This is exactly why i bought the Sizzix. I had the gemini, 2 of them and struggled with the plates with my hands and so on. Bought the Sizzix just last week and love it. Thanks for this video. Benita from Sweden
I’m so glad you found the video helpful. My first plates are getting very worn now, but they are still going. I think I would have gone through at least 3 more Gemini plates! I still I’ve my sizzix, and I don’t think that will change.❤️❤️❤️
I have a Big Shot Switch and I love it. Best dies machine I've had. But it warps the cutting pads and it doesn't matter how much I turn the pads or if I cut up or down. My salvation has been that I got myself an A4 cutting mat (I use the blue one from Dahle because it is double-sided) So I cut all the dies downwards towards the cutting mat and you also have to turn the cutting mat over as well. But the gain is that the upper cutting pad doesn't warp anymore and it did when I used 2 cutting pads. The cutting mat also needs to be replaced periodically, but it is significantly cheaper than the Sizzix Cutting Pads and I still have the same upper cutting pads as when I bought the Switch in March 2022. So using a cutting mat really saves a lot of money. Under the cutting mat I have 2 pcs 200g paper shims and it gives the right sandwich and pressure to make it cut out the die fantastically well. Since purchasing the Switch, I've only had to use the Chrome Precision Base Plate once. The Switch has done the rest with a cutting mat and 1 cutting pad and it really cuts out the dies absolutely amazingly well.
Wow that is some really useful information. I someone recommended a cutting mat, or a magic mat, so I’m definitely going to have to buy 1. My plates are slightly warped, but nothing to how my Gemini plates went, I think have the thick base really helps keep the plates lasting longer. Thank you for the heads up hun, I really appreciate it. ❤️❤️❤️
I've been seeking a die cut and embossing machine. First one ever. Love your simple video, thanks!! I think I will go with the big shot switch. Does anyone know if one can use dies from cheap places like Temu? Does brand of dies matter? Also, have you used it for emobossing?
Hi, I’m so glad the video has helped you. It’s a big decision, what machine to go with, as they are expensive, and so many to choose from. I’d love to be able to compare all the machines, but unfortunately I don’t have that kind of funds. I have used dies from Temu, Aliexpress, and Shein and in all my machines, and not had any issues. Their dues seem to be a bit more flimsy, but as most crafters only use them a few times, it’s worth paying much less. For dies you are going to use time and time again, I do feel it’s worth paying more, as they stand the test of time, and any issues you can follow up with the supplier. If I can help in any other way, please let me know. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Thanks for comparing the two machines...very useful. I have a manual Big Shot and am wondering if you have ever tried the Gemini Fabric Cutting Dies in the Sizzix.?? I see that there is a Gemini Block Builder system and wondered if it would work with my Big Shot plate system or if I would need a metal shim too. Would love to know your experiences. Thanks. Sylvi
Hi Sylvia, Please accept my apologies for the late response. I've been a little disjointed with my UA-cam account for a few months, but hoping to get back in to the swing of things. Unfortunately, fabric is not my thing, though I did give the Gemini to my SIL and she does loads of fabrics, and she loved it, and said it saved her loads of time. What I would recommend, is seeing if amazon sells the dies your on about, as if they don't work how you expect them too, you can return them, just make sure you do it in the return time period. I'm sorry I've not been much help, and for being so slow in replying to you, Thank you for watching and taking the time out to comment, I really do appreciate it. xxxx♥♥♥
I completely agree with you. I had the Gemini and in 8 months replaced the magnetic plate once and bought 5 replacement cutting plates. I've had my Big Shot Switch Plus since February 22 and I haven't had to replace the plates yet. I just take them into the kitchen every few weeks and scrub the plates clean of paper particles with hot water and a nail brush. If I wished for anything it would be if the base plate could be made of a more lightweight material. Other than that, the Switch is the winner against all the electronic machines imo. Thanks so much for doing this vid. The other thing I absolutely love about the Switch is the flat top that I can rest the plates on between use.
