10 Best Die Cutting Machines 2025 in the UK

The Cricut Joy Starter Bundle (2024) is a compact and lightweight die-cutting machine, weighing only 1.75kg, making it highly portable and easy to store. This machine is automatic, meaning it handles the cutting process without requiring manual effort, which is beneficial for those looking for ease of use. It supports over 50 different materials, including iron-on, card, vinyl, paper, and smart materials, providing great versatility for various crafting projects.

The device can draw any shape and write in different styles, and users have the flexibility to upload and cut their own designs or choose from the Cricut Design Space library, making it appealing for creative individuals. The bundle includes useful accessories such as a card mat, insert cards with envelopes, smart vinyl sheets, a starter tool set, and transfer tape, which can help users get started right away.

While the portability and ease of use are excellent, those who require more heavy-duty or larger-scale projects might find this machine less suitable due to its compact size. The Cricut Joy excels in providing a user-friendly experience and a wide range of design options, making it ideal for beginners and casual crafters.

The Cricut Explore 3 Starter Bundle (2024) is an automatic die-cutting machine designed to cut over 100 materials, making it versatile for a variety of crafting projects. Its ability to handle materials like cardstock, vinyl, iron-on, and even bonded fabric makes it suitable for both beginners and more advanced users who appreciate flexibility in material choices. The machine supports smart materials for extended cuts up to 12 feet in length, which is beneficial for large projects. However, it requires the purchase of additional specific smart materials for optimal use, which may add to the cost.

With a robust selection of tools available for purchase separately, the machine can perform additional functions like writing and foiling, enhancing its multifunctionality. The Cricut Design Space software provides a library of designs to choose from, or users can upload their own, offering a broad spectrum of creative possibilities. The software is user-friendly yet might require some initial learning for complete newcomers.

In terms of ease of use, the Cricut Explore 3 is generally considered straightforward, especially with the included basic toolset and accessories, such as a lightgrip cutting mat and transfer tape, that aid in setup and operation. However, the machine's size and weight, at 68.6 cm x 25.2 cm x 41.8 cm and 8.67 kg, may impact its portability for users who need a mobile crafting solution. Its automatic operation mode simplifies the cutting process, but it might not suit those who prefer manual control. The starter bundle is a comprehensive package for those entering the world of die-cutting, with its range of materials and tools included, though it could be slightly overwhelming for absolute beginners due to the extensive features and initial cost.