Comparison of Manual Die Cutting Machines

This Periscope re-broadcast comparison 4 of the most popular manual Die Cutting Machines- the Spellbinders Platinum, the Sizzix BigKick, the Lifestyle Evolution, and the newly-retired Fiskars Fuse. See the pros and cons of each! READY TO BUY?
WRMK: amzn.to/1po1btN
PLATINUM: amzn.to/1UzcsmZ
BIG KICK: amzn.to/22m4m3E
FUSE: amzn.to/22m4zE1
Feel free to leave questions in the comments and I'll do my best to answer them.
Join me on Periscope for LIVE broadcasts & chats! www.periscope.tv/crafttestdummy or Katch.me/CraftTestDummy to see scopes in full.

[@nelissaokamoto]

Love your videos. I'm new to paper crafting. You're videos are so informative and help newbies like me! Thank you!

[@crafttestdummies]

Thank you! You made my day!

[@CutterPunkCrafts]

Thanks for the shout out! I'm about to pull the trigger on the Fiskars Fuse... I'm trying to figure out which Big Shot Pro accessories will work with it to achieve a twelve-inch "works with anything" system, but there are only a few of these left so I'll just have to worry about that later!

[@memessweett4005]

Thank you for sharing this. I am new to paper crafting and I'm gonna purchase a manual die cutting machine soon so I am doing my homework. Have a blessed day.

[@SonShine007]

Newbie crafter here looking for a manual die cut & embossing machine to accompany my Cricut. Your very informative video has helped me to make make an informed decision. Thank You! I’m getting a manual machine 2nd hand that includes everything I need! Woo Hoo! There are so many that it’s hard to choose, but I’ve narrowed it down to 4 lol...but leaning mostly towards Bigkick or Fiskars Fuse. Thanks again for sharing!

[@crafttestdummies]

At this time, I would definitely recommend going with the big kick. The Fiskars fuse has been discontinued and they will be putting out any more new dies or plates out for that. However, if you’re going to be getting a used one you can probably get a great deal on the fuse.

[@jeanieferretti4203]

I just bought the WRMK evolution die cutting machine and I love it! I had a cuttlebug for years and I got some cardboard stuck in it, it still works but my new one is a dream and I use the clear plates from my cuttlebug. The reason I don't have the bigger machines is my space is small.Thank you so much for the demo!

[@kathymcwaters6309]

Jeanie Gregory what. Size cuttlebug plates worked on your evolution please ?

[@jeanieferretti4203]

I use all the plates from my cuttlebug. They all work on my We R Memory keepers evolution. Just adjust it for you usage.

[@kathymcwaters6309]

Thank you!

[@janetehoffman]

Really nice comparisons, great info.

[@MsCurliegirlie]

Great tutorial. Each machine has certain benefits. I have electronic machines as well, but like the manual ones for using up my scraps ☺️. Did spellbinders come out w a full sized cutting plate? Thank you for sharing ☺️💕

[@elizabethvallely4044]

Enjoy the video, thank you for the wonderful informations and tips!!!

[@annihilator45]

I love my die cutting machines. The vagabond is fab for no arm wear, and I use my big kick still too! I recently got the big shot pro and it is a monster! Thanks for the review.

[@irenecortez7819]

I love this tutorial. Thank you so much. Yay

[@kymmer116]

After watching this video, I went on Amazon and they have a decent selection of dies for this machine that are a great price!

[@DeeDigs]

I love my Platinum machine, I bought mine from Spellbinders and they gave me BOTH sizes of cutting plates. Maybe you should contact Stacey for a set of the larger plates, they are standard issue now. Also, I have been using cardstock as a shim for the regular embossing folders, I use an 8.5 x 11 piece folded in half twice ( the size of an A2 card), works great !!

[@gwensimmons_gigi1629]

Great die cutting machine review! TFS! 😘👍🏾 Are you planning to do digital die-cutting machines review next with Silhouette and Brother Scan n Cut, etc??

[@sherrywoodard9919]

I have an Ebosser. It's electric and saves my arthritic arm an shoulder. I loved the machine!