I’m glad you found this video helpful, and that we agree. I recently bought the new Gemini 2, and although they said the plates are much better, after 6 weeks of use they are very difficult to get into the machine! Lucky I bought the machine from QVC, so I can return it, otherwise, I would of wasted over £200. It’s a shame as I liked some of the features. ❤️❤️❤️
I have a Big Shot Plus, the Tangerine, a Gemini Mini & the Vagabond. I had a big shot but gave it away. I love all my machine but my favorite will always be the big shot. Hoping to get the new Switch soon but it is hard to find right now. Your video was awesome and makes me want the switch right now! Thank you🧡💙
I would 100% recommend it. I h gave my manual big shot away, as well as the Gemini, giving me some much needed space😂. I was lucky to get mine in a deal from Create & Craft. I hope you manage to get one soon. ❤️❤️❤️
I have just chucked my Gemini out. The first time I used it it chewed everything up, the magnetic shim and clear plates looked mangled and actually the magnetic shim looked like it had been twisted a bit. The final blow was when it devoured half of one of my favourite cut and emboss folders before it decided to reject it having twisted and stretched the plastic making it unusable. It seemed that the machine was much too powerful and not sensitive enough when things were wrong. My foilpress broke after six months as well so I don’t think I will be buying machines from Crafters Companion again. Thank you for the side by side comparison. I think the Sissix looks good and worth the extra money.
Wow that’s awful, such an expensive thing to happen too. I would of definitely contacted customer service, especially as your foil press would be under warranty for 12 months. I’m gutted, as I finally got my foil press out, and found the green shim was missing. I contacted cc, and they are sending me one out, trouble is, it will be a year old next month, so if mine goes, I can’t get it replaced! I would 100% recommend the sizzix, I’ve not had a single issue to date. Thank you, for watching, and taking the time to give me your thoughts, and experiences, I really appreciate it. I love to chat with my viewers, as this hopefully helps my channel, and I get new friends too. ❤️❤️❤️
Hi Susan, and welcome to my channel. I do hope you enjoy my content. Thank you for watching and taking the time out to comment, I really do appreciate it. I would like to thank you for subscribing too, I hope we have lots of communication. Big hugs❤️❤️❤️❤️
I changed from the Gemini junior to the Switch, and I love the switch. However I have not yet figured out a sandwich to use the Gemini foil press in the switch. Until that happens I can’t get rid of the Gemini, even though I prefer the switch for everything else. It should be possible, as the Gemini sandwiches are thinner than the switch ones.
Yes, I know what you mean! I’ve had to keep hold of my Gemini junior, just for that reason. I can’t see CC doubt a sandwich for us either, as they will want you to purchase the Gemini, to get extra sales. Nice to hear it’s not just me who prefers the sizzix to the Gemini, I just find it a whole lot better, and the plates don’t warp half as much. Thank you for watching, and taking the time out to comment too, it’s much appreciated.❤️❤️❤️
I love my Gemini but if it goes I think I will look at the sizzex. The plates are a bit of a pain. I like that the sizzex can do the steel roll dies. Great comparison and review!
I loved my Gemini, but national the plates got that warped, I had to use my tummy, to help push the through 😂. I did everything they said, like keep turning, and rotating the plates. But even with brand new plates, it didn’t take long for them to go to that way. Maybe it’s something to do with it being 2nd hand, or don’t know! I did but the junior, brand new, but I used those plates in the larger Gemini, so I can’t really say the plates warped the same, in that. My SIL, loved it now though, so at least it’s still getting used. ❤️❤️❤️
I would 100% recommend it. I went with the white one, to go with my aesthetic‘s, plus it comes with some dies, and embossing folder. The Tim Holtz one cone with just the machine. I do like the black though. I’d love to know your thoughts, if you do, get one. Xxxx❤️❤️❤️
I wish I waited and got the switch . I got the candy floss gemini . First time I used it I messed it up . I struggled to keep plates together they got chewed up .lol then wen I went to pick it up to put away and the top came apart 3rd time lucky crafter companion picked up machine and fixed it . But now obs need new plastic plates . So not used it since. Just used a second hand Big shot cos its much easier to load . Suffering with arthritis I thought the gemini would be great . But where plates are heavy to hold it caused so much pain . New follower to your videos sorry for long reply . Catching up on your videos
