Top 16 Best Embossing Machines Reviews

Making your homemade items is not only cheaper but also exciting, fun and rewarding for crafters and DIY enthusiasts. However, in order to create your custom items, owning a decent embossing machine is a must. It will help you design your scrapbooks, greeting cards and other projects that you have in mind.

Embossing machines provide the opportunity to go beyond paper to make art pieces at home by using thin leather, tissue paper, fabrics, ribbons, foils, and other material to create the project you want. Let’s learn something more about these machines and help you choose the best embossing machine for you.

What is Embossing Machine?

Embossing machines cut materials such as thin plastic into certain shapes, foam, paper, and fabric. You can use the cutouts in different projects including decorations, scrapbooking, homemade cards or quilts. They can be manual or digital. Manual has sharp edges that facilitate the cutting into particular shapes.

However, when buying for a manual embossing machine, keep in mind that you will need to buy cutting dies separately. They come in many designs, shapes, and sizes. Digital embossing machines, on the other hand, work like printers. Meaning, they accept designs in 2 ways.

The first one is sending the designs into the machine from a cartridge. For those who do not know what cartridge is, it is a device that attaches into the embossing machine after being pre-loaded with designs. The second way is designing and downloading designs from a computer with special software for this.

What Does an Embossing Machine Do?

Embossing machines perform two main operations, embossing, and cutting. Embossing is the process of making raised designs on a surface in order to get the “pop-out” effect. Some of them can also engrave, pierce or draw. For drawing, you change the blades on the device for cutting with a marker for drawing.

Piercing, on the other hand, represents a process of creating holes in different materials including fabric.

Engraving is the carving or cutting of designs on a harder surface. Whether or not a machine offers extra features like this depends on the quality. High-quality models have more features than low-quality ones.

What is The Best Die Cut and Embossing Machine?

Embossing goes hand-in-hand with die-cutting. Meaning, they both represent different techniques that ask for pressure in order to create designs. And machines that provide that kind of pressure are made to perform and handle both processes. Meaning that a single-function embossing machine does not exist.

Die-cutting and embossing machines can be manual electronic and computerized as I mentioned above. However, only electronic and manual ones can create embossed texture using embossing folders. Why? Well, manual machines ask for physical cranking of a handle to push the “embossing sandwich” through.

Electronic machines, on the other hand, use a motor to push it through automatically. So, the best die-cutting and embossing machine need embossing folders – compatible with your machine.

There is a big range of folder sizes and patterns from popular brands such as TODO, Ultimate Crafts or Tattered Lace.

They provide thoughtfully-made embossing folders for various themes, serving extra-special occasions or keeping it plain with geometric designs. Once you have chosen your folders, you will need materials to emboss. Embossing is popular in paper crafting because it allows you to make creative DIY projects.

What is the Best Embossing Machine to Buy?

Embossing machines give you a chance to go beyond paper to make masterpieces at the comfort of your home. However, choosing the one is not that easy as it seems, so that is why I have created this shortlist with some of the best embossing machines in the market. Let’s review them together and pick THE ONE.

• Best Overall: Sizzix Big Shot Pro Embossing Machine
  “Versatile, affordable, compatible with other brands, portable, user-friendly, sturdy, old-fashioned.”
• Runner Up: Cricut Cuttlebug Embossing Machine
  “Super-versatile, collapsible handle, compact fold-n-store profile, two metal dies, A2 embossing folder.”
• Best Budget: Sizzix Tim Holtz Vagabond 2 Embossing Machine
  “Precise cut and smooth operation, portable, user-friendly, powerful, works with different materials.”
• Best Beginners: Sizzix Sidekick Machine Embossing Machine
  “User-friendly, sturdy, old-fashioned, portable, compatible with other brands, perfect for beginners.”
• Best Electric: Sizzix Big Shot Express Embossing Machine
  “Motorized cutting and embossing, family-friendly, hard to break, super-versatile, ideal for DIY projects.”
• Best Metal: Gemini By Crafter’s Embossing Machine
  “Reliable, durable, convenient cutting machine, large platform size, cut multiple dies at once, versatile.”
• Best for Leather: Spellbinders PE-100 Embossing Machine
  “Compact, stylish, versatile, super-powerful, durable, cuts up to eight layers of most materials at once.”
• Best Professional: Spellbinders PL-001 Embossing Machine
  “Smooth operation, easy utilization, made for industrial-strength materials, versatile, heavy-duty unit.”
• Best Die Cut and Embossing: Spellbinders GC-200 Embossing Machine
  “Lightweight, user-friendly design, compact, cost-efficient, detachable handle, works great in papers.”
• Best for Scrapbooking: Sizzix BIGkick Embossing Machine
  “Compatible with every Sizzix and Ellison die, perfect for jewelry, cut and emboss several dies at once.”
• Best for Card Making: CNCShop Embossing Machine
  “Perfect for making plastic cards, precise control, easy to use, heavy-duty reliable structure, convenient.”
• Best Craft: Evolution Advanced Embossing Machine
  “Advanced dial system, large built-in storage, innovative detachable motor, increased productivity.”
• Best Fabric: Sizzix Big Shot Embossing Machine
  “A large working space, extended multipurpose platform, powder blue and teal color scheme, portable.”

