Have you tried a baby wipe on the cardstock before the embossing folder, I find that helps. Also letting it dry naturally without a heat gun has stopped all cracking for me even on 130lb. When I ink blend I use a piece of card much larger than needed so I can hold that paper down wherever I want, that way I can also cut the A2 from the best blended piece with flawless edges.
Thank you for sharing these not so successful hacks. I am a 1 handed crafter, so I thought stencils were off limits for me and Pixie Spray didn't help, but recently I got a sticky mat and it is amazing. The mat held everything in place so I could ink blend, there are several brands and types now and most crafters either love the mats or hate them.
I have some goo-gone I spray on my stencils after using pixie spray. I let it sit for a minute & then put the stencil in soapy water & gently wash it off with a brush. Works really well. These are some good tips. Thank you!!
If you store your ATG tape rolls flat instead of on their sides you'll have better luck. Even just standing the box on end so that they are stacked on top of each other will help... When you leave them on their side in the box like in the video, they can get misshapen and wonky and end up being a true headache when you load them into your ATG gun. I lost two entire boxes of tape because I just stuck them in the closet and didn't think about them again. Until I needed them - and had to throw out almost all of the rolls because they were lopsided and I just couldn't get them to work.
I appreciate the tip about stacking. Personally I have stored them both ways and not had an issue but I live in a dry and temperate climate and I know moisture and temperature can effect adhesive. So frustrating that that happened to two boxes!
I get my atg tape refills through tape depot. I am on a 3 month subscription where I get 12 rolls delivered every 3 months and I love never running out. I’ve been subscribed for probably a year now and I absolutely love this tape!!!
Sticky stencil residue: embrace it. Instead of cleaning after each use, use it to your advantage of not spraying every single time. Save a backer sheet from stickers, vinyl, etc and place your stencil on that. Cut it to size and then store it. Also, use a brayer over your stencil before inking. If it is still lighting/moving on you...spray more adhesive in that spot. I am going to check out your atg video because my tape keeps rolling off of the cardboard roll sideways. It never did that when I first purchased my gun years ago. But, I hate the new refills. Something is not right about them. It sits in a drawer. I might try these other refill suggestions.
The last few times I have had the rolls that seem to be rolled "wrong" & it is a complete headache. Wastes so much tape by the time I'm able to get it on.
I try not to buy delicate stencils because sometimes even with pixie spray, it may move. I love pixie spray and sometimes alcohol can remove the residue from the back. I usually just place a piece of parchment paper behind the stencil then store it in my stencil pocket, that way it’s not sticking to anything and easy to remove from pocket. I agree about using tape when ink blending that never worked for me either. As for embossing folders, I usually spray the back with a spritz of water and usually it helps with cracking, but depends on the type of embossing folder and pressure of your die cut machine sandwich. Thanks for sharing, always appreciate your crafty insights. 🙏☺️
This was very helpful, I've had some of the same problems as you! To hold down my panel while ink blending, I cut a small rectangle piece of acetate, and I put washi tape on two ends. I put the tape on it so I could find it, and it's easier to pick up. I use this if I want to hold my panel. It's reusable, I've never had a problem with inks transferring and it's easy to clean off if I need to.
Love my ATG, I've had it for probably 8 years. And the only time I had a problem with a couple refills the eBay seller refunded me and sent me replacements immediately. I love it. My crafty girlfriend's on the other hand, don't like it because it's too big for them.
Thank you so much! I agree with every one of your hacks that do not work. They dont work for me either! Thank you for saying it. I thought it was me somehow, tho i tried so hard to make them work.
Good to know about tape jungle & someone else mentioned tape depot. My ATG is in storage & I mostly use liquid glue now, but if I go back to ATG it's nice to know where I can get tape. I always bought 12 rolls @ framing supplies but of course they're out of business now. I'm the same as you when it comes to pixie spray. Bought it, sprayed one stencil. It worked great to hold the delicate stencil down while ink blending, but I want to also use my stencils for things where I don't want the glue like foiling. Once I get my Brother SNC unpacked I plan to see if the spray will work well to stick cardstock to the mat.
I love that you did this video! Some UA-cam videos make it all look so seamless and as a fellow UA-cam creator, particularly when you are filming, it seems that everything possible can go wrong! I’m sure that it gives beginners and the more experienced confidence that it not just them!! ❤
I had cardstock messed up twice by office supply stores. The first time, they left a rough edge, the second time a different store cut it wrong. After that I purchased a new guillotine trimmer and cut my own. I also agree about the atg refills. They slide off the spool and gum up. I actually stopped using my atg because I got tired of fighting with it.
