Hello Super Cute!
In the other Sizzix articles we learned Why should you have a Sizzix embossing and die-cutting machine? and what are the references available in the market? Now I will explain which Sizzix accessories and tools you should choose according to the machine you have.
I will also give you some guidelines on how to use them according to the function you want to perform, cut, emboss or engrave.
This sounds like a lot of fun, come and discover them!
What you will find in this article:
- The name of each Sizzix accessory and tool
- The code that identifies it in the market
- References (if there are several models of the same accessory)
- Dimensions in inches and centimeters
- Its compatibility with machines, dies, embossing folders
- Some indications on how to use it.
When you click on the name or code of each item, the link on Amazon opens where you can get it.
I tried very hard for you to find true and complete information so enjoy it!
Multiuse or multipurpose platform
These platforms are robust, thick surfaces, made of polypropylene plastic.
They come in different sizes depending on the reference. Some have hinges since the adapters are attached. Others such as the Standard, Plus, Pro or Vagabond sizes come individually (separate from the adapters).
They are generally designed for all Sizzix die-cutting and embossing machines. Except with the Sizzix Texture Boutique Embossing Machine and the Sizzix Sidekick.
They have the function of an adapter. They are used to make thin dies and embossing folders fit into the slot of the machines. As a result, the elements pass with the necessary pressure so that they can fulfill their function.
The only dies with which they are not compatible are the thick ones or Bigz type since these do not need to pass accurately through the slot of the machine.
To illustrate their use, they contain diagrams on its surface with indications of how to stack the accessories (assemble the sandwich), together with the dies and relief folders.
References
- Standard Platform Sizzix BIGkick/Big Shot #655091 (6¼ x 9¾ x ⅝ in or 15.8 x 24.7 x 1.58 cm)
- Sizzix Extended Multi-Purpose Platform with Adapters #658992 (6¼ x 14⅛ x ⅝ in or 15.8 x 35.8 x 1.58 cm)
Both are compatible with A5 type platforms. This is the type of platform that have the Sizzix machines BIGkick, Big Shot Original, Big Shot Express, Big Shot Foldaway, and Vagabond 2.
However, they can be used with the Big Shot Plus and Big Shot Pro machines.
The difference between these multipurpose platforms is the length. The Extended is slightly longer for use with compatible embossing folders or dies.
- Sizzix Extended Multi-Purpose Platform without Adapters #661153 (6¼ x 13 x ½ in or 15.8 x 33 x 1.2 cm): It is slightly thinner and is ideal for use with the Big Shot Express.
- Sizzix Vagabond Multi-Purpose Platform #660856 (6¼ x 13 x ½ in or 15.8 x 33 x 1.2 cm): Compatible with Vagabond 2, Bigkick, and Big Shot machines.
- Sizzix Standard Plus Multi-Purpose Platform #660583 (15 x 8⅞ x ½ in or 38.1 x 22.5 x 1.2 cm):
Ideal for use with the A4 type platform. This is the type of platform that the Big Shot Plus machines and the Big Shot Switch Plus have. It is also compatible with the Big Shot Pro.
Mode of Use
Standard Plus Multi-Purpose Platform #660583 with the Big Shot Plus machine:
To cut or die-cut materials:
With Sizzix dies, type Sizzlits, DecoEtch, DecoEmboss and Embosslits, the following is required:
- The Big Shot Plus multi-purpose platform
- The Big Shot Plus Type B Adapter
- The two cutting pads.
With Sizzix Thinlits, Triplits and Framelits type dies, the following is required:
- The Big Shot Plus multi-purpose platform
- The Big Shot Plus type A adapter
- The two cutting pads.
To emboss thin materials:
With thin dies such as Triplits or Thinlits, the following is required:
- The Big Shot Plus multi-purpose platform
- The Big Shot Plus Type B Adapter
- A cutting pad (methacrylate sheet)
- Silicone rubber (Silicone Rubber)
- The Impressions Pad.
With Sizzix Embossing Folders such as Textured Impressions, Texture Fades, Texture Trades, ShadowPress & Ink-its you require:
- The Big Shot Plus Multi-Purpose Platform
- The Big Shot Plus Type B Adapter
- The two cutting pads (methacrylate sheets).
To emboss thick materials with A4 size Textured Impressions folders, you must remove the type B adapter, leaving the rest the same.
