Sizzix is a craft-tool brand best known for die-cutting and embossing systems such as the Big Shot. A Sizzix machine uses pressure, cutting pads, platforms and compatible dies or embossing folders to cut shapes or add texture to craft materials. The important distinction is that Sizzix is the brand; Big Shot is one of its machine families.
I’m Lê Ruby. For this update, I reviewed Sizzix’s current product pages, machine information and compatibility guidance rather than repeating the older article’s first-person testing claims. The goal is simple: explain what Sizzix is, show how the Big Shot works, and help you decide whether a manual die-cutting machine fits the way you craft.
Affiliate disclosure: this article contains affiliate links. If you buy through an eligible link, Craft Ideas may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
What Is Sizzix?
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Sizzix is a craft brand that makes die-cutting and embossing machines, dies, embossing folders and related accessories. It is not the name of one single machine. The product family includes manual machines such as the Big Shot and Big Shot Plus as well as other machine formats and accessories.
That distinction matters because people often use “Sizzix” and “Big Shot” as if they mean the same thing. They do not. When someone says they are “using a Sizzix,” they usually mean they are using one of Sizzix’s machines with a compatible die or embossing folder.
What Is a Sizzix Machine?
A Sizzix machine is a crafting machine designed to work with compatible dies, embossing folders, cutting pads and platforms to cut or emboss materials using pressure. Some Sizzix machines are manual, so you turn a handle to move the cutting sandwich through rollers. Other models use power, but the basic idea is still controlled pressure applied through the correct machine-and-accessory setup.
The machine does not replace the die. A physical die contains the shape or cutting edge. The machine supplies the force needed to press that die through compatible material. For embossing, a folder or embossing tool presses a raised pattern into the surface rather than cutting a shape out.
What Is a Sizzix Big Shot Machine?
The Sizzix Big Shot is a manual 6-inch die-cutting and embossing machine. The current redesigned Big Shot uses a hand-operated roller system and works with Sizzix technologies including Thinlits, Framelits, Bigz dies and embossing folders. Sizzix says Big Shot Plus is required for the larger Plus dies.
The Big Shot is useful for crafters who prefer physical dies and a simple mechanical workflow. There is no design software to learn for basic use, no Bluetooth connection to troubleshoot and no need to upload an SVG before you can make a cut. The trade-off is equally important: your design choices are limited by the physical dies you own.
Check current Sizzix Big Shot options on Amazon
What Is a Sizzix Machine Used For?
A Sizzix machine is mainly used for die cutting and embossing. With the correct die, platform and material, that can support many different types of projects.
Card Making
Cards are one of the most natural Big Shot projects. Thin dies can cut shapes, frames, labels, letters and layered decorations, while embossing folders can add texture to cardstock without requiring a digital design workflow.
Scrapbooking and Paper Crafts
Physical dies are useful when you want repeated shapes with consistent edges. Instead of tracing and cutting the same motif by hand, you can run the die through the machine again with another sheet of paper or cardstock.
Embossing
Embossing folders create raised or recessed patterns by pressing material between the folder surfaces. The Big Shot supports Sizzix embossing technologies, but the exact sandwich can differ from the setup used for cutting dies.
Fabric and Soft Crafts
Some Sizzix steel-rule dies are designed to cut thicker materials. Sizzix specifically lists Bigz dies for materials including cardstock, felt, fabric, foam, magnet, leather, craft aluminum, corrugated board, grey board and vinyl. That does not mean every Thinlit or every die can cut those materials; material compatibility depends heavily on the die technology.
Mixed Media
Bigz and other compatible technologies can support mixed-media work because the machine is not limited to ordinary copy paper. Always check the die’s official material guidance before assuming a thicker or unusual material will work.
How Does the Sizzix Big Shot Work?
The Big Shot works by pulling a layered “sandwich” through steel rollers. The sandwich normally combines a platform or adapter, cutting pads, your material and a compatible die or embossing folder. The exact stack is not universal, so use the diagram or instructions for the specific die and platform you own.
- Choose the die or embossing folder. Confirm that it is compatible with your Big Shot model.
- Prepare the correct platform and cutting pads. Different die technologies can require different adapters.
- Place the material. Position paper, cardstock, fabric or another approved material against the die or inside the embossing folder.
- Build the correct sandwich. Follow the Sizzix instructions for that die technology rather than copying one universal stack.
- Feed the sandwich into the rollers. Turn the handle steadily while the machine pulls the stack through.
- Remove the cut or embossed piece. If a detailed thin die needs another pass, follow the die instructions before adding extra shims or pressure.
This simple mechanical process is the reason many card makers still like manual die cutting. Once you understand the sandwich for your main die types, you can make repeated cuts without software or electronics.
Sizzix Big Shot Review: Quick Verdict
The Big Shot makes the most sense for crafters who want reliable physical die cutting and embossing without relying on software. Its 6-inch work surface fits many standard Sizzix dies and folders, and the manual design keeps the workflow straightforward. The biggest limitation is also the defining feature: the machine does not turn a digital file into a custom cut. You need a physical die for the shape you want.
| Big Shot decision point | What it means for you |
|---|---|
| Best for | Cardmaking, scrapbooking, embossing, physical-die projects and selected soft crafts |
| Machine type | Manual die-cutting and embossing machine |
| Work surface | 6-inch opening on the current Big Shot |
| Software required | No software for basic die cutting |
| Custom digital designs | No; use a digital cutter if uploading/resizing custom designs is central to your workflow |
| Compatible Sizzix technologies | Thinlits, Framelits, Bigz and embossing folders; Plus dies require Big Shot Plus |
| Main strength | Simple, repeatable manual die cutting with a large physical die ecosystem |
| Main limitation | Requires physical dies, plates and accessories for the designs/processes you want |
Check current Sizzix Big Shot options on Amazon
Sizzix Big Shot Specifications: Current Model vs. Older Review Unit
The original version of this Craft Ideas article reviewed an older white/gray Big Shot generation. Sizzix has since redesigned the machine, so it is important not to mix legacy dimensions and SKU information with the current product page.
| Specification | Current redesigned Big Shot | Older white/gray Big Shot |
|---|---|---|
| Current status | Current Sizzix product; listed in stock when checked | Specific older SKU 660200 is marked discontinued |
| Current SKU | 667085 | Legacy versions included 660200/660425-era machines |
| Working opening | 6 inches | 6 inches |
| Current listed dimensions | 14.7 × 10.3 × 8.5 in. | Sizzix listed 660200 at about 14 1/4 × 12 3/8 × 6 5/8 in. with handle |
| Operation | Manual roller/crank | Manual roller/crank |
| Key compatibility | Thinlits, Framelits, Bigz, embossing folders | Broadly the same core Sizzix die-cutting family, subject to model/accessory instructions |
Current model details were checked against Sizzix’s current Big Shot product page. The older white/gray SKU status and dimensions were checked against Sizzix’s legacy Big Shot listing. This is why the article does not use one old dimension or SKU as if it represents every Big Shot sold today.
What Materials Can the Sizzix Big Shot Cut?
The safest answer is: the Big Shot can cut the materials supported by the specific die technology and platform setup you are using. The machine itself does not create one universal material limit for every die.
| Material | Practical guidance |
|---|---|
| Paper / cardstock | Core Big Shot use case; commonly supported by Thinlits, Framelits, Bigz and other die types depending on the design |
| Metallic foil / vellum | Commonly listed for wafer-thin die use |
| Fabric / felt | Supported by appropriate steel-rule dies such as Bigz; do not assume every thin die will cut it |
| Foam | Listed by Sizzix for Bigz dies |
| Leather | Listed for appropriate Bigz die applications; thickness and die instructions matter |
| Vinyl | Can be die-cut with compatible dies; this is different from cutting arbitrary digital vinyl designs |
| Chipboard / board | Selected steel-rule/ScoreBoards technologies support board materials within their documented limits |
| Craft aluminum / metallic materials | Supported by selected steel-rule dies and accessories where Sizzix documents compatibility |
Sizzix’s die-cutting guide is especially useful because it separates the material capabilities of different die technologies rather than pretending every die cuts the same things.
