I think I HATE my Sizzix Big Shot-am I doing something wrong?

Okay, I just got my Sizzix Big Shot (regular not the pro). It is my first and only experience with a machine of this type.

I bought several of the compatable dies as well. They were the size that just required them to be sandwiched between the pads & paper. And I'm sure I had it placed right. The die was so thick nothing else could have gone in with it nor any platform used.

So anyway, I am using plain cardstock (standard) and the machine does cut with ease-BUT the shape is still sticking to the cardstock and is not cut out. (Not sure if that's normal or not.) Which wouldn't be an issue, except that when I VERY carefully punch it out (tried several times) it either rips, pulls the paper and rips it or leaves "messy" unfinished edges with tiny bits of paper sticking to it that I can't remove. It does not look neat and clean. To be fair on some of them, it's relatively minor, but for the most part it's not.

I thought I might have a bad die. So I tried one with rectangles. It did the same thing. Even worse this die was supposed to be nice, neat rectangles. I got it because I'm not a very good cutter with scissors and can't make my cuts look neat. I was disappointed with the same results above-and even more so that the rectangles which look neat on the package & on the die-are crooked. They look like I cut them badly by hand!

I decide to try my embossing folder. It was a lovely chandiler. The embossing was LOVELY! However out of all the tries I made (cardstock) it punched it out and seperated it from the paper on the edge all along one side. Which I don't think was normal. I could live with it and just use it as an element, but it's a messy tear.

So, is this normal with the Sizzix Big Shot (not pro)? Am I doing something wrong?

I couldn't be more disappointed. I feel like I was cheated by the crappy machine and dies.

Mine doesn't do that. Hmmm...

What dies are you using? Nestabilities? Are you using the platform thingy that comes with it and the plastic shim thing?

I have the Big Shot too and when using embossing folders the only time I've had that same problem was when I used paper studio's 8.5/11 cardstock that I guess was too thin.As for the dies I've only used Tim Holtz dies and they worked great

Something is not right! Your sizzix should cut a die with no problem...and it sounds like you are using a Tim Holtz embossing folder if you use timholtz embossing folders on thin paper it will tear I always put a second piece of paper in my tim Holtz embossing folders because of the depth of them.

I think it has to do with the dies you are using. Each die needs a specific 'setting' on the platform provided (Tab 1, Tab 2 etc). You could also try running it through twice (one after the other) and it should give it a clean cut.

I have never had a problem cutting any die on mine. I have all the dies- bigz, reg sizzix, sizzlets, quickutz, nesties, cuttlebug. I hope you find an answer.

tim holtz embossing folders will cut paper right through,,,,,put another piece of paper in with the one you are embossing, and that will help. The same happened to me,,,,

IF you are using spellbinders nestabilities with your big shot your sandwich should be as follows.

all purpose platform (all tabs closed)

cutting plate

paper

cutting plate

roll it through.

if you are using one of the thick dies from TH or sizzix,,,,,do not use the all purpose platform,,

cutting plate, paper, thick die, cutting plate. Roll it through.

sounds like something is wrong with yours,,,,you shouldn't be having these problems.

I suggest looking on youtube and typing the die you have (sizzix embossing, spellbinders, sizzix die cut) and look what to use there are several different ways to use the plates. It might be difficult, but you'll love it at the end

Oh my! Say it isn't true!!! I don't think it's possible to not love the Big Shot. Something must be wrong. Wish we could see how you have it together and the results you're getting so we could help more.

UPDATE:
Thanks for all your help and replies. I was sick all weekend and week with the flu, it's the first day I've been back on my feet.

I was only using Sizzix dies, bigz mostly.

After calling customer service they told me to shim between the bottom plate and the die a sheet of paper. That helped a little but not enough I had to use a standard sheet of cardstock. Using that as a shim I get a good result on all the dies I tried.

But is this normal? Do others have to do this?

Apparently the problem with the emobssing folder edges cutting though were a problem with the folders themselves. They suggested sanding with sandpaper lightly about 5 times on the edges that do that. I tried a nail file and that didn't work. I tried a sheetrock sanding screen (don't have any regular sandpaper at the moment, but will get some and try) and it didn't work either.

