers and sell for more. Embossing can improve your business.

Watch this video to know more about:

Watch video: Embossing Machines: Which One is Right for You?

How Much Is an Embossing Machine?

The price of a good embossing machine depends on the brand, model, and features. However, you can buy a decent embossing machine for less than $200.

Embossing-Machine Reviews

If you’re passionate about embossing, you can’t escape this die-cutting and embossing machine era. This article will give you a glimpse of the best embossing technologies.

Below, you will find my embossing machine reviews. But before you jump into my product reviews, let’s take a quick look at their key features and specifications.

Best Embossing MachinesDIMENSIONSWEIGHTKEY FEATURESWARRANTY
Sizzix Texture Boutique Embossing Machine - Best Embossing-Only Machine6.1 x 8.5 x 9.93.92 poundsSmall and modern design, works with Sizzix embossing folders and other brands, embossing-only machine1-year limited warranty
Anna Griffin Empress Mini Die Cut & Emboss Machine Bundle - Best Electric Embossing Machine7.75 x 4.5 x 4.755.5 poundsCapable of cutting and embossing different materials and comes with everything you need to get started1-year limited warranty
Sizzix 660425 Big Shot Machine - Best Embossing Machine for Scrapbooking16 x 10.7 x 87.5 poundsSturdy and solid construction, diagrams for easy guidelines on how to make a sandwich, works with different materials1-year limited warranty
Bira Craft Die Cutting & Embossing Machine - Best Budget18 x 14 x 917.15 poundsIdeal for limited working space, real plates instead of plastic ones, perfect for small dies and cardsNot specified
We R Memory Keepers Mini Evolution Die Cut Machine Kit8.2 x 3.7 x 4.82.1 poundsInnovative and high-quality, cute design, embossing pads and dies, lightweight and portable1-year limited warranty
Cricut 2000293 Cuttlebug Die Cutting & Embossing Machine - Best Embossing Machine for Card Making14.4 x 7.2 x 1211.4 poundsFold-n-store design, compatible with all Cricut dies and embossing folders, perfect for card making1-year limited warranty
Gemini Junior Portable Die Cutting and Embossing Machine - Best Embossing Machine for Metal10.6 x 7.6 x 5.410 poundsWork with lightweight and heavyweight materials, works with most embossing folders and thin metal diesNot specified
Spellbinders PL-001 Platinum Die Cut & Emboss Machine - Best Manual Embossing Machine16 x 10 x 1220 poundsUnsurpassed cutting pressure, it cuts over 40 materials up to 8.5 inches wide1-year limited warranty
Sizzix Sidekick Die Cutting and Embossing Machine - Best Embossing Machine for Beginners7.8 x 3.5 x 4.82.64 poundsA complete starter kit, perfect for craft projects on the go, a multitude of materials1-year limited warranty
Sizzix 662500 Big Shot Foldaway Machine13 x 10.3 x 11.112.35 poundsBuilt-in storage compartments, ergonomic handle for simple roller action1-year limited warranty
Spellbinders GC-200 Grand Calibur Die Cutting & Embossing Machine - Best Overall6.2 x 16 x 7.813.29 poundsUser-friendly and versatile, perfect for different DIY projects1-year limited warranty
Fiskars Fuse Creativity System Starter Set16.8 x 8.3 x 1526 poundsGreat starter set, high-quality results, manual system, free accessoriesNot specified
Sizzix 657850 BIGkick Machine - Best Embossing Machine for Leather12.2 x 9 x 17.210 poundsVersatile and compatible, extended multipurpose platform1-year limited warranty

Top 13 Best Embossing Machine Reviews

Now that you know the basic information about these machines, let’s take a close look at their features, performance and downfalls.

Sizzix Texture Boutique Embossing Machine

(Best Embossing-Only Machine)

Sizzix Texture Boutique Embossing Machine
Shop now at Amazon

This amazing die embellishing and cardmaking system makes cards for different occasions.

It also turns standard cardstock into a nice embossed art with the Sizzix Textured Impressions Embossing folders. What I like most about this machine is the design.

It resembles a handbag with a beaded handle. This baby is both fashionable and fast. It embossed in just moments with the Textured Impressions Embossing Folders.

