Questions for Big Shot owners

[Kim1964]

DH bought my Big Shot from Joann.com. It is my first foray into the world of die cut machines. The three craft chain stores we have locally are AC Moore, Michael's, and Joann's. None of them have items specifically made for use with the Big Shot. My questions:

-Can I use Cuttlebug cutting pads with the Big Shot?
-Can I use Cuttlebug dies with the Big Shot?
-Do you have a good brick and mortar (in Western MA) or online source for actual Big Shot accessories? I'd like more selection than Joann. com, but I don't even know if the line is more extensive than what they sell. The Ellison website has even less on it than Joann.
-How long do cutting pads last?

Thanks.

[SusieStone]

I lok my big kick. I got it last week it is so much better and lighter than the whole sizzix machine. Duration of pads last. When it starts cutting funny after use, you can try placing a shim in it. I used my Quicutz dies in it and it wored, so I am thining that cuttlebug should work as well.

[TinkerKat]

Hi! The big shot is compatible with anything that can be used with the big kick.

I have bought sizzix, cuttle and ellison and have been able to use them all.
Sometimes with Cuttle, you have to add a piece of cardstock to your cutting pad, to get a better cut.

I have ordered most of my big shot supplies from Joann when they are on sale. Just know that the "print" on the cuttle bug dies, does start to smear off. And that to get the best cut, you must face the die up.

Sites to try for newer sizzix stuff :
Hallmarkscrapbook.com great service, quick ship and great prices.
Sizzix.com

Keep in mind, Sizzix is now owned by Ellison so all goods are compatible.
Have fun! Kathy

[Kim1964]

OK, not to be too dense, but does that mean if I find cutting pads that can be used with the Big Kick, I can use them with the Big Shot, too?

[holycow]

Did your cutting pads come with your machine? They should last a while. I've had my machine about a year now and my pads are still fine. They do offer the pads on Joanns and you can sign up at joanns for their coupons which can be a great deal. They also offer an adapter which you can then use just about every die there is on the market.

Most of all HAVE FUN!

[Kim1964]

Ah, I didn't know cutting pads last that long...yes, mine came with the machine. I guess I can relax about that for a while. I am having fun with the machine. I bought another alphabet set at Michael's on Friday, and I used it yesterday. I now have two alphabets, Preppy from Ellison Design and Funky Brush Sizzlits.

[holycow]

I haven't seen Preppy but I love Funky Brush. I also forgot to mention Creativexpress.com has Sizzix dies for discount. It looks like they are clearing them out. You can get some really great deals.


P. S.
What a lucky woman you are to have such a sweet DH that buys your scrapbook things!

[Grumpy's Gal]

I buy almost all of my bigshot die cuts from creativexpress.com. They have great sales ALL THE TIME.

[MazdaUK]

cut@home.com has 40% of one item each month if you register as VIP, but everything is a good price anyway - I got the Karen Foster calendar set from there and it cost less than a basic font over here :cool1: