Sizzix Big Shot vs Big Shot Plus for Die Cutting

The line-up at a glance

Sizzix Die Cutting Machines Compared

From the notebook

Sizzix Big Shot Machine for Compact Everyday Studio Use

Crafters who already maintain an extensive collection of cutting dies and texture folders generally do not need extra accessories bundled into their purchase, making the standalone Sizzix Big Shot Machine a practical choice. Built upon the exact same modernized chassis as the starter version, this standalone sizzix die cutting machine features the 2001-to-present redesign that pairs a refreshed, modern aesthetic with the rock-solid internal mechanics crafters have trusted for decades. Like its bundled sibling, it includes the functional clip-on handle that stows neatly beneath the base, keeping the exterior streamlined during transport.

Hardware included with this standalone package is focused strictly on operation: you receive the manual six-inch machine, the essential Multipurpose Platform, and a pair of standard cutting pads. According to the manufacturer listing, this model handles diverse media types including cardstock, fabric, and adhesive labels, making it equally adept at cutting quilting patches, custom gift tags, and scrapbook embellishments. Crafters comparing mechanical options against studio machinery like a vevor die cutting machine appreciate the Big Shot for its streamlined profile, accessible platform guides, and straightforward crank operation.

This model suits intermediate and advanced papercrafters, quilters, and cardmakers who already own standard wafer-thin dies and simply need a dependable, portable press to replace an aging unit or accompany them to crafting retreats. It gives way to the bundled Big Shot Starter Kit if you are starting your craft journey without existing dies, and it yields to the Big Shot Plus if your creative projects require feeding standard letter-sized sheets across their full width.

From the notebook

Sizzix Big Shot Plus Machine Only for Wide-Format Workspace Production

When project dimensions exceed standard card formats, the Sizzix Big Shot Plus Machine Only provides the necessary mechanical muscle. Originally introduced in 2015 and updated with a fresh, contemporary body style, this wide-format manual die cutting machine expands the throat capacity to a full nine inches. This generous width gives makers complete freedom to position larger specialized cutting dies, run oversized backgrounds, or arrange multiple smaller wafer-thin dies across the plate simultaneously to batch-cut shapes in a single crank.

Engineering on the Big Shot Plus emphasizes heavy-duty durability. Built with a metal chassis and solid steel rollers, the machine delivers smooth, even pressure across the entire nine-inch bed. The included equipment consists of the Big Shot Plus machine, a wide platform, a specialized adapter sheet, and a pair of large cutting pads designed to handle full-sized cardstock. The listing highlights its broad project scope, supporting cardmaking, scrapbooking, journaling, personalized stationery, home décor, and vinyl cutting. Makers browsing seasonal promotions such as a cricut clearance sale frequently turn to this manual alternative to escape the constraints of software dependencies, power requirements, and blade replacements.

This wide-format machine-only configuration suits experienced makers, stationary designers, and scrapbookers who produce larger projects and already own a personal inventory of nine-inch dies or embossing folders. It gives way to the Big Shot Plus Starter Kit for makers who want project materials packed into the box, and it yields to the standard six-inch Big Shot if saving luggage space and traveling light are your highest priorities.

From the notebook

Sizzix Big Shot Plus Machine for Large-Scale Creative Starters

Combining wide-format roller mechanics with an introductory materials bundle, the Sizzix Big Shot Plus Machine with Starter Kit provides an expansive canvas right out of the box. Like the standalone version, it features the reimagined exterior styling unveiled since its 2015 debut, housing solid steel rollers and durable metal internal components behind a clean, modern aesthetic. The expansive nine-inch opening accommodates full-sized stationery, scrapbook album pages, and wide home décor pieces that simply cannot pass through standard six-inch craft rollers.

This comprehensive package provides an extensive set of tools: one Big Shot Plus machine, one platform, one adapter, one pair of cutting pads, one multi-level embossing folder, 13 Thinlits dies, and 40 cardstock sheets. Functioning as both a large-format die press and an advanced sizzix embossing machine, the bundled multi-level folder leverages the heavy-duty steel rollers to produce dramatic, high-definition dimensional relief across cardstock. Crafters who explore digital tools like a likcut vinyl cutter machine often pair them with a heavy-duty manual system like this Big Shot Plus to achieve crisp, tactile pressure embossing that digital drag blades cannot replicate.