However, they’re sold separately. If you purchase this machine, you will also get a Mylar Shim and a pair of embossing pads. Keep in mind that this is an embossing-only unit.

If you want to turn regular cardstock into beautifully embossed art pieces, this is the machine you need. It’s small, lightweight, easy to store, and solidly built.

If you’re looking for a cheap but quality embosser that’s ideal for both professionals and beginners, look no further than this model. It will help you turn ordinary into extraordinary.

I also have to mention that this baby works with size A2 embossing folders from Sizzix and other brands. It makes the perfect gift for the passionate crafter in your family.

Machine Specifications

Type:Embossing
Brand:Sizzix
Materials:Viny, paper, leather, fabric, plastic, metal

Key Features

  • Small and modern design
  • Works with Sizzix embossing folders and other brands
  • Embossing-only machine

Pros

  • Fast work
  • Affordable
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to store
  • Durable

Cons

  • None

Anna Griffin Empress Mini Die Cut & Emboss Machine Bundle 

(Best Electric Embossing Machine)

Anna Griffin Empress Mini Die Cut & Emboss Machine Bundle
Learn more at Anna Griffin

The Empress electronic embossing and die-cutting machine by Anna Griffin is a compact and superb unit which lets users make intricate craft designs with a single touch.

It comes with all you need to get started, including an embossing folder and cutting dies. With this baby, you can add a touch of elegance to your regular projects and boost sales.

If you’re looking for a professional die-cutting machine which gives effortless and flawless results every time, look no further than this bundle by Anna Griffin.

It provides versatile crafting which means that it’s capable of cutting and embossing different materials.

The Empress can cut glitter paper, cardstock, paper, thin craft foam, fabric, light wood, and so on. It can also emboss poster board, cardstock, paper, ribbon, tissue, vellum, envelopes, and so on.

What I like most about this machine is the compact design. It’s easy to use and provides quiet operation. The cutting quality is superior. The unit stops working once plates clear it

Keep in mind that this machine is made for use with Anna Griffin dies and folders. It arrives with a metal shim for use with different brands of dies and folders.

It has a 9-inch opening which can feed plates lengthwise for quick work. It also has an automatic reverse feature for plates that are placed too high. It’s easy to clean.

All you need is a soft dry cloth to keep this machine shining and working perfectly. Let’s take a look at all the accessories included.

  • Cutting dies
  • D metal shim
  • B magnetic mat
  • C embossing mat
  • Instruction manual
  • Embossing folder
  • Power cord
  • A plates

Machine Specifications

Type:Die-cutting and embossing
Brand:Anna Griffin
Materials:Viny, paper, leather, fabric, plastic, metal

Key Features

  • Electronic die-cutting and embossing machine
  • Capable of cutting and embossing different materials
  • Comes with everything you need to get started

Pros

  • Compact and superb unit
  • Superior and fast cutting quality
  • Automatic reverse feature

Cons

  • None

Sizzix 660425 Big Shot Machine 

(Best Embossing Machine for Scrapbooking)

Sizzix 660425 Big Shot Machine
Shop now at Amazon

The Big Shot has a new grey and white design with the Sizzix logo embossed on the carrying handle.

It’s stylish and super-versatile thanks to the compatibility with the whole Sizzix design library, except the Big Plus dies including their smallest to their big 6-inch plastic-backed dies and embossing instruments. If this didn’t impress you, this baby can slice and emboss different materials.

Make one-of-a-kind invitations, cards, fashions, quilting, altered art, home decor, scrapbook pages, and more with this portable and elegant roller machine.

Keep in mind that some machine accessories are sold individually. However, you will get a pair of regular cutting pads and a multipurpose, adjustable platform.

This adjustable platform makes all Sizzix parts smaller than a big die compatible with the Big Shot model. It even works with other brands’ embossing tools and dies.

What I like most about this machine are the diagrams on the multipurpose platform. They deliver simple guidelines on how to create the ideal Sizzix sandwich.

The Big Shot has sturdy steel gears, plastic ABS exterior, sturdy core steel rollers, and a 6-inch opening. It’s capable of cutting and embossing in a matter of moments.

