10 Best Die Cut Machines in 2026

You know the feeling: you’ve traced an intricate shape by hand, only to have the paper tear at the last curve. Or you’ve spent an afternoon cutting dozens of identical hearts for a scrapbook layout, and each one comes out slightly different. That’s the problem die cut machines solve – consistent, precise cuts and embossed textures that actually look professional. Whether you’re making a birthday card, designing a wedding invitation, or adding texture to a journal page, having the best die cut machines in your craft room saves time and frustration. This roundup covers ten models, from ultra-portable options that fit in a bag to workhorse machines that can handle felt, cork, and balsa wood. We’ve grouped them by size and capability, so you can zero in on the one that matches the way you craft.

TL;DR: The Sizzix Big Shot (2025 Redesign) is the most versatile and durable pick for serious crafters. The Sizzix Sidekick is the best travel-friendly option for small projects on the go. The CraftGenes 9-Inch offers the largest opening and most complete starter kit for beginners. The Sizzix Big Shot (Classic) remains a reliable workhorse with a huge library of compatible dies.

#	Product	Opening	Max Paper Width	Weight	Includes Dies/Folders?	Best For
1	Sizzix Big Shot (2025 Redesign)	6"	6 inches	11.2 lbs	No (pads+platform only)	Heavy-duty frequent use, all materials
2	Sizzix Big Shot (Classic)	6"	6 inches	10.6 lbs	No (pads+platform only)	Proven longevity, thicker stack materials
3	Sizzix Sidekick	2.5"	Light cardstock	2 lbs	Yes (starter kit)	Portability, small details, travel
4	CraftGenes 9-Inch Manual	9"	A4 / 8.3"	10.1 lbs	Yes (folders, dies, paper)	Large-scale scrapbooking, complete beginner kits
5	Find Scrapblooms 9-Inch Foldable	9"	A4 / 8.3"	19 lbs	Yes (folders, dies, paper)	Large projects where table space is tight
6	Joelver Maker 9-Inch Starter Kit	9"	A4 / 8.3"	19 lbs	Yes (20+ dies, folders)	Maximum die variety out of the box
7	CraftGenes 6-Inch Pink	6"	A5 / 5.8"	10.1 lbs	Yes (2 dies, 2 folders)	A5 projects, budget-friendly start
8	Find Scrapblooms 6-Inch Blue (Starter)	6"	A5 / 5.8"	10.4 lbs	Yes (2 dies, 2 folders)	All-in-one beginner set for scrapbooking
9	Genron Craft 6-Inch with Foldable Handle	6"	A5 / 5.8"	8.8 lbs	Yes (dies, folder, stamps)	Space-saving storage, learning the basics
10	Find Scrapblooms 6-Inch White Gift Box	6"	A5 / 5.8"	~10 lbs	Yes (dies, folders, stamps)	Gifting, starter with a clean white look

How we picked

• Opening size and material capability. A 6-inch opening is enough for standard cards and A5 paper; 9-inch machines handle A4 sheets and larger scrapbook pages. Some machines can cut felt, cork, and balsa wood; others are strictly for lightweight paper and cardstock.
• Build quality and pressure consistency. A steel roller system and sturdy frame deliver even pressure across the entire sandwich. ABS plastic bodies are lighter but can flex, reducing cut quality on thick stacks.
• Die and folder compatibility. The Sizzix ecosystem is vast; many generic machines accept standard dies and folders, but clearance thickness varies. A thick sandwich (die + paper + multiple plates) needs enough roller gap.
• Portability and storage. Foldable side panels and collapsible handles make a difference if you craft in a small room or want to take the machine to a crop night. The Sizzix Sidekick fits in a handbag.
• Included accessories for beginners. A true starter kit includes at least two embossing folders, two die sets, cardstock, and clear stamps. Machines that come with only cutting pads require a separate purchase to make your first project.
• Ease of crank action. A smooth, well-aligned mechanism turns easily without wobbling or catching. A rough crank forces you to apply uneven pressure, which can shift the sandwich and ruin a cut.

1. Sizzix Big Shot Machine (2025 Redesign): Best Heavy-Duty Die Cutting

Pros

• Updated design with a clip-on handle that stores underneath, saving counter space
• Cuts a wide range of materials – paper, cardstock, felt, cork, balsa wood – with consistent pressure
• Includes Multipurpose Platform and a pair of standard Cutting Pads
• Trusted Sizzix brand with the largest library of compatible dies and embossing folders
• Smooth crank that doesn't bind even with thick die stacks

Cons

• No dies or embossing folders included; you need to buy those separately
• Heavy at 11.2 pounds, not something you’ll want to move around
• The new gray color won’t match a bright craft room aesthetic

Best for the serious crafter who uses their machine every week and wants to cut everything from delicate lace cardstock to cork and fabric.

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The 2025 redesign of the Sizzix Big Shot doesn’t change the internal mechanics – it’s still the same proven roller system that’s been the industry standard since 2001. What’s new is the exterior: a sleek gray finish with rounded edges and a handle that clips onto the side and stores underneath when not in use. That handle is a real improvement over the old model’s bulky top handle. The machine itself feels solid in a way the plastic-bodied alternatives don’t. When you turn the crank, there’s no wobble, no hesitation – the roller travels smoothly and evenly. The 6-inch opening handles standard Thinlits dies and embossing folders up to that width, and the included Multipurpose Platform lets you adjust the cutting height for different materials. If you plan to cut felt or cork, this is the machine that will do it without complaint year after year. The only downside is that you’re starting from scratch: no dies, no folders, no paper. You’ll need to budget for those separately.

2. Sizzix Big Shot (Classic): The Proven Workhorse

Pros

• Same internal mechanism as the new version, with years of proven reliability
• Slightly lighter than the 2025 redesign at 10.6 pounds
• Comes with Cutting Pads and Multipurpose Platform
• Compatible with the entire Sizzix library (except Plus and Pro dies)
• Cuts paper, cardstock, felt, cork, and balsa wood

Cons

• Bulkier, boxier design; handle doesn’t store as neatly
• Older model may be phased out, so availability could vary
• No starter dies or folders included

Best for crafters who want the gold-standard machine at a still-reasonable entry point and don't mind a more traditional look.

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This is the Big Shot that made Sizzix a household name in paper crafting. The classic white-and-blue design has been around for years, and for good reason. It uses the same sandwich system – base plate, cutting pads, die, and paper – that delivers clean cuts every time. The platform has a hinged lid that flips up to reveal the cutting surface, and the crank operates with the same buttery smoothness as the new version. The main reason to choose this over the 2025 model is if you find a deal on it or if you prefer the more compact footprint (the new one is slightly longer). The classic doesn’t have the clever handle storage, but that’s a minor annoyance. It’s still a workhorse: I’ve used mine for years without any degradation in cut quality, and it plows through multiple layers of cardstock without strain. Just know that you’ll need to buy dies and folders separately – the kit only includes the machine and its essential cutting pads.

3. Sizzix Sidekick: The Most Portable Die Cut Machine

Pros

• Ultra-compact – fits in the palm of your hand, weighs just 2 pounds
• Vacuum base locks it onto any smooth work surface for stability
• Complete starter kit includes dies, embossing folders, paper, and storage box
• Cuts single layers of lightweight cardstock and paper with crisp results
• Ideal for small die and embossing folder use

Cons

• Opening is only 2.5 inches, limiting you to small dies and narrow folders
• Cannot cut thicker materials like felt or cork
• Not compatible with standard-sized dies; only Thinlits and Framelits up to roughly 2.5 inches

Best for the crafter who works in a small space, travels to crops, or wants a secondary machine for sentiment words and small accents.

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The Sidekick is a clever little machine that solves a specific problem: you want to die cut without dedicating a whole desk to the equipment. When you’re not using it, the Sidekick disappears into a drawer. When you are, you press the vacuum base onto your workspace – it grips firmly – and start cranking. The included starter kit gives you a handful of Thinlits dies, an embossing folder, and cardstock so you can make your first project immediately. The small opening means you’re limited to dies that are under 2.5 inches wide, which covers most word dies and small shapes but not large background panels or A2 card-sized pieces. The crank action is light and easy to turn, and the cut quality on lightweight cardstock is excellent – no ragged edges. You won’t be cutting felt or thick paper with it, but for sentiment words and small details, it’s perfect. If you already own a full-size Big Shot, the Sidekick makes a fantastic travel companion.