Magnetic Platform
These platforms can replace the plastic multipurpose or multipurpose platform.
Without a doubt, its great advantage is that it is made with magnets. This helps the dies and all embossing materials made of metal to adhere to the platform and remain immobile during use. In this way, the work will be easier, faster and with better quality!
To illustrate their use, they contain diagrams on its surface with indications of how to stack the accessories (assemble the sandwich), together with the dies and relief folders.
Additionally, you can cut with several dies at the same time.
References
- Standard Magnetic Platform #656499 (6⅛ x 8⅞ x ⅝ in or 15.5 x 22.5 x 1.58 cm)
- Extended Magnetic Platform #656780 (6⅛ x 14½ x ⅝ in or 15.5 x 36.8 x 1.58 cm)
Both are ideal for use on A5-type platform machines. This is the type of platform found on the Sizzix BIGkick, original Big Shot, Big Shot Express, Big Shot Foldaway and Vagabond 2 machines.
However, they can also be used with the Big Shot Plus and Big Shot Pro machines.
The difference between these two magnetic platforms is their length. The Extended is slightly longer for use with compatible embossing folders or dies.
- Magnetic Platform Plus #661900 (15 x 9 x ⅝ in or 38.1 x 22.8 x 1.6 cm):
Ideal for use with the A4 type platform. This is the type of platform that the Big Shot Plus machines and the Big Shot Switch Plus have.
However, it is also compatible with the Big Shot Pro.
Mode of Use
As shown above, to use the magnetic platform with Thinlits, Framelits or other thin metal dies, only the two cutting pads (methacrylate sheets) are required.
Movers & Shapers Platform
Measures: 6⅛ x 9 ⅞ x ¼ in or 15.6 x 25 x 0.6 cm.
This magnetic platform has a larger cutting surface. This allows you to organize and move the magnetic dies, Movers & Shapers in as many different positions as possible.
It also favors greater cutting efficiency and less material waste.
This Sizzix accessory is compatible with the Sizzix Big Shot Original, Big Shot Plus, Big Shot Switch Plus, BIGkick, Big Shot Pro and Vagabond 2 machines.
To illustrate its use, it contains diagrams on its surface with indications of how to stack the accessories (assemble the sandwich), in conjunction with the dies.
Adapters
They are relatively thin sheets, made of polycarbonate plastic.
Together with the multi-purpose platform, they are used to fit thin dies and embossing folders into the slot of the machines. As a result, these elements pass with the necessary pressure to fulfill their function.
To illustrate their use, they contain diagrams on its surface with indications of how to stack the accessories (assemble the sandwich), together with the dies and relief folders.
References
- Sizzix Big Shot Plus Adapter Type A , or Adapter for Dies #660584 (15 x 8⅞ x ⅛ in or 38.1 x 22.5 x 0.3 cm)
- Sizzix Big Shot Plus Type B Adapter or Embossing Folder Adapter #660585 (15 x 8⅞ x 0.1 in or 38.1 x 22.5 x 0.2 cm)
These Sizzix accessories are compatible with the Big Shot Plus machine since it has a separate multi-purpose platform and adapters.
On the other hand, the multipurpose platforms compatible with the other machines are attached to the adapters by means of hinges like a book.
- Type G adapter or AccuQuilt GO! brand die adapter. #661517 (8¾ x 15 x ⅛ in or 22.2 x 38.1 x 0.31 cm) (The AccuQuilt GO! brand is not owned by the Ellison Company).
This Sizzix accessory is compatible with the Big Shot Plus, Big Shot Switch Plus and Big Shot Pro machines.
- Big Shot Express Extended Adapter #661154 (6¼ x 13 x ⅛ in or 15.8 x 33 x 0.31 cm):
It is an adapter for using slim but large-size embossing dies and folders. It must be combined with the extended platform.
It is compatible with the BIGkick, Big Shot, Big Shot Express, and Vagabond machines.
- Sizzix Big Shot Pro Adapter Pad Extended #656656 (26 x 12¼ x ¼ in or 66 x 31.1 x 0.63 cm):
It is an adapter for exclusive use with the Big Shot Pro machine, for the thin dies and the larger embossing folders.