They said it was a problem with some of the folders and couldn't promise to send one without the issue (it's the chandiler/thank you combo).

I recently purchased my big shot plus, and I am so unhappy with it, especially after spending that kind of money. (Canadian $). I have experienced the exact problems that you have gone threw.
So if you learn anything to solve this problem, I would appreciate hearing from you.
Noreen

It takes a little time to learn how to use the Big Shot. It would probably have been helpful if the store you bought it from gave you a lesson or two. However, you can learn how to use them by asking other crafters and watching Youtube videos etc The very best thing to do is to get with a crafting friend who knows how to use the machine already and ask for help to figure it out.

Each Big Shot is a little different. Some require an extra shim (piece of paper or cardstock) between the platform and the cutting plate to help make a clean cut. Some require two pieces of shim. Experiment with your machine to find the best 'recipe' or 'sandwich' for cutting with your different dies.

There are special pads to use when embossing and cutting at the same time. They are made from a material that feels like rubber. I had to buy mine separately.

Some dies work better when you add a layer of waxed paper or baking paper to them, between the die and the cardstock you are cutting. This seems to add a fine layer of wax to the die and makes removing your die cut much easier. This is particularly true with any intricate die. It also adds a little extra pressure to such dies, making them cut better. Also, look fro tiny holes in your intricate dies and use a pin or needle to gently push out your die cut. You have much less chance of tearing your paper by doing this.

If your machine is not cutting evenly, there could be something wrong with the roller setting. The Sizzix people will replace faulty items.

HTH

Hmmmm this sounds so unusual with Sizzix to hear anyone has a problem with their Big shot. I have had a Big kick (basically the same machine same manufacturer) and have used one for years with NO problems. My second machine worked even better than the first!
I can't imagine what the problem could be. If I ever had a problem it was with too thick of a sandwich for the die I was using.... I hope you find a solution for your machines.

I adore my Big shot!! If there was a fire, I'd get the cats and then my Big Shot!! Can you invite a scrap buddy over to help you? If not, watch all of the You Tube videos. I'm sure that will help.

LOL! Donna, I'm just like you, if fire breaks out or a tornado is heading this way, I'd grab my dog then my Big Shot! I adore mine, have never had any problems cutting or embossing no matter the manufacturer of the embossing folders or dies. Since the day it joined my scrappy family, it has been a non-stop love affair!

Yes, to all the above suggestions. Start with You-Tube videos and if that doesn't help you could have a faulty machine. I, too, have a Big Shot and love it. Never had a problem. Good luck!

I don't have a Big Shot, use only the Cuttlebug, Evolution Advanced, and Cut'N'Boss die cutting & embossing machines.

It looks like you are using the BIGZ dies. I never buy any of those and have no need for them. They are heavy, bulky, and take up too much room. I think they are especially suitable for quilting, or for cutting through thick material or several layers of paper.

I use mostly the wafer-thin dies, such as the ones by Spellbinders. Do you have one of those? If not, give that one a try and see how it works with your machine.

Thank you for all your help!

Consider purchasing the Sizzix Precision Base Plate for wafer thin dies. That thing's da bomb! Seriously, if you can find a video about it on YouTube, you'll see what I mean.

I agree with everyone. I just bought my Big Shot a few months ago and it pretty much replaced my Cuttlebug. It stays out for easy use. I haven't had any problems like you describe though.
I bought a metal shim to use when using Spellbinders dies and it definately helps!

I love my Big Shot too. It replaced my Cuttlebug and never looked back. I also suggest watching utube videos. I learn so many tricks and secrets to things on there.

I too just purchased a Big Shot plus and I was so excited to use it, but I cannot get anything to go through the machine. It won't cut, emboss...nothing! I use the sandwich that it calls for, I've tried different sandwiches, different dies, different embossing folders and nothing. It's always too tight or too loose. Any suggestions? Because I'm about to burn it! I'm so disappointed.

