Product Review: Spellbinders Grand Calibur

Spellbinders Grand Calibur

MSRP:  $139.99

Product Description

The Grand Calibur is a large-format die-cutting and embossing machine made by Spellbinders (the same company that made the Wizard and Nestabilities dies).  This machine was made with the avid paper crafter on a budget in mind, as it is easy to transport but still able to be used on larger projects.  When you purchase the machine, you will get the following in the box:

• Grand Calibur machine
• one (1) 8 ½" x 12" A plate
• two (2) 8 ½" x 12" B plates
• one (1) 8 ½" x 12" C plate
• tan embossing mat

In Use
This die-cut machine has several helpful features that make it stand apart from its other competitors.  First, the Grand Calibur has a suction control on it which you can lock and unlock.  The nice thing about this feature is that you can determine the amount of suction to the surface you are working on.  In my experience of working with the Grand Calibur, this has been very useful as I can ensure that the machine will not move around when in use. 

As stated previously, this is a large-format die-cutting machine, but unlike its competitors, it is a large size with a small footprint.  The Grand Calibur is easy to store when not in use, and is actually only about 5" longer than the Provo Craft Cuttlebug, and about the same width.  This is a huge benefit if you want a larger base to your die-cutting machine without taking up much space.  Another benefit to the small size is that this machine is easy to carry and pack, making it ideal for both on-the-go and at-home crafting.  The cutting surface of the Grand Calibur is also another feature of this awesome machine.  Despite the small footprint of the Grand Calibur, it handles an 8 ½" x 12" platform. 

While working with the Grand Calibur, I found the following pros and cons:

Pros

• small footprint
• 8 ½" x 12" die-cutting space
• suction setting
• compatible with most other industry dies
• detachable handle for more easy transportation and storage
• can cut paper, thin metal, thin cork, acetate/plastic, thin chipboard, fabric

Cons

• cannot use Sizzix original or Embosslit Dies
• does not handle thick materials
• some of the larger, compatible Grand Nestabilities Dies do not take advantage of the space available

Tips & Techniques
If you have a Grand Calibur or are thinking about getting one, you may be curious about ways to use this die-cut machine.  Below, I listed some tips and techniques I have learned along the way.

Tips

• You can load up a whole 8 ½" x 12" sheet of paper with different types of dies.
• You can use multiple embossing folders at the same time.
• The Grand Nestabilities (which are designed to be used with the large format of the machine) are great for making mini albums or large geometric elements for your 12" x 12" scrapbook layouts.

Techniques

• Try making a shaped mini album using the different sized and shaped dies.
• You can make shaped cards in various sizes.
• Emboss the Spellbinders or Sizzix Framelits into card fronts to create a beautiful and unique embossing look.

Industry Products That Are Compatible with the Grand Calibur

For those of you who are researching the different options for an at-home die-cutting station, I thought I would share some of the industry compatible products for the Grand Calibur. 

• Sizzix Framelits
• Sizzix Sizzlits
• Provocraft Cuttlebug Dies
• all industry embossing folders (Cuttlebug, Sizzix, Spellbinders, etc.)
• Want 2 Scrap (large range of chipboard and other mediums designed specifically to work with Spellbinders line of dies)
• Several companies offer rubber and acrylic stamps that are designed to be used/layered with Spellbinders products (i.e. Just Rite Stamps)
  

Project Ideas & Examples
To give you some inspiration, here is a photo of a few projects that I made using the Grand Calibur and Spellbinders Grand Nestabilities.