Quick Overview
VERSATILITY
FEATURES
PRICE
Pros
Cons
Whether you need a proper machine for card making or you are interested in other DIY projects, we are here to help you. A die cutter and embosser is one of the products that can go a long way to support your creative mind. There are a couple of elements that you should consider when looking for one.
First and foremost, you want the machine to be portable and easy to use. It is quite common that fabric cutters require a lot of physical effort and leave you with some arm/hand strain. Thus, getting a machine that features an easy-to-turn handle should prevent this issue.
Additionally, you want it to work with a range of different materials, including wool, balsa wood, cardstock, etc. Also, it should be sturdy and heavy-duty, especially if you are planning to use it for professional purposes. Considering these factors, we have done some market research and found the Sizzix Big Shot Plus to be a great choice.
As one of the most popular manual machines out there, it is highlighted by a compact design and user-friendly interface. Let’s take a look at our Sizzix Big Shot Plus review.
Sizzix Big Shot Plus Die Cutting and Embossing Machine
Looking at the cutting and embossing machines, we can say with confidence that Sizzix is among the most reputable brands in the field. It offers a 2-year warranty on all of its products and always includes a number of accessories. We love the fact that this product is beginner-friendly and doesn’t require a lot of physical effort to get started. It is highlighted by an easy roller.
The main concept of this product is that you can cut and emboss with ease. If you are a creative enthusiast who enjoys cardmaking, then this might just be the machine for you. While not as big as some of its competitors, it still has great potential to cover different formats up to A4. Overall, it is an affordable product that can serve as a long-term investment for both your private and professional needs!
Who Is This Machine For?
Well, considering the versatility of this product, we are tempted to say that everyone can benefit from it. The Big Shot Plus is a machine that can be used for cutting a variety of different materials. This, whether you are a carpenter or in the catering business, it will serve its purpose.
Additionally, even if you are not a professional and you simply enjoy DIY projects, it is a fair investment considering the affordable price. Also, we see it as a great gift for your creative friend. You can’t go wrong, given the number of things that it can be used for.
What’s Included?
Apart from the machine itself, there are a couple of accessories that come with it. Firstly, there is a pair of cutting pads that come in the A4 format. Additionally, you are getting adapters for both A and B. This allows you to use other embossing folders and dies that wouldn’t be compatible with the Big Shot Plus. Not to mention, you are also getting a sturdy cutter platform. As for the instructions, these are displayed through diagrams on the platforms and adapters.
Overview of Features
We have already mentioned that Sizzix is one of the best brands on the market. It focuses on customer satisfaction and always strives to listen to feedback and upgrade its products accordingly. This particular product has a couple of innovative features that make it a worthy investment.
First, it can be used with over 20 different materials, which allows limitless projects from wedding events to regular card making. Maybe the most important thing is how wide the platform is. While with high-end products, you might be looking at 10” or wider, this one is set at 9". Still, that is more than enough space to support the A4 format, and in most cases, you will not need it to be any bigger.
As we have mentioned above, what makes this machine a great choice for beginners is the easy roller handle. It reduces arm and hand strain and allows you to enjoy an efficient performance with less physical effort. The design is compact and highlighted by a steel core system and a sturdy outer casing. It weighs just over 15 pounds and, as such, is transportable with this carry handle.
There are a variety of dies that it can work with, including Thinlits and Framelits, as well as the classical Sizzix Bigz. Additionally, you can try this machine out with different embossing folders and thus expand the range of creative possibilities. As for the materials you can use with it, you can use anything from wood and regular fabric to cardboard, tissue, and wool.
When discussing drawbacks, we would like if the machine had a more intricate design. Yes, it is not as heavy, but it can’t be folded, making it less than ideal for storage. Additionally, the instructions provided in the diagrams may not be the best solution. Other than that, this product is a great choice, especially for people who enjoy making invitation cards and other promotional material!
How To Use Sizzix Big Shot Plus
The machine itself is easy to use, considering the roller action that is built in the design. On the other hand, we would like the user’s guide to be more detailed, as setting up the adequate alignment requires that you understand the diagrams. If you are confused, we suggest that you contact their customer support and ask for further instructions.
Alternative
Gemini Cutting and Embossing Machine
Considering the fact that the main concern with the aforementioned product was the size, we have a great substitute. This product can be set at any office desk or work station without taking up a lot of space. It is incredibly fast and should go through multiple layers within 16 seconds. This machine works with most industry-standard dies and embossing folders and is a great choice.
Conclusion
It all comes down to whether you are looking to get a die cutter for personal or professional use. If it is the latter, then the Sizzix Big Shot Plus is a reliable machine. Yes, it does take a bit of space, but considering the user-friendly interface and versatility, it is worth a try!
