If you do a lot of sewing, you know that cutting pattern pieces can be frustrating and time consuming. If you do not enjoy cutting your fabric by hand, you would definitely benefit from a fabric cutter.
But what type of fabric cutter should you buy? Continue reading to learn more about different fabric cutters. We have also listed our top 10 favorites.
What is a Fabric Cutter?
A fabric cutter is a tool that makes sewing easier. Scissors can hurt your hands and are difficult for people with arthritis to use.
There are 2 main types of fabric cutters: electronic and manual. Most electronic machines use software to tell the machine what shapes to cut. Manual machines use premade dies.
Our Top 3 for the Best Fabric Cutter of 2024
Best Overall
Brother ScanNCut SDX125EGY DIY Electric Fabric Cutting Machine with Scanner
The Brother ScanNCut SDX125EGY is our best overall pick for home crafters. The die cutting machine includes 682 preinstalled designs. Unlike other electronic fabric cutters, this machine will automatically detect the thickness of the material you are cutting.
Premium Choice
Accuquilt GO! Big 55500 Electric Fabric Cutter Machine
The Accuquilt GO! Big fabric cutter is safe and easy to use. Since it uses electricity instead of a crank handle, it can increase productivity and alleviate hand and arm strain.
Great Value
Sizzix Big Shot Starter Kit 661500 Manual Die Cutting & Embossing Machine
The Sizzix Big Shot starter kit is ideal for anyone new to fabric cutters. It is affordable and easy to use. It is also compatible with other manufacturer dies.
Benefits of Using a Fabric Cutter
If you cut a lot of fabric pieces by hand, you will benefit from a fabric cutter. Below are just a few benefits you will receive.
- Speeds up production time
- You will have more accurate cuts
- You can cut through multiple layers at once
- Curves are easy to cut
- Are better for those with arthritis
How to Choose Between Fabric Cutters
When looking for the best fabric cutters, take into consideration:
- Manual, Digital or Rotary?
Is the machine manual, digital, or rotary. Digital machines often have a larger variety of patterns and sizes they can cut. However, they must be hooked up to electricity and often require a computer to work. Most manual machines require dies. You cannot change the shape or the sizes of the dies. Rotary cutters can be manual or electric.
- Size of the Machine
Since you rarely need to cut a lot of tiny fabric pieces, fabric cutters are often large. Before you purchase a machine, determine how much room you have to work with.
- What Materials Will You Be Cutting?
Are you only planning on using the cutter to cut fabric? Or are you also planning on using it for paper crafting or other crafts?
- Does it Require a Computer?
Some fabric cutters must be hooked to a computer to work. If you have a designated crafting space with room for a computer, this may not be an issue. However, if you have limited space this can be a problem. If you are planning on traveling with the cutter, you may not want to drag a computer with you.
- Ease of Use
Look at fabric cutters that are easy to use. If you are not technology savvy, you may not want a machine that uses a computer and specialized software. If you are good with computers, a digital machine may be just what you are looking for.
- What is Your Budget?
Before you even start looking at fabric cutters, know your budget. The machines vary greatly in price.
Types of Fabric Cutters
Fabric cutters were designed to save you time. The type of cutter you require depends on your specific needs.
There are three main types of fabric cutters: manual die cutting machines, digital die cutting machines, and rotary cutters.
- Digital Die Cutting Machines
Digital die cutting machines often need to be hooked to a computer to work. They also need electricity. The machines have a small learning curve because they often require specialised software to work. Digital fabric cutters resemble a home printer.
They can be large and take up a lot of room. Digital cutting machines do not require extra dies. Instead, the software tells the machine what letters and shapes to cut.
- Manual Die Cutting Machines
Manual die cutting machines do not need a computer. Instead of running off software, manual machines use metal dies sandwiched between plates. Manual machines are usually smaller than digital machines and easier to store.
The fabric cutters can often cut and emboss. Most machines do not require electricity. However, there are a few heavy duty models that do.
- Rotary Fabric Cutters
Rotary fabric cutters are the most common type of fabric cutter. Everyone should own at least one rotary cutter. They make it easy to cut pieces of fabric quickly. You can find both manual and electronic rotary fabric cutters.
