The cut perfect sheets are no longer available so I cut a couple pieces out from some clear thick vinyl I had from the fabric store. Two layers, works like a charm! Great video! Thanks
My Walmart sells fabric still and they sell tablecloth vinyl by the yard in different thicknesses and widths. It’s pretty inexpensive. Since my Walmart is a 1/2 hour away, I keep a couple of yards on hand because it’s great for many things and I don’t have to stop and ride up there. There’s a Joann’s next door to my Walmart and they sell it too. I cover work tables, craft mats when painting, over the outside of my shelving to protect my stash from dust and small pieces are handy stuck to matboard to dry painted or glued items.
OMG I do the same as you do! I buy the vinyl by the yard from Walmart and cover my craft table too! lol Have you tried it in your die cutting machine yet? If so which thickness of vinyl worked? They sell the super thick vinyl and the thinner one at Walmart. I have the thicker one I think? lol Hey great minds think alike! lol
Haven’t yet been busy with other stuff but I can’t wait to see how it works because I have not been impressed with anything else I’ve seen that was supposed to be the greatest “hack”
YOU HAVE SAVED ME TONS OF $ ... Yes, thank you for this video. The little mini plastic cutting folder for the Gemini Mini has gone to $19.01 + $2.99 shipping *8/22/24 on Amazon and that is the only place I can find them. That is a package of 3. I seem to have them bend very quickly. Just put you on pause; got my kitchen mat that is many years old. cut it and folded it. It worked fantastic. I have huge 😁's on my face right now! ❣
You are only the second person I have heard mention the problem with the etched marks on the cutting plates leaving marks on the papers of the projects after die cutting. I thought it was only my problem and I must be doing something wrong because no one else is talking about it! Thank you for addressing it.
I have been asking professional crafters about this issue for several years...they claim it is not a problem. I have the problem every time. So, I have been using the thin packaging that comes with stamps and dies to put on cardstock, especially the mirror card.
I have heard others say that, in order to avoid the back side cutting marks, they add a piece of printer paper in between. It's very thin but picks up the marks itself. Hope it works for you if you try it.
Here is Jennifer McGuire’s solution to fix and prevent warped plates. Everything you need is right in your kitchen. ua-cam.com/video/c0ZKxQLT3Gg/v-deo.html
nope, definitely a universal problem. When I have asked other crafters I was advised to use a sheet of printer paper over the card/paper that I'm die cutting. Which works, but I get through too much printer paper and hate the cost and waste. I am SO excited to have found this solution, I will be looking to try it asap.
As a new die cut machine user, I was happy to see that we can use other materials. I found the video very confusing, though, with all the shuffling, stacking, unstacking and restacking. The hand is quicker than the eye. I was hoping to see how to keep the plate from curling, but got lost in the shuffle/cut/stack/shuffle... But now I know it's a thing, so thanks!
Marty, I agree with you, by the time she finished, I was so confused that I felt it wasn't worth purchasing anything, just stick with what I know. I know she tried to be helpful, but as you said, the shuffling and stacking and restacking was just impossible to keep up with or understand. I couldn't see a replacement for what we already use, just an addition of vinyl sheets into the sandwich? Maybe she'll do another video that is easier to understand.
I think this is a great idea, just a lot of information. I also do not have a Gemini (probably the only machine i don't own, because bigz dies don't fit). So it is confusing to try to figure out what i would need to use. I have a we r memory keepers evolution advanced. It has a dial to make the pressure tighter or looser. I am glad i don't have to figure out sandwiches due to the pressure dial. But i might try this to keep my plates from warping.
I add a layer of funky foam or felt too to get the right thickness sometimes....couple of book pages, piece of fabric, folded piece of newspaper, puzzle book cover, rip a cover off a scrapbook pad, or the thin grey card on the back.... whatever's easiest to grab from where I'm sitting! 🤣
Hi Sharon. I love your tip. It has worked for me and certainly provided 'stich in time' for me. I cleaned and flattened my plates for my Gemini in readiness for my orders to arrive. I purchased from Amazon a pack of 10 x 400 micron magnetic sheets and as a cheap option I bought a vinyl clear tablecloth. My sandwich was trial and error but all my efforts were well rewarded. My sandwich is 2 magnetic sheets and 6 layers of vinyl. Thank you so much for your tips. I'm winning at life. 🏆
The take-away from this video is that you can use other stacking material. Since I watched this, I started experimenting with stacking vinyl sheets between the regular acrylic sheets and the dies, and it's worked very well to protect the acrylic sheets from getting marked up. Thank you for addressing this issue!
Thank God I found you again! I had seen this video a long time ago, thought I saved it but couldn’t locate it. I kept google searching and I don’t know how but your video popped up! I need those vinyl sheets and will look next to see if they are still available.
This is pretty cool, but I've already bought the magic mat and no longer have issues with warped or cracked plates. Wish I had known about this month's ago. Good luck to you!! It is time we send a message to the companies, letting them know we are tired of replacing warped or broken plates on a too frequent basis.
HOLY COW! I got out some of the bedding vinyl.....wowza, this is fabulous! i think ineed to put mine in some nice warm water so they will lay flatter. TY for this! :) you're genius!
I seen this video along time ago, luckily it popped up and shared it with friends. I recently threw some away🤦🏻♀️ I have some other vinyl, I’ll have to try n use that
You are soooo innovative,Sharon! Who would have thought vinyl was the key to great die cuts! Thank you for your time and talent in creating all of your very helpful youtubes. I really enjoy your tutorials.
I'm so glad I got your channel as a recommendation! Your videos are jammed packed with information. I really appreciate the time you spend getting this info and then sharing with us! Thank you so much! 💖💖
I used it in the Platinum 6 and my die cut came out perfectly just like you said. Each little tricky piece fell out as I ran my fingers over them. Thank you. Great advice. I used two two laminating sheets that I laminated first then laminated them together with a third sheet to get the thickness I needed then cut them. Went through my Platinum 6 easily and I didn't have to run them back and forth. Wow!
*Nice! Thank you! They also sell many different types of vinyls at fabric stores, like Joanne Fabrics, and you can buy it by the yard and cut it any way you need. Walmart also carrys huge rolls of clear vinyl in their craft department that you can buy by the yard.*
Oh click click click my brain just got it. FABRIC laminating vinyl! Not self adhesive. Goodness that took me a while to get! Hope this helps others that didn’t understand laminating vinyl. If you sew it’s likely this kind……..And hey I could be wrong, @Sharon please correct me if I’m out of my depth here! Thanks for this fantastic tip! Also I am buying calipers from Amazon now! Digital ones! Sweet lesson! Appreciate it!
Love this idea. I seem to avoid usually this issue of impressed lines into my top or finished cut item however a neighbor really has a fussy time with this. I do understand. We also just were having similar issues when we needed to make a flip over die or two going opposite directions. You know the die is made to cut a design facing left but you need a second one facing right and there is no die for that. The clue usually is to just flip your paper over. This does not always work for one big reason. When cutting with the die it bends the edges of the paper like a cookie cutter downward. When you flip the paper it now is bent the opposite direction or up. Some types of flocked paper seem to get away with it but when it comes to foils or some embellished surfaces there's no forgiving and it will stick out like a sore thumb if you put both pieces facing one another together. SO how to fix it. This may be helpful. I've got a number of bed bags I keep for my sewing materials often reusing and will go and find a few to cut up right away. To test that out. We need one right now. We have a Sizzix steel die for earrings that comes in three sizes and two parts to each size. One is a solid piece then there is a magnetic thin die on the flip side for making an overlay with cut out pieces and dang we really want a set of two earrings mirror imaged so to speak not two earrings all facing the same way. So the core with the steel die cuts out fine either way. But not the fancy overlay thin die. It has messed up the textured foil we've chosen to work with. So I thought I'd try a Diamond Press Die I had to see if we could get one cut but figure it as a long shot. THIS may be the answer we are searching for. I did find it difficult to follow your video layers all the way through but I did catch on to what you are attempting to show. I have an gemini but hate it. And refuse to use it after it ruined 3 Tim Holtz brand new 3D special embossing and cutting dies. I also had a second machine ruin dies a manual the same day. So I gave that machine away and now I have 2 other electrc machines, Two spellbinder platinum's and a sidekick and the Diamond Press. I need to find a home for the Gemini. It also makes way too much noise which I am very sensitive to having menieres for over 40 years. Thank you for this share. Will give it a try today. And pass it along to my friend too.
