Q & A - Big Shot

I have not personally tried putting Sizzix Big Shot dies through other manufacturer's die-cutting machines, however below are some suggestions that I have researched that may be helpful to you. All die-cutting machines are slightly different, this is intended as a guide only and putting Sizzix-brand dies through other manufacturers' machines are done at your own risk.
When creating your sandwich stacks to run through a die-cutting machine, always err on the thin side. You can always run it through the die-cutting machine again, but if you start out too thick you can potentially break your dies, plates or perhaps your machine. You may need to play around with adding shim, different plates or platforms, etc. to create the right amount of pressure and achieve success. You should feel some resistance and hear a few pops and clicks, however never force a sandwich stack through your machine.
Putting Big Shot dies through a Cuttlebug
- Mary Fish: Big Shot 101
At the bottom of the Big Shot 101 posting is a section listing the Cuttlebug sandwich stacks for using Big Shot plates and dies. - Cat Lail: Cuttlebug Sandwich Stacks (click on the link under "General Stamping Items")
This chart is a guide for creating sandwich stacks for the Cuttlebug. It includes information about using Sizzix-brand dies and embossing folders in the Cuttlebug.
Below is a brief summary of the guidelines suggested by the above links.
Originals and Bigz Dies
Sandwich (starting from the bottom):
- Cuttlebug B Plate
- Bigz Die, blade up
- Cardstock or paper
- Cuttlebug B Plate
Bigz XL Dies
Sandwich (starting from the bottom):
- Cuttlebug B Plate
- Bigz XL Die, blade up
- Cardstock or paper
- Cuttlebug B Plate
Note: Since the Cuttlebug B Plates are shorter than the Extended Cutting Pads, your can't cut the entire length of the die. However, they work perfectly well in sections. The exception would be if the die is longer than the cutting pads.
Sizzlits, Embosslits and Textured Impressions Embossing Folders
Sandwich (starting from the bottom):
- Cuttlebug A Plate
- Cuttlebug B Plate
- Embossing Folder, with cardstock or paper inside
- Cuttlebug B Plate
- Shims (optional)
Notes:
- Please be aware that have been cases where plates have broken when using steel-ruled dies in your Cuttlebug.
- Your Cuttlebug opening must be at least 6 inches wide for the Bigz or Bigz XL to fit through the opening.
- The Extended Cutting Pads and Premium Crease Pad sold as accessories with the Big Shot are too wide for the Cuttlebug.
Information gratefully compiled from:







