Sizzix: 3 Tips & Tricks for Using the Sizzix Big Shot Switch Plus, Part 1

Join Sizzix Designer Josh in our new Tips & Tricks series, all focused on the new Sizzix Big Shot Switch Plus machine! You will be crafting like a pro after this series ✂
Let us know if you have any other queries, you want us to explore within this series! 👇
Time Stamps
0:00 - New Tips & Tricks Series Intro
0:54 - Tip 1: Using the Switch for Die Cutting
3:40 - Tip 2: Using the Switch for Embossing
5:17 - Using your Sizzix Big Shot Switch Plus & Reverse Switch Button
6:30 - Tip 3: Using Sizzix Bigz Dies
Add the Switch to your wish list now 👇
US: bit.ly/3IHnt2a
UK / Europe: bit.ly/3DeBFyU

[@doloresraml6539]

Just got my new machine today so was glad to find this video.

[@nancymoore1275]

So excited! I won my Switch and it arrived yesterday. I will be playing with it all night tonight when I get home from work. I have a ton of the bigz dies that I haven’t used in years. I need to get them out and have a party cutting dies 🤪. Thank you so much Sizzix❤️❤️

[@sizzix]

Sounds like an amazing party!! 😁🙌

[@beverly7710]

I only heard about this machine today 30/04/2022 and ordered one straight away. Saw it in Spotlight catalogue, but none in store. Hope it arrives soon as I have really enjoyed using my Sizzix Big Shot. This new machine looks super. Your clear and detailed explanations I am thankful for.

[@sueharvey4747]

Love my machine, have both this and my bigshot out on my workspace!

[@annihilator45]

I love my switch! These tips are fabulous! Thank you 💗💗💗🤗

[@fraupertello]

Gente, que sonho!!! Amei! PERFEITA!

[@misscheesecake1952]

Thank u Sizzix for sharing the first 3 Tips for the new Switch. I ordered mine and waiting anxiously for that shipped email notice.

[@kathleenstadler3106]

Great video, Josh! Thank you.

[@hildaburton9255]

Very informative. I learned several tips that I did not know. Thanks!

[@elizabeth50mahoney]

I am interested in seeing some tips for creating with fabric using Bigz L, Bigz Q, and Fabi dies.

[@JoanOrloffDK]

Great tips and tricks Josh ❤ thanks for sharing your tips and tricks Hugs

[@diannweier2489]

Love my switch

[@annetaylor6587]

Josh, thanks for the tips. I bought my switch in February and the power light has stopped working, but the machine works. It's a great machine

[@sizzix]

Hi Anne, We are glad you like it! We are sorry to hear that. If you need any further assistance, you can contact our customer service team here in the US: www.sizzix.com/contact/ or here in the UK & Europe: www.sizzix.co.uk/contact/ Thank you

[@Bryant4vr]

Thank you Thank you Thank you. I order these and I am a beginner and went What did I do. Very Glad to see that I can use these with my Big Shot swich plus. I believe I am seeing that I did my the machine to use. Thank you again.

[@Cindy.Kitner]

This is going to be a great series! The Switch is my first electric machine, yes I held out waiting for it’s release since it was announced at CHA in 2020, so some tips on what to do if my plates get stuck would be helpful and any other tips to make sure my Switch lasts a long time!

[@maxvanbalgooy]

I’ve seen this complaint elsewhere. But watching this video, I noticed that the end of the clear plate hangs over slightly behind the base plate (the front edge is not perfectly aligned at the front as it enters the machine). That means when it goes through, the base plate is finished before the clear plate. You don’t have a sandwich that’s the same thickness going through the machine-it’s thinner at the front and end. Perhaps that will solve the problem.

[@marioneill5628]

Very helpful. I have some big dies which take a lot of storage room, but are indestructible. I'm still waiting for Amazon to send me my Switch machine. So far, it looks great. Some people complain about warping plates. You can just turn them over and they last for a really long time, but will not be pretty after a few uses. It's going to be so much easier then my big shot vintag.

[@sizzix]

How exciting! We hope you love your new Switch! And you're absolutely right, the plates will still work perfectly well and it's good to keep turning them over as you use them. Any changes over time are simply aesthetic but won't effect how they work! Thanks so much and happy crafting! xx

[@janiethecraftprincess]

I just got mine today and haven't even taken it out of the box yet. But I would like to correct you on something. You said that Bigz dies can only be used with a Sizzix, but I have been using Bigz dies with my Cuttlebug for years. But I am now looking foward to my new Sizzix Big Shot Switch Plus 😊

[@sizzix]

Thanks for letting us know! The reason we normally say this is because we've not tested the products in other machines 😊 Excited you'll be getting your Big Shot Switch Plus! Happy crafting! xx

[@janiethecraftprincess]

@@sizzix Wow....thank you so much for your reply.....I didn't expect that. I always reply to every comment on my videos, but from my experience most people don't....especially if they are "big". I can't wait to try my Big Shot Switch Plus 😊 There is a lot going on in my life right now so I haven't even opened it, but am hoping to today 😊 Hugs....Janie

[@sanfrandreamer3916]

Could you demo using 12 inch border dies?

[@tracya8007]

Would love to know more about it you can foil with the switch? And what foil machine to use with what plates? Thank you so much!

[@SuperRocketdog1]

Well I just ordered my sizzic machine today!! Sadly my Gemini died yesterday!! Hubby recons the motor burnt out. So I’m watching this and it looks as good as my old Gemini. Good video can’t wait for my new machine but it’s going to be ages to deliver😡 . Will look at other presenters.👍👍🐶🥰🇬🇧

[@sizzix]

Hey Maureen, so excited for you to receive your new Switch machine! Enjoy your crafting! 🤩

[@louisetheriault565]

Thank you for the great tips. I have my Switch since a month I really love it ❤️ but I am not able to used my regular embossing folder (not the 3D). I can’t figure out how to do it. Please help me, thank you!

[@abcameo]

Is it okay to put the die on top of the paper instead of vice versa for thinlit type detailed dies? I prefer to see the placement of my die on the paper by having the die face down on the sheet. Thank you. (My Switch arrived yesterday! I was too thrilled to calm down to try it out so far!)

[@annihilator45]

Dies cut better with the plate on top of the cutting edge.

[@abcameo]

@@annihilator45 I tried it today. Love it!! Thank you.

[@paulage1art]

He said only Sizzix machines can cut Bigz dies. Not true! You can cut Bigz dies with Crafter’s Edge, Ellentina, Cuttlebug, and the eBosser! I have them all and they all cut Bigz dies! You can cut Bigz dies on any machine that has the big thick base plate.

[@annihilator45]

@@paulage1art that is great for you!

[@1stcandy]

Thanks for this. I would also like info on the framelits dies and some of the dies that are something like half of each (how would you categorize that type of die?). Will the framelits warp after use?

[@gr8fng]

Great question ... and what about using generic dies pls???

[@juttawp]

I pre-ordered and paid for the Switch in July 2020 and was so happy to finally receive it in early Feb this year. The pandemic and supply chain issues just got in the way of its release. I love it and it was well worth the wait. Is it safe to use the the Big Shot Plus platform and plates in the Switch?

[@sizzix]

Hi, yes these are compatible with the Switch 😊

[@susanbredehoft2308]

Thanks for these tips & tricks! I would like to know if one can use the magnetic platform or the chrome plate that was made to be used with super intricate dies. I have the black Tim Holtz Switch. I was told the machines are the same. Also, did you say to use two cutting plates below the BIGZ dies and one cutting plate on top?