You can cut and emboss different materials including cardstock, paper, balsa wood, cork, felt, and so on. As you can notice, possibilities with this machine are endless.

Machine Specifications

Type:Die-cutting and embossing
Brand:Sizzix
Materials:Viny, paper, leather, fabric, plastic, metal

Key Features

  • Sturdy and solid construction
  • Delivers flawless results in seconds
  • Diagrams for easy guidelines on how to make a sandwich
  • Adjustable multipurpose platform
  • Works with different materials

Pros

  • 6-inch opening
  • Motorized cutting
  • Great cutting quality
  • Super-versatile
  • Family-friendly

Cons

  • Not big enough
  • Limited accessories
  • A bit expensive

Bira Craft Die Cutting & Embossing Machine 

(Best Budget)

Bira Craft Die Cutting & Embossing Machine
Shop now at Amazon

If you’re looking for a die-cutting and embossing machine with a big working space, the Bira Craft model is the perfect choice for you.

It has a 3 1/8-inch feeding slot and other features you will love.

The suction cup sticks firmly on the smooth working area with the red level pressed down, and released while lifting the lever. It’s affordable and lightweight.

And makes a great choice for both beginners and experienced crafters. This model works with all leading brand acid-etched embossing folders and dies.

What I like most about this machine is the large cutting path. The best part? It utilizes real plates instead of the plastic, flimsy ones that need to be replaced.

The Bira Craft machine comes with an additional clear plate. It’s ideal for small dies and cards. It’s great for thin vinyl but I wouldn’t recommend it for thick vinyl.

You can cut 2mm foam easily and cleanly. However, it’s not suitable for leather, felt and fabric. If you’re into durable embossing machines, you will like this one.

It’s solidly built, long-lasting and makes a beautiful addition to your crafting workstation and accessories. It’s ideal for passionate crafters with limited working space.

Machine Specifications

Type:Die-cutting and embossing
Brand:Bira Craft
Materials:Viny, paper, leather, fabric, plastic, metal

Key Features

  • Ideal for limited working space
  • Real plates instead of plastic ones
  • Perfect for small dies and cards

Pros

  • Quality embossing
  • Easy to carry and store
  • Great customer service

Cons

  • The cutting platform needs frequent replacement

We R Memory Keepers Mini Evolution Die Cut Machine Kit

We R Memory Keepers Mini Evolution Die Cut Machine Kit
Shop now at Amazon

We R Memory Keepers entered the American Crafts family of brands in 2014. They create some of the most innovative, high-quality and functional products.

And their products are loved by engineers worldwide. Mini evolution die cut machine kit is no exception. The cutting plates are 6 1/2 inches long and 3 inches wide.

It’s a lightweight and portable crafting machine with excellent performance. This mini machine is perfect for crops away from home. However, some users wish for bigger plates.

You will love the dies, embossing pads and cute design. This machine brings great value for money. Now, let’s take a look at some of the main advantages and disadvantages.

Machine Specifications

Type:Die-cutting and embossing
Brand:We R Memory Keepers
Materials:Viny, paper, leather, fabric, plastic, metal

Key Features

  • Innovative and high-quality
  • Cute design, embossing pads and dies
  • Lightweight and portable machine

Pros

  • Great performance
  • Perfect to keep on your desk
  • Ideal for card making

Cons

  • None

Cricut 2000293 Cuttlebug Die Cutting & Embossing Machine 

(Best Embossing Machine for Card Making)

Cricut 2000293 Cuttlebug Die Cutting & Embossing Machine
Shop now at Amazon

The Cuttlebug by Cricut is one of the most popular die-cutting and embossing machines on the market.

It delivers a portable and versatile option for embossing and cutting a broad variety of materials. It’s the only Cricut unit that can emboss. I like it because of many reasons.

One of them is the professional-looking results you get every time. It delivers crisp, clean cuts, and deep even embossing. It works with the whole line of Cricut cutting dies and embossing folders.

However, it’s also compatible with popular dies and brands. You can cut and emboss different materials, including thin leather, acetate ribbon, foils, paper, and so on.

If you buy this machine, you will get an A2 embossing folder, 2 metal dies, a rubber embossing mat, two B plates and one A plate.

What I like most about this machine is the compact fold-n-store design. I also like the collapsible handle, string suction and easy operation. You will also get a user manual.

Machine Specifications

Type:Die-cutting and embossing
Brand:Cricut
Materials:Viny, paper, leather, fabric, plastic, metal

Key Features

  • Fold-n-store design
  • Compatible with all Cricut dies and embossing folders
  • Compatible with popular dies and embossing folders
  • The only Cricut machine that can emboss
  • A lot of free accessories

Pros

  • Works with a lot of materials
  • Professional-looking results every time
  • Lightweight and easy to store

Cons

  • Older technology

Gemini Junior Portable Die Cutting and Embossing Machine 

(Best Embossing Machine for Metal)

Gemini Junior Portable Die Cutting and Embossing Machine
Shop now at Amazon

The Gemini Junior is ideal for portable use because it’s compact, small and efficient. This model comes with enough platform to respond to your crafting needs.

It’s great to keep on your craft or desktop station for accessibility and ease of use. You can also take the Gemini Junior to classes and craft weekends since it’s portable.

This baby isn’t only lighter but also quieter and faster than other machines. However, what I like most is the low-profile, sleek design. It’s been made for intricate dies.

But it’s also capable of cutting heavyweight materials like cardstock, foil, vinyl, and layers of fabric. It has a higher pressure than other die-cutting and embossing units.

This enables greater cutting of elaborate designs. It also enables edge-to-edge cutting. Gemini Junior can resume, pause, and reverse the plates within the unit.

It’s compatible with most embossing folders and thin metal dies.

The platform size is 6-inch x 8.9 inches. If you buy it, you will also get 2 metal dies, 1 metal shim, 2 clear plates, 1 3D embossing folder, 1 rubber shim, and 1 magnetic shim.

Machine Specifications

Type:Die-cutting and embossing
Brand:Gemini
Materials:Viny, paper, leather, fabric, plastic, metal

Key Features

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Work with lightweight and heavyweight materials
  • Works with most embossing folders and thin metal dies
  • Lighter, quieter and faster than other machines
  • A lot of free accessories included

Pros

  • Reliable and durable
  • Convenient operation buttons
  • A large platform size

Cons

  • The cutting plates don’t last long
  • Not compatible with wooden and plastic dies
  • Can’t be used with flower moulds

Spellbinders PL-001 Platinum Die Cut & Emboss Machine 

(Best Manual Embossing Machine)

Spellbinders PL-001 Platinum Die Cut & Emboss Machine
Shop now at Amazon

Made with versatility and creativity in mind, the Spellbinders PL-001 Platinum Die Cut and Emboss unit is the latest innovation by Spellbinders.

If you’re looking for a manual die-cutting and embossing machine with impressive cutting pressure and power, look no further than this professional crafting machine.

This impressive machine can slice 40 various materials up to 8.5 inches wide. It’s also capable of cutting as many as 8 layers thick Contour Steel Rule dies in a single try.

Additionally, the Platinum unit can cut amazingly detailed wafer etched/thin dies. It can also use texture plates and embossing folders from other brands on the market.

Machine Specifications

Type:Die-cutting and embossing
Brand:Spellbinders
Materials:Viny, paper, leather, fabric, plastic, metal

Key Features

  • Unsurpassed cutting pressure and power
  • Compatible with different texture plates and embossing folders
  • Cuts over 40 materials up to 8.5 inches wide

Pros

  • Cuts thick materials with ease
  • Great machine at a phenomenal price
  • Perfect for professional crafters

Cons

  • Heavy machine
  • Some buyers didn’t receive all the parts
  • Not compatible with the Sizzix dies

Sizzix Sidekick Die Cutting and Embossing Machine 

(Best Embossing Machine for Beginners)

Sizzix Sidekick Die Cutting and Embossing Machine
Shop now at Amazon

The Sizzix Sidekick is the ideal die-cutting machine for beginners. It’s affordable, adorable, and portable. And comes with all you need to start realizing your crafting ideas.

It’s a great tool for both beginners and professional crafters. This model is made for use with embossing folders and wafer-thin dies up to 2 1/2 inches wide.