[@j.m.england6828]

Thanks for sharing this video, i did buy this one, the Evolution, but right off the dial system did not budge at all & it was extremely hard to try to open the drawers, especially if you have weak wrists or fingers & the suctions cups didn't work, also i expected it in the silvery gray & it was white, well that was the least of my worries, but it surely had it's issues so i returned it, then i bought the machine called Nurxiovo from Amazon, it stated it was a diecutter/embosser & that it had suction cups, well there were no suction cups included & it couldn't do any embossing without some other type of mat or pad, that wasn't even included, what i did like about this one, was the drawers opened very easily & they were deep, the handle was flexible to turn in on itself to not be sticking outward, it did great die cutting & offered great freebies, but the description of this machine was not truthful, i want one with suction cups, this is the only reason why i didn't buy the Spellbinders machine. So i decided on trying out an older design called the Accucut Zip eMATE, i got one still brandnew on eBay, so far i'm having many issues with this one as well, i hope to figure it out, i do want to keep this one, just not much helpful info on it, as it's virtually unheard of. So tomorrow i plan on calling the company that sold it, but now they aren't even selling these anymore, i hope i get this one figured out.

[@melindamorgan1736]

I’m die-ing for these!!

[@ggsjunkjournaltime9784]

I need help I'm so new to crafting I bought a side kick but I'm looking what to buy for some more die cuts ?

[@liaurre]

RThank you for all your videos. You are so great. Your vouce is very pleasant to hear. I am going to buy very 1st manual citting machine.. I dont know which one should I get: Sizzix or Spellbinders 8.5 platinum., Any advise here?

[@scoobydoowhereru1480]

I want a manual machine so much and I'm so so Soooo Happy I found your video yahhh

[@crafttestdummies]

I own a few digital machines and I have to tell you for daily use I still love my Sizzix big shot. Wouldn’t trade it for the world.

[@thegreenwoodhub2508]

Hello, could you please tell me how big a sizzix Die works on a platinum 6 spellbinders? Also, can you interchange plates between a sizzix machine to a platinum 6? Thank you for answering my question.

[@MyWorkbasket]

Do you ever have to shim the Sizzix? I have the little Spellbinders Prizm and have to shim it with extra paper for EVERYTHING. It drives me crazy. I'm hoping to upgrade to a larger machine with more options but hate the idea of constantly needing to shim with scrap paper and such. I see in the video you cut just fine. Has there been any materials or techniques that did required shimming??

[@cpomelow7625]

thank you for your video. I have a cuttlebug, had it for years. I'm finding that some intricate dies don't always cut clean, I have to punch out all the cuts. is my machine worn our??

[@Dustymodoc]

I have a Fiskars Fuse and would really like to know how to use the Thinlit dies in it. I have tried several times to contact the company and other sites but as of yet no one knows. Can you help? I have many thinlit dies and embossing frames but can't find the right combination of plates to use.

[@rossdnb1]

I LOVE my Fiskars Fuse! I use the magnetic platform from sizzix along with sizzix cutting plates. It is heavy but I have a permanent home for it on a rolling cart!

[@crafttestdummies]

+Barb Ross That's a great tip!

[@shmawh]

I just purchased the Fuse yesterday since it is being discontinued and it is half price. However, several people have stated that it often cuts the paper during the embossing process. Do you have this problem?

[@rossdnb1]

+Shelia White just play around with the shims you use. My have all the different shims from fiskars, also create your own.

[@shmawh]

+Barb Ross This will be my first die cutting machine so I don't have any shims. I will purchase them as I see them on sale. Thanks! Shelia

[@rossdnb1]

+Shelia White what is really wonderful is that you have a 12 inch opening, so almost any brand will fit the fuse. I have used spellbinder cutting plates and sizzix. For thinner shims, think of things you can grab at the dollar store or Home Depot! I have used cardboard box cut down and even and old self healing cutting mat that I trimmed down. Trial and error, plus a notebook with "recipes". If the machine seems over loaded, take some thickness out. I hope that helps! Good luck!

[@PoPoCHAN]

I love my wrmk evolution because it's cutting mat is long enough for sizzix scoreboard die, but it is not transparent! Can sizzix extended cutting pad go through the evolution? Have you ever tried that? 😊thanks.

[@makorepo11]

Hi,can anyone recommend the best system for die cutting fabric to make hair bows please? Thanks

[@EuniceViera]

hello, do you know if the spellbinder platinum will take the accucut dies?

[@sherrywoodard9919]

I have the Big Kick as well as the electric Ebosser. The .Big Kick is less expensive, very well made, sturdy, and does a great job.

[@taisiakat]

Can you use cuttle bug plates Platinum since they had a long plate (B and C)

[@inhaleexhale]

I have a follow up question about the Spellbinder plates. I thought that on the platform it gives a list of the sandwiches that they recommend. Did none of the recommended sandwiches for the embossing work correctly?

[@kymmer116]

I have a fuse and its massive! I am so happy I purchased (several years ago) but disappointed that it has been discontinued by the company....

[@SR-ww4zs]

Hello ; I am on a retriedment income new to quilting which would you think would work for me and do a good job for my pocket book thank you !😏😗🤔

[@jetscraft]

for the embossing with the cheap embossing folders we use the sizzix black impressions pad works perfect

[@crafttestdummies]

+Jet van duijn Thanks for the tip!

[@SL-wk6dp]

Have you ever tried the Crafters companion die cut and embossing machine?

[@karenbonnetti-ramirez6264]

Hi, do you know if the Evolution cuts Fabric? Thank you, Karen

[@libra7.063]

Thank you so much for this video. I am fairly new at this scrap booking and I had been contemplating on one of these machines, but even after reading all the descriptions and what it can do, I was still unsure which one is best for me. Now that I watched this viedo, I am almost sure. Before I do go out and spend a lot of money, I have three questions that I couldn't find researching on my own; 1) You mentioned that the Spellbinder and Fiskars can die cut a standard size of 8.5x11 paper (a size that I consider standard btw.) Are there no embossing folders that size, as well? If not, why? 2) When you refer to standard and basic materials that these machines use, what does that mean exactly? Again, I am new at this, so I want to apologize ahead of time if these questions sound immature. Also, the comment from other people is very helpfull and I want to thank them as well.👍

[@deborahanne9793]

Are you still happy with your Evolution? I see that they now have a motor that can attached to it and I am looking at for that reason. I have a Vagabond and it is simply way to heavy for me to move off of my table and put anywhere else. The Evolution looks far more lightweight and with the motor now be attachable , sounds like a good machine. Thank you

[@amandabennett5772]

Does anyone know if the evolution is good for cutting thinner metal?

[@jannoliver1434]

Hi! I'm wondering as a metal jewelry artist which machine would work well with metal? Loved the review! Thanks. Jann.

[@905lovest]

Jann, Elizabeth Crafts has jewelry dies, and I also know that Tessler Crafts has created dies that they have used with the metal from soda pop cans, I did a short class with them at a craft show, really neat stuff!!! They use a piece of fun-foam as a shim to make the machine tight enough to work with the metal of a pop can. Perhaps other thin metal works but I wouldn't pretend to have any knowledge of this. Also Sizzix has come out recently with their own jewelry dies, but mainly are to be used with their own real leather. Also Sizzix has created their own paper leather which cannot rip and comes in a variety of colors. I hope you find this info helpful... I don't have any info on which machine, but I do know that a jewelry-artist whom I admire greatly and buy her pieces has started a project in Mexico I think with women there, and I know they use one of the manual machines to create jewelry but I don't think it's metal. Her name is Trudy Gallagher, her Facebook page is here-- facebook.com/trudy.gallagher.58?fref=ts She is one amazing artist, my all-time favorite jewelry artist. She also teaches at a art college in NB, Canada... Perhaps she could advise on machines these women have used in Mexico. I recently bought the Crafter's Companion Gemini electric die-cutting machine, and it's supposed to have the most power and pressure of any of the electric die-cutting machines, I would perhaps contact Crafter's Companion to see what they say. This Gemini was just launched at HSN a few weeks ago, it will be available in the US at places other than HSN sometime later in August, but the best deal with extra dies would be at HSN when it is available again, it sold out, was $179.99 with $4.95 shipping and an extra $40 or so in extra dies. The regular price will be $229... Here is a link to that machine, and there are lots of videos out on it on KZbin, #504 317, and it now doesn't show the extra dies and embossing folder that came with the Today's Special, may be that will return-- www.hsn.com/products/crafters-companion-gemini-die-cutter-and-embosser/8197001 For a manual machine, that newly-retired Fiskars machine sounds very heavy. Perhaps Fiskars could advise you... I hope you find this information helpful. Best wishes, Joanne

[@debbiewyles6729]

Which machine can you use thinlets and the thick dies? And ere any of them easy to use ( for people who don’t have a lot of strength )

[@kayekaye47]

do you have an opinion of the Cheery Lynn Little Sister.