Hi hun. Firstly thank you for subbing my channel, I really appreciate it. Secondly, please don’t apologise for leaving comments, long or short I love them all, as I love to interact, and get to know my watchers, even better when we become friends. Wow, I don’t think I would of let them fix it, I would of asked for my money back! That’s such bad workmanships! I don’t chance and dexterity problems, but struggled at ton s, hooded bf the plates. Mainly because I didn’t don’t like using the low tack tape, as I found it pulls the card stock, when you removed it! I know the switch is a new machine, but I would definitely keep an eye out on eBay, Facebook, gumtree ECT, as you just may find one cheaper. Obviously that will depend on the pennies. I’m just glad 🙂 only paid £40 for my Gemini, as I got it if Facebook marketplace, my SIL loves it though. I’m m sure they must get n w plates on every show. I did see a few videos showing you how to keep your plates flatter longer. If I can find them, I will send you a link, send if you decide to buy more plates, you can try it out. ❤️❤️❤️
@@thedizzycrafter4894 I have other plates the thick one for fabric. Maybe I've myself a box to ledge the plates on before it goes in the machine . Tbh I just don't think I like the machine . Too much pressure . It's all a learning process lol
Thank you so much for your video! I typically don't buy new machines till at least 1 year after release. With your help I have just purchased the Sizzix. By chance do you know what's the name of the spellbinder die you used during the demo? The fancy fold one, I'm new to spellbinder world. Thanks Again
I don’t think theirs much in it via size, and I prefer the look of the sizzix, but that’s a preference thing. What do you think of the new look gemini 2? Xx❤️❤️❤️
@@thedizzycrafter4894 I'm not a fan of the new look for gemini 2. Too pink lol. I think you are right though, the size between the two for Gem 1 and 2 isn't that much. Will prob just go for the Sizzix from your glowing review.
![TOP 5 Best Die Cut Machine [ 2024 Buyer's Guide ]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/VjwiSmsGipw/mqdefault.jpg)
![TOP 5 Best Die Cut Machine [ 2024 Buyer's Guide ]](/img/tr.png)
This is exactly why i bought the Sizzix. I had the gemini, 2 of them and struggled with the plates with my hands and so on. Bought the Sizzix just last week and love it. Thanks for this video. Benita from Sweden
I’m so glad you found the video helpful. My first plates are getting very worn now, but they are still going. I think I would have gone through at least 3 more Gemini plates! I still I’ve my sizzix, and I don’t think that will change.❤️❤️❤️
I have a Big Shot Switch and I love it. Best dies machine I've had. But it warps the cutting pads and it doesn't matter how much I turn the pads or if I cut up or down.
My salvation has been that I got myself an A4 cutting mat (I use the blue one from Dahle because it is double-sided) So I cut all the dies downwards towards the cutting mat and you also have to turn the cutting mat over as well. But the gain is that the upper cutting pad doesn't warp anymore and it did when I used 2 cutting pads.
The cutting mat also needs to be replaced periodically, but it is significantly cheaper than the Sizzix Cutting Pads and I still have the same upper cutting pads as when I bought the Switch in March 2022. So using a cutting mat really saves a lot of money.
Under the cutting mat I have 2 pcs 200g paper shims and it gives the right sandwich and pressure to make it cut out the die fantastically well. Since purchasing the Switch, I've only had to use the Chrome Precision Base Plate once. The Switch has done the rest with a cutting mat and 1 cutting pad and it really cuts out the dies absolutely amazingly well.
Wow that is some really useful information. I someone recommended a cutting mat, or a magic mat, so I’m definitely going to have to buy 1.
My plates are slightly warped, but nothing to how my Gemini plates went, I think have the thick base really helps keep the plates lasting longer.
Thank you for the heads up hun, I really appreciate it. ❤️❤️❤️
Thank you for this! I've been wondering how these two compare!
Your welcome hun, I’m glad I could help.❤️❤️❤️
I've been seeking a die cut and embossing machine. First one ever. Love your simple video, thanks!! I think I will go with the big shot switch. Does anyone know if one can use dies from cheap places like Temu? Does brand of dies matter? Also, have you used it for emobossing?
Hi, I’m so glad the video has helped you. It’s a big decision, what machine to go with, as they are expensive, and so many to choose from. I’d love to be able to compare all the machines, but unfortunately I don’t have that kind of funds.
I have used dies from Temu, Aliexpress, and Shein and in all my machines, and not had any issues. Their dues seem to be a bit more flimsy, but as most crafters only use them a few times, it’s worth paying much less. For dies you are going to use time and time again, I do feel it’s worth paying more, as they stand the test of time, and any issues you can follow up with the supplier.
