Sizzix Sidekick Tim Holtz Starter Kit — Portable Manual Die Cutting & Embossing Machine, 2.5" Cutting Width, Compact

The Sizzix Sidekick is a compact, manual die cutting and embossing machine complete with Tim Holtz-designed Thinlits, Framelits, embossing folder, stamps and accessories so you can start crafting right away.

Compact yet capable, the Sidekick Starter Kit by Sizzix and Tim Holtz brings precise die cutting and textured embossing to your tabletop, café or craft retreat. This one-size manual press is built for paper and lightweight cardstock projects and includes a curated selection of dies, an embossing folder, stamps and pads so beginners and experienced makers can produce detailed shapes and textures without needing large equipment.

How easy is the Sidekick to use for cardmaking and scrapbooks?

The Sidekick is designed for simplicity: insert your die and material between the cutting plates, crank the handle once, and the machine applies uniform pressure to reveal the cut or embossed shape. Because it’s manual and compact, you avoid setup complexity and can craft in short sessions or while travelling.

• Single-turn crank operation for quick cuts
• Includes cutting and embossing pads sized for the machine
• Starter dies and stamps included to make complete projects
• Works with Thinlits, Framelits and small embossing folders

What materials and die types does the Sidekick handle?

The Sidekick is intended primarily for paper-based materials: lightweight cardstock, paper and thin foils. It accepts Sizzix Thinlits and Framelits dies plus Textured Impressions embossing folders up to a 2.5" (6.35 cm) cutting width—choose dies compatible with the press to ensure clean results.

• Best for lightweight cardstock, paper and thin foil
• Compatible with Thinlits and Framelits up to 2.5" wide
• Embossing folder included for texture effects
• Check die specifications for chipboard or thicker materials

How stable and portable is the machine for crafting on the go?

Portability is a key benefit—the Sidekick’s small footprint and vacuum-seal lever let you secure it to any smooth surface for stable operation without clamps. The machine’s size and included tools make it ideal for crafting at friends’ houses, classes, crop nights or while travelling.

• Vacuum-seal lever anchors machine to smooth work surfaces
• Lightweight and compact for easy transport
• Perfect for small workspaces and on-the-go projects
• Starter kit provides immediate crafting capability

What exactly comes in the Tim Holtz Sidekick Starter Kit?

This kit bundles everything a cardmaker or scrapbooker needs to begin cutting and embossing: the manual Sidekick press, cutting pads, embossing pad, a set of Thinlits and Framelits dies, a small Textured Impressions embossing folder, six stamps and an instruction booklet. The curated Tim Holtz designs simplify project starts and offer creative options right from the box.

• 1 Sidekick machine with vacuum-seal lever
• Pair of cutting pads and one embossing pad
• 11 Thinlits dies, 1 Framelits die, 1 embossing folder
• 6 stamps and an instruction booklet for guidance

Who is this for? The Sizzix Sidekick Starter Kit is aimed at paper crafters who want a small, reliable die cutting tool—beginners who need a ready-to-use starter set, hobbyists who want a portable option, and experienced makers who want a compact press for quick, detailed cuts and texture work. If you primarily work with cardstock, paper and small embellishments and prefer a manual, space-saving machine that travels easily, this kit is a practical and well-rounded choice.