Sizzix Big Shot Plates: Which Pads Does Yours Need?

On this page (7 sections)

1. Which Sizzix Big Shot plates do you need?
2. Are cutting pads and platforms the same thing?
3. What setup works with standard steel-rule dies?
4. When is a Chrome Precision Base Plate useful?
5. Do you need extended cutting pads?
6. How do you choose the right replacement plates?
7. Which Sizzix Big Shot plates should you pick?

For most standard Sizzix Big Shot dies, use a pair of standard cutting pads with the machine's correct platform. Thinlits, crease rules, and longer dies can call for a different plate setup, so check the die and machine instructions.

The right sandwich depends on the die type and machine model. A replacement pad is not the same as a platform or a precision base plate, and using the wrong accessory can affect the cut or damage a plate.

Which Sizzix Big Shot plates do you need?

Start with the die type, then match the plates to your machine. Standard steel-rule dies generally use two cutting pads, while wafer-thin dies and crease rules may need a different arrangement.

Sizzix standard cutting pads are a clear pair designed for the BIGkick, Big Shot, and Vagabond. They sandwich the die and material as they pass through the machine.

The platform sits beneath the sandwich and sets up the layers for a particular machine and die. For the basic setup and rolling steps, see how to use a Sizzix Big Shot.

Use the instructions that came with your machine and die when they differ from a general guide. Sizzix accessories can have similar names while serving different roles.

Are cutting pads and platforms the same thing?

No. Cutting pads cover the die and material; a platform supports and sets up the sandwich.

You may need both, depending on the die and machine.

A standard pair of cutting pads is a consumable surface that takes the pressure of cutting. The platform is a separate base layer, and its compatibility depends on the machine.

The Big Shot Plus Standard Platform is made for the Big Shot Plus and Big Shot Pro. It is not the standard platform for the regular Big Shot, so check the machine name before choosing a replacement.

If you are comparing machine sizes, our guide to Sizzix Big Shot vs Big Shot Plus explains the 6-inch and 9-inch formats. The wider machine may call for wider accessories, so don't assume a regular Big Shot part will fit.

What setup works with standard steel-rule dies?

Use the standard cutting pads with a compatible platform for standard steel-rule dies. The clear pads let you position the die and material before rolling them through.

The standard pads fit the Big Shot, BIGkick, and Vagabond, according to Sizzix. The pair measures about 8 3/4 x 6 1/8 in, so it suits standard-width projects rather than long dies.

Sizzix says a Premium Crease Pad may replace one cutting pad when a steel-rule die contains crease rule. Check the die's own instructions to see whether that applies to your project.

Don't use the Chrome Precision Base Plate with steel-rule dies. Sizzix warns this may cause damage.

When is a Chrome Precision Base Plate useful?

The Chrome Precision Base Plate is for intricate wafer-thin dies such as Thinlits. It is designed to help cut fine details and is compatible with the Big Shot machine.

Its 10 x 6 1/8 in size gives it a different surface from the standard cutting pads. It is also described for materials such as craft plastic, fabric, canvas, and thin cork, but the die and machine instructions should guide your sandwich.

This plate is not a universal replacement for cutting pads or the platform. Sizzix explicitly says not to use it with steel-rule dies because damage may occur.

If you are choosing between manual and electronic equipment, our craft cutting machine guide explains where a roller machine like the Big Shot fits.

Do you need extended cutting pads?

Choose extended pads when your die or embossing folder needs more length than a standard pad provides. They can suit slimline projects, but confirm the length and machine fit before ordering.

This pair measures about 14 5/8 x 6 1/8 in. CraftFIRST describes it as compatible with several Sizzix machines, including Big Shot, Big Shot Foldaway, BIGkick, Big Shot Plus, and Big Shot Pro.

The extended pads are from CraftFIRST, not Sizzix. Compare the measurements with your die and confirm the accessory fits your exact machine version, especially if you own a Plus or Pro model.

How do you choose the right replacement plates?

Match the accessory name, die type, and machine model before replacing a plate. A quick check of those three details can prevent an incompatible purchase.

• For standard steel-rule dies, look for a compatible pair of standard cutting pads.
• For intricate wafer-thin dies, check whether the Chrome Precision Base Plate is appropriate.
• For a Big Shot Plus or Pro, make sure the platform is made for that larger machine.
• For slimline projects, compare the die length with the extended pads.

Cutting pads can show marks with use, but the important question is whether they still support the sandwich as intended. Replace damaged or unsuitable pads, and follow the machine guidance rather than adding unapproved layers.

Which Sizzix Big Shot plates should you pick?

For standard steel-rule dies on a regular Big Shot, choose the standard cutting pads and follow the machine's platform instructions. For intricate Thinlits, consider the Chrome Precision Base Plate only as directed, and avoid using it with steel-rule dies.

Pick the Big Shot Plus Standard Platform only for a Big Shot Plus or Pro. Choose extended pads if a longer die or folder needs the extra length and the machine compatibility matches.

For more machine options, compare the best die-cutting machines for card making.

What should you check before ordering Sizzix Big Shot plates?

Check your machine name, die type, and required sandwich layers. Those details determine whether you need cutting pads, a platform, a precision base plate, or extended pads.

Measure longer dies and folders against the plate length. For the regular Big Shot, standard pads are the straightforward replacement for a worn pair; for other models or intricate dies, verify the specific accessory instructions first.

Frequently asked questions

What plates do I need for a Sizzix Big Shot?

For standard steel-rule dies, the usual setup is the machine's correct platform with a cutting pad on each side of the die and material. Follow the machine and die instructions, since thin dies, crease rules, and extended cuts may need different accessories.

Can I use the Chrome Precision Base Plate with steel-rule dies?

No. Sizzix warns that its Chrome Precision Base Plate should not be used with steel-rule dies because damage may occur.

It is intended for intricate wafer-thin dies such as Thinlits, and you should follow the machine's sandwich instructions.

Do Big Shot and Big Shot Plus use the same plates?

Not every plate or platform is interchangeable. The standard cutting pads are designed for the Big Shot, BIGkick, and Vagabond, while the Big Shot Plus Standard Platform is for the Big Shot Plus and Big Shot Pro.

Check each accessory's compatibility before buying.

When do I need extended cutting pads?

Extended pads can help when a longer die or embossing folder needs more working length than standard pads provide. Measure the accessory and check its machine compatibility, since extended pads are longer and may not suit every setup or project.