Best die cutting machine to unlock your creativity

This is a top choice for an easy to use card making machine. The Gemini II Die Cutting and Embossing Machine offers its superb cutting precision to create intricate designs for a variety of crafting projects. Its built-in shelf and storage compartments keep your craft tools organised and easily accessible. Plus, it's a neat and compact machine that won't take up too much desk space.

The benefit of buying through Crafter's Companion is that there's an enormous range of accessory kits available that can be used with this die cutting machine. So you have the convenience (and pleasure) of being able to buy bundles of papercraft sets. Plus, get inspired by Crafter's TV which gives you in-depth demonstrations of the Gemini II and much more. Also, Crafter's Companion have a blog full of crafting inspiration, with guides tailored for all skill levels.

If you're embarking on a new papercraft hobby, this Anna Griffin Empress Electronic Die Cut & Emboss Machine is a great piece of kit to master the basics. A customer comments: "This does exactly what it says on the tin – it cuts and embosses beautifully. It's really easy to use, comes with good instructions and a lovely starter set of dies and an embossing folder."

This kit contains everything you need to create intricate craft designs as soon as you receive it. Plus, there's lots of guidance and demonstrations to inspire you on QVC.

Add elegance to any crafting project; cutting and embossing various materials such as paper, cardstock, vinyl and fabric. It cuts at the push of a button, which takes all the labour out of fiddly cutting with scissors.

Customers vouch for the build quality of this machine, with one commenting: "It is very quiet, the plates seem thicker and do not appear to bend as much or as quickly. The magnetic plate is so sturdy, easily holding dies in place without necessarily needing to use tape."

Plus, there's lots embellishment kits, cards and envelopes and accessories available to buy alongside this machine.

Our tester used the Cricut Joy to explore labelling craft, as made popular by Stacey Solomen's home organisation projects. This Cricut model is aimed at beginners who are trying out new crafts.
It can be used to create greetings cards, iron-on designs, vinyl stickers and decals, as well as personalised labels. Our tester recommended it: "If you want to try a new hobby, love creating designs and personalising your belongings, then this is for you." But it is a case of practice makes perfect and you'll find there's a learning curve in order to achieve more expert designs.

If you love crafts, but suffer with dexterity issues, this versatile machine does all the hard work of a scalpel and cutting mat. Access lots of free projects and designs using the Design Space app. Our tester also recommends signing up to Cricut Access: "[It] saves you lots of money if you’re downloading designs, so it’s worth thinking about."

Read our full review of the Cricut Joy.

Get lots of crafting dies, plus an embossing folder with this Sizzix Big Shot Switch Plus Starter Kit. If crafting is your favourite form of self-care, this simple to use die cutting machine could really enhance your hobby. With its automatic feed and simple reverse switch, enjoy effortless die cutting that doesn't put a strain on your wrists. Get high-quality finishes every time. It's compatible with various Sizzix Die and Embossing ranges, including Bigz Steel-Rule Dies and Big Shot Plus Cutting Pads. Plus, it's compact for easy transportation and has a small compartment for craft tools.

For moments of inspiration the Sizzix Sidekick Mini Die Cutting and Embossing Machine could be your new best creative tool. It's small and portable so you can take it to your craft club and enjoy some creative time with friends.

Achieve intricate and clean cuts without the strain of using scissors or cutting tools. A customer comments: "This machine is ideal for embellishments rather than for card cutting. I have several pieces of smaller offcuts and this has meant I can use up scrap paper rather than using whole sheets."
Add small decorative details to greetings cards, and expand your collection of dies with the Sizzix range, offering so many crafting possibilities.

Our customer concludes: "It has definitely been worth the money and as it also comes with some dies I was able to get crafting straight away."

If you're looking for the cutting edge in crafting, the Cricut Maker 3 is it. With the ability to cut over 300 materials, from delicate fabrics to sturdy chipboard, at speeds twice as fast as its predecessor, it offers unparalleled precision. Smart Materials allows for long, seamless cuts up to 3.6 metres without a mat. Plus, it's compatible with 13 tools for cutting, writing, scoring, foiling and embellishing. Also, it can do additional decorative effects such as engraving and debossing. The Cricut Maker 3 empowers you to unleash professional-grade craftsmanship and elevate your creative endeavours to new heights.

Our tester said: "The Maker 3 really comes into its own when you start using the additional tools and blades which you can pick up from Cricut… Two of my favourites were the Foil Transfer Kit for gorgeous foil effects and the Engraving Tip which I used to create an acrylic coaster."

Read our full review of the Cricut Maker 3.

If you love papercraft or are looking to level up your gift wrapping with personalised labels, this Loklik Crafter Cutting Machine could make all the difference. It's accessible to crafters of all levels who have a bit of computer know-how. A customer commented: "I had not heard of Loklik before, however I am very impressed with the quality of cutting I get from my new crafter. It's also super quiet unlike other brands I have previously used."

This versatile tool makes crafting easier with its powerful motor that can effortlessly cut through paper, fabric and thin metals. With its precision cutting blade and adjustable speed settings, creating intricate designs is a breeze.

Our customer concludes: "I can't wait to design and create our Christmas cards this year with my daughter. Speedy delivery from John Lewis as well, arrived within a few days."

If you prefer a manual machine, this compact Gemini II Mini Manual Die Cutting Machine is a great choice for a simple and affordable craft cutter.

It doesn't need electricity, so you can position it anywhere and even take it with you; it's literally handbag size. Cut through paper, card, vinyl and fabric with ease. Simply turn the handle to create crisp and intricate designs for your cardmaking, scrapbooking and more.

It offers lots of creative possibilities without taking up much space. The machine applies precise pressure for consistent results every time, making it a fuss-free solution for taking your crafts to the next level. Plus, there's lots of support and inspiration available from Crafter's Companion.

Transform the simplest of materials into show-stopping artworks with the xTool M1 10W Smart 2-in-1 Laser Engraver and Vinyl Cutter. Make this a present for serious crafters only as the machine allows you to cut and engrave onto 3D objects. A customer comments: "I bought the deluxe version as it comes with loads of extras you wish you bought once you use it. The software is very easy to use. I can see what I want to engrave via a built-in camera."

It comes with its own design software and there are a range of add-ons available. If you're looking to establish a creative side hustle, this could be the machine for you.

Alternatively, because this machine offers the art school level facilities in the comfort of your own home, it could be hugely beneficial to a loved one that's embarking on a career in design.

Crafting becomes a symphony of colours, textures and ideas with the revolutionary Cricut Explore 3. This machine allows you to precision cut, draw, score and more with incredible speed. Compatible with Smart Materials for seamless cuts up to 3.6 metres enabling you to tackle everything from custom iron-ons to large banners. It's compatible with a range of Cricut tools and over 100 materials, With the Design Space app you can create personalised designs and lettering that the machine will then cut out. It's also worth noting that to access the full Design Space you'll need to pay a subscription. there are however a selection of free projects you can use.

Customer review: "Very easy to use and the possibilities are endless. You have the ability to cut hundreds of materials! To use this model you need to be able to connect to the internet so you'll need a good connection as it can be quite frustrating if you're halfway through cutting a project and it stops because it has lost signal. I've used this to make a beautiful personalised Christmas advent calendar for my little girls. I was able to cut out metallic vinyl numbers and images. The project instructions and template were all on Design Space. All I needed to was personalise them and then get cutting. This was my first project and I found it really easy and simple to follow."

Reviewed by Claire Tapley, Digital Editor for Yours.co.uk