[@sizzix]

Hi Susan, Yes you can use both of these platforms on the Big Shot Switch Plus! Both machines are the same yes, one is white and the other is black, inspired by Tim Holtz 😊 For more information on intricate die cutting with the Switch Plus 👉 kzbin.info/www/bejne/p5WXdYRoncmobpY For the Bigz dies, it is just 1 cutting plate under the die and another 1 on top 😊

[@CraftingWithPolly65]

I would like to know 1) which dies do you cut with paper on top? ALL ? Thinlits? etc? I have heard many different answers and I have seen different ways. I like to have the dies face down is that bad? 2) Can I use the chrome base on the switch? I know I do not need it, but can I use it? Thanks!

[@sizzix]

Hi Polly, You can place your dies either way! We do suggest that for more intricate dies you place them facing upwards, as there is greater pressure which leads to a better cut. But alternatively you could just pass the die through another time 😊 Yes you can!

[@marjolijnvanelsberg1748]

I love this machine, in combination with the sidekick it's a fantastic set! But what i realy want to know???? CAn you use the magnetic plates in the switch? Thank you for your answer.

[@sizzix]

Hi Marjolijn, yes the Magnetic Platform is compatible with the Sizzix Big Shot Switch 😊 - Steph, Sizzix

[@marjolijnvanelsberg1748]

@@sizzix thank you so much.

[@kcinca5410]

When will the crease pad for use with the Switch be released? ❓❓I've been trying to use my Bigz dies with crease rules in them with my old crease pad and various sandwiches but the crease scores are still cutting out instead of scoring. It's a bit maddening since it's been stated that I could use my old Sizzix supplies for the Switch. Other than this little problem, I LOVE MY SWITCH. It's a fantastic machine.

[@sizzix]

Hi there, this is something our product development team are currently working on 🙂 - Steph, Sizzix

[@gina15]

Hallo, I’am gina and live in Belgium 🇧🇪 I also get the machine in black, bhad I would love to see how the machine do embossing with a thin dies please. Mvg Gina

[@sizzix]

We have a few videos up that touch on this already! Make sure to check them out 😊

[@laurieoftedahl3502]

I just opened my Switch and was excited to use it, however when I put the sandwich in it does not feed through to cut it. The rollers do not "activate"

[@norrishmj]

What plates from the manual BigShot can be used in the Switch? If they can be used is it ok to cut with the die facing down? Thanks Maxine

[@sizzix]

Hi, Yes you can use this on your Switch 🙂

[@christineplacek6651]

What is the b plate they talk about in the booklet and how to use it. Thanks Chris

[@sizzix]

Hi Christine, the Big Shot Plus Adapter B assists the Big Shot Plus Platform in making Sizzlits and Textured Impressions compatible with the Big Shot Plus Machine 🙂 - Steph, Sizzix

[@christineplacek6651]

@@sizzix thanks but I don’t quite understand where I would put it in the sandwich

[@sizzix]

@@christineplacek6651 Hi Christine, please refer to Josh demonstrating how to use the machine in this video. For further assistance, we also have this playlist full of videos featuring the Switch machine that should help you 😊kzbin.info/aero/PLgpx3Wquco8whb_rDjgc8NGxjlGr9gei8 Please also refer to the instructions manual that is provided in the box. Thank you! - Abbie, Sizzix

[@lindadesgroseilliers17]

@@christineplacek6651 I've had 2 Big Shot Switch Plus machines (long story). The first came with a booklet that doesn't show or mention the B Adapter Pad or show it in the sandwich for Textured Impressions, Texture Fades, Texture Trades, or Impresslits. The booklet that came with the second machine shows the B adapter pad being used for those folders I listed and also as part of the sandwich for 3D embossing folders and Switchlets. I don't know if it's thicker or thinner than the A adapter and when I search for it the only thing that comes up is. B adapter pad for other Sizzix machines. I, too, would like a clear answer on this.

[@joannsanders242]

Does the back compartment automatically open when you send the plates through or do you have to unlock it first?

[@sizzix]

The back of the machine will open as the plates feed through, hope this helps.

[@cazzieo2]

I have lots of old Sizzlits dies (thicker than Framelits). What would be the sandwich for these?

