Wanted an embosser and almost bought the Cuttlebug. Went on YouTube to see different machines and decided on this one. I wanted more options than the small ones...you just never know. This works really well. Heavy....HEAVY. Not something you cart around. But, that is what makes it work well. You do need to get more shims and whatnot to fit all your embossing folders and die cutters. I tried using stacked 12" x 12" paper but that compresses and does not work. You need the shims made for this machine so just get them. Easier. I use Cuttlebug folders and some others easily and that Cuttlebug green and clear plastic embossing plates...but those things do not turn out well.....ever. They leave a dent in the paper where the edge of the small plate is.
Nice you can open your paper and emboss to the edge of a 5" x 7" paper...or emboss and cut later. Some shims are very thin...and you will use them. Just a small bit of extra pressure can change everything. Get the other shims...and while you are at it, another rubber mat and clear plastic top. Made wedding invitations and everything else that goes with a wedding with this machine and it all turned out beautifully. OH...be sure to put the folded end of the embossing folder toward the rollers and not sideways or upside down. If you do, the plastic folder tabs will break. The folded end must go in first. Not a problem. You will love it.