The original Sizzix machine, also known as the Sizzix Big Shot, is primarily designed for cutting various materials using steel-rule dies or thin metal dies. While it's not specifically designed for cutting fabric like some other machines, it can still cut fabric to some extent. However, there are a few things to consider:
Fabric Thickness: The Sizzix Big Shot may struggle to cut through thick or multiple layers of fabric, especially without proper stabilization. Thin, lightweight fabrics are typically easier to cut with this machine.
Die Selection: The success of cutting fabric with the Big Shot depends on the type of dies you use. Sizzix offers certain dies, such as Bigz and Originals, which are designed for cutting fabric along with other materials. These dies have a steel-rule blade that can cut through fabric more effectively than thin metal dies.
Fabric Stabilization: To achieve clean and accurate cuts with fabric on the Big Shot, it's crucial to stabilize the fabric properly. This can be done by using an iron-on stabilizer or applying spray adhesive to the fabric before cutting.
Cutting Mat: A cutting mat is necessary when using the Big Shot, regardless of the material being cut. For fabric, you'll want to use a standard cutting mat or a fabric adhesive cutting mat, which can help hold the fabric in place during cutting.
While the Sizzix Big Shot can cut fabric with the appropriate dies and proper preparation, it may not offer the same level of precision and versatility for fabric cutting as machines specifically designed for that purpose. If you plan to cut fabric regularly and require more advanced features, you may want to consider a dedicated fabric cutting machine such as the AccuQuilt Fabric Cutters or the Cricut Maker.