Can the Sizzix Big Shot Cut Vinyl?
Yes, compatible physical dies can cut vinyl on the Big Shot. Sizzix lists vinyl among materials that can be cut with Bigz dies. But this is not the same workflow as a Cricut-style electronic cutter. The Big Shot cuts the shape of the physical die you feed through it; it does not read an SVG and move a blade around a custom digital design.
If custom names, decals, changing sizes and uploaded artwork are your main goal, read our Cricut Explore Air 2 review or Cricut Maker review before buying a manual die machine.
What Dies Work With the Sizzix Big Shot?
The current Sizzix product page says the 6-inch Big Shot works with the company’s major standard technologies including Thinlits, Framelits, Bigz dies and embossing folders. Larger Plus dies require the Big Shot Plus.
Thinlits and Framelits
These are wafer-thin chemically etched dies commonly used for paper, cardstock, foil and vellum. Detailed dies may require a particular adapter or more than one pass, so follow the current sandwich instructions for the platform you own.
Bigz Dies
Bigz are steel-rule dies and are one of the reasons the Big Shot is useful beyond paper. Sizzix documents Bigz for thicker and softer materials such as fabric, felt, foam, leather and vinyl, depending on the project.
Embossing Folders
The Big Shot can also press texture into compatible materials with Sizzix embossing folders. This is embossing rather than cutting, and the sandwich differs from many die setups.
Third-Party Dies
Some dies from other brands may physically work in a Big Shot, but do not assume compatibility based on width alone. Die thickness, platform height and accessory requirements matter. Check the die maker’s instructions and avoid forcing a sandwich that feels too thick.
Sizzix Big Shot Accessories: What You Actually Need
You do not need every accessory Sizzix sells. A basic setup revolves around the machine, the correct platform/adapter, cutting pads and the die or embossing folder for your project.
- Cutting pads: these are consumable surfaces. Sizzix explicitly says its standard cutting pads can bow and become marked during normal use and will eventually need replacing.
- Platform and adapters: these create the correct sandwich height for thinner die technologies.
- Embossing accessories: some embossing processes require additional pads or sheets.
- Extended pads: useful for compatible long steel-rule dies rather than ordinary small projects.
- Precision plates: specialty accessories can improve intricate thin-die cutting, but they are not universal replacements for every sandwich.
When replacing cutting pads, use the compatibility information on Sizzix’s standard cutting pad page rather than choosing only by appearance.
What Comes With the Sizzix Big Shot?
Package contents depend on whether you buy a machine-only version, a starter kit or an older retailer bundle. Do not assume a photo showing dies means every Big Shot includes them.
The current Sizzix lineup includes both Big Shot Machine Only and a Big Shot Starter Kit. The starter kit adds dies, an embossing folder and cardstock, while older Big Shot listings commonly included the machine, platform/adapter and cutting pads. Always check the exact retailer bundle before comparing prices.
How to Use the Sizzix Big Shot
Choose a compatible die, build the correct platform-and-pad sandwich, place your material, then crank the stack through the rollers with steady pressure. The most important beginner habit is using the instructions for your specific die technology rather than assuming every sandwich is identical.
- Pick the design. Choose a die or embossing folder compatible with the standard 6-inch Big Shot.
- Check the platform diagram. Thin dies, steel-rule dies and embossing folders can require different layers.
- Add your material. Confirm the die supports the material before cutting.
- Align the sandwich. Keep the layers flat and within the machine opening.
- Start the rollers. Push the leading edge gently until the rollers catch, then turn the handle steadily.
- Inspect the result. For detailed dies, follow the die instructions if another pass is recommended. Do not solve every incomplete cut by adding random shims.
The Sizzix manuals and warranties page links to current Big Shot documentation and is a better reference for machine-specific setup than an old third-party diagram.
Sizzix Big Shot Pros and Cons
Pros
- Manual workflow: basic die cutting does not depend on software, Bluetooth, cloud services or firmware.
- Useful die ecosystem: the standard Big Shot supports Thinlits, Framelits, Bigz and embossing folders.
- 6-inch format: large enough for many cardmaking and standard die projects without requiring the footprint of the Plus model.
- Embossing and cutting in one platform: useful when paper crafts need both clean shapes and texture.
- Repeatable shapes: physical dies make it easy to cut the same design repeatedly without redrawing it.
Cons
- No free-form digital design: you cannot upload an SVG and resize it the way you can on many electronic cutters.
- Physical dies cost money and take storage space: the machine becomes more useful as your die library grows, but so does the investment.
- Cutting pads wear: marks and bowing are normal consumable wear, so replacement pads are part of long-term ownership.
- Different sandwiches require learning: thin dies, Bigz dies and embossing folders do not all use the same stack.
- Project width is fixed: the standard Big Shot has a 6-inch work surface; larger-format projects may suit the Big Shot Plus better.
Is the Sizzix Big Shot Good for Beginners?
It can be very beginner-friendly for someone who wants physical die cutting. There is no design program to learn before making a first cut, and the hand-crank operation is easy to understand. The learning curve comes from something different: choosing the correct die, material and sandwich.
A beginner who mainly makes cards, tags, scrapbook elements and embossed paper can learn the system quickly. A beginner whose real goal is designing custom vinyl graphics may be frustrated because the Big Shot solves a different problem.
Sizzix Big Shot vs. Cricut: Which Workflow Fits You?
| Question | Sizzix Big Shot | Cricut-style electronic cutter |
|---|---|---|
| How is the shape defined? | Physical die | Digital design + blade/tool path |
| Software needed for basic cuts? | No | Usually yes |
| Can you upload/customize designs? | Not in the same way; design is fixed by the die | Core strength of the workflow |
| Traditional embossing folders | Core Big Shot use case | Depends on machine/tool ecosystem |
| Best for | Physical dies, cardmaking, embossing, simple repeatable shapes | Custom digital designs, scalable shapes, lettering and vinyl workflows |
Neither system is automatically better. If you dislike software and already love physical dies, the Big Shot’s limitations may actually be part of its appeal. If you want to create a different custom design every day, a digital cutter provides far more flexibility. Our die-cut machine guide shows both manual and electronic options in one place.
Sizzix Big Shot vs. Big Shot Plus
The clearest difference is working width. The standard current Big Shot has a 6-inch opening. The current Big Shot Plus has a 9-inch opening and is designed for larger-format work, including Plus dies. Sizzix currently sells a redesigned Big Shot Plus rather than treating the Plus family as discontinued.
| Feature | Big Shot | Big Shot Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Opening | 6 inches | 9 inches |
| Best fit | Standard dies, cardmaking, compact workspace | Larger dies/materials and bigger project formats |
| Plus dies | No | Yes, where product instructions specify compatibility |
| Footprint | Smaller | Larger |
Do not buy the Plus simply because the name sounds more advanced. Buy it when the extra width solves a real project-size problem.
Sizzix Big Shot vs. BIGkick
BIGkick is an older related Sizzix manual machine name that appears throughout the company’s legacy compatibility information. For example, Sizzix still lists standard cutting pads and many older dies as compatible with both BIGkick and Big Shot. That shows substantial ecosystem overlap, but it is not a reason to assume every legacy accessory or sandwich is identical.
If you already own a BIGkick, check the specific die/accessory page before buying replacements. If you are shopping new in 2026, Sizzix’s current machine lineup is the more useful reference than chasing an older BIGkick solely because a historical comparison calls it equivalent.
Is the Sizzix Big Shot Discontinued?
No—the Big Shot machine family is currently active. Sizzix introduced a redesigned Big Shot in September 2025 and currently lists Big Shot Machine Only SKU 667085 for sale. What can cause confusion is that specific older versions are discontinued. For example, the older white/gray Big Shot SKU 660200 is clearly marked “Discontinued” on Sizzix’s site.
So the correct answer is not “the Big Shot is discontinued.” A more accurate statement is: some older Big Shot SKUs are retired, while Sizzix continues to sell a redesigned Big Shot. This distinction matters when comparing dimensions, included accessories and replacement parts.
