When you devote most of your time to sewing and embroidery tasks, every tool or accessory is a big help. One cool tool for sewing enthusiasts, nowadays, is cutting machine for fabric. It not only gives you precise cuts but also helps you finish the sewing projects quickly. Read more about the best cutting machine for fabric below.
Top 10 Best Cutting Machines
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Best Fabric Cutting Machines in 2020
There are many easy ways to find the best sewing and embroidery machine. But, finding the best cutting machine for fabric is a bit difficult task. Many sewers understand that they need a digital fabric cutting machine to grow and sustain in the sewing world. But the biggest question they have is which one to buy?
I realized their concerns are genuine, and I should do something to help them get the best cutting device. So, I started researching fabric cutting machines that can help them remarkably.
After analyzing 29 cutting machines for fabric from 11 different brands, I found some of them can make a sewer’s life a lot easier. Today, I am going to list down 10 of those best cutting machines you can go for in 2020. Here they are:
Best Overall – Cricut Maker Fabric Cutting Machine
The first one on the list is Cricut Maker, Champagne Fabric Cutting Machine. You should note that Cricut is the best brand of fabric cutters.
I picked this as my best choice because it gives creative minds the freedom to make vinyl decals, iron-on, leather crafts, sewing projects, balsa models, paper crafts, and others.
The primary attraction of this cutter is the rotary blade for fabrics. The gliding rolling action of this blade aids in cutting almost any fabric precisely and quickly. Yes, without backing the fabric.
Pros
- Also features a knife blade that cuts 2.4 mm balsa and matboard
- Availability of Bluetooth wireless technology gives freedom from wires
- Its Design apps work on Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows
Cons
- People with limited use may find it expensive
Cricut Maker is the flagship model of this brand, allowing users to succeed in every project, whether big or small. The company claims that this machine is suitable for novice users as well as professionals. It is true.
Best Value for Money – Cricut Explore-Air2 Machine For Cutting Fabric
The second pick in this list is also from Cricut. I found Cricut Explorer-Air2 is a value for money product, especially for home users.
This machine is best known for flawlessly cutting more than 100 different materials. As this model is a valuable DIY cutting machine, users can give life to endless ideas. It helps you create customized home décor, artistic stickers, unique greeting cards, party favors, personalized apparel, home-made gifts, and much more.
Every machine From Cricut comes with a Cricut Premium Fine Point Blade and Housing, a Cricut Black Fine Point Pen, a Cricut 12” x 12” LightGrip Adhesive Cutting Mat (for htv and vinyl projects), a 2-week free trial to Cricut Access, and much more.
Pros
- Affordable even for new sewers
- Allows free access to online resources
- Performs twice as faster than its previous versions
Cons
- Users may face issues with more than 12-inch wider projects
Cricut Explore Air 2 is a perfect machine for home users and professionals with limited use. If you are one of them, save money by buying this lighter version of Cricut Maker.
Best for Novices – Brother CM350E 2 Cutting Machine with Scanner
Beginners are full of ideas and high-in creativity. They want to innovate, do many new things. However, their enthusiasm doesn’t last long when they do not get access to proper resources.
As Brother is a renowned manufacturer of sewing machines, embroidery machines, embroidery software, and dress form, it becomes easy to trust fabric cutters from this brand.
Brother CM350E 2 Cutting Machine with Scanner doesn’t fade beginners’ creativity. Its in-built scanner lets users scan their drawings and convert them to a cut file. It gives them printed stickers that they can cut and place precisely. Also, it features 631 built-in designs giving many options to represent creativity in the best way.
This machine can cut materials, such as fabric, paper, foam, and vinyl, with thickness up to 2mm. It is yet another factor making this machine best for learners and home users.
Pros
- Standard track mat (12”x12”) provides a large area to scan and cut
- Its touchscreen LCD of 4.85” gives freedom from buttons
- Wireless capability and availability of USB port for better connectivity
Cons
- Mats not being sticky may cause problems
If you want a cutting machine you should be proud of, go for Brother CM350E 2. It enhances the user experience, no matter you are a beginner, home user, or professional. Everyone says Brother provides the best experience.
Best Advanced Pick – Cricut Explore Air Wireless Cutting Device
Another one from Cricut. Cricut Explore Air Wireless Cutting Device is the fourth one in this list. It uses the Bluetooth technology for taking instructions and gives you freedom from unnecessary cords.
Users can send their projects wirelessly for cutting with the help of the Cricut Design Space software system. Its primary highlights include Dual Carriage that allows cutting and scoring or cutting and writing in a single step.
