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Scrapbook and make cards with the best embossing machines. Flat Bed Die Cutter
The best embossing machines offer an easy way to create interesting and unique cards and labels as well as personalised gifts from a variety of materials. While traditionally these have been fully manual machines you can now get digital devices too. These can even compress designs onto leather for professional-looking craft makes and presents.
Much like owning one of the best Cricut machines or the best vinyl cutters, investing in a good embossing machine is a fantastic way to step up your crafting game. And luckily, I've got some pretty affordable recommendations for you, including the best die cutting and embossing machines for all budgets. I've curated this list based on consumer reviews as well as our own expertise.
My list below contains the best embossing machines on the market today, and I've included both electronic and manual options based on your preference. With the former, you just need to touch a button, making everything quick and (almost) hands-free. With the latter, all it takes is the turn of a handle to achieve even compression across your chosen material. If you're not quite sure what it is you're looking for, scroll down for our advice on how to choose an embossing machine.
The Gemini II is the newest digital embossing machine around at the moment and is the larger, more advanced version of the very popular Gemini embossing machine. Aside from being larger and a little bulkier, around the size of a small printer, the Gemini II has some great features behind its boxy design.
There's a new 9 inch optical sensor for improved accuracy and precision; this will measure and adjust to any sized cutting plate placed inside the Gemini II's workspace shelf, the motor starts automatically. The goal of Gemini II is to make the embossing and die-cutting process even easier.
It should be noted, the Gemini II is around the same price as a Cricut Explore 3, but where the Cricut can be used to design projects on an app the Gemini II relies on die cuts. Which you prefer could simply depend on what you're used to and how you'll use the machine.
This is a powerful die-cutting machine too, and using multimedia dies you'll be able to cut through eight layers of fabric at once. If you're a quilter, this is a great addition to your workflow. It has a maximum cutting depth of 2mm and can cut up to 800 gsm card stock (with mixed media dies).
There's not a lot to call between the Gemini II and the Sizzix Big Shot Switch Plus (below), except the Gemini II more automated, a little more powerful and runs quieter. If price is an issue then the Sizzix is cheaper, but if you're using a die-cutter a lot then the Gemini II is a little more advanced.
The Sizzix Big Shot Switch Plus is the newest die cutting and embossing machines from the Sizzix brand, one of the best around, and it's finally caught with the likes of Cricut and Silhouette. Kind of. While this latest machine is an all-digital device it doesn't use an app to create its embossing but remains faithful to the metal cutters you may be used to from the traditional manual machines.
The Sizzix Big Shot Switch Plus uses the same metal die cut process, so you place pre-sized templates into the machine with your material and it uses pressure to stencil, emboss or cut the designs. Being digital, however, this can be done at the press of a button and the machine judges the pressure and feeds the material through. It's a great machine, especially if this is the embossing process you're used to (and now comes in a swish gloss black finish too).
The only real downside is the cost, as you can buy a Cricut Joy or older model Cricut Explore for around the same price. But those craft machines can be complex and not for everyone, if you're already in the Sizzix style of die cutting, then the Sizzix Big Shot Switch Plus is an excellent option.
We'll start with the best embossing machine on the market today: the Bira Craft Die Cutting & Embossing Machine. Why do we like it so much? Well for starters, it has an adjustable gear system to adjust the height of the platform for a range of projects.
Furthermore, it combines a 9-inch slot opening with a portable, fold-away cutting surface. That means that not only is it large enough for full-sized A4 tasks, it's also a portable choice. Plus there's even space underneath the cutting surface to store the handle when you're travelling. There are three modes to choose from, which can be controlled with the dial at the top. Alongside a 3D emboss and 2D letterpress emboss setting, there's also a die cutting mode.
Don't want the hassle of cranking a handle manually? Then here's our pick as the best electronic embossing machine: the Gemini GEM-M-GLO.
It has three buttons on the top: On, Start, and Reverse. In use, this machine is quick and even, and it's perfect for those who want to be more hands-free, or who may struggle to turn a lever.
With this set, you get a lot for your money, including a magnetic shim, plastic shim, rubber embossing mat, metal cutting platform, and two clear cutting platforms. It also includes an ornate lase 3D folder and a multimedia die set.
New to embossing? Then our top recommendation is the Sizzix Big Shot Manual Die-Cutting Machine.
It won't work with embossing folders wider than 6 inches, but with a carry handle and manual design, this machine is perfect for beginners and those who are new to embossing. Because Sizzix has a wide range of compatible dies and platforms, you can even expand your collection as you advance.
This starter kit is built to last, too. It has a steel core roller system to evenly emboss and die cut every task, and comes with a platform, cutting pads, and a thin die adaptor. Our one complaint is that it won't fold away for easier storage, but this does mean that the cutting platform is stronger.
The Gemini Foil Press Machine can be used on its own but it comes into its own as a complimentary machine to the excellent range of Gemini die-cutters and embossing machines found on my list. This won't emboss or die-cut but is, specifically, a foil stamping machine to create elegant finishes on cards and invitations (it also works on many material types from paper to fabric, leather and wood).
The machine has safety in mind, so there are easy to follow instructions in the manual and a mix of temperature controls to make use of, ensuring you can get crafting straight away. The silicone finger grips ensure your safe, while the machine comes with a cooling mat and tweezers for easy use.
While it's designed to be used with the Gemini range of die-cut machines you can use it with other brands, such as Sizzix, so long as they are no thicker than 2mm.
If you're mainly interested in embossing your homemade cards, then check out the Gemini Midi Manual Die Cutting & Embossing Machine. It has a 6 x 9-inch cutting platform, so it's the perfect size for cards. It works on felt, cardstock, foil, glitter paper, and other materials, and comes with a plastic shim and cutting folder. Note, though, that you'll have to buy additional folders for embossing.
Electric Die Cutting Machine While it's perfectly sized for card making, you can also use the Gemini Midi for smaller embossing tasks, making it a perfect machine for scrapbooking or adding finishing touches to larger projects. At under 3kg, it's also very lightweight.