[@taibangvlogs543]

Ma'am..i want this manual mini die cutter n creasing machine where i get this?

[@catherinedoerr5198]

Is the evolution compatible with other brands of dies and embossing folders. T FS

[@LOUROFIL]

Hello CraftTestDummies! Could you help me please? I've an old Sizzix Big Shot and I'm thinking to buy a Spellbinder Platinum or Platinum 6.0 but I don't know which one yet because I need to know if all Bigz Dies I have fit in which...could you help me?

[@beulahcarpenter133]

I have the spellbinder platinum which quilt dies work on this machine ?

[@luxurycardstore]

A month ago I was in the market for a new embossing/die cutting machine. I wanted to be able to use the larger embossing folders such as letter size or A5 size. I almost bought the Spellbinders, and I would have been upset that you only get the small plates to go with the large platform. I bought the Crossover Machine from Create and Craft because you can adjust the rollers for thickness depending on what you are cutting. It is heavy duty with metal gears and cuts great. It is expensive, but I was lucky to get a $20 off coupon and split the cost into 4 payments. While I would recommend the machine, the company I bought it from has terrible service.

[@candacekieper4354]

have tried cuttlebug great but small used and broke 2 spellbinders now have a sizzix big shot PLUS like it

[@KayDejaVu]

Sizzix doesnt have good reviews. Surprised you like it

[@marilynnellsworth4300]

Love my Plus

[@criss27oana]

everyone use Sizzix here in Spain

[@annihilator45]

I love my big kick!

[@gladissalazar3496]

Como consigo el troquel de pesebre que troquela Melanie

[@905lovest]

I'd love to know what you think of the electric die-cutting machines, perhaps you've done some reviews--I will check :). Would love to see your take on the new Crafter's Companion Gemini vs the Cut 'N Boss and the Vagabond. And of course the Advanced Evolution has a motor that is an optional add-on. I think it's always helpful to share for instance that the Big Kick/Big Shot has the advantage of having the precision plate for intricate dies that the Cuttlebug and others do not have... I didn't know for instance that the Grand Calbur does not cut steel-ruled dies. A lot of great information, thank you so much!!!

[@Dustymodoc]

When electric goes out the manual ones are better. Seem to be built better too.

[@kristinahansson4688]

You really should take a look at the Big sister machine from Cheery Lynn, I just bought it and it’s so nice. A4 size, all metal parts, adjustable solid metal rollers, foldable handle and very smooth to crank. It comes with 6 by 15 inch extended plates but you could buy the a4 too. I’m so happy with it and do recommend it to anyone! It came with a bag but I think that was a special offer.

[@shmawh]

+Kristina Hansson I wanted to get Big Sister but it cost too much. If I pay $240.00 for the machine which includes shipping, I would be better off getting the Scan and Cut which is much better for just a little more money.

[@kristinahansson4688]

+Shelia White The Scan and cut looks like a good choice for a digital machine, I have an old Silhouette Cameo. I bought the Big sister because my Cuttlebug felt too small and I wanted a bigger manual machine. It is a big investment but I' really happy with it! Good luck with youre Scan and cut, it looks great!

[@TheHillsoflove]

Kristina Hansson are you still using the big sister? I bought one but it broke...have written to the company..I also thought the machine is heavy duty ...was contemplating if I should invest in it again..live in India so cannot even send it for repairs.

[@tazholden4121]

I have the 2nď màchinè...i love it... but just don't like when the plate warp n make marks in my paper that I don't like.... ßetter then hand cuttinģ

[@Domz12]

Anyone know where I can buy a fuse machine

[@MsBarb36]

Have you tried the sm. die cut machines found on ali express

[@crafttestdummies]

To be honest, no I haven't I *have* purchased a number of dies, though, and I've been happy with all of them.

[@naturewoman1274]

Hi there I'm looking at buying a die cutting machine but not sure which one to buy, I want to be able to use all die and not be stuck to buying one brand only can someone please help me I'm from Australia

[@debrapope900]

Are all the machines able to use the dye cuts ..interchangable? Like the frisker one that's on clearence

[@crafttestdummies]

Actually, no. but you can use different cutting plates and shims to adapt them. I mention this in my review video of the Fiskars Fuse.