10 Best Fabric Cutters of 2024
1. Silhouette Cameo 4 Extras Bundle Pink Tool Kit
If you are a paper crafter, you have heard of the Silhouette Cameo 4. It is a great machine that is very versatile. Not only can it be used for paper crafts and sticker making, but you can also use it to cut fabric.
Why We Like the Silhouette Cameo 4:
Most electronic fabric cutters have a 12” wide opening. However, they are unable to cut fabric 12” wide. With the Silhouette Cameo 4, you can cut fabric up to 12” wide.
- 5 kg of Downward Force
You can cut thicker materials with the 5 kg of downward force.
- Dual Carriage
The Silhouette Cameo 4 has 2 cartridges. One is used for standard cutting. The other cartridge is for speciality tools.
- Built-in Roll Feeder
The die cutting machine has a built-in roll feeder. This gives you the ability to cut heat transfer material and vinyl directly from a roll.
Pros and Cons of the Silhouette Cameo 4:
Pros:
- 5 kg of downward force
- Backlit Touch Panel
- PixScan compatible
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Comes with a lot of accessories
- 12” cutting width
- Prints and cuts
- Does not always require a cutting mat
- 3 mm clearance for thick materials
- Automatic tool type detection
- Built-in cross cutter
- Built-in roller feeder
Cons:
- Cannot sketch and cut at the same time
- Switching tools can be difficult
- Loud
- Several tools will only work on the left or right
2. Brother ScanNCut SDX125EGY DIY Electric Fabric Cutting Machine with Scanner
The Brother ScanNCut SDX125EGY has 682 built-in designs including 100 quilting patterns and 9 fonts.
Why We Like the ScanNCut SDX125EGY:
This electric fabric cutter has a built-in scanner and plenty of built-in designs. You can use it for sewing projects as well as paper and sticker crafting.
- 682 Built-in Designs
The Brother ScanNCut has 682 built-in designs including 100 quilting patterns and 9 fonts. You can also add your own designs using the scanner, USB port, or wireless connection.
- Material Selection is Not Required
Most electronic fabric cutters quire you to make a fabric selection before cutting. This machine will detect the thickness of the material and make appropriate adjustments on its own.
- Built-in Scanner
If you draw your patterns by hand, the built-in scanner is a blessing. Instead of creating patterns to work with the software, the Brother ScanNCut scans your drawing and creates the cut file.
Pros and Cons of the ScanNCut SDX125EGY:
Pros:
- Wireless
- No material selection required
- USB port and wireless capability
- 100 quilting patterns
- Computer is not required
- 9 fonts
- Perfect for hobbyists
- Built-in scanner
- 682 built-in designs
- Cuts up to 3 mm thick material
Cons:
- No paper manual, only a downloadable pdf
- Mats can be hard to find
- Large learning curve
3. Cricut Maker Smart Fabric Cutting Machine
The Cricut Maker is one of the most recognizable fabric cutters on the market. It is a favourite among home crafters. The machine is extremely versatile and is able to cut over 300 types of materials.
Why We Like the Cricut Maker:
If you enjoy a lot of different types of crafts, the Cricut Maker is for you. Not only does it cut fabric, but you can also cut over 300 types of materials, score, write, deboss, and engrave.
- Can Cut a Wide Variety of Materials
This die cutting machine is not only for cutting fabric. You can also use it to make stickers, papercrafts, and more.
- Quick Swap Tools
The Cricut Maker make has a quick swap feature that makes it quick and easy to change tools. It is compatible with 13 different types of tools.
- Built-in Storage
The Cricut Maker has a built-in storage area on top of the machine for storing additional tools.
Pros and Cons of the Cricut Maker:
Pros:
- Blade for fabrics
- USB port
- Easy-to-learn Design Space
- Simplifies sewing
- Expandable suite of tools
- Simple design apps
- Built-in Storage compartment
- Quick swap tools
- Can cut more than 300 types of materials
- Digital sewing pattern library
- Software is mobile phone compatible
- 50 free ready to make projects
- Commercial grade technology
- Docking slot
Cons:
- A lot of the accessories are extra
4. AccuQuilt GO! Fabric Cutting Die Machine
The AccuQuilt Go! Fabric Die Cutter is a manual machine. It was designed specifically for quilters.
