01Overview
The Sizzix Big Shot Plus stands as one of the most trusted manual die-cutting machines among quilters and sewists who demand precision in every shape they create. Larger than the original Big Shot, this machine features an extended 9-inch opening that accommodates bigger dies and embossing folders, making it ideal for cutting quilt blocks, applique pieces, and fabric motifs in larger formats. The hand-crank mechanism allows users to feed fabric, felt, or even thin leather through a sandwich of cutting pads and dies, producing clean, consistent edges without the fraying or jagged lines that come from scissors or rotary cutters. Its sturdy steel construction ensures the rollers apply even pressure across the entire width of the plate, which is essential when working with layered fabrics or dense quilting cottons.
For quilting projects specifically, the Big Shot Plus transforms what used to be tedious template tracing and hand-cutting into a fast, repeatable process. Quilters can run the same die through the machine dozens of times to produce identical hexagons, triangles, or appliqué shapes for an entire quilt top, ensuring uniformity that elevates the finished piece. The machine pairs well with a wide range of Sizzix fabric dies, including intricate florals, geometric patchwork shapes, and even monogram letters, giving sewists the flexibility to personalize garments, quilts, and home décor items. Because the extended platform supports bigger dies, it's particularly suited for working with fat quarters or yardage where multiple pieces need to be cut from a single layout.
Beyond fabric alone, the Big Shot Plus works effectively with interfacing, batting, and even vinyl, broadening its usefulness for mixed-media sewing projects that combine quilting with other textile crafts. Its compact tabletop footprint, despite the larger cutting area, makes it practical for home studios and classroom settings alike, and the manual crank means no electricity is required, allowing for quiet operation anywhere in the home. Replacement cutting pads and extended multipurpose platforms are readily available, which extends the machine's lifespan and keeps it relevant as sewists expand their die collections. For anyone serious about quilting accuracy and efficient fabric preparation, the Big Shot Plus offers a dependable, durable solution that fits seamlessly into a dedicated sewing workflow.
02What stands out
- Extended 9 inch opening for wider dies and fabric panels
- Includes Standard Cutting Pads and Extended Multipurpose Platform
- Compatible with Bigz, Framelits, Thinlits and Sizzlits dies
- Hand-crank operated, no electricity required
- Durable metal construction built for frequent studio use
- Works with fabric, felt, leather, foam and paper
03Specifications
| Cutting Width | 9 inches |
|---|---|
| Machine Type | Manual hand-crank |
| Material | Durable metal frame |
| Compatible Dies | Bigz, Framelits, Thinlits |
| Weight | Approximately 14 lbs |
04Pros & cons
What we like
- Wider platform handles larger quilt block dies easily
- Sturdy build withstands heavy daily workshop use
- Simple hand-crank mechanism is reliable and portable
- Clean, consistent cuts reduce fraying on fabric edges
- Compatible with huge existing library of Sizzix dies
What to watch
- Heavier and bulkier than standard Big Shot machine
- Higher upfront cost than entry-level cutters
- Requires significant table space for storage and use
- Cranking can be tiring during long cutting sessions
- Extended pads sold separately for some die types
The verdict
The Sizzix Big Shot Plus is a reliable, heavy-duty manual die cutter that excels at precisely cutting fabric shapes for quilting and sewing projects. Its extended platform is ideal for quilters working with larger blocks, and the machine's durability makes it a worthwhile investment for serious crafters despite its bulk and price.
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