I’ve been trying to use my sizzix (embossing only) machine into a die cutting machine. I had to play around with the “sandwich” but It never cut clean… until I used your method with 2 bedding bag magic layers. Now it almost always cuts beautifully. I still have one or 2 fiddley dies. Just want to say thank you! You saved me from having to spend $ on another machine. New subscriber. 🎉 thanks!!
I love your dedication to finding a solution to the warped palate problems. Gemini plates are the worst. But I can’t help but wonder, if you can come up with this solution, why can’t the manufacturers give us the correct plates? Thanks for doing this.
it’s all about repeat sales and continuous revenue unfortunately...if we stop buying the plates they’ll get the message. I’m so sick of throwing things in the garbage☹️
@@SharonLuska Exactly, it's like cheap printers with very expensive ink replacements. The revenue doesn't come from selling the machine, it comes from people requiring the extras.
@@Rockymtnbloom I’m not sure she got your question. And I’m wondering why you’d expect to have to wash the plastic sheets after each die cut. Would you explain your thought process, please?
The tonic tangerine plates aren't clear but don't hardly warp or mark as badly as clear ones. I use a stainless steel plate in my big shot that never marks.
I also bought a thick self-healing mat that I cut down to a standard plate size. I use a few paper shims on top of my platform and one standard clear plate. After a lot of use the self- healing mar can begin to warp and gets fine slivers of paper trapped in the cut marks, so I boil it in a square grill pan with water and a flat iron over it for a few minutes, take it out and finish rinsing the paper bits off, leave it on my counter to cool, and it’s just like new again. It was just difficult to cut through the self-healing mat in the first place to cut it to plate size. Your solution sounds much simpler because of the ease of cutting the vinyl to size. Thanks for sharing.
I use the self healing mat too on one side of the sandwich.... Works well for my platinum machine....interesting to hear that you boil it and flat iron to flatten again...I will try this...thank you!!!
Ok, I will say it again, you are a genius! I finally got all the supplies, prepped them and tried it today. It cut perfectly! Now the vinyl sheet was pretty marked from the die so I am going to try on a foil paper to see it if leaves marks. Even if it does, I still think this is better than constantly buying new cutting plates. My vinyl might not be as good as yours, but so far so good. Thank so much again for sharing this!
Thank you for such important options. I am new to cardmaking and always wonder why things are so expensive so saving money is important for me. Also thankyou for mentioning that these products are sold I Canada as that is were I'm from.
I was getting confused listening,watching, and reading screen to which to do. If you had gone thru them a little slower my mind would of grabbed more for an older person, Lol I did save ,thumbs up and subscribed. I do have the cutting mats. I will cut up one and try this. I have calibers, since I had a machine shop.do that will help. Think you said 2mm for sizzix. I have the big shot and still new to it. Why did you use a magnetic sheet for Gemini but not sizzix? Which is the best way for your dies on the platform?, facing up towards you or cutting down toward mat? Keep getting confused when I use it.I just got the magic cutting mat for big shot haven't used it yet. Thanks for Sharing. Will give it try.. You didn't show about worping plates. Using the vinyl, will prevent it because the cutting is absorbed by the vinyl?? Thanks again.
Thank you very much for this. Really helpful, and using what I had to hand I have found a combination that works on my Pogi. Especially important as I can't seem to find any replacement plates that will fit the Pogi - Should have checked that out before I bought it. Again - thank you so very much.
Oh, thank you! I currently use a self healing mat which has worked great for over a year. I know I have some of those bedding vinyl packages. If that doesn't work I will look into ordering these sheets. Thank you so much! ❤️
Calipers are the key to this whole sandwich confusion. You can buy them in any decent hardware store, Canadian Tire, Princess Auto, etc. Even the cheap ones are good enough. Measure the whole sandwich recommended for your machine (preferably with relatively new plates), then you’ll have a baseline measurement. Then every sandwich you make of any material you chose should be pretty close to that measurement.
Thank you brilliant idea I'm away to find a set of these should give me a better understanding of this procedure , a friend has just text me "self healing mat " and!!! Lol.
SUPER IDEA!!! THANK YOU! I HOPE I get your notifications! I've NEVER gotten ANY notifications from UA-cam that I can remember, & I HAVE subscribed to others! THANK YOU!!! ;)
Thank you. I have been using die cutting machines for YEARS and never came across this hack. Very easy and inexpensive. Only now I feel I need new plates because they are all cut up from before. 😆 BTW...I instantly tried this and it works well. Super simple and easy.
I have started using the new cutting pads on my Gemini Jr. with a new Sizzix cutting plate. So thrilled with this new sandwich, Not a mark on my cutting plate. I have the top sandwich taped as in Jennifer Maguire's video. It all works beautifully. Thank you so much.
I don’t think I know about that technique. But I like this idea she shows. Have you tried Jennifer McGuire’s technique for fixing the plates? ua-cam.com/video/c0ZKxQLT3Gg/v-deo.html
Thank you thank you thank you for solving my ongoing problem. By the way I washed my two cutting plates, soaked them, scrub them and still could not remove all the itty bitty parts in the cuts. It did make it better and better is good
What self healing met do you use? I have a Cricut Cuttlebug and have thought about using a self healing mat but I don't have one the right size. I'd hate to cut up one of my mats then have it not work out. I've also thought of cutting down one of the cutting mats for my Cricut Explore Air 2. I hate to throw them away once they're no longer sticky enough.
@E Leeper I measured the size of my cutting plates and then I bought a mat on Amazon but it was a bit too big so when I got it I just cut it to the size I needed. I ended up with 2 so I have an extra should I need it. I do use the acrylic cutting plate on the bottom since the flat side of the dies are facing the bottom. It works perfectly and I haven't bought any cutting plates for well over a year and a half. Sometimes you do have to add a shim or two depending on how it fits going thru. You can also get self healing mats at dollar tree. They are smaller than Amazon but I am not sure what the dimensions are. Hope that helps!
@E Leeper the mats are surprisingly not too hard to cut. I used a box cutter and just sliced it a few times and I was able to cut it to the size I needed
@E Leeper wash the cutting mat with mild soap and warm water and let it air dry to see if the stickiness will return. As for the proper thickness of layered vinyl, Dollar tree chopping mat, or self-healing mat, you'll need to try different layers to find the correct thickness for the tension in your machine to work properly. Have fun and good luck!
Great idea. But way too fast for me to follow, perhaps could you do a slower version with clear layering instructions.... I'm not as young as I used to be !