The Sidekick is perfect for card making, scrapbooking, wedding and event planning, home decor, and so on. It’s ideal for use on smooth places thanks to the special vacuum seal.

What I like most about this model is the white and grey design. It’s a stylish machine with an ergonomic handle for simple roller action. Also, it’s lightweight and easy to store.

If you buy this machine, you will get a pair of aqua cutting pads, thinlits dies, 7 stamps, 2 small textured impressions embossing folders.

Machine Specifications

Type:Die-cutting and embossing
Brand:Sizzix
Materials:Viny, paper, leather, fabric, plastic, metal

Key Features

  • A complete starter kit
  • Perfect for craft projects on the go
  • Multitude of materials

Pros

  • Lightweight and easy to store
  • Compatible with different dies and embossing folders
  • Vacuum seal for extra stability

Cons

  • Smaller than expected

Sizzix 662500 Big Shot Foldaway Machine

Sizzix 662500 Big Shot Foldaway Machine
Shop now at Amazon

If you’re looking for a compact die-cutting and embossing machine that’s perfect for crafters on the go, look no further than the Big Shot Foldaway.

This unit has a cutting surface and a carrying handle that neatly foldaway. It’s perfect for storing in small stations and for crafting on the go.

The Big Shot Foldaway has a cutting and embossing capability of up to 6 inches wide and unsurpassed pressure. It delivers flawless results every time.

It’s compatible with the Sizzix design library including Textured Impressions, Framelits, Thinlits, Bigz, and so on, except the embossing folders and dies wider than 6 inches.

This machine is safe and simple to use. It’s packed with built-in storage compartments and comes with free accessories including 1 thin die adapter and a pair of cutting pads.

Machine Specifications

Type:Die-cutting and embossing
Brand:Sizzix
Materials:Viny, paper, leather, fabric, plastic, metal

Key Features

  • Built-in storage compartments
  • Ergonomic handle for simple roller action
  • Cut and emboss different materials

Pros

  • Portable and easy to store
  • Die-cut and emboss materials up to 6 inches wide
  • Endless creative possibilities

Cons

  • None

Spellbinders GC-200 Grand Calibur Die Cutting & Embossing Machine 

(Best Overall)

Spellbinders GC-200 Grand Calibur Die Cutting & Embossing Machine
Shop now at Amazon

Spellbinders GC-200 die-cutting and embossing machine is a user-friendly and versatile crafting machine made to emboss and cut with Spellbinders die templates.

It’s also capable of working with different dies, make image transfers, replicating charms, smash bottle caps, set eyelets, and so on.

If you pick this crafting machine, you will get a base plate, a crank handle, a cutting plate, an embossing mat, an embossing plate, and instructions.

This machine can accommodate papers 8 1/2 x 11 inch without trimming. It’s a new and improved unit, but still compatible with all Spellbinders die templates.

Machine Specifications

Type:Die-cutting and embossing
Brand:Spellbinders
Materials:Viny, paper, leather, fabric, plastic, metal

Key Features

  • User-friendly and versatile
  • Perfect for different DIY projects
  • New and improved machine

Pros

  • Ideal for embossing
  • Perfect for beginners and experts
  • It takes full-size papers

Cons

  • Bulky

Fiskars Fuse Creativity System Starter Set

Fiskars Fuse Creativity System Starter Set
Shop now at Amazon

If you’re looking for a starter set, look no further than Fiskars Fuse Creativity System.

It’s packed with an amazing machine, a spacer plate, a cutting plate with added rubber mat, a design set that slices thick materials, and 2 interchangeable letterpress plates.

It’s perfect for making die-cut and letterpress forms in a single try through the machine. It’s also perfect for embellishing a broad range of craft projects.

The manual cranks help users do more with fewer turns. This unit is a real time-saver. A single design set provides 5 creative methods.

The design set has a broad variety of inks and materials for different results. There is also a storage part which makes it easy to store accessories, letterpress plates, and dies.

