Reported by: Megan Lock at Craft Critique.
"Before I start the actual review of this product, I would like to say this product is made by Sizzix, but also has different designs supplied through Stampin' Up! The one I've used here is from Stampin' Up, though other designs are available at Michaels, Amazon, or at your local scrapbook store. They retail for about $9.99.
Sizzix Texturz plates are made of hard plastic that is six inches wide--which means it will fit the Cuttlebug. Of course, you can also use the plates with the
Big Shot. There are two different designs on either side of the plate. The set I bought came with three plates, therefore there are six designs. It's important to note that these are not entirely like
Cuttlebug Embossing folders. There are not a positive and negative sides to reinforce the design. As a result, the impression these plates leave is not as "deep" as the embossing folders. That said, these still offer the ability to add some texture to your paper. In my samples below, I used a die cut flower for my samples and I used three different techniques.
1. I used this sandwich in the cuttlebug (from the bottom to the top):
-A Plate
-Texturz embossing plate
-Cardstock or Patterned Paper
-Tan Mat (I use the Spellbinders tan mat, clearly I'm not devoted to one company)
-C Plate
2. Using the same sandwich, mist your cardstock or paper with water. I won't judge you if you use your rubber stamp cleaner because it's in a spray bottle, already on your table, calling your name, but I would never do that.
3. Tap your ink pad on the plate and immediately run it through your machine, using the same sandwich as before.
All three techniques will work, it just depends on what you want to do with your project. The first leaves a faint impression, though it shows some soft texture. The second is a little hint if you want a deeper impression. And the third adds a little depth to the texture.
Pros:
- Durable
- Numerous designs, and you get many with one purchase
- Variety of techniques can be used
- Affordable
- Compatible with the Cuttlebug and the Big Shot
Cons:
- Not as deeply etched, if you're accustomed to Cuttlebug folders
- They're not available at all large chain retails
All in all, this is a quality product that achieves its purpose, regardless of of similar product comparisons. Do you have a set of these? Do you like them? Would you recommend them to another crafter? I'd love to hear from you!"