[@diannewyatt3770]

I am new to this, I have been doing leather earrings by hand with scissors. Which Sizzix machine would you recommend for just earrings. I have no intentions of doing any other projects with it. And do I have to use their metal cuts or can we use others from Amazon. Thanks for your time and enjoyed your videos!

[@crafttestdummies]

Any o fthe sizzix would work for you, and you can use any steel-rule die.

[@cherylbromley7856]

Can I cut fablon on my die cut machine

[@wirelacesalesandservices155]

Can you tell us where to buy the small gear of Fiskars Fuse Creativity? And do you know the price, because we have 2 machines here which is not in use because of that small gear that is badly damage.

[@crafttestdummies]

WIRELACE Sales and Services The Fiskars Fuse should be covered by warranty. Contact the company for repair questions.

[@samreynolds3789]

Salaam/Peace! REALLY needed this video! Never done this area of Craft , but IF sell enough ART ,can get _____ & UP My Skills/ GAME /Sales ! I work wit Tree Limbs , Some Leather, LOTS of various TEXTILES! Can I makemy OWN DESIGNS as a DIE ?! Like Arabic , or Nation Shapes , My own Designs ?🤔

[@sharonb.7867]

I have a Fiskar Fuse. It is a monster! Do you know where I can buy plates for it? There were some on ebay, but I waited too long and they are gone. Thanks for the review.

[@crafttestdummies]

I had and also reviewed the Fiskars Fuse as well. However, now it’s discontinued so eBay and resale sites are your best bet.

[@comfortada7099]

How do l get size A4 of the

[@mrlbattle1]

can't you use the magnetic plate in the evolution?

[@reneedonalson5622]

Lamar Battle I use the magnetic platform with my Evolution Advanced and I love it!!!

[@jenniferrodd3541]

I just started thinking about getting a die cut machine. I've always wanted to have die cuts for making my cards. Years ago I saw the cricut machine and thought it was cool but I'm blind and it had a screne you chose your options from. I've done some looking around on youtube to see what machine might be best for me. I would like your thoughts on the two machines I'm thinking about. The first one is the Spellbinders Prizm. I think the biggest die cut I could do is 2 1/2 inches but that's fine because my cards are usually only 4 1/4 by 5 1/2 inches. My only concern with this machine is would I be able to use other brands of dies that were the right size? The other machine is the Cuttlebug. It is more expencive but I can do bigger die cuts and I know I can use other brands of dies. Since die cut machines use individual dies that you put on the paper it shouldn't be any problem for me once I learned how to use it. I just don't know which way to go.

[@jackergsue1584]

We have more than four hundred designs dies in stock. If you want, please contact me. Email: [e-mail]

[@scottyeallen6426]

So is The Big Kick just an older version of The Big Shot? What's the difference with the Big Shot and Big Shot Plus? Thank you thank you!

[@crafttestdummies]

They all look identical to me.... ???

[@cschrader1559]

Big kick is found at big box stores (Michael's, Hobby Lobby, etc). While Big Shots are found at independent retailers. Different colors, but otherwise the same.

[@judybillar7499]

Ive had my Cuttlebug for years and it usually works great. But now we have these big background plates and no matter what I do it won’t cut all of it! Do I need a better machine?

[@crafttestdummies]

Probably a better cutting plate. Get one of the ones with a metal shim. But I do still like my sizzix the best!

[@bridgetalabi4416]

can these die-cutting machines cut leathers too

[@ncfunny]

Hi. I need a machine only for to make stencils using plastic, vinyl and mylar . Which machine are you recommend to me ? Thanks.

[@crafttestdummies]

You'd want a digital machine (I'm assuming you'd want to create your own images for those stencils.) I'd say a Silhouette or a Scan N Cut would be the way to go.

[@ncfunny]

Thanks

[@MsCebuana76]

It would be really nice if youtubers just mention how much the product cost.......I mainly watch reviews and hope that some would mention how much it cost so I can base my choice on the price too.