The best thing is that it is harmonious with every Cricut cartridge keeping you away from worries about precise cuts.
Pros
- Users can easily set materials with the help of Smart Set dial
- The iPad app and Cricut Design Space online software are free
- Its patent-pending Cut Smart technology allows precise cuts, whether small or big
Cons
- A little noisy during operation
If you are looking for an advanced cutter that cuts your fabric precisely each time, go for Cricut Explore Air Wireless Machine for Cutting. It allows cutting your images on more than 60 different materials.
Best for Quilters – AccuQuilt GO Fabric Cutter
AccuQuilt GO Fabric Cutter is the top fabric cutting machine especially for quilters as it allows them to cut fabric in almost half the time than scissors or rotary cutters. You can give the credit for this to its patented portable design.
Other distinguishing features of this model are its weight (only 15 pounds) and compact design because of which you can carry your quilting to wherever you want.
You can start quilting as soon as the machine is out of the box because it also comes with a cutting mat.
Pros
- Its 20-page book (included accessory) allows mixing and matching quilt blocks
- Even beginners can easily use it
- Can cut many sheets of fabric (maximum six) in one go
Cons
- Availability of limited dies may disappoint advanced users
When you are in search of a powerful cutting machine, go for AccuQuilt GO Fabric Cutter because it can cut 1-6 sheets of fabric simultaneously. Moreover, it is safe and extremely easy for anyone to use.
Best for Cutting Shapes – Sizzix 660550 Industrial Strength Die-Cutting & Embossing Machine
Sizzix is a renowned name when you are searching for the best machines for fabric cutting. However, it is not the only reason for me including Sizzix 660550 in this list. The kind of Die-Cutting it allows makes it the favorite among professional crafters.
The extraordinary quality of this industrial-strength gem is its compatibility with the whole Sizzix library, comprising of every Ellison and Sizzix design. A feature I found most useful is its 33 cm opening that allows cutting broad materials, making it suitable for big projects.
Pros
- Rolling action is swift with its ergonomic handle
- Users can cut fabric, cardboard, chipboard, leather, and craft foam
- Solid build gives it a long life
Cons
- Its weight (19.9 kg) may deter people from carrying it anywhere
If you are looking for a die cutter that gives professional results all the time, Sizzix 660550 is the one. It is perfect for quilting and many other professional crafting activities.
Best Automatic Cutting Machine For Fabric – AccuQuilt GO! Electric Fabric Cutter Starter Set
AccuQuilt GO! Big Electric Fabric Cutter Set is the best automatic fabric cutter. If you thrive for accuracy, it’s the best because when it comes to cutting different layers of fabric, it can precisely cut 1-6 layers.
The prime role of this cutter is to give you freedom from strain in your arms and hands. It means the focus of quilters will remain only on creating masterpieces. If you are into quilting for a purpose, feel good because there are still many like you. In Hawaii, the Quilt Makers Keeping a Centuries-Old Tradition Alive.
Another advantage of this cutting machine is that when you fold it (it folds easily), it is ready for easy transport or storage.
Pros
- It allows users to cut many types of fabrics
- There is no need for dies and cartridges
- With wireless connectivity, it becomes easy to use and saves time
Cons
- Cleaning this machine is a tricky task
AccuQuilt GO! Big Electric Fabric Cutter Starter Set is an automatic fabric cutting tool for quilters of any age. When you want precise cutting without straining your hands, go for this cutter.
Best for Quilting – AccuQuilt Ready Fabric Cutter
The next in my list is AccuQuilt Ready Fabric Cutter. It is ideal for professional quilters as it helps them get clean cuts quickly and that too, without hurting their pockets.
It gives accurate results whether you cut a single layer of fabric or more than that (maximum six). This machine is safe, extremely easy for anyone to use, and designed to put less strain on your arms. With its broad range of shapes for quilting, users get unlimited design options.
Pros
- Portable, robust design allow users to carry it easily, even during travels
- Cuts 90 percent faster in comparison to rotary cutters and scissors
- Cuts 1-6 layers in one go
Cons
- Limited dies come with it
Go for AccuQuilt Ready Fabric Cutter when you are a professional and require a cutting machine that saves money, time, and provides precise cuts every time.
Best Die-Cutting and Embossing Manual Machine – Sizzix 660425: The Big Shot Cutting Machine
Sizzix 660425 [Big Shot] is a recognized die-cutting and embossing machines. Whether you have started with quilting or are an expert involved in professional projects, it will help you finish your tasks easily.