Thinlits dies additionally require the Sizzix Big Shot Pro Solo Platform Shim & Wafer Thin Die Adapter (657435) when used on the Big Shot Pro
Big Shot Pro Essentials or Solo Platform & Shim
Measurements: 14¼ x 12¼ x ⅝ in or 36.2 x 31.1 x 1.58 cm.
This set was designed exclusively for the Big Shot Pro. It consists of 1 platform, 1 wedge, and 1 thin die adapter. Made of polypropylene plastic.
Like the other multi-purpose platforms and adapters, they are used to fit thin dies and embossing folders into the groove of the Big Shot Pro machine. As a result, these items pass through with the necessary pressure so that they can comply with their function.
To illustrate their use, they have diagrams on its surface with indications of how to stack the accessories (assemble the sandwich), together with the dies and relief folders.
Cutting Pads
They are methacrylate sheets (high-quality polycarbonate plastic), transparent or translucent.
You can use them on both sides, although the ideal is to preserve one side for contact with the smooth face of the dies and the other for contact with the blade of the die. In this way, one of the pads will be preserved for a longer time and the other will suffer more wear and tear and you will have to replace it.
Its function is to help position the cut or embossed elements.
They also protect the multipurpose platform, the adapters and the internal roller of the Sizzix from the edge of the dies.
For this reason, it is normal for them to progressively deteriorate with use, but you can easily find them on the market, with different sizes according to your needs or preferences, and at a very affordable price.
References
Big Shot Standard #655093(8¾ x 6⅛ x ⅛ in or 20.3 x 15.2 x 0.3 cm)
Big Shot Extended #655267 (14⅝ x 6¼ x ⅛ in or 31.1 x 15.8 x 0.3 cm)
Designed for use in the BIGkick, Big Shot, Big Shot Express and Vagabond machines.
The Extended size is larger for use with larger Sizzix and Bigz type dies (Bigz XL, Movers & Shapers XL and ScoreBoards XL).
Padsbold, Decorative Strips 13″ #654558 (13 x 2⅝ x ⅛ in or 33 x 6.6 x 0.3 cm):
Designed to easily die-cut decorative strips on the Sidekick machine. In the same way, they can be used in the SophistiCut, BIGkick, Big Shot, Big Shot Express and Vagabond machines.
Mini or Sidekick #654559 (4⅞ x 2½ x ⅛ in or 12.3 x 6.3 x 0.3 cm): Designed for ideal use on the Sidekick. Although they can be used on almost any Sizzix cutting machine, except those with a slim groove like the Texture Boutique.
Big Shot Plus Standard #660581 (8⅞ x 15 x ⅛ in or 22.5 x 38.1 x 0.3 cm): Designed for use in the Big Shot Plus and Big Shot Switch Plus machines. You can also use them on the Big Shot Pro.
Big Shot Pro Standard #656253 (14¼ x 12¼ x ⅛ in or 36.2 x 31.1 x 0.3 cm): Designed for use on the Big Shot Pro machine only.
Bigz XL 25″ #656847 (6⅛ x 26 x ⅛ in or 15.2 x 66 x 0.3 cm): These pads allow you to cut 25″ Bigz XL dies. Ideally compatible with BIGkick, Big Shot, Big Shot Express, and Vagabond machines. However, you can also use them with the Big Shot Plus, Big Shot Switch Plus and Big Shot Pro.
Mode of Use
Place the die or embossing folder and the material with which you are working between the two cutting pads, then you must pass them through the roller of the machine.
Depending on the type of die or embossing folder you are using, you will need other accessories such as:
- The multipurpose platform
- The Adapters
- One Premium Crease Pad.
The latter should replace one of the cutting pads (in case you are using a die with fold lines).
Embossing and Transfer Set
This set consists of two pieces, the Impressions Pad and the Silicone Rubber
It is designed to engrave or stamp thin metal dies or embossing folders on paper, cardstock, aluminum, or leather. By decreasing the pressure on the die, its shape is stamped on the material but without cutting it.
Compatible with Sizzix BIGkick, Big Shot or Vagabond machines, it can also be used on the Big Shot Plus, Big Shot Switch Plus and Big Shot Pro.
Impressions Pad #655120 (5 ⅞ x 8 ⅞ x ⅛ in or 14.9 x 22.5 x 0.3 cm): Made of plastic. Requires as accessories the Silicone Rubber and the multipurpose platform included with each machine.
