Laser Cutter vs. ScanNCut: Do you really need one?

0 commentaire

Laser Cutter vs. ScanNcut: Which One is Right for You?

Choosing between a laser cutter and a ScanNcut machine can be a tough decision, especially when both offer exciting possibilities for creative projects. Each machine has its strengths, and the best choice depends on your needs, budget, and long-term crafting goals. Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision!

1. The Key Difference

The biggest difference between these two machines is how they cut fabric and other materials:

ScanNcut uses a blade to cut through material, making it ideal for thinner fabrics, paper, vinyl, and lightweight cardboard.
Laser cutters use a focused beam of light to burn through material, which also carbonizes the fabric edges to prevent fraying.

2. Cost and Consumables

While both machines require maintenance and some consumables, they differ significantly in long-term costs:

ScanNcut: Requires periodic blade replacements, and the high-tack cutting mat wears down over time.
Laser Cutter: More expensive upfront but has fewer consumables, making it a cost-effective choice in the long run.

3. Versatility

Laser cutters take the lead in versatility:

ScanNcut: Works well with fabric, paper, vinyl, thin plastics, and cardstock.
• Step by step guide on cutting fabric with a ScanNcut
Laser Cutter: Can cut fabric, wood, cardboard, and even engrave metal. See what engraving on fabric looks like here.
• Video on cutting Fabric

4. Maintenance and Upkeep

ScanNcut: Needs mat cleaning every now and then to maintain the stickiness and occasional blade replacements. Blade replacements is highly dependent on what fabric you cut and how much you're cutting. Harder fabrics will wear down the blade a lot quicker than thinner softer fabrics would.
Laser Cutter: Requires lens cleaning and on occasion might need a lens replacement as they do get scratched over time due to cleaning. Although we found this will happen maybe once a year if you use the machine a lot.

5. Accessories and Add-Ons

ScanNcut: Most vinyl cutters has a wide range of different cutting tools and cutting mats to choose from. We specifically like using the rotary blade cutter with a large high tack cutting mat.
Laser Cutter: We suggest using a honeycomb cutting surface, this provides a nice flat surface to cut on and provides a cleaner cut overall, an extractor fan, if using the machine in your sewing room that has limited ventilation you may need to use an extractor to direct the smoke outdoors. Lastly, cleaning tools. This is simply a 1.5'/2" paint brush, q-tips and some alcohol to clean the lens with. Use a dish soap solution and a sprayer to soak the honeycomb bed with and let it sit for a few minutes. And rinse with a hose, it's that easy.

6. Software & Ease of Use

Both machines come with their own software:

ScanNcut: Easier for beginners with lots of tutorials available.
• A super easy and intuitive system to learn, watch this video.
Laser Cutters: Just as with each vinyl cutter comes with it's own software that you need to learn, so does the laser cutters. We use a program called Lightburn, here's a video on how it works.

7. Safety Considerations

ScanNcut: Very safe, just ensure there's enough space around the machine so it doesn't obstruct the mat in any way and that there's nothing that could block the cutting blade carriage. Further it's a very safe machine if you follow all the onscreen instructions.
Laser Cutter: A laser cutting emits a strong laser beam, this means safety glasses is a must and adhering to basic safety parameters such as using a fire resistant base. Something like a ceramic tile from your local hardware/tile shop, proper ventilation, and ensuring the base as well as the lens area stays clean.

8. Which One is Right for You?

Your choice depends on your creative goals:

ScanNcut: Best for those working mainly with thinner materials such as, cardstock, paper, thin plastics and thin fabrics. Also a great family choice if you have little ones that likes crafting too.
• Link to free SVG files for your vinyl cutter.
Laser Cutter: Ideal for those looking for more versatility and a long-term investment. It's not limited to fabrics, but can cut 3mm (some up to 6mm) MDF wood as well. This would be a great option as both you and your partner can utilize the investment for different purposes.
• Just checkout this library on MDF files

9. Our Personal Recommendation

At StitchDelight, we prefer the laser cutter for its larger cutting surface and cost efficiency. However, the ScanNcut is a fantastic option for those wanting a safer, simpler cutting experience—especially for young crafters.

In essence, yes we believe every hobby room should have at least one of these, both if you can. They are a keystone in creative freedom that opens so many more doors of possibilities!

We hope this article inspires you to try something new and sparks newfound excitement!

If you already own one of these, check out our wide range of applique designs.