[@crafttestdummies]

I understand...but honestly, I cannot keep up with the current prices in all of the stores across the world. It's impossible and Google is your best friend for comparison shopping. I can give you all of the other pertinent info, tho. :)

[@kellyutley510]

The last cutter is a fiskar does anyone out there know how to remove the handle

[@CouponandCarefree]

Hi there, I'm thinking of getting the evolution. would you still recommend it? have you had any issues with it cutting intricate dies?

[@reneedonalson5622]

CouponandCarefree I have the Evolution Advanced and I love it! I did purchase the magnetic plate for it separately and it works great or washi tape like she did works too ! You probably purchased one by now I'm curious how you like yours! 😊

[@trunnellpropertiesinc.6233]

Purchased the Evolution because of the motor that can be added. Returned it because it absolutely would not through DCWV Glitter paper. Chews it up!

[@905lovest]

I find most machines won't cut that kind of thick cs, I have never been able to get die-cuts from that kind of glitter paper. Anna Griffin has her own glitter cardstock on HSN that I want to try, as it has been designed to be die-cut, which is exciting.

[@Nostalgicambiance3]

If I wanted to have my own dies made for my original designs...what companies do you suggest that i contact for that?

[@b.a.jordan1857]

@Butterfly Divas I realize this question is from a year ago, but I saw that you didn’t get a reply and I just came across it, so figured that I’d answer in case it helps you or anyone else. Sizzix offers this (or did as recently as a few months ago). I’ve seen a section of their website in the past that is dedicated to those that are looking for a manufacturer for custom dies. Also, I’m not sure if it’s still an option but I know the company Cheery Lynn that has some cute and quirky dies under that name also (at least in the past) offers the ability to manufacture custom dies if you supply them with the files that they need. Hope this helps!

[@Nostalgicambiance3]

@@b.a.jordan1857 ty so much…I am still interested in knowing. I truly appreciate you taking time out to answer my question…many blessings to you.❤️

[@Dustymodoc]

Where can I buy the see through plates for Fiskars Fuse?

[@crafttestdummies]

+Sandy Coble Fiskars Fuse does not have clear plates. I used my C plate from Cuttlebug to adapt for different dies. I have additional videos that can help you in the die cutting playlist.

[@Dustymodoc]

Thank you for the info. I am just so lost without my Fuse and now all the dies are thin, LOL. I will survive!

[@jkmcl905]

I love my original Big Kick!

[@carlhammill5774]

I would recommend digital laser cutters now. More flexibility and much faster process.

[@LeoMatthewEmbodo]

This video tutorial you will learn which of the Top 3 Electronic Die-Cutting Machines is the Quietest! Between the Cricut Maker vs. Silhouette Cameo 4 or Brother Scan N Cut. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rXO6aaSqotRjntU

[@inhaleexhale]

Thanks for this. I am shopping for my first die cutting machine. Just getting into beginner card crafting. I was surprised to learn the Spellbinder Platinum doesn’t have a plate that fully covers the platform. I have a review request: can you possibly review or test with various materials running through it, the Diamond Press Marquise? It doesn’t even have plates; it only uses folders. I am very curious how it would perform next to some of the more traditional die cutters with plates and what sized die it can handle and if it can cut well. Thanks.

[@pierocespedesavila658]

Cómo lo puedo obtener.?. Me imteresa mucho

[@crafttestdummies]

Google it! :)

[@stormyrain2335]

What is your opinion of the Stampin Up Big Shot?

[@crafttestdummies]

Stormy Rain The Stampin' Up Bigshot is not different from the standard Sizzix Bigshot- it's just sold thru SU. And of all the manual machines I had, the Bigshot is the one *I* chose to keep for personal use.

[@stormyrain2335]

CraftTestDummies Thank you for replying so quickly, it's the one I have been looking at for a few months.

[@afifaakhtarch6441]

CraftTestDummies that means both are same ... i can buy any of them ? is there a price difference? and can u score with it as well or i have to buy seperate scoring board?

[@crafttestdummies]

The name of this model is the Big Shot...and yes, you can purchase it through SU or any retailer. Usually when we use the term "scoring" you mean to make a deep crease for folding. And yes, you'd need an scoring/embossing pad for that. They are also easy to find.

[@nishikejriwal3984]

which one is best among them

[@pamthomason4592]

Have you every used the crossover.

[@crafttestdummies]

No! Who makes it?