It sounds like you possibly got a defective machine. You shouldn't have that much trouble out of the box. Return or call Sizzix and they'll replace it for you.

One of my favorite people to listen to about Sizzix is Stephanie Barnard. She actually did a card making series for this site which can be found under classes. During the classes she gives a ton of tips on the machine. She has also recently posted on You tube about the Plus.
She is the reason I bought my Sizzix last year because of all her tips and information. Before you give up check out the class here and her You Tube. She also posts under "Stamps of Life" check out both names if you have a hard time finding her.

I too had the same experience. It was defective. Nothing--not even the basic sandwich worked! Send it back for a replacement! You are NOT crazy!

Thank you for the replies. I've learned a lot through you tube and glad to say, my machine is working like a dream!

Yay!!

So glad it all worked out for you. There's nothing more frustrating than being excited about something new and having it not work out. I was going to suggest you might try to find another scrapper in your area with a Big Shot and see if they could walk you through the process. Sounds as though you have it all resolved though. Enjoy!

Hi there, I have been using the big shot for some time now and just love it!!
I bought the snowflake flip card die cut yesterday. Was very excited but when I tried to cut the card it was little difficult to place it in the big shot and it made a loud popping sound which scared me......
I hope I did not brake my machine.
Is it normal?
Thanks.

Popping noises are normal. Just make sure you're using the correct Sizzix sandwich. But the plates will make popping and cracking noises, which can be unsettling. Good luck!

The correct Sizzix sandwich can be a little tricky to figure out - even with it printed on the base plate!! Sometimes! There are so many different dies out there - some cut better than others! If it seems difficult to run it thru try a lesser sandwich. Sometimes they work sometimes not! Cutting can be a bit tricky on occasion. I have more trouble with the 13 inch cutting pad for those long skinny strips! Fortunately I have the wider long platform and that works fine!!

A word of warning, I did break one of my machines by trying to force TOO MUCH of a sandwich thru. At the price of these babies you don't do that again!

use wax paper between the dye and card stock and dont use cheap cardstock use basil

i've searched many forums..i've watched more YouTube videos than i care to admit to, but is it normal for a big shot machine to wrinkle your paper? and when i use a lite weight tape, it gets stuck to both the paper and the die i'm using. almost like it's too tight, but according to my research i'm doing it correct. can any one add anything else i can do to make it easier to use and not be so frustrated with the outcome. i don't see anyone experiencing this same issue as me. i've had it for a year, i put it off to the side because i was so frustrated, but i really want to love this tool, especially since i bought so many dies to use with it.

thanks everyone...sophia

no, it shouldn't wrinkle the paper. I don't see how it's even possible.

Contact Sizzix and see if they have heard of this problem before. They have wonderful customer service:

Contact us for help with any issues or concerns
You may contact us online 24/7
By Phone*
877.355.4766
(Toll Free in the USA)
949.598.8821
(Outside of the USA)
* 6:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. PST
Monday through Friday
By Fax
888.270.1200
(Toll free in the USA)
949.598.8842
(Outside of the USA)
By Mail
Sizzix Customer Service
25862 Commercentre Drive
Lake Forest, CA 92630-8804 USA

Hi Sophia,
I have noticed with certain dies, that the shape can come out crinkled a bit. My plates are pretty scratched up and sometimes they impress the scratched up pattern onto the die cut piece, making it look a bit crinkled.
I wonder if this is what is happening with yours.

Why are you using tape?
I occasionally use a piece of washi tape to secure my die, but ONLY washi.
I urge you to call the sizzix people.
The Big Shot is the easiest machine on the planet to use.
Can't wait until you start enjoying it!!

I too am having the opposite problem. The Sizzix is too tight. It leaves an impression on both sides of the paper. I wrote to Sizzix and they said to put a sheet of paper over it, but now it leaves an impression from the cutting plates through both sheets paper and cardstock. And yes, I have all the right plates and shims and bases layered correctly.
The first time I put through a die with the framlits that came with the machine, it left a marked impression on both cutting plates.

Please, has anyone got a solution? I have a foldaway big shot.

Hi and welcome!