If you watch UA-cam videos on your iPad, you can pause the vid then (notice 3 stacked dots on the screen? There, in proximity to the closed caption symbol, & 2 others I haven’t checked out!) tap on the 3 dots. That will give you a pop up with several selection possibilities, one of which is video speed. Select a slower speed, then tap the screen to restart the video. Just don’t forget to reset the speed when you’re through as the NEXT video may be just fine on “normal” speed. On a computer, I think you’ll need to locate a tiny little gear-looking icon. Click on that and a similar menu will present itself for you to choose your speed setting. I watch y.t. vids on my Samsung “smart tv”, on which I can choose vid speed by selecting those 3 little dots that appear in the corner when I pause the video. I do sincerely hope this will help you better enjoy videos on whatever device you use. In spite of G006LE’s incessant ads there IS some very interesting and informative content within a great many of the videos here. Be well!
If you have the Gemini Jr. machine try this sandwich: clear cutting plate, green double-sided cut plate, die and paper, green double-sided cut plate, clear cut plate. If you don’t already have the green double-sided cutting plates from Crafter’s Companion, which are really thin btw, you will need them for this sandwich. Totally worth it!!! Also it doesn’t matter which way you place your die & paper, you’ll just want to choose a side of the green cut plate you want to cut into and then always use that orientation when cutting. I die cut a lot and have been using this sandwich for about 8 mos. w/ literally no warping at all! I used to have to change out my plates once a month because they were so warped they wouldn’t cut right. Not anymore!! I did flip over my green cut plate once since it had a zillion cuts in it😂 Tip: tape the clear plate and the green plate together w/ 2 small pieces of clear packing tape. This way you’re not fooling around with 4 plates every time…essentially you will now have a thicker top plate and a thicker bottom plate. Use new or unwarped plates and they’ll stay like new aside from the one green one you cut into each time. I don’t use this sandwich for embossing folders. That’s a whole other thing…I use my warped plates for embossing folders. Discovering this sandwich has been a real joy and a money saver since I haven’t had to replace a plate yet! Also, I get better cutting results…actually perfect cutting results since this sandwich is slightly less thick. Before this my Gemini Jr. had too much pressure and would leave an impression of the die because my sandwich (as recommended by the manufacturer) was too thick. Jennifer McGuire has a YT video all about this if my explanation is confusing🤔 It’s actually very simple once taped together a little. Hope this helps someone👍
Are you tried slowing the replay? ( This is how, if you don’t know how: touch the right upper corner of the picture. This will reveal a tool box. Click the “settings” icon, the one that looks like a gear. This will reveal a drop-down menu. At almost the bottom you will see Playback speed. Select the one you want!)
Wow! I have some of that vinyl because i recently bought new bedding. I had no idea why I saved the vinyl - until I saw your video! Thanks so much🙂 Stay well🙂🙂🙂
I purchased a micrometer from amazon for under $20 to measure thickness of plates. It is easier to read than a caliper and more accurate. Will measure up to one inch to .005 of inch. Metric available.
Yes, that’s a good option, too. They both have their strengths. Micrometers are more accurate and calipers have more range. Depends on the use. In any case you have the right tool for the job.
Thank you so much. I have grandchildren that try but don’t always remember which is the “do not cut” mat so I would be able to stretch the pads longer. Im sure this will help. I’m going to get some today !
Thank you so much Sharon, I really really enjoyed watching you show us this amazing way of saving our cutting plates. It’s really such a shame I’m living in the UK 🇬🇧 and I can’t get any of those alternatives here. I’ve subscribed and given you a thumbs up 👍 too. Please stay safe and well too
Ordered!! I haven't watched you in awhile & the last time I did you were just over 900 subscribers & now...OVER 5K!! I knew you would be famous!! Congrats my fellow crafter!! I still need to try the Vaseline trick to make some card backgrounds!!
Re-watch, go to the 3 dots or little cog symbol at top right of the screen and look for speed. You can slow right down or speed up to suit your needs. I use it all the time
Gurrrrlllll, you are genius. I was complaining the other day that my mini die cut machine plates were starting to warp. I don't make cards, but use the smaller one for tags and and all dies under 3 inches. One problem I have is one die I use a lot is thicker than the others and it's murder on my hands trying g to get it into the machine. Can't wait to try.these out. I'm old and just learning about paper crafting. and love it so much, but didn't know the Gemini. Now I have cutting machine envy. Ha. New subbie
Hobby lobby had “sizzix mini cutting pads” (for use with the big shot)that are thinner than the mini die cutting machine pads. I have substituted one of these for one of my mini pads (they’re the same size just thinner) I use 2 layers of vinyl with it and that fixes the thicker die problem...and saves the pads😉🤗💕💕💕
I just got a small sizzix haven't used it yet. It call for the thinlets dies. But someone told me they've been using regular stamp n up dies for years with no prob. I'm going to try this out ty.
I don't understand how vinyl keeps the plates from warping? I've had my Gemini Jr since the HSN launch in Nov 2017 and just lately I've had a problem turning the machine on. But, I rotate and flip the plates with every cut, and they still warp terribly. I have used the double sided plates and they work great.. and I just bought the magic mat. It does warp as well, but can be straightened out somewhat with my heat gun. If I have to replace my Gemini Jr, I am thinking of the newer Stampin Cut and Emboss die cut machine... Thanks for the video anyway..
When you refer to a sandwich of "2" or "3" Cut Perfect sheets do you mean 2 actual sheets-as-they-come, taped together = "1"? Please help me understand, thx much.
i set and opertate a heidelberg die cutting platen press for a living and even though it has the same name DIE CUTTING it is different to what you do mainly due to the length of the runs we do and other differences, thankyou for giving me an introduction to the what you do die cutting wise 🙂
I really love to understand this properly, my machine came with white magnetic mat that also perishes and needs replacing so would to figure this out.In a nutshell its 1 Gemini clear mat,a sizzix thinner mat,a thinner magnetic mat ??( where do we get that ) ,2 pieces of heavy duty vinyl and possibly other thin laminated layer to make the sandwich .I live in uk we have pound shops but not the same as your dollar tree sadly
I tried using the cutting mat method and wasn't very happy with that because the thickness of my cheapy cutting mats is very uncooperative with the thickness of my plates, so extra shimming was needed, the cardstock shimming wore down very quickly due to compression, etc. etc. - I was constantly adjusting, meh! I am very glad therefore that you are suggesting an alternative, especially using cast-off materials! I will certainly see to it that this kind of material will not go into the recycle bin without having been okayed by me in the future. Meanwhile: I am mostly using a hand-crank A5 machine which comes with A (Platform), B and C sheets. Manufacturer's instructions say to cut "into/onto" plate B. And plate B is easy to get replacements for. I now cut with the B-plate on top of the Platform, then add the die cutting side up, then the paper, then C-plate. So I cut "into/onto" plate C. And although I bought a replacement C (from china, looking for the right thickness) early on after I bought that particular machine, I am still using the original one. Surely, you have to wash/brush it from time to time to get rid of the debris. To me, it's very important to have a B plate that's not marred so when I emboss (with a cutting die or a stencil, not with a folder), there will be no inadvertent embossing lines from previous cuts. Been there. Thank you so much for looking at this from a totally new perspective. I am always happy when someone comes up with readily available material to replace a pricy OEM item.
I'm sooo new to cutting machines so I found this totally confusing, I put on slow motion and I still don't get it, like another person wrote all the shuffling of plates was confusing I gave up. I'll just play about with my new machine and see what happens 🤔🙂
🌈Hi Sharon Wow! I REALLY had no idea! I have been drooling over the beautiful effects of embossing and diecutting card stock. I now have funds to purchase a manual machine, I’m so excited. I will stay tuned in because I will need lots of help. L O L🌻 I’m thankful for you. Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours💐
Walmart sells vinyl in large sheets as tablecloth covers in the sewing department. There are several thicknesses available. You can also check with JoAnn's to see if they also carry the rolls of vinyl table cloth covers.