This starter package is ideal for ambitious crafters, event stationery creators, and mixed-media artists who want immediate nine-inch capacity without hunting down compatible large-scale dies or embossing folders separately. It gives way to the standard six-inch Big Shot Starter Kit for traveling crafters who prioritize a compact footprint over wider cutting dimensions, and it gives way to the standalone Big Shot Plus if you already own sufficient dies and paper stock.

Before you choose

How to Choose the Right Sizzix Die Cutting Machine

Conducting a thorough sizzix big shot comparison requires evaluating your workspace dimensions, travel habits, and current crafting inventory. Because all four models utilize manual hand cranks, solid roller mechanisms, and cord-free mechanics, your decision centers on physical format and bundled contents rather than electrical specifications.

The primary consideration is opening width. The standard sizzix big shot models (Model 667086 and Model 667085) feature a six-inch opening that easily accommodates standard A2 greeting cards, tags, smaller scrapbook accents, and quilt patches. Their compact frames and clip-on handles make them the superior choice for crafters who pack gear for social meetups, workshops, or seasonal retreats. Conversely, the sizzix big shot plus models (Model 667140 and Model 667141) expand to a nine-inch opening supported by solid steel rollers, allowing you to pass standard letter-sized cardstock without trimming and cut wide home décor designs.

The secondary consideration when determining which sizzix to buy is whether to purchase the machine solo or with a starter kit. If you are entirely new to manual cutting or want a fresh set of modern designs, the starter kits provide immediate gratification. The six-inch Big Shot Starter Kit includes 73 Thinlits dies, a 3D embossing folder, and cardstock, while the nine-inch Big Shot Plus Starter Kit supplies 13 Thinlits dies, a multi-level embossing folder, and 40 cardstock sheets. However, if your craft drawers are already overflowing with standard dies, purchasing the machine-only editions saves storage space and avoids duplicate accessories.

Finally, consider how portability impacts your creative routine. The standard six-inch Big Shot is uniquely optimized for tight spaces, featuring a clip-on handle that tucks underneath the body to slide effortlessly into tote bags. While the nine-inch Big Shot Plus remains fully manual and cord-free, its metal construction and broader chassis are best suited for permanent tabletop placement or dedicated retreat workstations where wide-format cutting justifies the additional bulk.

Questions people ask

FAQ

Why do crafters search for a sissex die cutting machine?

Searches for a sissex die cutting machine are simply common phonetic misspellings of Sizzix, the brand manufactured by Ellison. Regardless of the spelling used in online searches, crafters are looking for the brand’s renowned manual die cutting and embossing machines, such as the Big Shot and Big Shot Plus.

Do Sizzix manual die cutting machines require batteries or electricity?

None of the four Sizzix machines featured here use electrical cords, wall plugs, or batteries. Every model operates via a manual hand crank, allowing traveling makers to cut and emboss cardstock at crafting retreats, community workshops, or outdoor crafting tables without searching for an electrical outlet.

Can the standard Sizzix Big Shot cut materials other than cardstock?

Yes. While cardstock is the primary medium across the lineup, the product specifications for the standalone Sizzix Big Shot (Model 667085) specifically list cardstock, fabric, and labels as compatible print media, making it versatile for both papercrafting and sewing projects.

What is the main physical difference between the Big Shot and Big Shot Plus?

The fundamental physical difference is the throat opening width and roller size. The standard Big Shot features a six-inch opening and a clip-on handle that stores under the base, whereas the Big Shot Plus features an expanded nine-inch opening with solid steel rollers designed to cut wider cardstock sheets and large-format dies.

Are platforms and cutting pads included with machine-only models?

Yes. Even when purchasing the machine-only options, Sizzix includes the core operational hardware. The standalone Big Shot comes with a Multipurpose Platform and a pair of standard cutting pads, while the Big Shot Plus Machine Only package includes the wide platform, an adapter sheet, and a pair of cutting pads.