Why We Like the AccuQuilt Go! Fabric Die Cutter:
Whether you have arthritis, joint pain, or back pain the AccuQuilt GO! Fabric cutter will make cutting fabric easier. It will give you the ability to cut pieces quickly and accurately.
- Fast
With the AccuQuilt Go! Fabric Die Cutter, you will be able to make quilts quicker. You will not have to waste time using scissors or rotary cutters.
- Precision
You will get perfect fabric pieces every single time.
- Convenient
The fabric cutter is convenient and easy to use. When not in use, it folds up for storage. It is also portable and ideal for quilting parties.
Pros and Cons of the AccuQuilt Go! Fabric Die Cutter:
Pros:
- Accurate cutting
- Easy to use
- Portable
- Made for quilters
- Carrying handle
- Included pattern book
- Dies are designed for sewing
- Does not require electricity
Cons:
- Only comes with one die
- Fabric waste
5. Sizzix 660550 Industrial Strength Die Cutting & Embossing Machine
The Sizzix Big Shot Pro is a versatile machine that can be used for paper crafting as well as quilting.
Why We Like the Sizzix Big Shot Pro:
This heavy duty fabric cutter can handle a wide variety of materials with ease. It is also compatible with the full Sizzix library.
- Industrial Strength
The machine is constructed from steel, aluminium, and metal alloy. It is a strong machine with an industrial strength roller.
- Large Opening
You can cut large pieces thanks to the wide 12.99 inch (33 cm) opening.
- Compatibility
The Sizzix Industrial cutting machine is compatible with the entire Sizzix library, including Plus and Pro dies.
Pros and Cons of the Sizzix Big Shot Pro:
Pros:
- Die cutting and embossing
- Industrial strength
- 33 cm wide opening
- Compatible with Sizzix library
- Accurate cutting
- Easy to use
- Does not require electricity
Cons:
- Heavy
- Must invest in extra accessories
6. Reliable 1500FR Octagonal Knife Fabric Cutting Machine
The Reliable 1500FR fabric cutter can cut a single piece of fabric up to fabric stacked 1” high.
Why We Like the Reliable 1500FR:
This electronic rotary cutter sharpens itself while you work.
Counter Blade
The counter blade was designed to reduce sharpening need. The feature lengthens the life of the blade and reduces the pull of the fabric.
Powerful Motor
With the powerful motor, you will be able to cut up to 1 inch of material.
Automatic Sharpener
The automatic sharpener help guarantee a sharp blade for every cut.
Pros and Cons of the Reliable 1500FR:
Pros:
- Powerful motor
- Counter blade
- Knife guard
- Extra thin base plate
- Side knife guard
- Spring-loaded lower blade
- Automatic sharpener
- Extra blade
- Additional accessories
Cons:
- Loud
- Is known to run hot
7. Accuquilt GO! Big 55500 Electric Fabric Cutter Machine
The Accuquilt GO! Big fabric cutter is safe and easy to use. The electric function increases productivity and helps alleviate hand and arm strain.
Why We Like the Accuquilt GO!:
Unlike most fabric cutters that use dies, this one uses electricity. This takes unnecessary stress off your hands and wrists.
- One Button Functionality
Simply create your sandwich with the die, fabric, and mat. Then press the button to produce perfectly cut shapes in seconds
- Cuts up to 6 Layers
Can cut up to 6 layers of 100% cotton fabric at a time.
- Compatibility
The Accuquilt GO! Big us compatible with all GO! Dies, including the 14″ x 16″ GO! Big Dies.
Pros and Cons of the Accuquilt GO!:
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Can cut 6 layers of fabric
- Electronic
- One button functionality
- Built-in safety features
- Free design software
- Compatible with all GO! Dies
- Can cut 2 dies side by side
Cons:
- Only comes with one die
- Heavy
- Expensive
8. Sizzix Big Shot Starter Kit 661500 Manual Die Cutting & Embossing Machine
The Sizzix Big Shot is an affordable fabric cutting machine. Not only can you use it for quilting, but you can also use it for paper crafting.
Why We Like the Sizzix Big Shot:
This fabric cutter can cut a wide variety of fabrics with ease.
- Large Platform
The large platform makes it easy to cut large pattern pieces. The platform also includes helpful diagrams for creating the perfect sandwich combinations.
- Compatible with a Variety of Dies
The Sizzix Big Shor is compatible with the full Sizzix library, excluding Plus and Pro dies. You can also use Anna Griffin, Cuttlebug, QuicKutz, Spellbinders, and Acquiquilt dies.
- Steel Rollers
You can count on this die cut machine to last for a long time. It has a durable outer casting and steel core roller system.
Pros and Cons of the Sizzix Big Shot:
Pros:
- Large platform
- Compatible with most Sizzix Dies
- 6” Wide opening
- Works with other brands of dies
- Die cuts and embosses
- Steel core roller system
- Carrying handle
- Affordable
- Ergonomic handle
- Can handle different materials
Cons:
- Does not fold up for storage
- Handle screw is known to break
9. OLFA 45mm Ergonomic Rotary Fabric Cutter
The OLFA 45 mm Rotary Cutter was designed to reduce hand fatigue. It has a curved handle, anti-slip rubber grips, and integrated finger grooves.
Why We Like the OLFA Rotary Cutter:
This fabric cutter is easy to use and has an ergonomic grip.
- Squeeze Trigger Handle
The easy squeeze handle exposes the blade and then self-retracts for safety.
- Curved Handle
The curved handle has an anti-slip rubber grip that reduces hand fatigue and stress.
- Dual-Action Safety Lock
You can lock the blade open or closed with the dual-action safety lock.
Pros and Cons of the OLFA Rotary Cutter:
Pros:
- Easy squeeze handle
- Anti-slip rubber grip
- Dual action safety lock
- Tungsten tool steel blade
- Compatible with speciality blades
Cons:
- Not great with thick fabrics
10. Brother ScanNCut SDX85C Electronic DIY Cutting Machine
This Brother ScanNCut SDX85C has a large LCD touchscreen. The screen makes it easy to scan, resize, weld, and rotate your designs.
Why We Like the Brother ScanNCut SDX85C:
You can cut custom made pattern pieces directly from your drawings using the built-in scanner.
- 631 Built-in Designs
This fabric cutter has 631 built-in designs including 100 applique patterns.
- Built-in Scanner
The built-in scanner gives you the ability to cut custom designed pattern pieces directly from your hand drawn sketches.
- Wireless
You do not have to be directly hooked up to a computer to use the fabric cutter.
Pros and Cons of the Brother ScanNCut SDX85C:
Pros:
- 251 built-in designs
- 7 Lettering fonts
- Built-in scanner
- Wireless
- Can add your own SVG files
- Free CanvasWorkspace account
- Cuts up to 3 mm thick fabric
- 3.5” Touchscreen LCD display
- Automatic material sensor technology
- Can be used with or without a computer
Cons:
- Heavy
Our Top 3 for the Best Fabric Cutter of 2024
Best Overall
Brother ScanNCut SDX125EGY DIY Electric Fabric Cutting Machine with Scanner
The Brother ScanNCut SDX125EGY is our best overall pick for home crafters. The die cutting machine includes 682 preinstalled designs. Unlike other electronic fabric cutters, this machine will automatically detect the thickness of the material you are cutting.
Premium Choice
Accuquilt GO! Big 55500 Electric Fabric Cutter Machine
The Accuquilt GO! Big fabric cutter is safe and easy to use. Since it uses electricity instead of a crank handle, it can increase productivity and alleviate hand and arm strain.
Great Value
Sizzix Big Shot Starter Kit 661500 Manual Die Cutting & Embossing Machine
The Sizzix Big Shot starter kit is ideal for anyone new to fabric cutters. It is affordable and easy to use. It is also compatible with other manufacturer dies.
Cutting fabric pieces can be time-consuming. Fabric cutters are designed to save you time and get you sewing.
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If you are a quilter, you know how important it is to have the right tools. The tools help you be more productive, and you will get better results. If you spend countless hours cutting out pattern pieces, you know it is hard to avoid fraying and get clean lines.
Instead of wasting your time cutting with scissors or rotary cutters, invest in a new tool. These fabric cutters will make the quilting process quicker and much more enjoyable.