It's supposed to cut through the card stock into the plate below. That's normal. If you watch videos on YouTube you'll see that all the plates are marked.

I'm not sure what you mean by an impression on both sides of the paper though. With die-cutting, it's supposed to cut out a shape. Or are you embossing? Could you post photos in the Gallery, and we'll see if we can help?

I just joined Scrapbook. com because I saw this discussion doing a search engine search. I hope this is right place to also talk about My new Big Shot Plus Starter Kit that I returned for a replacement. I was so disappointed with it. In following the instructions for doing a thinlet die I couldn't even get the sandwich to go through the machine. It seemed that Shim A was the problem, as ti made the sandwich too thick to go through the machine. I hope I have better luck with the new replacement.

My question is how does one do the sandwich when using Spellbinder intricate dies? I have one from the designer series I just purchased because it is so beautiful. I want to do it right. Thanks to anyone who can help.

I use the same sandwich for the spellbinders dies that I use for the thinlits dies.

I recently learned to spritz the cardstock with water that you are sending through the embossing folder. I almost always test on scraps before what I really need to cut/emboss. Good luck.

Hi! I know this is an old post, but I recently received the Sizzix Foldaway and I'm having the same issues with it being too tight, marking both cutting pads, and the cutting pads have warped almost instantly bc of the excess pressure. Just wondering if your issue has resolved at all?

@gabbyg  For use with a Spellbinder intricate die use the standard platform and both clear cutting plates to make a standard sandwich.  However, between your cardstock and die, place a piece of wax paper.  Run the sandwich through the Big Shot to cut the die and use a brush or poky tool to clean out the small bits and pieces of cardstock.  The wax paper helps the cardstock release easily from intricate dies.  Have fun and good luck.

@Babski the sandwich is supposed to be tight and your cutting pads are supposed to get marked by your cutting die when run through the Big Shot.  Over time your pads will get so marked up you'll get them so marked up that they will need replacing.  That's just normal wear and tear.  The warping is a normal thing too.  Just turn the cutting pads upside down to straighten out the warp when you run it through again.  Have fun and good luck!

Thanks for your reply. I was totally prepared for the pads to warp over time. I just didn't expect to warp in a week. I have since been informed that the Foldaway was designed to have more pressure. I just don't think it's for me bc I don't want to go through cutting pads so quickly. I appreciate your response though.

Hi,

@Jemma90 Just to be sure, on your die embossing problem, you used the regular cutting sandwich and regular cardstock (not a card) to cut out your butterfly first. Then you changed your sandwich to the embossing sandwich with the rubber mat, laid and your die face up with the die cut cardstock in it, and embossed it. Is that correct? If so, and the paper cracked, the first thing I would do is use a higher quality cardstock from your stash, not what was sent with the box. On the dry embossing you are using the correct sandwich. Is the folder you are using a 3D folder? If so, then pulling a cutting plate is the right move. However instead of using cardstock for shims, use heavy chipboard. It will be thicker than cardstock, I'd try 3-4 layers until you find the right thickness. Some of those 3D folders are too think for a standard embossing sandwich, I have 3 that I can only use one cutting pad and shims on. Good luck, hope this helps.

The cutting dies was easy to do with the sandwich. Embossing dies it would crack my card, I followed instructions on my standard platform. I brought a different embossing folder by Tim holt sizzix and I used the standard platform, did the sandwich and it worked but my card is still cracking, I tried the vellum sheets in the folder still cracks my card, I will try the spray my paper with mist of water. My other embossing folder I do not no if it is a 3d embossing folder its the Vintage Swan & Rose Embossing Folder & Vellums Set 4 Coordinating but as a sandwich it is too thick so take away bottom plate but then it is too lose. I did try a other way which was standard platform, die adapter, 2 cards as a shim, embossing folder with card in and top cutting plate it worked but lightly. I normally follow the instructions but I thought I would try but I am worried I will ruin my dies adapter. I have ordered a 3d embossing folder plate and another way was standard platform, 9 pieces of card which is 300gsm,embossing folder with card and top plate lightly worked.