Top 16 Best Embossing Machine Comparison Table 2020

To narrow down your search for the best embossing machines on the market, I have reviewed products with top-rated status only. Make sure to check their main features before you make your final purchase.

Best Embossing Machine Reviews 2020 

Now that you have compared the most important features of the best embossing machines available for purchase in 2020, let’s learn something about their performance in details before you buy the right one.

Cricut Cuttlebug Embossing Machine

Looking for the best embossing and die-cutting Cricut machine? I might have the perfect model for you. It comes with two metal dies and an A2 embossing folder. If you buy this baby, you will also get one 6×8 b, 6×8 a plate and a rubber embossing mat. It has a collapsible handle and compact fold-n-store profile.

Cutting and embossing through materials such as acetate ribbon, tissue paper, thin leather, and foils has never been easier thanks to the versatile Cricut Cuttlebug Die Cutting and Embossing Machine. It works with other leading cutting dies and embossing folders. But it has its downfalls just like any other model.

Sizzix 660425 Big Shot Embossing Machine

This die-cutting and embossing machine can work on many different materials up to 6″ (15.24cm) wide. It is compatible with the entire Sizzix products library including Bigz, Thinlits and Framelits dies, and

Textured Impressions, Texture Fades, and Impresslits Embossing Folders except for Bigz Plus and Bigz Pro die. The Big Shot Machine measures approximately 40 x 29 x 24 cm and weighs 4.52 Kg (7.50 lb).

It includes 1 Big Shot Machine, 1 Extended Multipurpose Platform and 1 Pair of Cutting Pads. 1-year limited warranty. You can also register your machine for 2 additional years on the Sizzix website.

Sizzix 660340 Big Shot Plus Embossing Machine

The Big shot Plus Machine provides plenty of stylish appeals as it comes in a sleek white and grey color scheme with size logo embossed on the handle.

It offers the similar versatility of working with the entire size products library (except for Big Pro dies) including the smallest to the big 9” wide plastic-backed embossing machine dies and embossing tools.

This roller machine cuts and embosses many distinct materials also giving the versatility of using 8 1/2 “x 11” materials. It comes with a pair of Standard Cutting Pads and the Big Shot Plus Platform and Adapters A and B.

CNCShop Embossing Machine

If you want to add a personal touch to your club cards, gift cards, VIP cards or membership cards, CNC Shop Embosser Machine is the perfect choice for you. It is a stylish manual PVC Card Embosser machine featuring small volume, accurate orientation, heavy-duty reliable structure, and convenient operation.

In comparison with electric embossing machines, this manual machine is better suited for small business and personalization tasks. This heavy-duty embosser provides capitalization case of English letters, small symbols, big symbols, capitalization, and lower Arabic numerals, modifying splashing symbols and more.

Spellbinders GC-200 Embossing Machine

Spellbinders Grand Calibur Die-Cutting & Embossing Machine is a user-friendly crafting instrument that is designed to cut and embossed with Spellbinders Die Templates.

It is a versatile tool that can also cut with other consumer dies, embossed with brass stencils, perform image transfers, set eyelets, replicate charms, smash bottle caps, and so on.

Compatible with all previous Spellbinders die templates and the new Grand Nestabilities, the system includes 1 machine, base plate, cutting plate, a crank handle, embossing plate, embossing mat, and instructions

The machine will fit 8 1/2 x 11 inches of paper without trimming.

Cricut 2000293 Cuttlebug Machine

(Best for Paper, Paper Craft, Books, and Paper Cards)

CricutCuttlebug allows the dies you already own and lets you cut and embossed from a wide range of crafting materials.