Silicone Rubber #655121 (5¾ x 7⅜ x ⅛ in or 14.6 x 18.7 x 0.3 cm): Made of silicone rubber. Requires as accessories the Impressions Pad and the multi-purpose platform included with each machine.
Mode of Use
The Embossing and Transfer Set should be used as a replacement for one or both cutting pads, other items should be stacked in the same order.
It can be used with thin dies and embossing folders.
When used with a die, the sharp face of the die must be in contact with a cutting pad or silicone rubber.
Crease Pad
This crease pad is made of polyurethane plastic.
It is designed to cut and fold with Sizzix Bigz and Movers & Shapers type dies that include rules or fold lines.
Its function is, in addition to cutting, is to help create subtle fold lines to facilitate the assembly of cards, envelopes, bags, boxes, and pockets.
References
- Standard Crease Pad #655092 (Crease Pad 6¼ x 8⅞ x ⅛ in or 15.8 x 22.5 x 0.3 cm, Mylar Wedge 15.2 x 14 x 0.012 cm): Compatible with BIGkick, Big Shot and Vagabond machines.
- Crease Pad Extended #656159 (6⅛ x 13½ x ⅛ in or 15.2 x 34.2 x 0.3 cm): Designed for Bigz XL, Movers & Shapers XL dies, compatible with BIGkick, Big Shot and Vagabond machines.
- Big Shot Plus Crease Pad standard #660582 (8¾ x 15 x ⅛ in or 20.3 x 38.1 x 0.3 cm): Designed for use with Bigz Plus dies in Big Shot Plus and Big Shot Switch Plus machines. It can also be used in the Big Shot Pro machine.
- Big Shot Pro Standard Crease Pad #656494 (14¼ x 12 ¼ x ⅛ in or 36.2 x 31.1 x 0.3 cm): Designed for use with Bigz Pro and Movers & Shapers Pro dies on the Big Shot Pro machine.
Mode of Use
You want to put the die and the material you are working with between a crease pad and a cutting pad.
The blade side of the die should face the crease pad, then pass them through the machine’s roller.
Additionally, depending on the die and the function you are developing, you must also use the multipurpose platform and adapters.
Another key point to keep in mind, in case the die blade doesn’t completely cut or crease the shape, is to use a Mylar wedge or two to increase the pressure for best results.
Dimensional Cutting Pad
Measurements: 6⅛ x 6¼ x ⅛ in or 15.5 x 15.8 x 0.32 cm.
Made in plastic.
Its main feature is that it has a beveled line in the middle. This line protects the material at that point from being cut by the die. As a result, you get a die-cut area and another attached to the material, like a hinge, to generate dimension.
Compatible with BIGkick, Big Shot, Big Shot Express, Vagabond, Big Shot Plus, Big Shot Switch Plus and Big Shot Pro machines.
Mode of Use
The Dimensional Cutting Pad replaces one of the cutting pads, specifically the one that is in contact with the smooth surface of the die.
The face of the die that has the blade must be in contact with a cutting pad (methacrylate sheet).
Relief Diffusers
Measurements: 4½ x 6 x ⅛ in or 11.4 x 14.6 x 0.3 cm.
Made of ABS plastic, transparent. For use with the Texture Fades, Texture Trades and Texture Impressions binders.
This set consists of three templates and three diffusion inserts.
Its function is to create a barrier between the material you are working with and the embossing folders so that the selected area (depending on the diffuser you use) is smooth or free of embossing.
Compatible with BIGkick, Big Shot Original, Big Shot Express, Vagabond, Big Shot Plus, Big Shot Switch Plus, Big Shot Pro and Texture Boutique machines.
Mode of Use
You want to put the embossing folder and the material you are working within the middle of a cutting pad (or an embossing pad when using the Texture Boutique machine) and an embossing diffuser.
Additionally, depending on the machine you are using, you may require the machine’s included platform (this platform is not required when using Texture Boutique) and an adapter.
You then pass the Sizzix accessories and tools through the roller of the machine.
Precision Chrome Base Plate for Thinlits Intricate Dies
Measurements: 4½ x 6 x ⅛ in or 11.4 x 14.6 x 0.3 cm.
This platform is used to generate a better die cut with Thinlits dies.
When cutting, it replaces the cutting pad that would be in front of the die blade.
The difference with plastic cutting pads is that it does not generate impressions from previous cuts so it always looks new.