If I can help in any other way, please let me know. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Thanks for comparing the two machines...very useful. I have a manual Big Shot and am wondering if you have ever tried the Gemini Fabric Cutting Dies in the Sizzix.?? I see that there is a Gemini Block Builder system and wondered if it would work with my Big Shot plate system or if I would need a metal shim too. Would love to know your experiences. Thanks. Sylvi
Hi Sylvia,
Please accept my apologies for the late response. I've been a little disjointed with my UA-cam account for a few months, but hoping to get back in to the swing of things.
Unfortunately, fabric is not my thing, though I did give the Gemini to my SIL and she does loads of fabrics, and she loved it, and said it saved her loads of time.
What I would recommend, is seeing if amazon sells the dies your on about, as if they don't work how you expect them too, you can return them, just make sure you do it in the return time period.
I'm sorry I've not been much help, and for being so slow in replying to you,
Thank you for watching and taking the time out to comment, I really do appreciate it. xxxx♥♥♥
I completely agree with you. I had the Gemini and in 8 months replaced the magnetic plate once and bought 5 replacement cutting plates. I've had my Big Shot Switch Plus since February 22 and I haven't had to replace the plates yet. I just take them into the kitchen every few weeks and scrub the plates clean of paper particles with hot water and a nail brush. If I wished for anything it would be if the base plate could be made of a more lightweight material. Other than that, the Switch is the winner against all the electronic machines imo. Thanks so much for doing this vid. The other thing I absolutely love about the Switch is the flat top that I can rest the plates on between use.
I’m glad you found this video helpful, and that we agree.
I recently bought the new Gemini 2, and although they said the plates are much better, after 6 weeks of use they are very difficult to get into the machine! Lucky I bought the machine from QVC, so I can return it, otherwise, I would of wasted over £200. It’s a shame as I liked some of the features. ❤️❤️❤️
I have a Big Shot Plus, the Tangerine, a Gemini Mini & the Vagabond. I had a big shot but gave it away. I love all my machine but my favorite will always be the big shot. Hoping to get the new Switch soon but it is hard to find right now. Your video was awesome and makes me want the switch right now! Thank you🧡💙
I would 100% recommend it. I h gave my manual big shot away, as well as the Gemini, giving me some much needed space😂. I was lucky to get mine in a deal from Create & Craft.
I hope you manage to get one soon. ❤️❤️❤️
Hobby lobby Carrie’s the Switch
I have just chucked my Gemini out. The first time I used it it chewed everything up, the magnetic shim and clear plates looked mangled and actually the magnetic shim looked like it had been twisted a bit. The final blow was when it devoured half of one of my favourite cut and emboss folders before it decided to reject it having twisted and stretched the plastic making it unusable. It seemed that the machine was much too powerful and not sensitive enough when things were wrong. My foilpress broke after six months as well so I don’t think I will be buying machines from Crafters Companion again. Thank you for the side by side comparison. I think the Sissix looks good and worth the extra money.
Wow that’s awful, such an expensive thing to happen too. I would of definitely contacted customer service, especially as your foil press would be under warranty for 12 months. I’m gutted, as I finally got my foil press out, and found the green shim was missing. I contacted cc, and they are sending me one out, trouble is, it will be a year old next month, so if mine goes, I can’t get it replaced!
I would 100% recommend the sizzix, I’ve not had a single issue to date.
Thank you, for watching, and taking the time to give me your thoughts, and experiences, I really appreciate it. I love to chat with my viewers, as this hopefully helps my channel, and I get new friends too. ❤️❤️❤️
Hi I’m new to your channel today. Thanks for the review, I appreciate the time and information you put in. New subscriber. 💕🇨🇦
Hi Susan, and welcome to my channel. I do hope you enjoy my content. Thank you for watching and taking the time out to comment, I really do appreciate it. I would like to thank you for subscribing too, I hope we have lots of communication.
Big hugs❤️❤️❤️❤️
Great review! Thanks for sharing and all your research
Thank you, I’m so glad you liked it. Xxx
I changed from the Gemini junior to the Switch, and I love the switch. However I have not yet figured out a sandwich to use the Gemini foil press in the switch. Until that happens I can’t get rid of the Gemini, even though I prefer the switch for everything else. It should be possible, as the Gemini sandwiches are thinner than the switch ones.