Sharon you always amaze me my question i have a very old cuttlebug and new dies from scraooy tales my cuts are not coming out good wihat do you suguest for me as a sandwich my cuttlebug did not come with a magnetic plate or sheet so i dont know what that is for or if i need it love this idea abot the dolla tree cutting mats and the packaging from bedding
Oh wow😲and hmm🤔looks like a helpful idea. Since I don’t have a Gemini Junior but my own Sizzix Big-shot Die cut and Emboss Machine, one concern I have is what if using Vinyl from bedding packaging cut perfectly into sheets same size to fit Die plates are too thick or too tight and won’t fit adding together with your plates while feeding through machine? What other types of vinyl can I use that will be able fit easily without damaging the plates or machine? What idea works for one Die cut machine may not work for all.
the idea is great....but i did get a bit confused with the mention of vinyl from sheet set bags, dollar tree chopping mats AND laminating vinyl. i have the new sizzix switch machine and would love to know how to preserve those big! plates. perhaps you could do another video that's a bit clearer? just stumbled onto your site and was very impressed...now subscribed!
The mention of vinyl, chopping mats, etc are to give you an alternative to layer them together to replace one plate but to a slightly less thickness. Slow down the speed using the three dots and rewatch the video, that could be helpful. Good luck, watching in a slower speed was good for me.
I think I have one bedding bag on hand that I can cut up. Love this tip. Thank you so much for taking the time to explain this to us. I just stumbled across your channel and it must have been a God thing. I'm now a new subscriber and look forward to see more of your videos. By the way it helped me personally a lot that you use the same Gemini Junior that I recently bought and have only used one day. So far I'm loving it! ❤️❤️✅👍🥰🤩
Just bought my new Sizzix Big Shot (I think that's the name), and just received some die cuts. I'm a little unsure about what to do, but this looks to be great info & I'll do some more research & come back & watch again. Thanks for the info.
Agree with below. I'm going to watch a couple more times. In summary, I think the attempt was to reduce the sandwich thickness by removing one of the thick gemini plates and using 1 to 4 Dollar Tree cutting mats. Is that what everyone concluded? I've destroyed my orig 2 plates and had 2 new ones in my stash. The 1st time I used the new ones, both bottom and top are deeply cut. So I'll try 3-4 Dollar Tree mats and remove top plate. Or did I miiss something? Do we still use both gemini plates plus Doller Tree mats?
Vinyl - another of your creative ideas! I THINK you’re the one who uses Xzeron replacement adhesive to adhere to cardstock when cutting intricate dies. I tried that yesterday. Wow! What a great discovery. I put the machine in the charity box right then and just kept the replacement cartridge. THANKS!
You could try them …I have ..I found they wore out and dulled my dies. The vinyl that has a bit of stretch will be your work horse and last for the long haul😉 Pro TIP : use those stencil sheets for shims instead of paper , they will be your best friend in no time👍👍
Ok, you popped up in my feed, checked out the video, I just ordered from your Etsy store, good price. I'm willing to try just about anything to not have to keep buying plates. 🤞🏿I hope it works 😀 Thank you for your efforts, I just subscribed.
After ordering some 20 gauge vinyl from Amazon (36 x 54 inches) that I paid $7.36 tax included, this is what works for my Gemini machine. One sheet should last you indefinitely. I actually have a full size machine, but I only use it with Gemini Jr. size plates going through sideways. It works better and has more even pressure this way and of course is faster. Perfect Sandwich For My Gemini Jr 1. clear cut plate on bottom 2. green double-sided cut plate 3. 2 to 3 sheets of 20 gauge vinyl (this is trial and error for your machine, card stock and die intricacy) 4. card stock 5. die facing down or towards card stock 6. green double sided cut plate 7. clear cut plate on top 8. I usually flip over after first time through using intricate dies and run through again. 9. If there is any concern about marring the card stock (especially mirror card), I insert a piece of die plastic packaging (very thin, but works) to prevent marring. 10. Add shims like thin magnetic sheet (I use Avery printable) 11. Add metal shim if you have really stretched out your machine Note: The green plates are very thin and strong and take all the cuts very well. My clear plates are still clear and not warped at all after months of cutting. I adjust the sandwich according to the die and the card stock thickness.
Thanks for this tip. It has worked for me. Tried this out on Anna griffin E once again , thank you.mpress and was happy with result.I cut up old packaging from drapes. Didn't cut into the plate and didn't warp the plates. I think I will buy a heavy duty vinyl table cover to see if it will last longer than the packaging. Also I have some storage bags that might work.
Mind blown! I conveniently have those dollar tree mats (I use them as organization for my stamps pockets). Never thought of using in BigShot. I use my disgusting plates until they crack and yes, lots of damage and “dirt” are left on many projects. Just threw away sheet packaging…..off to the recycle bin. Thank you!
I've got several homemade cutting plates and shims and whatnot. And would you believe it, I recently found a large piece of vinyl that I'd saved for a rainy day! So I'll definitely try this.😄👍
The bad remarks you get are silly, i think your video is clear and brilliant !!!❤🎉
The cut perfect sheets are no longer available so I cut a couple pieces out from some clear thick vinyl I had from the fabric store. Two layers, works like a charm! Great video! Thanks
My Walmart sells fabric still and they sell tablecloth vinyl by the yard in different thicknesses and widths. It’s pretty inexpensive. Since my Walmart is a 1/2 hour away, I keep a couple of yards on hand because it’s great for many things and I don’t have to stop and ride up there. There’s a Joann’s next door to my Walmart and they sell it too. I cover work tables, craft mats when painting, over the outside of my shelving to protect my stash from dust and small pieces are handy stuck to matboard to dry painted or glued items.
OMG I do the same as you do! I buy the vinyl by the yard from Walmart and cover my craft table too! lol Have you tried it in your die cutting machine yet? If so which thickness of vinyl worked? They sell the super thick vinyl and the thinner one at Walmart. I have the thicker one I think? lol Hey great minds think alike! lol
Totally,!
Haven’t yet been busy with other stuff but I can’t wait to see how it works because I have not been impressed with anything else I’ve seen that was supposed to be the greatest “hack”
Will let you know when I get to try it
What thickness works best
YOU HAVE SAVED ME TONS OF $ ... Yes, thank you for this video. The little mini plastic cutting folder for the Gemini Mini has gone to $19.01 + $2.99 shipping *8/22/24 on Amazon and that is the only place I can find them. That is a package of 3. I seem to have them bend very quickly. Just put you on pause; got my kitchen mat that is many years old. cut it and folded it. It worked fantastic. I have huge 😁's on my face right now! ❣
You are only the second person I have heard mention the problem with the etched marks on the cutting plates leaving marks on the papers of the projects after die cutting. I thought it was only my problem and I must be doing something wrong because no one else is talking about it! Thank you for addressing it.
I have been asking professional crafters about this issue for several years...they claim it is not a problem. I have the problem every time. So, I have been using the thin packaging that comes with stamps and dies to put on cardstock, especially the mirror card.
I’ve always had that problem, you are not alone!!😀
I have heard others say that, in order to avoid the back side cutting marks, they add a piece of printer paper in between. It's very thin but picks up the marks itself. Hope it works for you if you try it.
Here is Jennifer McGuire’s solution to fix and prevent warped plates. Everything you need is right in your kitchen.
ua-cam.com/video/c0ZKxQLT3Gg/v-deo.html
nope, definitely a universal problem. When I have asked other crafters I was advised to use a sheet of printer paper over the card/paper that I'm die cutting. Which works, but I get through too much printer paper and hate the cost and waste.
I am SO excited to have found this solution, I will be looking to try it asap.