Its compact fold-n-store profile provides storage in less space than other leading machines. It has a built-in pop-up handle and comes with all necessary cutting pads you need to get started and a user manual.

Box contents include CricutCuttlebug Die Cutter & Embosser, 2 B Cutting Pads, 1 A Spacer, one 5×7 flower embossing folder, and instruction booklet. Bonus embossing folder: simple flower.

Sizzix 657900 Big Shot Embossing Machine

A CLASSIC model Big Shot machine comes with Extended Multipurpose Platform and Powder Blue & Teal color scheme.

It’s a portable shape-cutting and embossing roller-style machine that accommodates a wide range of crafting materials from paper to fabric.

Included with the Big Shot are a pair of Standard Cutting Pads and the adjustable Extended Multipurpose Platform. It works with almost the entire Sizzix products library, as well as other die-cutting and embossing tools.

Sizzix BIGkick Embossing Machine

If making jewelry is your thing, you should definitely consider the Sizzix 661305 Big Shot Jewelry Studio Machine. It works with the smallest embossing machine dies to the biggest 6 inches wide plastic-backed treasures and embossing tools. If that is not enough, this portable compact machine will cut and emboss whatever material you throw at it.

Making your own cards, scrapbook pages, invitations, fashion, home décor, altered art, and quilting has never been easier thanks to this Jewelry Studio. Machine accessories may be sold separately. However, just like any other machine, this one has pros and cons. Let’s review them before you make a purchase.

Evolution Advanced Embossing Machine

The innovative attachable motor pairs with the Evolution Advanced Die-Cutting and Embossing Machine (sold separately) can automate the die-cutting/embossing process. The inclusion of this attachable motor will automate the process of increasing productivity.

The removable motor comes with AC power cord and connects easily to the Evolution Advanced Die-Cutting and Embossing Machine (sold separately). No need to crank the machine by hand when you’ve got this remarkable removable motor.

Gemini By Crafter’s Embossing Machine

(Embossing Machine for Metal, Paper Craft, and Books)

Gemini is everything you will need to get started right away as it works with most thin metal dies. It gives higher pressure than other machines that allow for better cutting on elaborate designs.

The machine works with heavyweight cardstock, vinyl, foil, leather, multiple layers of fabric and much more. However, keep in mind that this machine is 120V and therefore only compatible in the USA.

Sizzix 661770 Embossing Machine

(Embossing Machine for Card Making, Credit Cards, and Plastic Cards)

As you can notice, Sizzix has some of the best embossing machines on the market. It is one of the most popular brands trusted by many customers. Another great machine that is worth your attention is the Sizzix 661770 Manual die-cutting and embossing machine that is lightweight, affordable and adorable.

It is designed for embossing folders up to 2/1/2’’ wide and detailed dies. It is capable of cutting a single sheet of lightweight to cardstock paper which makes it perfect for card making, scrapbooking, home and party décor, wedding planning and so on. Keep in mind that extra accessories may be sold separately.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=komH9vkxhy0&t=21s

Sizzix 661770 Manual Die Cutting and Embossing Machine – Embossing Machine for Card Making, Credit Cards, and Plastic Cards

As you can notice, Sizzix has some of the best embossing machines on the market. It is one of the most popular brands trusted by many customers. Another great machine that is worth your attention is the Sizzix 661770 Manual die-cutting and embossing machine that is lightweight, affordable and adorable.

It is designed for embossing folders up to 2/1/2’’ wide and detailed dies. It is capable of cutting a single sheet of lightweight to cardstock paper which makes it perfect for card making, scrapbooking, home and party décor, wedding planning and so on. Keep in mind that extra accessories may be sold separately.

Sizzix 660550 Big Shot Pro Embossing Machine

(Editor’s Choice)

Another great embosser machine that is worth mentioning is Big Shot Pro by Sizzix. It makes the best tool for crafters who want it all thanks to the 13’’ sized opening that allows the use of Pro and Plus dies.

It is perfect for cutting larger shapes and 3D items. If you wonder what comes with the Sizzix big shot, keep reading. If you order this baby, you will get a workhorse capable of cutting and embossing many materials up to 12’’ wide. It is compatible with the whole Sizzix products library including Thinlits, Bigz, Textured Impressions, Impresslist Embossing FAOLFERS, SureCut, Framelits die, and the Ellison brand.