[@christopherfugle6592]

This amazing little beast is like a miniature Fiskars unit. The Cheery Lynn folks were selling it (heavily promoting it too in 2015/6) but now seems to have vanished. Now they have been replaced with Big Sister/Little Sister units that look like a hybrid Cuddlebug/WRMK love child. I just saw the Crossoveron Joann's (www.joann.com/tattered-lace-crossover-cutting-machine/14898704.html). Love Craft Test Dummies as I feel I am sitting next you discussing hot crafting topics op;osed to being talked "to" or "at" by so many other famous YT hosts. You bring a comfort to watching reviews and know that I have finally figured out how to watch you on a 65" super wide flat screen in my comfy recliner while taking notes. You've never been bigger! ;)

[@ronnipaints6128]

Why plastic plates instead of glass. Or a harder plastic

[@portcitypizzle]

Is there a machine that die-cuts Velcro?

[@crafttestdummies]

Not that I know of- it's very thick.

[@evajohnson6539]

I'm selling mine. Received it as a gift from my husband and haven't had the to learn how to use it. I don't own any dies. They're so expensive. Is there a difference between cutting with dies vs a Cricut machine?

[@LoisPallisterCIY]

Hi Eva, I have a Cricut and thought I'd never need one of these but now I want one for the embossing feature. I'm pretty new to a lot of all this but now I have a big selection of alcohol inks, distress inks and distress oxide inks along with a few stamps and stencils I really want to be able to emboss sheets and I also love the dies that cut and emboss the frames. You know the ones with a 'stitched' look etc. This would add so many more options to my creativity. But to just cut a shape - I'd use my Cricut every time! I use the free image editing programmes Gimp and Inkscape to create my own shapes to cut and I can cut words using any font on my PC. So if you don't feel you want to use embossing then sell it but do consider that first. And if you are in the UK let me know which machine you have as I might want to buy it!

[@evajohnson6539]

@The Colour It You Channel - Hi! Thank you for your response. I started watching videos and even took a copic card class that uses the Lawn Fawn dies (frames with the stitched look), rubber stamps and distress inks. I’m hooked!! I can’t wait to try my machine. I still have to figured out what dies work with it.

[@LoisPallisterCIY]

@@evajohnson6539 That's great :-) I now have the Big Shot Foldaway and I'm loving it though I've not used it for any projects so far but will be doing that today in a very simple way for a birthday card for my husband. I will be blending some distress oxide inks on the front panel and then stamping a plaid design over it with a big background stamp I have using Versamark ink. Not sure yet if I will emboss it with clear powder or just set the ink - going to do tests both ways. Then I will 'hinge' a second piece of card to it with some masking tape, spray the inked and stamped piece liberally with water, fold the top piece over and then run that through the Big Shot to 'press' them together. This will make the ink paler where the stamp didn't cover the area with the stamped area remaining at the original bright colour of the ink I laid down. And I'll have another front panel piece with a paler image but just white on the areas that I stamped. So there are many uses for the machines - even just pressing rather than using a brayer roller and lots of pressure! I want it flat as I will be sticking on a printed acetate sheet over it so if it works better with the clear embossing I will iron that off afterwards. You will be able to use most dies and embossing folders but sometimes will need to experiment with different shims. I have a Sissix 3D folder that wouldn't go through my machine with the recommended sandwich but I soon found that with 5 sheets of A5 typing paper and the thinlets plate rather than one of the standard cutting pads it worked :-) Have fun!

[@travelingchinchin]

If my Big shot is missing a piece, would I be able to contact Sizzix and get sent a replacement piece? The piece in question is the screw piece that goes inside the manual handle. It fell out somehow and got lost. Lol...

[@Spicifiy1]

+travelingchinchin The women in Sizzix CS are FANTASTIC. They'd send you 5 screws if that's what you requested. It's the VIPs I have a problem with. As their machines already have a huge footprint, having to use the extended platform makes it 5x worse especially if you have to use a lower tab. There's no real convenience to the extended because if you put a bunch of small dies on it, many of them won't cut. I am furious I can't purchase the standard platform. They also added beveled edges to the cutting pads reducing actual cutting space. If you put dies close to the edge part of them won't cut. I don't know why they don't do extensive focus groups before making such changes. The least they could have done was WARN us they were retiring the smaller platform so we could stock up on them.