4. CraftGenes 9-Inch Manual Die Cutting Machine: Best Large-Format Starter

Pros

• 9-inch opening accommodates A4 paper and large dies
• Foldable side panels reduce storage footprint when not in use
• Complete kit includes embossing folders, die cuts, cardstock, and plates
• Smooth manual crank, no electricity needed
• Durable ABS plastic body with steel roller system

Cons

• Heavier than expected at over 10 pounds
• Plastic housing can flex if you apply too much force on thick stacks
• ABS may not be as long-lasting as all-metal frame

Best for scrapbookers who work with A4-sized papers and want a full starter set that includes everything but the creativity.

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The CraftGenes 9-inch machine answers the most common complaint about manual die cutters: that they can’t handle larger pages. With a 9-inch opening, you can feed A4 paper through without folding or trimming it first. That’s a huge time-saver for scrapbookers who work in 12×12 layouts, though technically that size is still too wide – you’d need a 12-inch machine for full 12×12 pages. Still, A4 (8.3 x 11.7 inches) fits easily. The foldable side panels are a thoughtful touch: when you’re done, you collapse the machine to about half its width, making it much easier to store on a shelf. This one comes as a complete set: two embossing folders, two die sets (including larger A4-sized ones), ten sheets of cardstock, and all the necessary cutting plates. The instructions are clearly written, with a warning about keeping the total sandwich thickness under 22mm to avoid jamming. The pink color is cheerful, and the crank turns smoothly, though you can feel the plastic body flex if you’re cranking through a thick stack. For most cardstock-only projects, it’s fine.

5. Find Scrapblooms 9-Inch Foldable Die Cut Machine: Space-Saving A4 Capability

Pros

• 9-inch opening with foldable sides for compact storage
• Comes with 10 colorful cardstock sheets, 2 die sets, clear stamps, and 2 embossing folders
• Made from high-quality ABS with carbon steel internal roller
• Passes A4 paper easily
• Can be used without electricity – great for taking to a crop event

Cons

• At 19 pounds, it’s significantly heavier than the CraftGenes 9-inch
• The handle doesn’t fold; it protrudes when stored
• Slightly more complex sandwich assembly due to multiple plate variants

Best for crafters who want a large-format machine but have limited table space and appreciate a complete kit.

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This Find Scrapblooms model is very similar to the CraftGenes 9-inch in concept, but it’s noticeably heavier and uses a different plate system. The foldable sides work the same way – flip them out for operation, fold them in for storage – but the machine itself feels more solidly built, thanks to a thicker ABS shell and a carbon steel roller. The kit includes clear stamps in addition to dies and embossing folders, which is a nice bonus for cardmakers who like to combine stamped images with die-cut shapes. The instructions are clear, but the plate sandwich for die cutting uses four layers (13mm base + 2mm + 3mm + die + paper + 3mm) whereas the CraftGenes uses three, which adds a little complexity. The crank is smooth and consistent, and the 9-inch opening really does make a difference when you’re working on A4 backgrounds. One thing to note: at 19 pounds, you won’t be moving it around much, so find a permanent spot for it.

6. Joelver Maker 9-Inch Manual Die Cutting Machine: Most Dies in a Starter Kit

Pros

• Over 20 steel dies included, plus embossing folders and cutting pads
• 9-inch opening handles A4 paper and large die sets
• Foldable design for easier storage
• Durable construction with precision-crafted dies
• No batteries or electricity needed

Cons

• Heavy, similar to the Find Scrapblooms 9-inch at around 19 pounds
• The handle is fixed and takes up some width space
• Some dies may be smaller than expected for the 9-inch opening

Best for crafters who want maximum die variety out of the box – start making multiple shaped pieces immediately.

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The Joelver Maker 9-inch kit is the one to buy if you hate making separate purchases. It ships with more than 20 steel dies, which is an unusually high count for a starter machine. You get a mix of shapes: flowers, frames, borders, and small icons. The embossing folders included are generous in size as well. The machine itself is the same foldable design as the Find Scrapblooms, with a blue ABS body and a steel roller system. The crank turns smoothly, and the 9-inch opening gives you room for A4 sheets. The instruction manual is a little thin, but the sandwich system is standard: just follow the plate sequence printed on the box. The main drawback is the weight; at close to 20 pounds, this is a permanent fixture on your desk. But if you plan on using it often, the included dies alone make it a strong value – you would spend as much on individual dies to match this selection.

7. CraftGenes 6-Inch Manual Die Cutting Machine (Pink): The Compact Starter

Pros

• Complete kit with 2 dies, 2 embossing folders, cardstock, badge set, and clear instructions
• Handles paper up to 240gsm cardstock cleanly
• Compact A5 size fits easily in a tote bag
• Magnetic plates included for additional thickness options
• Durable ABS construction resistant to drops

Cons

• 6-inch opening limits you to A5 paper or folded card halves
• Plastic body can flex with thick material stacks; total sandwich must stay under 22mm
• Dies included are small – fine for accents but not for large backgrounds

Best for beginners and casual cardmakers who want a no-fuss machine with everything needed for small projects.

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The CraftGenes 6-inch pink machine is essentially the smaller sibling of their 9-inch model. It uses the same sandwich system but in a more portable format. The kit includes two embossing folders, two die sets, ten cardstock sheets, and a badge set for making pinback buttons – an unusual but fun extra. The instructions are notably thorough, with clear warnings about what materials to avoid (no adhesive-backed paper) and tips on rotating cutting plates to extend their life. The crank is easy to turn, and the machine produces clean cuts on standard cardstock. At around 10 pounds, it’s light enough to move between rooms, but you wouldn’t want to carry it on a bus. The pink color is bright and playful. The main limitation is the opening size: you can’t pass anything wider than about 5.8 inches, which means you’re restricted to A5 projects or single-sided card bases. That’s perfectly fine for birthday cards and gift tags, but if you make 12×12 scrapbook pages, you’ll want the 9-inch version.

8. Find Scrapblooms 6-Inch Manual Die Cutting Machine (Blue): All-in-One Beginner Set

Pros

• Cute blue color with built-in handle for carrying
• Complete starter kit: dies, embossing folders, cardstock, clear stamps
• Carbon steel internal roller for consistent pressure
• 6-inch opening handles A5 paper easily
• Can be used anywhere without electricity

Cons

• Instructions are printed on the box rather than a separate booklet, which can be hard to read
• The handle doesn’t fold, making storage slightly less convenient
• Thin cutting plates may warp over time with heavy use

Best for a gift purchase or the very first die cut machine for someone who wants to try the hobby without a big commitment.

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This is the most straightforward starter kit in the 6-inch category. The blue machine comes with everything you see in the marketing photo: two die sets, two embossing folders, several sheets of cardstock, and a set of clear stamps. The machine itself is a simple rectangular box with a side crank. The internal roller is carbon steel, which gives it an edge over machines that use all-plastic rollers. The crank is smooth but requires a steady hand – if you rush, the sandwich can skew. One nice touch is the handle on top: you can carry the machine from room to room without needing to box it up. The downside is that the handle doesn’t fold flat, so the machine takes up more vertical space in storage. The cutting plates are thin and may develop light surface marks, which is normal (the instructions say as much). For the money, this is a solid introduction. You’ll outgrow it if you move to larger projects, but it will serve you well for months of cardmaking and scrapbooking.

9. Genron Craft 6-Inch Manual Die Cutting Machine: Best Storage-Friendly Design

Pros

• Foldable handle and lid storage compartment keep dies and accessories organized
• Included clear stamps add stamping capability
• 2-in-1 die cutting and embossing
• Portable and compact, weighing under 9 pounds
• Starter kit includes dies, embossing folder, cardstock, and stamps

Cons

• Build quality feels slightly less robust than the Sizzix models
• The storage compartment is small – fits only a few dies
• Some users report the crank handle can be stiff initially

Best for crafters who work in tight spaces and want to keep their most-used dies stored right inside the machine.