Yes, I know what you mean! I’ve had to keep hold of my Gemini junior, just for that reason. I can’t see CC doubt a sandwich for us either, as they will want you to purchase the Gemini, to get extra sales.
Nice to hear it’s not just me who prefers the sizzix to the Gemini, I just find it a whole lot better, and the plates don’t warp half as much.
Thank you for watching, and taking the time out to comment too, it’s much appreciated.❤️❤️❤️
I love my Gemini but if it goes I think I will look at the sizzex. The plates are a bit of a pain. I like that the sizzex can do the steel roll dies. Great comparison and review!
I loved my Gemini, but national the plates got that warped, I had to use my tummy, to help push the through 😂. I did everything they said, like keep turning, and rotating the plates. But even with brand new plates, it didn’t take long for them to go to that way. Maybe it’s something to do with it being 2nd hand, or don’t know! I did but the junior, brand new, but I used those plates in the larger Gemini, so I can’t really say the plates warped the same, in that.
My SIL, loved it now though, so at least it’s still getting used. ❤️❤️❤️
Great review. I have the Bigshot Pro and Vagabond, but thinking of getting the Tim Holtz Switch
I would 100% recommend it. I went with the white one, to go with my aesthetic‘s, plus it comes with some dies, and embossing folder. The Tim Holtz one cone with just the machine. I do like the black though. I’d love to know your thoughts, if you do, get one. Xxxx❤️❤️❤️
@@thedizzycrafter4894 Will let you know when I get one. Hoping for a sale lol
Hope you manage to get one, in the sale. You won’t be disappointed. I can’t wait to hear your thoughts. Xxxx❤️❤️❤️
I wish I waited and got the switch . I got the candy floss gemini . First time I used it I messed it up . I struggled to keep plates together they got chewed up .lol then wen I went to pick it up to put away and the top came apart 3rd time lucky crafter companion picked up machine and fixed it . But now obs need new plastic plates . So not used it since. Just used a second hand Big shot cos its much easier to load . Suffering with arthritis I thought the gemini would be great . But where plates are heavy to hold it caused so much pain .
New follower to your videos sorry for long reply . Catching up on your videos
Hi hun. Firstly thank you for subbing my channel, I really appreciate it. Secondly, please don’t apologise for leaving comments, long or short I love them all, as I love to interact, and get to know my watchers, even better when we become friends.
Wow, I don’t think I would of let them fix it, I would of asked for my money back! That’s such bad workmanships!
I don’t chance and dexterity problems, but struggled at ton s, hooded bf the plates. Mainly because I didn’t don’t like using the low tack tape, as I found it pulls the card stock, when you removed it!
I know the switch is a new machine, but I would definitely keep an eye out on eBay, Facebook, gumtree ECT, as you just may find one cheaper. Obviously that will depend on the pennies. I’m just glad 🙂 only paid £40 for my Gemini, as I got it if Facebook marketplace, my SIL loves it though.
I’m m sure they must get n w plates on every show.
I did see a few videos showing you how to keep your plates flatter longer. If I can find them, I will send you a link, send if you decide to buy more plates, you can try it out.
❤️❤️❤️
@@thedizzycrafter4894 I have other plates the thick one for fabric. Maybe I've myself a box to ledge the plates on before it goes in the machine . Tbh I just don't think I like the machine . Too much pressure . It's all a learning process lol
Thank you so much for your video! I typically don't buy new machines till at least 1 year after release. With your help I have just purchased the Sizzix.
By chance do you know what's the name of the spellbinder die you used during the demo? The fancy fold one, I'm new to spellbinder world.
Thanks Again
The Gemini does look smaller and sleeker compared to the Sizzix. That's a big factor for me who don't like bulky machines.
I don’t think theirs much in it via size, and I prefer the look of the sizzix, but that’s a preference thing. What do you think of the new look gemini 2? Xx❤️❤️❤️
@@thedizzycrafter4894 I'm not a fan of the new look for gemini 2. Too pink lol. I think you are right though, the size between the two for Gem 1 and 2 isn't that much. Will prob just go for the Sizzix from your glowing review.