I can’t say using this machine is effortless because it operates manually, but the company has made sure that it works fast and cuts different materials with consistent precision. It is priced quite low, so all quilters looking for a cheap and good-quality machine can go for it.
The material’s width users can cut with this machine should be up to 6 inches. Some of them may like it, and for others, it might be a negative feature.
Pros
- It is well-suited for the whole library of Sizzix products, including Texture Fades, Impresslits, and Textured Impressions
- Small size and less weight (only 7.5 lbs) allow users to carry it with ease
- Attractively priced
Cons
- Comes with limited accessories
When you are a beginner or professional quilter looking for a good die-cutting and embossing machine at a low price, check Sizzix 660425 [Big Shot].
Best Electronic Cutter for Home – Silhouette Cameo Wireless Machine For Cutting Fabric
The last one in this list is Silhouette Cameo wireless cutting tool. This one is a sleek, elegant cutting tool that deals with equal perfection, whether the project is small or big.
It features a 12-inch cutting mat, 50 cuttable designs, and a high-quality cutting blade for enhanced user experience. In lengthwise, it lets you cut up to 10-feet long fabric, vinyl, or any other material at a time.
This item is available on different marketplaces, such as Amazon, eBay, and others. You can check price on these platforms before shopping.
Pros
- Easily operable via a computer or an SD card
- Allows free access to the Silhouette Studio software for creating custom projects
- The Printing and Cutting feature allows cutting the designs already printed on a home computer
Cons
- Not the best tool for people using cutting machines for business
Silhouette Cameo is a wireless cutting device that allows users to design, craft, and cut. All its features are perfect for hobbyists or home users. If your sewing table is big, it will look more beautiful on it.
Best Cutting Machine Brands
A brand plays a crucial role in defining the quality of a product and gaining the trust of customers. Some of the best fabric cutter machines in the market are from the following brands:
Cricut
When it comes to making a list of the best machines to cut fabric, Cricut is often the first name. This brand, since inception, is manufacturing tools that simplify the lives of creative people. A cutting machine from this brand that is highly in demand is Cricuit Explore Air 2.
AccuQuilt
AccuQuilt is an American company with headquarters in Omaha. The products under this brand help quilters (professionals, hobbyists, and newbies) cut fabric quickly and accurately. Its products enhance quilting experiences because most AccuQuilt employees are business professions quiltmakers or quilt lovers. Amongst many fabric cutters from this brand, the best one in 2020 is AccuQuilt GO! Big Electric Fabric Cutter Set.
Brother
Brother makes sure that buyers of its sewing and embroidery machines never struggle while bringing their creativity to life. That’s why it also provides tools such as embroidery software and dress forms suitable for different types of users and compatible with its and other manufacturer’s machines. The best fabric cutting tool from Brother in 2020 is Brother CM350 ScanNCut 2.
Sizzix
The parent company of Sizzix, Elison, invented the first manual die-cutting machine for consumers in 1977. Since then, the company has come up with many award-winning innovative and simple cutting solutions for home users as well as professionals. In products of these brands, most people like Sizzix 660550 Industrial Strength Die Cutting & Embossing Machine.
Silhouette
The Silhouette is an International brand famous for manufacturing fabric cutters. With its headquarter in London and reach in many parts of the world, buyers always get original and high-quality fabric cutter machines. A machine from this brand trusted mostly by professional quilters is Silhouette Portrait Cutting Machine.
Reliable
The brand Reliable is in existence from 1955. Today, Reliable has a wide range of products and presence in many countries. Fabric cutters for professionals and home users are one of its primary offerings. The company has a team of experienced and knowledgeable people from the industry without which it is not possible to produce excellent products like Reliable 1500FR Octagonal Knife Cloth Cutting Machine. To view this machine in action, click here.
Mophorn
The products from Mophorn simplifies everyday tasks. The cloth cutting machines of this brand are of industrial-grade and high in quality. The best thing with Mophorn machines is that they are automatic and extremely safe to use. The Mophorn machine getting attention nowadays is Mophorn Fabric Cutting Machine 8 inch High Speed Straight Knife Cloth Cutting Machine.
Spellbinders
The cutting machines from Spellbinders are highly efficient and cuts more than 40 types of thin and thick materials. The company is in existence for the last 15 years, and by now, Spellbinders has evolved as a company offering tools and accessories for enhancing the creative skills of sewers and quilters. The most liked product from this brand is Spellbinders-PL-001-Platinum-Emboss-Machine.
MOOCY
MOOCY is famous because of its Die Cutting Embossing Machine Paper Fabric Cutter with Extended Multipurpose Platform. The primary role of machines from this brand is to cut paper, but they are useful for cutting fabric also. Users can use the machines from this brand at home or office.
Simplicity
The brand Simplicity in the world of sewing machine accessories means that it is representing the Simplicity Creative Group. The fabric cutters from this brand are an effort to make high-quality, reliable, and innovative products. In the year 2020, the most demanded product from this brand is the Simplicity Rotary Cutting Machine.
Cutting Machine Buying Guide
Advantages of a Fabric Cutting Machine
There are many benefits of having a machine to cut fabric. Some of them are:
Saves Time
It helps users save time. Many people buy a fabric cutter only because of this reason. In addition to saving time, it also produces clean and precise results every time.
Flexibility
If you think these machines are useful only for cutting fabric, you’ll be surprised to know that they allow users to do a lot more. You can use some of these machines to cut intricate patterns or shapes as well. Whether you are involved in card making or other similar projects, they’ll assist you.
Simplicity
Most of these machines are easy to use and allows users to do their job quickly and conveniently. You don’t need any technical experience to use these machines efficiently. If you are serious about sewing and quilting, their simplicity can boost your career.
Key Features to Consider
There are many features one should consider while purchasing a fabric cutting device. Some essential ones are:
Cutting Capability
While buying a fabric cutter, find out its cutting capabilities. Evaluate the shape and size of its blade, find out how much it can cut at a time? Cutters with octagonal blades cut the fabric effortlessly, whereas round blade cutters excel when you have to cut in straight lines. Find out how many layers the machine can cut at a time? Is it sufficient for you?
Cutting Speed
The next thing you should look for is the cutting speed. You might be knowing that rotary cutters or regular scissors take much time. Then, there are manual and automatic fabric cutting machines that cut the fabric efficiently in quite less time.
Safety
A fabric cutting machine should be safe for users and fabric. Some of them can swiftly go through multiple layers of your fabric because they have heavy-duty, sharp blades. It means your hands also remain at risk.
Make sure the cutter does not damage the fabric. It shouldn’t pull or shrink the fabric. Also, it ought to prevent the fabric’s wastage.
Budget
Considering the budget is very important because you can find both high-priced and low-priced machines in the market. Of course, their features vary. But, all settings might not be for you. It is best to buy a cutter with features as per your needs, and it should be within your budget.
User Friendly
A fabric cutting machine should be user-friendly. There are some complicated cutting machines which you must avoid because they’ll waste your time and money. If you research a little, you can find a good cutter for beginner, intermediate, and expert/ professional sewers.
Let me reveal a secret – if you can repair sewing machines on your own, you’ll find most fabric cutters user friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a fabric cutting machine?
A fabric cutting machine or fabric cutter is a tool used for cutting fabric in a straight line and also in different shapes and sizes. These machines feature different types of blades that make doing tasks, like fabric cutting and die cutting, quickly and precisely.
2. Do I need a fabric cutting machine?
If you are involved in sewing, quilting, and embroidering just for learning, you can skip buying a fabric cutter. On the other hand, if you are a professional sewer or spend most of your time with sewing machines, you should purchase a fabric cutting machine. It will bring proficiency to your work.
3. What size machine should I buy?
Id depends upon the types of projects you are doing. If you are a quilter or working on a big project, go for the large-sized cutting machine. If not, buy a small cutter. Note that if you have to travel frequently with your cutting machine, buying a large one won’t be a good idea.
4. Are fabric cutting machines safe?
Since these machines feature sharp blades, you can’t say they are 100% safe. However, many good fabrics cutting machine manufacturers make fabric cutters keeping in mind the safety of users. You can trust them.
5. Do fabric cutting machines require maintenance?
If you are familiar with sewing machine maintenance, maintaining these cutters will be easy for you. For further assistance, read the user manual of your cutting machine.
6. Do these machines come with warranty or guarantee?
Most fabric cutting machines come with a limited warranty of at least one year. You can visit the seller’s website to get more info about the warranty on specific units.
7. What other materials can my fabric cutting machine cut?
Besides fabric, your cutting machine can easily cut the paper into strips and leather. Some advanced cutters can even cut balsa wood.
A fabric cutting machine is the best tool any sewer or quilter can have. There are certain things you should consider to get the best cutter according to your needs. But if you ask me, I would recommend the Cricut Maker Fabric Cutting Machine for all the features it has and the price it comes at.