Machine Specifications

Type:Die-cutting and embossing
Brand:Fiskars
Materials:Viny, paper, leather, fabric, plastic, metal

Key Features

  • Great starter set
  • High-quality results
  • Storage compartments
  • Free accessories
  • Manual system

Pros

  • Works with fabric materials
  • Ideal for die-cut and letterpress forms
  • Compatible with different dies and embossing folders
  • Perfect for embellishing a lot of different projects
  • Perfect for thicker materials

Cons

  • Heavy

Sizzix 657850 BIGkick Machine

(Best Embossing Machine for Leather)

Sizzix 657850 BIGkick Machine
Shop now at Amazon

Sizzix BigKick has a multipurpose platform and makes a great tool for embossing texturized card making and home decor projects.

It also works with craft, fabric, cardstock, leather, metal, matboard, and so on. This model is compatible with a lot of products from Sizzix library.

It works with Sizzlits, Thinlits, Embosslits, Textured Impressions, Framelits, Shapes XL Bigz Originals, and Bigz movers. The BigKick comes with a pair of regular pads.

The BigKick is also compatible with other brands’ embossing tools and dies. If you want a super-versatile and portable crafting machine, this model is perfect for you.

Machine Specifications

Type:Die-cutting and embossing
Brand:Sizzix
Materials:Viny, paper, leather, fabric, plastic, metal

Key Features

  • Versatile and compatible
  • Extended multipurpose platform
  • Large but portable machine

Pros

  • Includes a pair of regular pads
  • Perfect for embossing texturized card making
  • Cuts and emboss different materials

Cons

  • The cutting pressure isn’t strong enough

What Do You Need for Embossing?

If you’re passionate about embossing but don’t know what you need to start, here is a list of accessories and tools you will need.

Embossing Powder

The options are endless when it comes to embossing powder. No matter if you want a metallic, shiny or matte effect, you will find a powder that responds to your needs.

Most crafters begin with white or black embossing powder. Some crafters like using embossing powder in their favourite colour. Metallic is often used for special events.

Heat Gun

This is a necessary tool for some types of embossing. You need heat to cure the embossing powder and activate its effects. Melting the powder results in different effects.

Embossing Ink

This is a special type of ink that makes the effect possible.

It’s meant to be used with stamps. Stamping with this type of ink will keep your powder where you want it. You will also need stamps and stencils.

Watch this video to know more about:

Watch video: How to Use Embossing Powder

What Kind of Paper Do You Use for Embossing?

Vellum and cardstock work best because thinner materials can tear easily. If you rub the wax paper over the paper surface, it will help the stylus glide smoother.

How to Emboss With the Cricut Machine?

You can pick between two ways. The first one includes utilizing the scoring stylus to score a design. This can apply a little depth to your DIY projects.

The second way includes utilizing an embossing pen in the pen tool which writes with special embossing ink. Watch the following video for more tips.

Watch video: Embossing with the Cricut

Is the Cuttlebug Being Discontinued?

In 2018, Cricut announced that it’s decided to stop producing the Cuttlebug. The popular manual die-cut machine is discounted along with its accessories.

Debossing vs Embossing

Embossing and debossing represent two processes of making either raised or recessed relief designs and images in paper and other materials.

A debossed pattern is sunken into the exterior of the material. An embossed pattern, on the other hand, is raised against the background.

Watch this video to know more about:

Watch video: Embossing and Debossing

Cricut or Sizzix

The Cricut Maker is a popular machine in the market. It’s suitable for any sewing, quilting, and crafting project. It’s loaded with features and easy to use.

You will receive a scoring tool, a rotary blade, extra-powerful blades, pens and other equipment you will find useful. This machine is famous and desired by many because it’s super-versatile.

The Maker is capable of cutting over 100 different materials including heavy materials like matboard and balsa wood. The new knife blade can cut everything you throw at it.

Watch this video to know more about:

Watch video: Cricut Maker Review

The Big Shot cutting machine includes an extended multipurpose platform. It’s a compact shape-cutting and embossing roller-style unit.

This workhorse can accommodate a broad range of crafting materials including fabric and paper. It has a pair of regular cutting pads and an adjustable extended multipurpose space.

It’s compatible with other embossing and die-cutting tools, and almost the whole Sizzix items library. It’s loaded with an easy-grip handle and makes the perfect choice for heavy materials.

Watch video: How to use the Big Shot Machine

Sizzix Big Shot and Bigkick

The Big Shot and the BIG Kick models look alike. They’re very similar and there’s hardly any difference between these two models to mention.

They deliver the same options and come in the same sizes. However, there is a slight difference in color. Big Shot looks more professional, while the Big Kick has friendlier colors.

Also, the Big Shot has a handle-like part on top, while the Big Kick doesn’t have this feature. This makes the Big Shot easier to control while working.

Although these units look similar and perform almost the same, they have different prices for a reason. The Big Kick is cheaper and makes a great choice for beginners.

The Big Shot, on the other hand, is costlier because it comes with a few small details. It depends on your needs, preferences, and budget which model you choose.

Cricut Cuttlebug vs Cricut Maker

The Cricut Cuttlebug machine is capable of cutting and embossing different crafting materials.

It’s portable and compact which means it requires less storage space, unlike other die-cutting machines. It comes with all the cutting pads you need to begin with crafting.

It also includes a user manual and a pop-up handle. You will get a 5×7 flower embossing folder, a simple flower as a bonus embossing folder, 2 B cutting pads, and instructions.

Watch video: Die Cut with Cricut Cuttlebug

The Cricut Maker is perfect for any sewing, quilting, and crafting task. It’s loaded with features and easy to use.

You will receive a scoring tool, a rotary blade, extra-powerful blades, pens and other equipment you will find useful. This machine is famous and desired by many because it’s super-versatile.

The Maker is capable of cutting over 100 different materials including heavy materials like matboard and balsa wood. The new knife blade can cut everything you throw at it.

Sizzix vs AccuQuilt

The Big Shot cutting machine includes an extended multipurpose platform. It’s a compact shape-cutting and embossing roller-style unit.

This workhorse can accommodate a broad range of crafting materials including fabric and paper. It has a pair of regular cutting pads and an adjustable extended multipurpose space.

It’s compatible with other embossing and die-cutting tools, and almost the whole Sizzix items library. It’s loaded with an easy-grip handle and makes the perfect choice for heavy materials.

Watch this video to know more about:

Watch video: Gemini Junior VS Bigshot |unboxing

If you’re looking for the best fabric cutting system, look no further than the AccuQuilt GO fabric cutter. It makes the perfect cutter for fabric thanks to advanced features.

If you’re a newbie, don’t worry. There are detailed instructions included. You will also get a cutting mat, a die, and a 90% faster performance than scissors and rotary cutters.

FAQs

Can I use embossing folders without a machine?

Some embossing plates can be used without machines. They’re named Fiskars texture plates. You can use an embossing tool to utilize them.

Is embossing permanent?

Yes, embossing is permanent.

What is a die-cutting sticker?

A die-cutting sticker represents a sticker that’s cut into an original shape so that it can fit a given piece of artwork.

Can the Cricut emboss?

Yes, in 2 ways. The first includes using the scoring stylus to score a design. The second includes using an embossing pen in the pen tool.

What is the difference between die-cutting and embossing?

Die-cutting includes cuts to different materials. Embossing, on the other hand, is shaping the material to a certain design that dimensionally changes it.

My Top Pick

The best embossing machine can help you realize all your embossing or cutting ideas. If you’re looking for a good mix of budget and art project options, the Sizzix Big Shot is for you.

To boost your projects and increase seals, Spellbinders GC-200 Grand Calibur Die Cutting & Embossing Machine is the machine you need to buy.

If you’re looking for a reputable embossing machine for cards, the Cuttlebug is the right choice for you. Hopefully, my buying guide can help you make a wise choice.

Best Embossing Machine
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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Olalekan

    August 13, 2020 at 6:47 am

    Can I use any of these machines to make an official company seal on paper? Or is there any machine you can recommend that can help cut out a company seal on a met that can be used as company seals. Thanks and regards,

    Reply
    • Krista Perry

      August 14, 2020 at 2:30 am

      Dear Olalekan,

      Thanks for reaching out!

      You will need a custom logo embosser seal stamp for this action.

      Have a wonderful day and stay safe.

      Love, Krista.

      Reply

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