As a new die cut machine user, I was happy to see that we can use other materials. I found the video very confusing, though, with all the shuffling, stacking, unstacking and restacking. The hand is quicker than the eye. I was hoping to see how to keep the plate from curling, but got lost in the shuffle/cut/stack/shuffle... But now I know it's a thing, so thanks!
Agree
Marty, I agree with you, by the time she finished, I was so confused that I felt it wasn't worth purchasing anything, just stick with what I know. I know she tried to be helpful, but as you said, the shuffling and stacking and restacking was just impossible to keep up with or understand. I couldn't see a replacement for what we already use, just an addition of vinyl sheets into the sandwich? Maybe she'll do another video that is easier to understand.
@@lauramartin7300 I agree, far too confusing.
Agree - much too confusing.
Me too. 😕
I think this is a great idea, just a lot of information. I also do not have a Gemini (probably the only machine i don't own, because bigz dies don't fit). So it is confusing to try to figure out what i would need to use. I have a we r memory keepers evolution advanced. It has a dial to make the pressure tighter or looser. I am glad i don't have to figure out sandwiches due to the pressure dial. But i might try this to keep my plates from warping.
Your hands are fine, shows your a hard worker!
I add a layer of funky foam or felt too to get the right thickness sometimes....couple of book pages, piece of fabric, folded piece of newspaper, puzzle book cover, rip a cover off a scrapbook pad, or the thin grey card on the back.... whatever's easiest to grab from where I'm sitting! 🤣
Hi Sharon. I love your tip. It has worked for me and certainly provided 'stich in time' for me.
I cleaned and flattened my plates for my Gemini in readiness for my orders to arrive.
I purchased from Amazon a pack of 10 x 400 micron magnetic sheets and as a cheap option I bought a vinyl clear tablecloth.
My sandwich was trial and error but all my efforts were well rewarded.
My sandwich is 2 magnetic sheets and 6 layers of vinyl.
Thank you so much for your tips. I'm winning at life. 🏆
I had no problem following, but I’m from New York, we do everything fast. Lol!😂
The take-away from this video is that you can use other stacking material. Since I watched this, I started experimenting with stacking vinyl sheets between the regular acrylic sheets and the dies, and it's worked very well to protect the acrylic sheets from getting marked up. Thank you for addressing this issue!
Thank God I found you again! I had seen this video a long time ago, thought I saved it but couldn’t locate it. I kept google searching and I don’t know how but your video popped up! I need those vinyl sheets and will look next to see if they are still available.
This is pretty cool, but I've already bought the magic mat and no longer have issues with warped or cracked plates. Wish I had known about this month's ago. Good luck to you!! It is time we send a message to the companies, letting them know we are tired of replacing warped or broken plates on a too frequent basis.
HOLY COW! I got out some of the bedding vinyl.....wowza, this is fabulous! i think ineed to put mine in some nice warm water so they will lay flatter. TY for this! :) you're genius!
Sharon - Thank you for sharing this very useful tip and information.
I seen this video along time ago, luckily it popped up and shared it with friends.
I recently threw some away🤦🏻♀️ I have some other vinyl, I’ll have to try n use that
Very awesome idea
Your a lifesaver
I need to see this in slow motion. Only made it half way through. Way too confusing, but glad it's working for you.
You can slow the vid (at least on an iPad) by using the speed setting shown in the drop down where you see 3 stacked dots on the video screen.
You are soooo innovative,Sharon! Who would have thought vinyl was the key to great die cuts! Thank you for your time and talent in creating all of your very helpful youtubes. I really enjoy your tutorials.
gosh thanks Lynne you’re so sweet 💕💕💕🤗
I'm so glad I got your channel as a recommendation! Your videos are jammed packed with information. I really appreciate the time you spend getting this info and then sharing with us! Thank you so much! 💖💖
I used it in the Platinum 6 and my die cut came out perfectly just like you said. Each little tricky piece fell out as I ran my fingers over them. Thank you. Great advice. I used two two laminating sheets that I laminated first then laminated them together with a third sheet to get the thickness I needed then cut them. Went through my Platinum 6 easily and I didn't have to run them back and forth. Wow!
*Nice! Thank you! They also sell many different types of vinyls at fabric stores, like Joanne Fabrics, and you can buy it by the yard and cut it any way you need. Walmart also carrys huge rolls of clear vinyl in their craft department that you can buy by the yard.*
Thanks for this info. I also have substituted chip board in the sandwich. Works well. Always check you packaging!
This is a valuable contribution to die-cutting, Sharon. Thank you SO MUCH!
Oh click click click my brain just got it. FABRIC laminating vinyl! Not self adhesive. Goodness that took me a while to get! Hope this helps others that didn’t understand laminating vinyl. If you sew it’s likely this kind……..And hey I could be wrong, @Sharon please correct me if I’m out of my depth here! Thanks for this fantastic tip! Also I am buying calipers from Amazon now! Digital ones! Sweet lesson! Appreciate it!
Love this idea. I seem to avoid usually this issue of impressed lines into my top or finished cut item however a neighbor really has a fussy time with this. I do understand. We also just were having similar issues when we needed to make a flip over die or two going opposite directions. You know the die is made to cut a design facing left but you need a second one facing right and there is no die for that. The clue usually is to just flip your paper over. This does not always work for one big reason. When cutting with the die it bends the edges of the paper like a cookie cutter downward. When you flip the paper it now is bent the opposite direction or up. Some types of flocked paper seem to get away with it but when it comes to foils or some embellished surfaces there's no forgiving and it will stick out like a sore thumb if you put both pieces facing one another together. SO how to fix it. This may be helpful. I've got a number of bed bags I keep for my sewing materials often reusing and will go and find a few to cut up right away. To test that out. We need one right now. We have a Sizzix steel die for earrings that comes in three sizes and two parts to each size. One is a solid piece then there is a magnetic thin die on the flip side for making an overlay with cut out pieces and dang we really want a set of two earrings mirror imaged so to speak not two earrings all facing the same way. So the core with the steel die cuts out fine either way. But not the fancy overlay thin die. It has messed up the textured foil we've chosen to work with. So I thought I'd try a Diamond Press Die I had to see if we could get one cut but figure it as a long shot. THIS may be the answer we are searching for. I did find it difficult to follow your video layers all the way through but I did catch on to what you are attempting to show. I have an gemini but hate it. And refuse to use it after it ruined 3 Tim Holtz brand new 3D special embossing and cutting dies. I also had a second machine ruin dies a manual the same day. So I gave that machine away and now I have 2 other electrc machines, Two spellbinder platinum's and a sidekick and the Diamond Press. I need to find a home for the Gemini. It also makes way too much noise which I am very sensitive to having menieres for over 40 years. Thank you for this share. Will give it a try today. And pass it along to my friend too.
Thank you so much for sharing. This information is extremely valuable in preserving our cutting machines.
I’ve been trying to use my sizzix (embossing only) machine into a die cutting machine. I had to play around with the “sandwich” but It never cut clean… until I used your method with 2 bedding bag magic layers. Now it almost always cuts beautifully. I still have one or 2 fiddley dies. Just want to say thank you! You saved me from having to spend $ on another machine. New subscriber. 🎉 thanks!!
thx to you. i was looking for sizzix user comments on this.
I love your dedication to finding a solution to the warped palate problems. Gemini plates are the worst. But I can’t help but wonder, if you can come up with this solution, why can’t the manufacturers give us the correct plates? Thanks for doing this.
it’s all about repeat sales and continuous revenue unfortunately...if we stop buying the plates they’ll get the message. I’m so sick of throwing things in the garbage☹️
This is great, but would it be expected you would have to wash the sheets after every die cut?
@@SharonLuska Exactly, it's like cheap printers with very expensive ink replacements. The revenue doesn't come from selling the machine, it comes from people requiring the extras.