You can see the current generation on Sizzix’s announcement for the redesigned Big Shot.
Who Should Buy a Sizzix Big Shot?
Consider the Big Shot if you:
- make cards, scrapbook layouts or paper crafts regularly;
- want traditional die cutting and embossing without design software;
- already own compatible Sizzix dies or want to build a physical die collection;
- need repeatable pre-designed shapes;
- use selected fabric, felt or mixed-media dies and understand that compatibility depends on the die.
Consider another tool if you:
- want to upload your own SVGs and cut them without buying a matching physical die;
- need to resize the same design freely;
- mainly make custom vinyl names, decals or lettering from digital artwork;
- need a working width larger than the standard Big Shot’s 6 inches;
- want automated feed rather than hand cranking.
Is the Sizzix Big Shot Worth It?
The answer depends more on your workflow than on the machine’s reputation. A card maker with a growing Thinlits and embossing-folder collection can get years of use from a Big Shot because the tool keeps serving the same physical-die workflow. Someone buying it as a substitute for a Cricut may be disappointed immediately because the two systems solve different creative problems.
I would think about the purchase in this order: Do I want physical dies? Do I need embossing? Is 6 inches wide enough? Am I comfortable buying and storing dies and replacement pads? If those answers point toward a manual system, the current Big Shot remains a relevant option.
Check current Sizzix Big Shot options on Amazon
Sizzix Big Shot Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sizzix?
Sizzix is a craft brand that makes die-cutting and embossing machines, dies, embossing folders and accessories. Big Shot is one Sizzix machine family; “Sizzix” and “Big Shot” are therefore related terms, but they are not interchangeable names for the exact same product.
What is a Sizzix machine?
A Sizzix machine uses compatible dies, platforms and cutting pads to apply pressure for die cutting or embossing. The standard Big Shot is manually operated, while Sizzix also sells other machine formats.
What does a Sizzix machine do?
Its main jobs are cutting pre-designed shapes with physical dies and embossing texture with compatible folders or tools. The materials it can handle depend on the die technology, platform and model.
Does the Sizzix Big Shot need electricity?
The standard Big Shot discussed here is manual and uses a hand crank, so it does not need electricity for basic operation. Do not generalize that answer to every Sizzix-branded machine because the company also sells powered models.
Can the Sizzix Big Shot cut fabric?
Yes, with appropriate dies. Sizzix specifically documents Bigz steel-rule dies for fabric and other thicker materials. A wafer-thin paper die should not automatically be treated as a fabric die.
Can the Sizzix Big Shot cut vinyl?
Yes, compatible dies such as selected Bigz dies can cut vinyl. The Big Shot cuts the physical die shape; it does not function like an electronic plotter that reads arbitrary digital vinyl designs.
Can you use other brands of dies in a Sizzix Big Shot?
Some third-party dies may be compatible, but check the die manufacturer’s Big Shot instructions. Width alone is not enough—die thickness, platform setup and the required sandwich matter.
What size dies fit a Sizzix Big Shot?
The current standard Big Shot has a 6-inch work surface. Sizzix lists standard Thinlits, Framelits, Bigz dies and embossing folders as compatible, while Plus dies require the wider Big Shot Plus. Always check the individual die page because length, platform and accessory requirements can still differ.
Is the Sizzix Big Shot discontinued?
No. Sizzix currently sells a redesigned Big Shot introduced in 2025. Some older Big Shot SKUs are discontinued, which is why old review pages and retailer listings can create confusion.
Final Verdict
The most useful way to think about the Big Shot is not “Is it better than a Cricut?” but “Do I want a physical-die workflow?” If the answer is yes, the Big Shot is still one of Sizzix’s core machines: manual, compact, 6 inches wide and compatible with a broad set of Sizzix die and embossing technologies.
If you want unlimited digital customization, choose a different category of machine. If you want repeatable physical dies, embossing and a tool that works without software, the Big Shot remains easy to understand—and that simplicity is exactly the reason it still has a place in a modern craft room.
— Lê Ruby
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