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The Genron Craft machine stands out for its clever storage solution. The top cover opens to reveal a compartment where you can stash a few of your most-used dies, small folders, or tweezers. It’s not huge, but it’s enough to keep your workspace from being cluttered with loose pieces. The handle folds down for storage, making this one of the most compact 6-inch machines when not in use. The included kit gives you one embossing folder, one die set, a pack of cardstock, and clear stamps – enough for several projects. The machine cuts and embosses competently on lightweight cardstock, though it struggles if you try to run multiple layers at once. The crank requires a bit of effort initially, but it loosens up after a few passes. The instructions recommend keeping the sandwich thickness under 22mm, and that advice should be taken seriously – forcing a thicker stack can jam the gears. This is a good machine for a beginner who values organization and plans to make primarily single-layer cuts.

10. Find Scrapblooms 6-Inch Manual Die Cutting Machine (White Gift Box): Clean Aesthetic Starter

Pros

• Clean white design that blends into any craft room
• Includes 2 die sets, 2 embossing folders, clear stamps, and cardstock
• ABS body with steel roller for durability
• A5 paper fits easily through the 6-inch opening
• Good value for a complete kit in a gift-ready package

Cons

• Slightly heavier than the blue version of the same brand (though exact weight not listed)
• The white surface shows ink and adhesive stains more readily
• Limited to A5 projects

Best for someone who wants a reliable beginner machine and prefers the look of white appliances in their workspace.

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This is the white version of the Find Scrapblooms 6-inch machine, nearly identical to the blue one you saw earlier. The difference is purely cosmetic: this one comes in a white casing with blue accents, and it ships in a gift box that makes it ready for surprise occasions. The internal hardware is the same: a carbon steel roller, ABS body, and the standard set of cutting plates. The kit includes two die sets, two embossing folders, clear stamps, and ten sheets of cardstock. The white body does require a bit more care to keep looking clean – fingerprints and stray ink show up quickly – but it looks sharp on a shelf. The machine operates smoothly, with the same crank action as the blue version. If you’re buying this for yourself, you might prefer the blue for practical reasons. But if it’s a gift for a crafter who loves a minimalist aesthetic, the white version is a thoughtful choice.

Buyer’s guide: how to choose a die cut machine

When you start looking at die cut machines, the differences between models can seem subtle. But a few key factors will determine whether the machine fits your actual craft habits. Here’s what to weigh.

Opening size and project scale

The opening (the slot you feed your sandwich through) is the single most important spec. A 6-inch opening can handle paper up to about 5.8 inches wide, which covers A5 sheets and any card folded to A2 or smaller. That’s enough for most greeting cards, tags, and journal accents. If you make 12×12 scrapbook pages or want to cut full A4 sheets, you need a 9-inch machine. A few models offer even wider openings, but they are less common in the manual category. If you’re not sure, start with 6 inches – it’s the easiest size to find dies and folders for, and the machines are more compact and lighter.

Build materials and longevity

Most manual die cut machines use a combination of ABS plastic and steel. The best ones have a steel roller mechanism inside, which applies even pressure and lasts for years. All-plastic rollers are cheaper but can warp or bind over time, especially if you frequently cut thick materials like felt or cork. The body shell matters too: a thick ABS or polycarbonate body holds the roller alignment better than thin plastic that flexes. If you expect to use the machine more than once a month, prioritize models with steel internal rollers, like the Sizzix Big Shot or the Find Scrapblooms carbon steel machines.

Die and folder compatibility

Most manual die cut machines accept standard thin steel dies and embossing folders, but the total thickness they can pass varies. The sandwich consists of a base platform, cutting plates, the die or folder, and your paper. The total stack height cannot exceed what the machine allows – usually around 22mm for 6-inch machines and slightly more for 9-inch ones. If you plan to use thick cutting plates or stack multiple layers, check the machine’s clearance. Sizzix dies are widely available and compatible with most non-Sizzix machines as long as they fit within the width. Avoid machines that require proprietary dies unless you are committed to that ecosystem.

Portability and storage

If your craft space doubles as a dining table, portability matters. Look for foldable side panels, collapsible handles, or built-in storage compartments. The Genron Craft machine and the Sizzix Sidekick are the best examples of space-conscious design. Heavy 9-inch machines (around 19 pounds) are less portable but offer larger project potential. The Sizzix Sidekick is the only truly travel-friendly option here – it fits in a backpack.

Included accessories

A machine that comes with dies, embossing folders, cardstock, and clear stamps lets you make something immediately. This is especially valuable for beginners who don’t already own a collection of dies. The CraftGenes 9-inch kit and the Joelver Maker kit are the most generous, with multiple dies and folders. The Sizzix machines (aside from the Sidekick) include only the essential cutting pads and platform – you will need to buy dies and folders separately, which can add up. If you want to keep initial costs low, a complete starter kit is the way to go.

Frequently asked questions

Can a die cut machine cut through chipboard or cardboard?

Most manual die cut machines with a 6-inch opening handle lightweight cardstock and paper up to about 240gsm. They can cut thin chipboard (typically 1-2mm) if you use the correct plate stack and crank slowly, but it will put extra strain on the gears. The Sizzix Big Shot is better equipped for this kind of material. For thick chipboard, you would need a dedicated heavy-duty machine.

What is the difference between die cutting and embossing?

Die cutting uses a sharp steel die to cut a shape out of paper. You feed a sandwich of base plate, cutting plate, die, paper, and another cutting plate through the rollers, and the die presses through the paper. Embossing uses a folder with a raised pattern. You place the folder with paper inside between two cutting plates, and the pressure from the rollers forces the pattern into the paper, creating a raised texture. Many machines do both – you just change the stack.

Can I use Sizzix dies in a different brand of machine?

Yes, most thin steel dies and embossing folders are cross-compatible as long as they fit within the machine’s opening width and the total stack height does not exceed the machine’s clearance. The Sizzix Big Shot uses a standard sandwich system that many generic machines replicate. The only limitation is size: larger Sizzix Pro or Plus dies require a correspondingly large machine.

How do I clean the cutting plates?

Cutting plates accumulate paper dust and adhesive residue over time. Wipe them with a damp cloth and mild soap, then dry thoroughly. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch the surface. Light surface marks are normal and do not affect performance. Some crafters rotate their plates or flip them over to extend their lifespan.

Which die cut machine is best for a beginner?

If you want a machine that works immediately without extra purchases, choose one of the complete starter kits: the CraftGenes 9-inch or 6-inch, the Find Scrapblooms 6-inch, or the Joelver Maker 9-inch. These all include dies, embossing folders, cardstock, and clear stamps. The Sizzix Sidekick is also a good starting point for small-scale projects, but its tiny opening will limit you. For a beginner with room to grow, the Sizzix Big Shot (either version) is the long-term investment – you’ll never need to upgrade.

Can I use a die cut machine without electricity?

Yes, all the machines in this roundup are manual. You turn the handle by hand, which rotates the rollers. No plug, no batteries, no noise. That also means you can take them anywhere – to a friend’s house, a crop night, or even outside.

What materials can I cut with a die cut machine?

Paper and cardstock are the main materials. Many machines can also cut felt, cork, balsa wood, thin magnet sheets, and craft foam. The Sizzix Big Shot is particularly versatile in this regard. Always check the machine’s specifications – some plastic-bodied machines struggle with anything thicker than light cardstock. Avoid cutting adhesive-backed paper, as the glue can gum up the dies and plates.

Final verdict

The 2025 Sizzix Big Shot is our top overall pick because it combines the precision of a proven roller system with a refreshed design that saves space. It cuts a wide variety of materials, accepts the largest range of dies, and will last through years of heavy use. For portable crafting and small projects, the Sizzix Sidekick is unbeatable – it fits in a bag, sets up in seconds, and comes with a complete beginner kit. If you need a large-format machine for A4 scrapbook pages and want everything included, the CraftGenes 9-inch manual is the best starter kit for the money. And for the absolute beginner who wants to try die cutting without a big investment, either the Find Scrapblooms or CraftGenes 6-inch kit will get you making cards on day one.

If you’re still unsure, ask yourself one question: do you want a machine that you can grow into, or one that gives you everything now? The Sizzix Big Shot is the former – it will never limit you, but you’ll need to buy dies and folders. The starter kits are the latter – they include enough to keep you busy for weeks, but you may want to upgrade to a Sizzix later. Either direction leads to better, more satisfying crafts.

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