@@Rockymtnbloom I’m not sure she got your question. And I’m wondering why you’d expect to have to wash the plastic sheets after each die cut. Would you explain your thought process, please?
The tonic tangerine plates aren't clear but don't hardly warp or mark as badly as clear ones. I use a stainless steel plate in my big shot that never marks.
I also bought a thick self-healing mat that I cut down to a standard plate size. I use a few paper shims on top of my platform and one standard clear plate. After a lot of use the self- healing mar can begin to warp and gets fine slivers of paper trapped in the cut marks, so I boil it in a square grill pan with water and a flat iron over it for a few minutes, take it out and finish rinsing the paper bits off, leave it on my counter to cool, and it’s just like new again. It was just difficult to cut through the self-healing mat in the first place to cut it to plate size. Your solution sounds much simpler because of the ease of cutting the vinyl to size. Thanks for sharing.
I use the self healing mat too on one side of the sandwich.... Works well for my platinum machine....interesting to hear that you boil it and flat iron to flatten again...I will try this...thank you!!!
Hon, those Tim Holtz scissors will cut the mat like butter.
Ok, I will say it again, you are a genius! I finally got all the supplies, prepped them and tried it today. It cut perfectly! Now the vinyl sheet was pretty marked from the die so I am going to try on a foil paper to see it if leaves marks. Even if it does, I still think this is better than constantly buying new cutting plates. My vinyl might not be as good as yours, but so far so good. Thank so much again for sharing this!
Sharon, this is the first time watching you. Oh WOW!!! Your teaching techniques are outstanding. I’m so excited to try this asap. Thank you❤️
Thank you for such important options. I am new to cardmaking and always wonder why things are so expensive so saving money is important for me. Also thankyou for mentioning that these products are sold I Canada as that is were I'm from.
I was getting confused listening,watching, and reading screen to which to do. If you had gone thru them a little slower my mind would of grabbed more for an older person, Lol I did save ,thumbs up and subscribed. I do have the cutting mats. I will cut up one and try this. I have calibers, since I had a machine shop.do that will help. Think you said 2mm for sizzix. I have the big shot and still new to it. Why did you use a magnetic sheet for Gemini but not sizzix? Which is the best way for your dies on the platform?, facing up towards you or cutting down toward mat? Keep getting confused when I use it.I just got the magic cutting mat for big shot haven't used it yet. Thanks for Sharing. Will give it try.. You didn't show about worping plates. Using the vinyl, will prevent it because the cutting is absorbed by the vinyl?? Thanks again.
Thank you very much for this. Really helpful, and using what I had to hand I have found a combination that works on my Pogi. Especially important as I can't seem to find any replacement plates that will fit the Pogi - Should have checked that out before I bought it. Again - thank you so very much.
Oh, thank you! I currently use a self healing mat which has worked great for over a year. I know I have some of those bedding vinyl packages. If that doesn't work I will look into ordering these sheets. Thank you so much! ❤️
Wow this works like magic! Tku you so much and God Bless for sharing!
Calipers are the key to this whole sandwich confusion. You can buy them in any decent hardware store, Canadian Tire, Princess Auto, etc. Even the cheap ones are good enough. Measure the whole sandwich recommended for your machine (preferably with relatively new plates), then you’ll have a baseline measurement. Then every sandwich you make of any material you chose should be pretty close to that measurement.
This is brilliant! And such a simple concept. Thank you for sharing!
Thank you brilliant idea I'm away to find a set of these should give me a better understanding of this procedure , a friend has just text me "self healing mat " and!!! Lol.
Awesome tip! I have a heck of a time getting my sandwich to the right thickness because I have so many different brands of dies and embossing folders.
Hi Catherine. Can you pls tell me what you mean by "callipers", and how they work here? Many thanks 😊🇦🇺
What are the calipers you talk about Catherine? Please let me know, Thanks!
It would be nice if you could also show this about the cuddle bug and the Master
SUPER IDEA!!! THANK YOU! I HOPE I get your notifications! I've NEVER gotten ANY notifications from UA-cam that I can remember, & I HAVE subscribed to others! THANK YOU!!! ;)
Thank you. I have been using die cutting machines for YEARS and never came across this hack. Very easy and inexpensive. Only now I feel I need new plates because they are all cut up from before. 😆 BTW...I instantly tried this and it works well. Super simple and easy.
I am glad I watched. It would be helpful if you slowed down your band movements. Very very helpful.
I have started using the new cutting pads on my Gemini Jr. with a new Sizzix cutting plate. So thrilled with this new sandwich, Not a mark on my cutting plate. I have the top sandwich taped as in Jennifer Maguire's video. It all works beautifully. Thank you so much.
I don’t think I know about that technique. But I like this idea she shows.
Have you tried Jennifer McGuire’s technique for fixing the plates?
ua-cam.com/video/c0ZKxQLT3Gg/v-deo.html
I tried the boiling water and a heavy pot but it didn't last very long. The plates warped after the first use.
THANKS for all the great tips...... can't wait to do all the things you recommend here!
Will look forward to this appearing in the UK.. warped plates drive me crazy!
Thank you thank you thank you for solving my ongoing problem. By the way I washed my two cutting plates, soaked them, scrub them and still could not remove all the itty bitty parts in the cuts. It did make it better and better is good
Have you tried Jennifer McGuire’s technique for fixing the plates?
ua-cam.com/video/c0ZKxQLT3Gg/v-deo.html
That's a great hack! I use self healing mat and it works great too. I've had them for over a year now and no issues
that’s wonderful👍👍💕💕
What self healing met do you use? I have a Cricut Cuttlebug and have thought about using a self healing mat but I don't have one the right size. I'd hate to cut up one of my mats then have it not work out.
I've also thought of cutting down one of the cutting mats for my Cricut Explore Air 2. I hate to throw them away once they're no longer sticky enough.
@E Leeper I measured the size of my cutting plates and then I bought a mat on Amazon but it was a bit too big so when I got it I just cut it to the size I needed. I ended up with 2 so I have an extra should I need it. I do use the acrylic cutting plate on the bottom since the flat side of the dies are facing the bottom. It works perfectly and I haven't bought any cutting plates for well over a year and a half. Sometimes you do have to add a shim or two depending on how it fits going thru. You can also get self healing mats at dollar tree. They are smaller than Amazon but I am not sure what the dimensions are. Hope that helps!
@E Leeper the mats are surprisingly not too hard to cut. I used a box cutter and just sliced it a few times and I was able to cut it to the size I needed
@E Leeper wash the cutting mat with mild soap and warm water and let it air dry to see if the stickiness will return.
As for the proper thickness of layered vinyl, Dollar tree chopping mat, or self-healing mat, you'll need to try different layers to find the correct thickness for the tension in your machine to work properly. Have fun and good luck!
Great idea. But way too fast for me to follow, perhaps could you do a slower version with clear layering instructions.... I'm not as young as I used to be !
If you watch UA-cam videos on your iPad, you can pause the vid then (notice 3 stacked dots on the screen? There, in proximity to the closed caption symbol, & 2 others I haven’t checked out!) tap on the 3 dots. That will give you a pop up with several selection possibilities, one of which is video speed. Select a slower speed, then tap the screen to restart the video. Just don’t forget to reset the speed when you’re through as the NEXT video may be just fine on “normal” speed. On a computer, I think you’ll need to locate a tiny little gear-looking icon. Click on that and a similar menu will present itself for you to choose your speed setting. I watch y.t. vids on my Samsung “smart tv”, on which I can choose vid speed by selecting those 3 little dots that appear in the corner when I pause the video. I do sincerely hope this will help you better enjoy videos on whatever device you use. In spite of G006LE’s incessant ads there IS some very interesting and informative content within a great many of the videos here. Be well!
