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Why Buy This Sizzix Big Shot Machine?
If you’re into die-cutting, embossing, and card crafting, then you must try using a die-cutting and embossing machine like the Sizzix Big Shot Machine. This could be the perfect tool you’ve been looking for to help you with various creative projects and designs.
It will let you cut shapes and create designs on different kinds of materials using Sizzix’s huge library of designs and templates. If you are looking for a versatile cutting and shaping tool, then the Big Shot may be the one you’re looking for.
Introduction of the Sizzix Big Shot Machine
The Big Shot is a die-cutting machine and an embossing tool that can help you make professional-looking embossed or cut designs. It has a larger opening, which will allow you to load wider and thicker materials for more complicated projects.
The Big Shot also allows you to make all kinds of designs and shapes from Sizzix’s wide selection of designs. Sizzix’s large library offers the best designs for a beginner or a seasoned crafter. This vast library of designs lets you make all kinds of projects on any material, even thick and wider ones. The Big Shot will let you work tirelessly on different media at home or in your business.
Sizzix Big Shot Machine Review
As you unbox the Sizzix Big Shot, you’ll immediately see that you don’t need to install anything or attach any part on the tool to work. The most you need to do is to attach the handle that cranks up the machine and place this on an even surface.
The tool is made of hard plastic, which is why it’s one of the lightest embossing and cutting machines in the market. It weighs less than 11 pounds, therefore, it’s the ideal weight to move around. If you want to work at your studio at home, then you can, or you can take this to your working area at the office.
But if this falls or gets knocked over, it can break. This is why you need to place this on a stable, durable surface before starting on your projects.
The working area is enough to work on medium-sized material, but may not be enough for larger and thicker materials like cardboard boxes and thick metal. The only moving part in this cutting and embossing machine is the handle, which you turn to move the material through the tool.
The handle that moves the material through the tool is made of plastic, the same material as the Big Shot. It may be too small for people who have larger hands. The tool looks and feels durable, and with proper use, you can expect this to give you good use for many years to come.
Specs & Features
• Easy Cutting and Embossing
Instead of exerting too much pressure on a seal pressing machine or using a cutter, all you need to do is to load the die and the material in between the platform and place these under the steel rollers.
The Big Shot is a fully manual machine, which means you don’t need electricity or an internet connection. While modern cutters like the Cricut or Sizzix Big Shot Switch Plus rely on software and power, this model uses a simple hand crank system. It is a reliable choice for crafting anywhere without technical hurdles.
• Wider Opening
This comes with a 6” (AS) opening, so it’s wider than most embossing machines and cutting tools. This size will let you use medium-sized materials and work with compatible platforms and dies from other brands, as well as other Sizzix models. The wider opening prevents materials from getting stuck in the roller system, as well.
• Durable Casing and Steel Core Roller
The heart of the Big Shot is a steel core roller that presses on the platform, material, and dies. This is made of steel, therefore, it will never wear down, no matter how much you use this machine. The steel core won’t rust and won’t wear down if you use this embossing tool properly.
• Can Work With All Kinds of Material
One of the best features of the Big Shot is it can work with all kinds of materials such as vellum, felt, leather, cardstock, thin metal, and more. All you need to do is to make your Sizzix sandwich by pressing the material and the die in between the cutting pads. All the materials mentioned and the cutting pads will easily slide through with just a crank of the lever.
• With Ergonomic Handle
The top handle allows you to carry this tool wherever you want to work. It will let you hold the machine better too, as you move the handle to allow the material to pass through. The handle that cranks the steel roller is rather small; therefore, it may be harder to use the tool if you have extra-large hands. We also have a list of the best fabric cutters that you might like to check.
Pros
- Allows you to work with a variety of material including cardstock, felt, leather, vellum, and more
- Comes with a durable outer casing made of hard plastic
- With a wider opening for wider materials
- Platform and cutting pads available. It is compatible with other pads and platforms of other models
- With an ergonomic top handle
- Lightweight and can be taken anywhere
Cons
- Body made entirely of plastic
- The handle that cranks up the steel roller is rather small
- This may not work for larger or wider materials as well as thicker materials
Final Conclusion
If you’re looking for a level-entry die-cutting machine and embossing tool, then the Sizzix Big Shot may be the tool for you. It is a die-cutting machine and an embossing tool that can make professional-looking embossed designs. It comes with a larger opening, which will allow you to load wider and thicker materials.
The Big Shot is for all kinds of embossing and cutting projects, or you may use designs and shapes from Sizzix’s wide design library. It has updated features and is easy to use. The dies and platforms come with your purchase, but you may also use other components from other brands and Sizzix models.
There are a few flaws, like a small handle and an all-plastic body, but despite these, it’s still worth checking out if you are looking for an efficient embossing and die-cutting tool.