Sizzix 660540 Big Shot Express Embossing Machine

(Best for Beginners)

If you prefer motorized cutting and embossing, the Sizzix 660540 Big Shot Express is the perfect choice for you. It comes better than ever providing its users with amazing cutting and embossing experience.

It is super versatile and features a sleek gray and white color scheme and the size logo embossed on the handle. It works with the whole size product library except for the Big Pro and Big plus dies. Other than that, it is one of the best electric embossing machines for paper, card making, and other DIY projects.

Spellbinders PE-100 Embossing Machine

(Best for Leather, Leather Belts, and Metal)

Powered by the same versa cut technology used in Platinum, the new Platinum 6 offers the same strength, pressure, and durability effortlessly cutting up to eight layers of most materials in a single pass.

It can blaze through even the heaviest of materials from leather, wool, to craft metal, to Balsa Wood.

The sleek, modern design of the Platinum 6 machine features a collapsible handle and fold-up sides for compact storage. It is sold with a pair of clear-cutting plates, standard platform, embossing plate, and embossing mat.

Spellbinders PL-001 Embossing Machine

(Best Commercial Embossing Machine for Number Plate, Aluminium and Plastic Film)

Spellbinders die cutting machine reviews cannot go without the PL-001 Platinum. Spellbinders PL-001 can effortlessly cut up to eight layers in one pass as it is designed with a solid steel core construction.

It has the ability to over 40 different materials including wool, Balsa wood, chipboard, craft metal, leather and so on. It is the best cutting machine for wood, and other heavy-duty materials and fabrics.

The machine can be used with most standard Wafer-thin/etched dies, embossing folders, texture plates, and Contour steel rule dies.

Sizzix Tim Holtz Vagabond 2 Embossing Machine

(Best Budget)

The Vagabond 2 machine is a portable and powerful machine that can effortlessly cut and emboss many different materials and thickness preventing motor jams.

Vagabond 2 machine comes with a pair of standard cutting pads, the extended platform which makes all Size components thinner than a big die compatible with the Vagabond 2 machine.

It can even work with frameless as well as other brands’ dies and embossing tools by adding extended wafer-thin die adapter.

How To Choose The Right Embossing Machine?

In order to help you choose the best embossing machine, I have created a step-by-step guide. Follow my guide and check my product reviews above in order to choose something that you will not regret buying.

What Features to Look After When Buying An Embossing Machine?

If this is your first time buying an embossing machine, you might be wondering: what features should I keep in mind when picking the best embossing machine? Keep on reading to find out the key features.

Portability

Before buying, you need to make sure that your future embossing machine is portable or not. If you do not buy a portable model, you will have difficulties when using it. Bulky machines are very tough to use.

Durability

Durability should be on top of your list of key features when buying an embossing machine. However, a warranty should be too. Make sure to check if the embossing machine you buy is covered by a warranty.

Versatility

If your embossing machine cannot be used for different projects, it will not be of great use to you. Make sure that the embossing machine you pick is versatile and provides extra features for unlimited options.

User-friendly

Always look for a machine that can be easily operated. Having a user-friendly embossing machine is very important, especially for beginners. Never choose a machine with a complex mechanism. Before buying, ask what type of process will your machine be using. A complex machine might cause many work issues.

Compatibility

Make sure that the machine you buy is compatible with other machines from the brand or other brands. This is an important feature because you will not have to spend extra cash on creating different designs.

High-quality

If you want to open your own business or make extra bucks from the comfort of your home, you need to purchase a high-quality embossing machine. Purchase a machine that will not get weak and less efficient after repeated use. A sturdy model will make your work easy without moving or breaking your materials.

How To Use Embossing Machine?

To use an embossing machine, you will need embossing folders to feed through. They are plastic folders with one debossed side and one raised side. Your material will stand in between. Once embossed, your cardstock will replicate the pattern on the folder precisely. As you can notice, embossing is super simple.

What is The Difference Between Cuttlebug and Sizzix?

The Cricut Cuttlebug machine is embossing and die cutting machine by Cricut. There are two versions out there: the original version and V2 version work exactly the same. They use the same plates, folders, and dies. The body design is the only difference.

The Cricut Cuttlebug has sides that can be folded up and tucked away which saves space. The machine can stick to the table as there is a suction underneath the machine which is activated when the sides are folded down.

This suction keeps the machine from moving around when running materials through the machine. The machine comes with a carrying handle and weighs only 7lbs, which makes it portable.