[@sizzix]

Hi, you would just need the grey Switch platform and the cutting plates! 😍

[@ginacox7867]

How do you stop the card stock from warping when dry, when embossing after you have spritzed it with water? I use less water than that and my card stock always warps ?

[@sizzix]

We recommend placing and leaving the paper in between the plates while drying (or setting something a bit weight-y on top!) to allow it to dry flat! Hope that helps!

[@mugsycreates]

I have the black base precision plate from my old big shot machine. can I use that in my switch? and how

[@sizzix]

Yes you can! We can touch on this in future videos for you 😊

[@beverly7710]

My machine arrived today 06/05/22 and what I found was that I did not know the folder was a 3D embossing folder - There is no way of knowing if things aren't marked. It could be just an embossing folder. The other thing is that the dies were not marked either. It was from your video I found out that they were actually Thinlits. There are so many different types of thin dies available so I wasn't sure what was actually included. Just thought I would mention this as it can be confusing for someone just starting out.

[@sizzix]

Hi Beverly, we do apologise that our starter kit does not come with any embellished imagery or packaging. If you head over to our website, all items that come in the starter kit are listed under the 'includes' section in the description 😁 Please let us know if you need any further assistance. UK / Europe: www.sizzix.co.uk/663650/sizzix-big-shot-switch-plus-starter-kit-white US: www.sizzix.com/663630/sizzix-big-shot-switch-plus-starter-kit-white

[@abcameo]

One more question--will Heartfelt Creations' shaping molds go through the machine? Guessing it will work same as a "Bigz" die. Thanks!

[@sizzix]

Hi, We suggest that only Sizzix products are used for our machines 🙂

[@CaroleanneWright]

yes x

[@teresarodriguez3964]

Can we used it with the magnetic platform???

[@sizzix]

Yes you can 😊

[@gr8fng]

Hi, My cutting plate has dome'd in the centre making it a struggle to use it. I keep rotating & using other side but it's pretty bad. Why is happening please?

[@sizzix]

The plates will warp over time due to the pressure required to cut the dies - this is completely normal and you should be able to continue to use your plates without issue. However, should they become unusable, you can get replacement plates via our website or via your local retailer. I hope that helps!

[@gr8fng]

Hi, I received my Switch today and have watched a myriad of YT vids including this one several times. However, none seem to mention the alignment of the plates. I notice the clear plates are bevelled which is obviously not just for aesthetics ... yet their purpose isn't explained? As a Sizzix newby please advise if I how to align these plates to ensure smooth insertion etc?

[@sizzix]

Hi Faith, The switch plates do have bevelled edges so that the sandwich goes in the machine a little more swiftly! As the machine can be used with other platforms and cutting plates that do not have this feature, this is not something that we have discussed and touched on in videos. Thanks for sharing this information though, I will definitely pass onto our team! 😁 - Abbie, Sizzix

[@gr8fng]

@@sizzix thxs Abbie, so I can use other companies' cutting plates in my switch without voiding the warranty eg xpress xcut metal shim &/or cutting plates?

[@brendakuder2957]

My machine came with a clear A plate. Can this take the place of the A adapter plate?

[@sizzix]

The clear plates are cutting plates, these are used with the platforms when cutting Thinlits dies.

[@brendakuder2957]

@@sizzix Why was I sent a clear A plate? For no reason?

[@olgaalvarez6698]

Donde la puedo conseguir.. aquí en México no la encontré ni en Amazon

[@sizzix]

Hola, puedes usar nuestro localizador de tiendas para encontrar stock en tu área 😊www.sizzix.co.uk/gmapstrlocator

[@rosecasciato3020]

How do you get even cut using glitter paper, having a lot of trouble.

[@sizzix]

We will touch on this in a future video for you! 🙂

[@marieclaire648]

I have Accuquilt dies as well - can I use them with Sizzix Switch?