Thank you kk Rolf , I had no idea you could do this, Great to know 🙂
If you have the Gemini Jr. machine try this sandwich: clear cutting plate, green double-sided cut plate, die and paper, green double-sided cut plate, clear cut plate. If you don’t already have the green double-sided cutting plates from Crafter’s Companion, which are really thin btw, you will need them for this sandwich. Totally worth it!!! Also it doesn’t matter which way you place your die & paper, you’ll just want to choose a side of the green cut plate you want to cut into and then always use that orientation when cutting. I die cut a lot and have been using this sandwich for about 8 mos. w/ literally no warping at all! I used to have to change out my plates once a month because they were so warped they wouldn’t cut right. Not anymore!! I did flip over my green cut plate once since it had a zillion cuts in it😂 Tip: tape the clear plate and the green plate together w/ 2 small pieces of clear packing tape. This way you’re not fooling around with 4 plates every time…essentially you will now have a thicker top plate and a thicker bottom plate. Use new or unwarped plates and they’ll stay like new aside from the one green one you cut into each time. I don’t use this sandwich for embossing folders. That’s a whole other thing…I use my warped plates for embossing folders.
Discovering this sandwich has been a real joy and a money saver since I haven’t had to replace a plate yet! Also, I get better cutting results…actually perfect cutting results since this sandwich is slightly less thick. Before this my Gemini Jr. had too much pressure and would leave an impression of the die because my sandwich (as recommended by the manufacturer) was too thick. Jennifer McGuire has a YT video all about this if my explanation is confusing🤔 It’s actually very simple once taped together a little. Hope this helps someone👍
Are you tried slowing the replay? ( This is how, if you don’t know how: touch the right upper corner of the picture. This will reveal a tool box. Click the “settings” icon, the one that looks like a gear. This will reveal a drop-down menu. At almost the bottom you will see Playback speed. Select the one you want!)
THE SANDWICHES ARE LISTED IN THE DESCRIPTION BOX
Wow! I have some of that vinyl because i recently bought new bedding. I had no idea why I saved the vinyl - until I saw your video! Thanks so much🙂 Stay well🙂🙂🙂
I purchased a micrometer from amazon for under $20 to measure thickness of plates. It is easier to read than a caliper and more accurate. Will measure up to one inch to .005 of inch. Metric available.
Yes, that’s a good option, too. They both have their strengths. Micrometers are more accurate and calipers have more range. Depends on the use. In any case you have the right tool for the job.
Thank you so much. I have grandchildren that try but don’t always remember which is the “do not cut” mat so I would be able to stretch the pads longer. Im sure this will help. I’m going to get some today !
Thank you so much Sharon, I really really enjoyed watching you show us this amazing way of saving our cutting plates. It’s really such a shame I’m living in the UK 🇬🇧 and I can’t get any of those alternatives here. I’ve subscribed and given you a thumbs up 👍 too. Please stay safe and well too
Have you tried Jennifer McGuire’s technique for fixing the plates?
ua-cam.com/video/c0ZKxQLT3Gg/v-deo.html
Ordered!!
I haven't watched you in awhile & the last time I did you were just over 900 subscribers & now...OVER 5K!! I knew you would be famous!! Congrats my fellow crafter!! I still need to try the Vaseline trick to make some card backgrounds!!
Holy confusion. Lol
I appreciate your video, but, boy you were flipping those plates so fast, I lost track. 😀
Re-watch, go to the 3 dots or little cog symbol at top right of the screen and look for speed. You can slow right down or speed up to suit your needs. I use it all the time
Check her “drop down” “see more”, tiny little arrow under the right corner of the window? She’s given us the info in written form there.
@@kkrolf2782some of us are visual learners though
Gurrrrlllll, you are genius. I was complaining the other day that my mini die cut machine plates were starting to warp. I don't make cards, but use the smaller one for tags and and all dies under 3 inches. One problem I have is one die I use a lot is thicker than the others and it's murder on my hands trying g to get it into the machine. Can't wait to try.these out. I'm old and just learning about paper crafting. and love it so much, but didn't know the Gemini. Now I have cutting machine envy. Ha. New subbie
Hobby lobby had “sizzix mini cutting pads” (for use with the big shot)that are thinner than the mini die cutting machine pads. I have substituted one of these for one of my mini pads (they’re the same size just thinner) I use 2 layers of vinyl with it and that fixes the thicker die problem...and saves the pads😉🤗💕💕💕
Just got a new bed and bedding. I kept all the packaging. I'll be cutting new layers to use. Thanks.
yaaay...when else would we be excited by the garbage from our new bedding?!?🎉🎉🎉🤗🤗💕💕💕
I 💜 cover plates & ❤️ 5x7 cards. Have plenty of A2 cover plates. Had no clue where to find the larger cover plates. Now I know. Thx.
I just got a small sizzix haven't used it yet. It call for the thinlets dies. But someone told me they've been using regular stamp n up dies for years with no prob. I'm going to try this out ty.
I don't understand how vinyl keeps the plates from warping? I've had my Gemini Jr since the HSN launch in Nov 2017 and just lately I've had a problem turning the machine on. But, I rotate and flip the plates with every cut, and they still warp terribly. I have used the double sided plates and they work great.. and I just bought the magic mat. It does warp as well, but can be straightened out somewhat with my heat gun. If I have to replace my Gemini Jr, I am thinking of the newer Stampin Cut and Emboss die cut machine... Thanks for the video anyway..
JoAnn fabric sells a heavy grade clear vinyl in the fabric section that you can buy that is like a clear vinyl table covering.
When you refer to a sandwich of "2" or "3" Cut Perfect sheets do you mean 2 actual sheets-as-they-come, taped together = "1"? Please help me understand, thx much.
i set and opertate a heidelberg die cutting platen press for a living and even though it has the same name DIE CUTTING it is different to what you do mainly due to the length of the runs we do and other differences, thankyou for giving me an introduction to the what you do die cutting wise 🙂
Can’t wait to,try this. TFS💕
I really love to understand this properly, my machine came with white magnetic mat that also perishes and needs replacing so would to figure this out.In a nutshell its 1 Gemini clear mat,a sizzix thinner mat,a thinner magnetic mat ??( where do we get that ) ,2 pieces of heavy duty vinyl and possibly other thin laminated layer to make the sandwich .I live in uk we have pound shops but not the same as your dollar tree sadly
I tried using the cutting mat method and wasn't very happy with that because the thickness of my cheapy cutting mats is very uncooperative with the thickness of my plates, so extra shimming was needed, the cardstock shimming wore down very quickly due to compression, etc. etc. - I was constantly adjusting, meh!
I am very glad therefore that you are suggesting an alternative, especially using cast-off materials! I will certainly see to it that this kind of material will not go into the recycle bin without having been okayed by me in the future.
Meanwhile: I am mostly using a hand-crank A5 machine which comes with A (Platform), B and C sheets. Manufacturer's instructions say to cut "into/onto" plate B. And plate B is easy to get replacements for.
I now cut with the B-plate on top of the Platform, then add the die cutting side up, then the paper, then C-plate. So I cut "into/onto" plate C. And although I bought a replacement C (from china, looking for the right thickness) early on after I bought that particular machine, I am still using the original one. Surely, you have to wash/brush it from time to time to get rid of the debris.
To me, it's very important to have a B plate that's not marred so when I emboss (with a cutting die or a stencil, not with a folder), there will be no inadvertent embossing lines from previous cuts. Been there.
Thank you so much for looking at this from a totally new perspective.
I am always happy when someone comes up with readily available material to replace a pricy OEM item.