As a result, it does not leave marks on the material you are using and has a longer useful life.
It allows achieving the cut with only one pass through the roller of the machine in most cases.
It is compatible with the BIGkick, Big Shot Original, Big Shot Express, Big Shot Switch Plus, Big Shot Pro, and Vagabond machines.
Helps cut a wide variety of materials such as burlap, craft plastic and metal, fabric, craft aluminum, canvas, thin leather, and thin cork.
It is not compatible with the Big Shot Foldaway or Big Shot Plus machines, as these machines exert more pressure. This will reduce the useful life of both the cutting pad and the dies.
It is also not compatible with Bigz type or similar thick dies.
Inksheets Transfer Pad
Measurements: 4½ x 6 x ⅛ in or 11.4 x 14.6 x 0.3 cm.
This pad works with Framelits, Thinlits and Triplits dies.
It is used to transfer color from Inksheets transfer films onto the material you are working with.
Compatible with BIGkick, Big Shot Original, Big Shot Express, Vagabond, Big Shot Plus, Big Shot Switch Plus and Big Shot Pro machines.
Mode of Use
This pad replaces one of the standard cutting pads (methacrylate sheet), the other elements are used the same depending on the machine and the platform you are using.
These are the Sizzix Brand Inksheets transfer films used in this feature, to familiarize you with them.
Sizzix Making Tool – Paper Sculpting Set
Packaging measures: 4½ x 6 x ⅛ in or 11.4 x 14.6 x 0.3 cm.
Useful for making realistic-looking flowers and manipulating elements in other projects.
This kit contains 7 tools:
- Detail Shaping Pad 6½ x 5 x ⅜ in or 16.5 x 12.7 x 0.9 cm
- Detail Shaping Pad 5 x 3½ x ⅛ in or 12.7 x 8.9 x 0.3 cm
- Fine detail tool: 1 mm punch on one side and 2 mm burin on the other
- Double-ended burin tool: 5 mm on one side and 8 mm on the other
- Double tool: 10 mm Burin on one side and Quilling Tool on the other side.
- Tweezers
- Small scissors.
Brush and Foam Pad for Dies
Packaging measures: 4½ x 6 x ⅛ in or 11.4 x 14.6 x 0.3 cm.
This accessory consists of two pieces:
- An ergonomic brush with a rubber handle (5½ x 1¾ x ¼ in or 13.9 x 4.4 x 0.6 cm)
- A foam pad (4½ x 7¼ in or 11.4 x 18.4 cm).
They are used to separate thin and intricate dies (with many details) from the material after the cut has been made, they also remove excess material.
Mode of Use
You should place the die with the cut material on the foam pad with the smooth side of the die facing up.
Then, run the brush over the die repeatedly until you are able to separate the material with the design cut out of the die.
Adhesive Grid Sheets
Measurements: 2⅝ x 4⅝ in or 5.7 x 11.7 cm
These Sizzix adhesive grid sheets are used to hold and align Thinlits and small Framelits dies.
They are compatible with the Sidekick machine and Sidekick standard cutting pads.
Quilling Tool
Measurements: 5⅜ x ½ x ½ in or 13.6 x 1.2 x 1.2 cm
This tool is designed to make quick and easy dimensional flowers out of paper and other thin materials.
Mode of Use
Insert the outer end of the die into the slotted tip of the tool and twist toward the center to roll.
Shadow Press Station
Code: #660209
This tool is used to improve the ink application on Debossing Shadow Press folders.
Mode of Use
Slide the ShadowPress station over a ShadowPress embossing folder and use a brayer to add the colored ink.
Then take out the Debossing Shadow Press folder and use the machine’s included Platform to run it through the BIGkick, Big Shot, and Vagabond machines to get the ink print.
To clean it use water and a paper towel, in more difficult cases I recommend using a stamp cleaner.
Very well! As you can see there are many accessories in the Sizzix line. That does not mean that you need all of them for adequate use of your machine.
Each of them needs different accessories and the most important ones, such as the platform, the adapters and the cutting pads, are included when you buy the machine.
The other accessories are optional and help you increase the variety of functions and creations that you can make.
Next, I will leave you a compatibility table. Here you will find which tools and accessories are compatible with each of the machines in the Sizzix line.
I hope you enjoyed this article as much as I did, it took me over 48 hours to make it and I put all my love into it to make sure you understand everything!