[@sizzix]

Hi Marie, While other branded dies and embossing folders may be used with the Sizzix Die Cutting and Embossing machines we cannot suggest which sandwiches, or if any shims are required for the perfect cut. We can however share the best ways to cut with Sizzix technologies and you can find our compatibility table on the Sizzix website 😊 - Abbie, Sizzix

[@marieclaire648]

@@sizzix thank you

[@yungzubass9648]

Will this machine work with glimmer foil machine by spellbinder.

[@barbaraeslick452]

Yes, look for the video by Sharon Curtis.

[@sizzix]

We suggest that only Sizzix products are used with your machine 🙂

[@melissajacobs9702]

Can it cut wood also

[@sizzix]

Hi Melissa, you can check the compatibility of any of our machines with various materials here: www.sizzix.co.uk/media/uploads/cms/uk/Compatibility-Charts/Material_Die_and_Machine_Compatabilty.pdf Hope that helps! :)

[@anabertoloo]

Can i use the machine for cutting fabric materials?

[@sizzix]

Hi Ana! Yes, you can cut fabric with our Bigz Dies that are compatible with this machine! 😊 - Abbie, Sizzix

[@doloresraml6539]

My machine doesn’t shut off after the sandwich goes through, what am I doing wrong?

[@sizzix]

Sorry to hear you're experiencing issues. Please contact our customer service team, they'll be happy to help! www.sizzix.com/pages/contact-us

[@odettesok]

Hi, I cannot get my sizzix bigz die to go through my switch

[@sizzix]

Please contact our customer services department who should be able to help you! UK/Europe: www.sizzix.co.uk/contact/ North & South America: www.sizzix.com/contact/

[@mysteryswsw9728]

Hi! i bought this last september and now it won't turn on, what do I do

[@sizzix]

Please contact our customer service department! In the US/Canada/Americas: www.sizzix.com/contact/ In the UK/Europe/Rest of World: www.sizzix.co.uk/contact/

[@barrybowers4384]

I wondered how your situation came out. I’m having issues and contacted CS.

[@mysteryswsw9728]

@@barrybowers4384 the shop where i bought mine refunded me because they can't even fix it. They also contacted sizzix but to no avail

[@KarenSaegert-wd5qp]

Why does the die cut the plastic shim?

[@sizzix]

Don't be alarmed, the dies will mark your cutting pads and this is completely normal and just due to the amount of pressure. 😊

[@TD-bu9wv]

Mine is very loud is this normal?

[@sizzix]

Hey, Please can you contact our Customer Care Team they will be able to advise if you think there is a problem with your machine. 😊 UK, EU - www.sizzix.co.uk/contact USA - www.sizzix.com/contact

[@barbaraharrold5361]

I really like the machine except the door on mine doesn’t stay closed on my desk:( the other thing is the cutting plates don’t last long at all as I make many cards at a time and I’m having to change the plates:( other then that it’s a great machine.

[@sizzix]

Oh no! Sorry to hear that you're having trouble keeping the door closed. If you want any help on this please feel free to contact our customer service team where they will be able to give some advice. You can contact them here if in the UK/Europe www.sizzix.co.uk/contact and here if in the US www.sizzix.com/contact. Thank you!

[@barbaraharrold5361]

@@sizzix thank you first for answering me I didn’t expect that… what a wonderful surprise:) yes I’ll reach out to them:)

[@confederatedixiedarling2911]

The last thing I want is another item that has to be plugged in or charged. Homes and apartments do NOT have nearly enough plug in for all the items requiring electricity. I would love to have a MANUAL machine that is wide like the “switch”.

[@Agortemaker]

The Big Shot Plus is the manual A4 machine 😉

[@susieqmartin2746]

I saw the switch in 2020 video at a craft fair tried to buy it could not find it anywhere. So I brought elsewhere to bad you had to wait so long to actually bring it out!😔😞😒

[@sizzix]

Hi Susie, We apologise for this! We hope you have a fun time crafting 😊

[@edithheyns2393]

Beautiful but that noise will drive me dilly

[@indyg1878]

Love my Switch. Good info but way too much unnecessary verbiage..just get to the point please.