Cut thousands of steel rule and thin metal Sizzix dies in your Sizzix Die Curring and Embossing Machine (sold separately) using this versatile set of polycarbonate plastic Sizzix Cutting Pads. These clear cutting pads, also known as cutting mats, make it easy to see that your paper and die remain properly aligned while loading in the machine and cutting. Pair these clear cutting pads with the Sizzix Standard Magnetic Platform to get perfect cuts every time from your chemically etched wafer thin metal dies from Sizzix and dozens of other brands. And weighing in at only a quarter of a pound, these pads are lightweight to take on the road with your machine for a crop. Contents: 2 standard Cutting Pads (1 pair) Sizing: Each Cutting Pad measures 8 3/4" x 6 1/8" x 1/8" Features: Made of the highest quality clear polycarbonate plastic Designed to work with the BIGkick, Big Shot, or Vagabond machines (all sold separately) Compatible dies include: Sizzix Bigz, Sizzix Originals, Sizzix Movers & Shapers (with Magnetic Base Tray), all brands of chemically etched wafer thin metal dies To use these cutting pads with a thin metal die requires an accessory platform such as the Sizzix Magnetic Platform or the Sizzix Multipurpose Platform (sold separately) Instructions for a Steel Rule Die: To use these cutting pads with a steel rule die, place the die between the pads with paper face down over the part of the die design you would like to cut. If needed, use washi or masking tape to secure the paper in place to get perfect placement of your paper. Set the die and pad “sandwich” on the cutting path of the machine. Turn the crank to move it through. Instructions for a Thin Metal Die: To use these cutting pads with a thin metal die requires an accessory platform such as the Sizzix Magnetic Platform or the Sizzix Multipurpose Platform. To create your die cutting “sandwich”, begin by placing the platform on the bottom. On top of the platform, place the first cutting pad. Then place your paper right side up on top of the cutting pad. Place the thin metal die on top of the paper, with the cutting edge down (in contact with the paper). Finish the sandwich by placing the second cutting pad on top. Set the die and pad “sandwich” on the cutting path of the machine. Turn the crank to move it through. Additional Tips: Double the use! When one side of these cutting pads is worn out, flip them over to get more cutting life from them. These cutting pads often make loud creaking, cracking and snapping noises while being cranked through the die cutting machines that can sound alarming. Do not panic if your machine makes these noises while using these cutting pads! This is a normal part of machine operation and the cutting pads are designed to withstand these pressures. If the pads show signs of warping, cut by setting your die into the depressed area of them. That will help ease pressure on the cutting pad. To help prevent your cutting pads from warping, make sure that you vary the location that you are cutting on your pads. Use the entire pad surface and spread your cutting around. When die-cutting Sizzix steel-rule dies containing crease rules, a premium crease pad may be needed in place of one Cutting Pad. Compatible Machines: Sizzix Big Shot Sizzix Big Shot Pro Sizzix Big Shot Plus Sizzix Big Shot Switch Plus Sizzix Big Shot Express Sizzix Big Kick Sizzix Vagabond Sizzix Vagabond 2 Brand Sizzix Category Die Cutting (Accessories) SKU sz-655093 UPC 841182014061