Originally Posted by
BonnieJP
After doing a lot of research on cutting systems, I decided to purchase a Sizzix Big Shot Plus. The reasons I chose the Sizzix were:
- Lower cost for the initial "machine" as well as for the cutting dies than the Accuquilt or Cricut. For example, a die to cut 2-1/2" strips is $40 for Sizzix compared to $80.45 for an Accuquilt die on Amazon.
- I can cut through 8 layers of fabric at one time.
- Sizzix can use a wide variety of dies, even some that are paper thin. My Sizzix can use Accuquilt dies, but Accuquilt can not use Sizzix dies.
- My Big Shot Plus takes up minimal space in my sewing room and because it has a built in handle and is light weight, I can carry it downstairs to do my cutting on the kitchen table.
- The Big Shot Plus is a manual system that does not require an electrical or computer connection so I can easily take it to a sewing bee or Quilts of Valor sew-in.
- The Sizzix can be used for other projects (e.g. scrap booking, etc.)
- The pieces cut on the Sizzix are always 100% accurate.
I absolutely my Sizzix Big Shot Plus. My only regret is that I didn't buy it sooner to speed up the cutting process when I quilt. You might want to check out some of the YouTube videos about the Sizzix cutting system. There are several videos showing how to use the products and even at least one that compares Sizzix to other cutting systems.
I agree with all of the above, I love my Sizzix, several places have the dies on line and sometimes on sale. Amazon, Walmart (very few in the store but many online) Missouri Star Quilt Company, Sizzix.com.
My Christmas present 2 years ago was also the large Sizzix (can't remember the name) it isn't protable, at least for me, I keep it on its own table in my sewing room, it can take all the large dies, like the triangle & tumbler that Jenny Doan of Missouri Star Quilt Company often uses for cutting the 10 inch fabric squares.