I'm sooo new to cutting machines so I found this totally confusing, I put on slow motion and I still don't get it, like another person wrote all the shuffling of plates was confusing I gave up. I'll just play about with my new machine and see what happens 🤔🙂
🌈Hi Sharon
Wow! I REALLY had no idea!
I have been drooling over the beautiful effects of embossing and diecutting card stock. I now have funds to purchase a manual machine, I’m so excited.
I will stay tuned in because I will need lots of help. L O L🌻
I’m thankful for you.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours💐
Just bought a Big Shot, will get my vinal before I cut more paper !!!
Walmart sells vinyl in large sheets as tablecloth covers in the sewing department. There are several thicknesses available. You can also check with JoAnn's to see if they also carry the rolls of vinyl table cloth covers.
Spotlight has this in Australia also.
Thank you for sharing your videos
OMG! Where have you been all my life! lol! Will you be stocking more vinyl in your Etsy shop?
Thank you again... you come up with the best ideas!
gosh thanks Teresa🤗🤗💕💕💕💕
Sharon you always amaze me my question i have a very old cuttlebug and new dies from scraooy tales my cuts are not coming out good wihat do you suguest for me as a sandwich my cuttlebug did not come with a magnetic plate or sheet so i dont know what that is for or if i need it love this idea abot the dolla tree cutting mats and the packaging from bedding
Thank you for this tip! It’s awesome!😊 I subscribed.
Wow love your show its crazy o just ordered new cutting mats lol thank its really going too help me
Oh wow😲and hmm🤔looks like a helpful idea. Since I don’t have a Gemini Junior but my own Sizzix Big-shot Die cut and Emboss Machine, one concern I have is what if using Vinyl from bedding packaging cut perfectly into sheets same size to fit Die plates are too thick or too tight and won’t fit adding together with your plates while feeding through machine? What other types of vinyl can I use that will be able fit easily without damaging the plates or machine? What idea works for one Die cut machine may not work for all.
Genius, girl.
Many thanks for sharing your ingenious ideas 😊😊😊
the idea is great....but i did get a bit confused with the mention of vinyl from sheet set bags, dollar tree chopping mats AND laminating vinyl. i have the new sizzix switch machine and would love to know how to preserve those big! plates. perhaps you could do another video that's a bit clearer? just stumbled onto your site and was very impressed...now subscribed!
The mention of vinyl, chopping mats, etc are to give you an alternative to layer them together to replace one plate but to a slightly less thickness. Slow down the speed using the three dots and rewatch the video, that could be helpful. Good luck, watching in a slower speed was good for me.
I am only starting out on the die cutting and embossing machine journey, this is all good to know, thank you. 👍🏻😊
Have you tried Jennifer McGuire’s technique for fixing the plates?
ua-cam.com/video/c0ZKxQLT3Gg/v-deo.html
That is one awesome hack Sharon. I think I have some of that packaging-if not, I am buying yours! ❤️🇨🇦
I think I have one bedding bag on hand that I can cut up. Love this tip. Thank you so much for taking the time to explain this to us. I just stumbled across your channel and it must have been a God thing. I'm now a new subscriber and look forward to see more of your videos. By the way it helped me personally a lot that you use the same Gemini Junior that I recently bought and have only used one day. So far I'm loving it! ❤️❤️✅👍🥰🤩
Just bought my new Sizzix Big Shot (I think that's the name), and just received some die cuts. I'm a little unsure about what to do, but this looks to be great info & I'll do some more research & come back & watch again. Thanks for the info.
Agree with below. I'm going to watch a couple more times. In summary, I think the attempt was to reduce the sandwich thickness by removing one of the thick gemini plates and using 1 to 4 Dollar Tree cutting mats. Is that what everyone concluded? I've destroyed my orig 2 plates and had 2 new ones in my stash. The 1st time I used the new ones, both bottom and top are deeply cut. So I'll try 3-4 Dollar Tree mats and remove top plate. Or did I miiss something? Do we still use both gemini plates plus Doller Tree mats?
Glad I found your video, learned so much. Thanks for all the info.
Vinyl - another of your creative ideas!
I THINK you’re the one who uses Xzeron replacement adhesive to adhere to cardstock when cutting intricate dies. I tried that yesterday. Wow! What a great discovery. I put the machine in the charity box right then and just kept the replacement cartridge. THANKS!
yaaaay I hate the waste those machines create..don’t throw away the cello roll it can be used too😉hugs💕💕
I would love a link to that video! Please provide a link.
@@SharonLuska Hey, Sharon!! A link, please, to the cello roll video!!
Sheets for cutting stencils would probably work, too. They have them at Walmart in the craft paint section
You could try them …I have ..I found they wore out and dulled my dies. The vinyl that has a bit of stretch will be your work horse and last for the long haul😉 Pro TIP : use those stencil sheets for shims instead of paper , they will be your best friend in no time👍👍
Ok, you popped up in my feed, checked out the video, I just ordered from your Etsy store, good price. I'm willing to try just about anything to not have to keep buying plates. 🤞🏿I hope it works 😀 Thank you for your efforts, I just subscribed.
After ordering some 20 gauge vinyl from Amazon (36 x 54 inches) that I paid $7.36 tax included, this is what works for my Gemini machine. One sheet should last you indefinitely.
I actually have a full size machine, but I only use it with Gemini Jr. size plates going through sideways. It works better and has more even pressure this way and of course is faster.
Perfect Sandwich For My Gemini Jr
1. clear cut plate on bottom
2. green double-sided cut plate
3. 2 to 3 sheets of 20 gauge vinyl (this is trial and error for your machine, card stock and
die intricacy)
4. card stock
5. die facing down or towards card stock
6. green double sided cut plate
7. clear cut plate on top
8. I usually flip over after first time through using intricate dies and run through again.
9. If there is any concern about marring the card stock (especially mirror card), I insert a
piece of die plastic packaging (very thin, but works) to prevent marring.
10. Add shims like thin magnetic sheet (I use Avery printable)
11. Add metal shim if you have really stretched out your machine
Note:
The green plates are very thin and strong and take all the cuts very well. My clear plates are still clear and not warped at all after months of cutting. I adjust the sandwich according to the die and the card stock thickness.
Thanks for this tip. It has worked for me.
Tried this out on Anna griffin E once again , thank you.mpress and was happy with result.I cut up old packaging from drapes. Didn't cut into the plate and didn't warp the plates. I think I will buy a heavy duty vinyl table cover to see if it will last longer than the packaging. Also I have some storage bags that might work.
When you’re ready to discard the spent vinyl pieces, put them in with grocery bags to be recycled.
Mind blown! I conveniently have those dollar tree mats (I use them as organization for my stamps pockets). Never thought of using in BigShot. I use my disgusting plates until they crack and yes, lots of damage and “dirt” are left on many projects. Just threw away sheet packaging…..off to the recycle bin. Thank you!
I've got several homemade cutting plates and shims and whatnot. And would you believe it, I recently found a large piece of vinyl that I'd saved for a rainy day! So I'll definitely try this.😄👍
yaaaaay... you’re not gonna look back this is a game changer💕💕💕
Thanks for the great video
Glad you enjoyed it
I've been waiting for this video! You're innovative. I bought just bought my set.
you’re going to love them. I tested them for a year to make sure I was showing the very best😉💕💕
you are a genius it works thank you!
Fantastic tip. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks I'm going to experiment with my sandwich on my big shot plus
whoa! vinyl huh?... genius! I think I have some laying around. I'm gonna start cutting my own, thanks for sharing! 😊
Hello great idea. I went to your store and there is empty. When are you restocking? I will like to purchase one.
Stunning idea thanks for sharing