Sizzix Outlet

Maybe I'm a little late in finding this website...or using it, but either way, I'm going to share it with you now.

SIZZIX HAS AN OUTLET STORE ONLINE!

(click on the link above to access it)

I was told to sign up for their newsletter, because apparently they will send out emails with specials and new products...I'll confirm this when I get my first email:)

They have some great products there for those of you who haven't tried a lot of them (like me).  I'm thinking about getting some of the texturz texture plates (only $3.99!!!)

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This embossing folder set ($4.39):

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And maybe a few of the smaller embossing folders ($0.29 each):

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They have tons of stuff...and for the price, it's easy to try out some of their different products!

One thing to keep in mind:  The texturz texture plates require the use of the Sizzix silicone rubber (rubber mat) and their texture plate, but I've seen other people say that they actually prefer just using the rubber mat and one of the clear acrylic cutting plates on top.  The rubber mats are $5.99 on the Sizzix website, but I'm sure you could try using something laying around the house of similar dimensions.  Here is something I found on ebay.  

Anyways, I hope this was helpful.  Please tell me what you're planning on purchasing, and how you're going to use it!

Big Kick

I bought a Sizzix Big Kick after doing some research on a good multipurpose tool.  I wanted something that I could use several brands of dies and embossing folders in, and also have the capability to possibly letterpress or make my own embossing folders in.  The great thing about the Big Kick (or the Big Shot--they're the same thing) is that it's got a multipurpose "platform".  What does that mean?  Well, the platform is the wedge of plastic that sits on the bottom of your project, giving it enough thickness to make sure the machine is putting the right amount of pressure on whatever you're doing (cutting, embossing, etc).  Since the machine is not adjustable, this is the only way to make sure that you're putting the right amount of pressure on each project as it's being rolled through the machine.  The multipurpose platform basically has several thicknesses of plastic on a hinge, connecting it to the main large piece of platform.  Hard to explain, but there are tons of videos online about it.

Anyways, I was excited to try it out--I got an awesome deal on it, along with some Cuttlebug embossing folders...

I love that I can get whatever brand of embossing folders/dies I want and they all work on the Big Shot:)

I thought this owl was pretty cute!

what the folder looks like when it's open

stick the paper (card in this case) inside the folder

roll...

roll...

ta-da!

it's hard to tell just how raised the image is, but it looks and feels really great.

another embossing folder.  I love that these are the perfect size for cards, and you can also use them for scraps of paper if you want to attach it as an embellishment.

Cant wait to play with this some more!