The Cuttlebug can cut a variety of materials including:

• Cardstock
• Thin Metal
• Thin Wood
• Some fabrics
• Thin Felt
• Posterboard
• Chipboard
• Tissue Paper
• Fun foam

The height of your cutting materials should not exceed 1/8″. Forcing materials through the machine could get them stuck.

Easy to maintain, the Cuttlebug comes with a 1-year.

Overall, the Cuttlebug is easy to maintain, portable machine coming at affordable price.

Sizzix brand, on the other hand, exists since 2001 and is owned by Ellison. They produce the popular award-winning die-cutting models including the Eclips2 electronic die cutter, steel-rule dies, a few manual cutters, chemically-etched embossing machine dies, and embossing folders.

Cricut uses the design space software while Sizzix launched the use of the Ecal software for their Eclips2.

While Design Space can be accessed with or without an internet connection, Sizzix’s software can not be accessed without an internet connection. Eclipse is the best electronic die cutting machine for paper.

Both brands are known by their names to have great customer support and warranty. Sizzix provides a 1-year warranty for their electronic cutter and a 3-year warranty for their manual cutters, while Cricut offers a 1-year limited warranty for all its machines.

What is The Difference Between The Sizzix Machines?

If you want to purchase from this brand, keep in mind that their machines are all the same. The only big difference is in the color, according to Sizzix. They say that their machines use the same dies and folders.

They might look different on the outside, however, they perform (cut and emboss) any of the materials the same way. But let’s review some of their best products and compare their performance and quality.

Vagabond

If you want a machine that will cut and emboss the same materials and sizes such as the Bigkick and Big Shot but with power, purchase the Vagabond die-cutting and embossing machine. It is ideal for people with mobility issues that look for electronic machines because manual machines are too difficult to use.

Big Shot Pro

Another machine that cuts and embosses the same materials such as Vagabond, Bigkick and Big Shot, is the Big Shot Pro. It can accommodate materials and dies up to 12 inches wide.

Texture Boutique

Interested in embossing? If yes, you will adore the Texture Boutique. It operates with Texture Fades and Textured Impressions embossing folders. It is both portable and lightweight which makes it perfect for moving around your home or office.

Eclipse

Do you prefer electronic cutting over manual? If yes, Eclipse is the right choice for you. It allows you to cut designs up to 12’’ wide by 24’’ long. You can cut designs from cartridges or from your PC using eCal.

What is The Difference Between Cuttlebug and Cricut?

The Cricut Cuttlebug machine is embossing and die cutting machine by Cricut. There are two versions out there: the original version and V2 version work exactly the same. They use the same plates, folders, and dies. The body design is the only difference.

The Cricut Cuttlebug has sides that can be folded up and tucked away which saves space. The machine can stick to the table as there is a suction underneath the machine which is activated when the sides are folded down.

This suction keeps the machine from moving around when running materials through the machine. The machine comes with a carrying handle and weighs only 7lbs, which makes it portable.

The Cuttlebug can cut a variety of materials including cardstock, thin metal, thin wood, fabrics, thin felt, poster board, chipboard, tissue paper, and fun foam. It is the best embossing machine for wood, t-shirts, and so on. The height of your cutting materials should not exceed 1/8″.

Forcing materials through the machine could get them stuck. Easy to maintain, the Cuttlebug comes with a 1-year. Overall, the Cuttlebug is easy to maintain, portable machine coming at affordable price.

The Cricut Maker Machine, on the other hand, cuts with 4000 grams of pressure and can cut through leather, chipboard, balsa wood, and most other materials up to 2.44mm thick with its new knife blade.

The Cricut Maker cuts fabric really well with its rotary blade attachment. It is good for quilters as it allows cutting fabric without adding bonding to the back of your fabric before cutting. Both are great machines. However, it depends on your taste, needs and personal preferences which one is better.

What Is Card Embossing Machine?

Card embossing machine is a regular embossing machine for making cards. With this type of machine, you can not only make regular decoration cards but debit and credit cards used in financial markets and healthcare (patient ID cards). However, embossed cards may be used in many other applications too.

FAQ

Final Verdict

Choosing the best embossing machine can be a bit of a challenge with so many products on the market. For product recommendations, review my comparison chart and choose a machine within your budget.

The best machine is supposed to be versatile and compatible with other embossing folders and die cuts. Share this buyer’s guide on social media and follow our site for future updates on embossing machines.