A box die can make lovely gift boxes.
ON-GOING development in technology has simplified and aided works across all spectrums of industry and it is no less true for that of the crafts.
The name Sizzix Big Shot is no stranger to many craftsmakers — both professionals and hobbyists alike.
Most would actually recognise it as one of the greatest machines that they have worked with — one that opens up a huge wealth of possibilities in their crafting projects.
The award-winning machine works in a wide range of projects, be it paper crafts, scrapbooking or embossing.
It is a versatile die-cutting and embossing roller-type machine that cuts into many possible kinds of materials.
In crafts, die-cutting is a technique that allows both simple and intricate designs to be cut into paper and other similar materials using a sharp metal blade.
According to scrapbooking enthusiast and entrepreneur Ngu Siew See, there are many types of crafts that can be made using the Sizzix Big Shot machine.
She said in card-making and scrapbooking, die cuts were used to cut out shapes for layering.
There was also a variety of flower dies that they could use to make their own three-dimensional flowers to decorate their projects, she added.
“Then, there are different patterns of box dies which can be made into lovely gift boxes to put in sweets, chocolates and other small items.
“There are also many types of alphabet dies. The Sizzix Big Shot machine can cut into cardboard or grey board. By using alphabet dies, we can even make signages and labels.
“One of the most common crafts among Malaysians nowadays is felt and flannel crafts which include the making of soft toys, key chains, pillows, pencil cases and other items. Many cut the shapes to make these items using this machine,” she told thesundaypost.
The versatile craft machine operated by a simple hand crank.
Yet, despite its seemingly elaborate and complex functions, it is no complicated invention.
Siew See said the Sizzix Big Shot machine is very user-friendly and does not require much strength or effort to use it, adding that the simple hand crank rolled smoothly and lightly without the need to apply a lot of pressure on it.
According to her, most craftsmakers are satisfied with the performance of the machine as it really helps them increase the speed of their craft production, particularly those who do pre-cuts and hand-made crafts to sell.
“Many would agree it has eased their works and save them time and effort as the machine cuts more precisely and faster than a pair of scissors.
“It is also a privilege to those who cannot draw or cut properly. They will have the chance of making cute things, which are cut or embossed on this machine. Everyone has the chance to make nice and professional crafts with the aid of this machine,” she added.
The versatility of the Sizzix Big Shot machine is not lost among local educators. In fact, it is a surprise to learn many schools in the city actually use the machine in their students’ crafting sessions.
One such creative educator is a primary school teacher Suriawaty Nawawi from SK Astana, who shared how she used the machine for her students with special needs.
Siew See demonstrating the use of the Sizzix Big Shot machine.
“We have this programme at our school known as Special Education Integration Programme for students with special needs or learning disabilities.
“We hold extra co-curricular activities every Friday as part of the programme. It was started last year for 36 of our students between seven and 14.
“Students who are slow learners as well as those with autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Down Syndrome and Cerebral Palsy, are given the chance to learn crafting skills.”
As she was put in charge of the crafts session, she took the initiative to research online on what would be the best tools and materials for the special children to work with.
“I also learned from teachers who have students with special needs from other schools and they too recommended the use of the machine,” added the 44-year-old teacher with 13 years experience teaching “special” students.
She came across good reviews of Sizzix Big Shot — and how it is user-friendly and versatile for users of all ages.
She bought one and found it really easy to use, so she approached the senior assistant (penolong kanan) with the suggestion that they used it for theircrafting sessions on Fridays.
“Our students use it for cutting felt and paper to make simple craft items. They would take turns cranking the machine and then gluing the pieces together to make a variety of things.
“They have a lot of fun with it. Most of their works are showcased and even sold to other students during our school fair and other school events.
“Their parents were particularly surprised when they saw the precise works of their children,” she noted.
A greeting card using a fence design cut from a die.
Suriawaty said it was important for children with special needs to be given the opportunity to work with their fingers as they could not fully focus on academics.
“We cannot force them to be academic-driven, so as teachers, it’s important to give them the skills they can use in the future — at the same time, letting them enjoy the process as crafts making is like a form of therapy for the hands and the mind,” she pointed out.
When it comes to scrapbooking and making crafts, the Sizzix Big Shot machine has often proven one of the most inspiring tools in the trade with features including a multi-purpose platform and a pair of standard cutting pads.
The multi-purpose platform is used to compensate the thickness when using dies from other manufacturers that are thinner than the Sizzix Bigz dies.
It actually makes other dies compatible, thus allowing infinite creativity to take its course.
This machine is certainly an asset to the craftsmaking circle. It is touted as a fair investment for the creative lot, who should expect to spend around RM500 to RM600 for it.
Be sure to check out http://www.sizzix.com/shop/bigshot to learn more about the Sizzix Big shot machine, its accessories and other related items.