Mombygrace

Hi, I'll like to do more applique on quilts, pillows, table runners and such. I have a sizzix big shot pro and various sizzix and accuquilt dies. I want to do alphabet applique but I'm not sure I should buy the accuquilt alphabet dies or a machine like the cricut. The dies are around $190 but I'm wondering if I'll get more millage from a cricut or similar machine.
Any ideas? Thanks.

Quilt30

Search for Ebony Love . She has done research on the various cutting machines

Dolphyngyrl

I found the circuit to be a little more difficult than my scanncut

Feathers-N-Fur

I have Accuquilt with the alphabet dies, that I have used several times, however I'm thinking a Brother scan and cut seems more practical for appliqué. I still love my Go for piecing, but the dies are sooo expensive for an appliqué I'll probably only use a few times ever.

Weezy Rider

If I need an applique I'll draw it and use the Silhouette to cut. You can scan in. I used to freehand appliques, but the Silhouette is far better at cutting than I am with a pair of scissors. I'm not limited to whatever is popular or designers think is great.

I'm lucky that I do know how to use a good drawing program.

I do have an Accuquilt - but I'll never buy an applique die.

If you have a Sizzix, you can use any Sizzix die - even one designed for paper cutting. You are not limited to quilting dies.

Mombygrace

Thanks for the responses. I have a few other questions:
1. What are the advantages of the brother scan n cut over cricut/ silhouette etc?
2. Can I cut fabric with the lighter dies on the sizzix?
Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my questions.

UncleGravy

I have the Silhouette, and it's my preferred machine of the digital cutters. The software is a bit easier to learn and you can import custom shapes or draw your own.

Scan N Cut is similar but has the ability to scan in a custom drawing and then cut it. As opposed to the Silhouette where you are basically drawing it with a mouse - or using SVG files from another source.

There is also the Janome Artistic Edge which I have heard good things on. I've only used their software, not the actual cutter.

Not sure about the sizzix, but you can cut fabric with the Silhouette or Janome machine. You will want to spray the fabric with TerialMagic and iton to make it stiff so that you get a nice cut.

Mombygrace

Thanks, I've never heard about the Janome machine and would look into it.

mollymunchkin

I have the old red sizzix machine. I have used it to cut fabric many times.

Mombygrace

Yes, I use my sizzix for cutting fabric shapes for quilts but would like more variety for applique. I want to be able to cut out alphabets and other intricate shapes.