I got this machine with my XJ2 sewing machine; in fact, it was one of the reasons I bought the XJ2. I love embroidering applique, but boy do I hate cutting out around applique stitches in the hoop. My sister got this with an XJ1, and let me try it, and to me it was a game changer. I love to send my applique pieces to the cutter, scan the mat and accurately place my fabric so that I generally only have one pass per hoop to cut out pieces. I do really love it. I haven't tried mine for paper cutting or anything but fabric and HTV, but look forward to trying vinyl for purses on it.