[@905lovest]

Sorry, AnnOna Moss, I thought I was putting in a reply to you, somehow I messed up and it's a comment listed below, I am SO sorry!!! It's about the fact that the standard Big Shot platform IS going to be available again at Scrapbooking Made Simple and perhaps elsewhere too. See my note below--SMS has a very good and close relationship with Sizzix, please read what I wrote below. I am sorry it is so long, but I wanted to give you as much information as possible and I hope it is helpful! Best wishes to you, Joanne

[@Spicifiy1]

I watch all Stacey's videos & she ALWAYS uses the standard platform. I was so excited when she announced she'd be getting them. I've been so busy buying every $1.25-$4 MAX metal cutting die eBay's China contingent has, I forgot to check to see if they're in yet. Kimbos Kreations showed some of these dies on one of her videos & they actually cut as good or better than the main producers. And yes, Stacey should be consulted before Sizzix makes changes like this.

[@Spicifiy1]

BTW, the Evolution is for sale @ Tuesday Morning for $39 but it doesn't get good reviews on Amazon. TM also got an unbelievable selection of Crafter's Companion dies/embossing folders. If you want a catalog of SKUs of what's available IN TEXAS, watch Cherished Treasures Aug 1 video. Before making a judgment on the volume of the haul, look at her gorgeous Once Upon a Time mini, keeping in mind she's neurologically challenged. The industry should be sending her this stuff free because she's the best advertising they could ever wish for.

[@Agnes47100]

what do you do when your plates jamm? I have first been advised to buy a mallet.... excuse me, I bought an electronic machine for a reason. Now my plates are jammed and the suggestion is a clip may be broken and a local hardware store could sell me one, I can then fix??? my machine where the gears have shifted and the plates are jammed. I now need an engineering expert to solve my problem? Is this a design fault? a closed off unit, one only has access to a push button and pushing the plates through. Can you help?

[@samreynolds3789]

Can I make OWN DIE designs: Nations Shapes , Arabic, Personal Designs?

[@crafttestdummies]

Not really. There are some places you can approach for custom steel rule dies, but those are costly and take a lot of time. You’re better off going with digital die cutting as it is easier to create your own designs on the software.

[@samreynolds3789]

COOL Appreciate it !

[@red_violette]

You keep calling the Big Kick a Big Shot and I'm big confused...is that a mistake or on purpose?

[@crafttestdummies]

It's because it's the same machine (except for color.) Dimensions are the same, weight is the same, construction of gears and rollers are the same. From what I can glean they sold the Big KICK in big box stores and the Big SHOT in small retail shops. So I use the terms interchangeably.

[@gladissalazar3496]

Vivo en Colombia Bosé inglés y quiero ayuda con mi maquina pero alguien que sepa español y me escriba y yo entienda

[@flbrenda]

Hola Gladis que maquina tienes?

[@gladissalazar3496]

+flbrenda tengo l big shot express y la spellbinders

[@flbrenda]

Ya, bueno yo tengo la big shot y la cuttlebug no se si en algo podre ayudarte con tus inquietudes. Personalmente no he tenido problemas con los sandwiches ya que uso las mismas bases y plataformas en las dos.

[@hazzanmlr]

I'm looking to get a machine and some dies. I'm a teacher, and I'm looking for Hebrew letter dies and Jewish images. Anyone have any ideas??

[@grandmalovesmebest]

Have you found these yet? Ive been looking for them as well as anything oriental. I called the companies but nobody knew about this. I even called Hong Kong!

[@acrookedpinky2689]

i love my bigshot.

[@xiomaragutierrezramirez3275]

AMANDA EASTCOASTCRAFTS I love it too.

[@stellashandmade]

How does the machine actually cut the paper. I see no evidence of any blades. many thanks

[@laxmilalsingha6251]

Thanks. I choise to be die cut machine.

[@denisemikedickinson1078]

U

[@arnelakawhitewash]

I am selling my Fiskars if you're interested, let me know.

[@alexandramcfarland5683]

V

[@alexandramcfarland5683]

Cbon

[@alexandramcfarland5683]

A

[@alexandramcfarland5683]

Xd

[@lashellegreene532]

My big shot doesn't cut anymore.

[@CardiffCrafter]

Very poor

[@crafttestdummies]

+CardiffCrafter in what way?