The office store cutting is so frustrating! It's a bummer that the ATG doesn't work well for everyone. I've used it for 10+ years happily and have had almost no issue except with cheap no brand refills. I wish I could magically fix it for others.
I am very new to this channel. I understood all you talked about. I am an elderly woman just watching the days go by in this chair. I have been making junk journals for a year or so and look for good and easy for me. I am going blind also...yiks I hope I am right to this channel. Thank you
Agree about office supply stores - one ruined my cardstock. So I purchased a Carl cutter, and can cut 10-15 pieces of cardstock at once. The CS is clamped down and the cutting mechanism is simply slid back and forth.) I use PIxie Spray and never tried to remove the stickiness because it can be used again without spraying, or may just need the tiniest spritz. Stencils just slip into clear pockets (45 rpm record sleeves purchased on Amazons) and I cut open one side for easier storage. BTW, a clean brayer helps to firmly stick down the stencil. Or a dirty brayer with copy paper over the stencil. Following the direction of skinny stencil lines (if there are lines) rather than going across them perpendicularly helps too. A wider piece of Post-It tape or a note can help avoid putting an inky part onto the next part of the panel. Just have to shift the tape a bit. But everyone makes different choices about what’s worth doing and what’s not. I loved watching your what-doesn’t-work video, refreshing! And you can send that uber-delicate stencil right to me, no problem. 😉Thank you!
That sucks they messed up your paper. I had that happen the first time I used a copy center to cut half ream, and it was a little crooked. The second time I tried I made a simple template on copy paper. I also let them know the issue I had the first time. I am lucky the associates at my store were kind and helpful and now they always cut it right and I save a bunch of time.
Really funny thing, just this morning I heard someone say they just tried the jungle tape for their ATG and it was terrible! They will now only buy Scotch tape. Until today, I had never heard of jungle tape. Maybe try one roll first, to see if it works for you, or not, before committing to a whole box that may not work for you. Given such different reviews, it is possibly an ambient temperature / humidity issue. Like tombow mono, it is fabulous in some climates and terrible in others. Thanks, Jess for all of your info. Its always good to hear what works, or not, for others. 😊
Adhesive certainly can perform differently in different climates. I think I've only used Tape Jungle in a dry climate. But my ATG has served me well when I lived in a humid climate as well.
I'm with you on the Pixie Spray - wish I had not purchased it. Love sticky mats but be aware that the one from Dollar Tree sometimes loses little "chips" of the blue sticky part. Not a big deal because it would probably stick to the back of your card, but be aware. Thanks also for the link to your ATG supplier.
To get rid of pixie spray all you have to do is soak stencil for a few mins in warm water with washing up liquid then just clean with fingers , not a brush and you’ll not damage it . Works every time .
Put one piece of paper towel in with your cardstock inside the embossing folder. Mine never crack because it provides enough cushion to prevent the sharp edges on the embossing folders from splitting the paper. Just make sure that you place the paper towel on the sharp edge side of the embossing folder.
Great video! And thank you for the discount code! I just placed my first order with them after comparing pricing to where I normally get my refills from.
If the misting doesn't work try stacking paper in your machine instead of using the traditional stack... I found I had the same issue, misted everything, same issue, couldn't get the plates any thinner so out of sheer desperation used paper/card to stack the thickness up and it worked!
Same. I use the stiff, shiny paper that marketers send in the mail. Cruise lines, banks, etc.send them in envelopes and are almost exactly the same size as my platform. My typical sandwich is: platform, 2-4 adverts, Magic Mat, folder with lightly misted CS. Once I get the best impression, I adhere washi tape to the bottom front and record the sandwich with a permanent marker. Then I don't have to figure it out each time. For thicker/thinner CS it's quick to add/remove an advert. For misting, I spray into the air, swipe one side CS through it, mist again, swipe the other side. I'll do 6-8 pieces at once, then emboss while still slightly dampm assembly line style. I use solid CS and have no cracking.
Great video Jess. I am guilty. I quit using my ATG because it constantly needed adjustment. I had purchased a case of the cheap tape rolls. I will be using your link to get some good stuff. Lord knows with the amount of cards I make, using my ATG will help. Glue prices are just crazy. A tip I discovered and learned from my mistake. I wanted to purchase some of the little glue bottles to fill. My Bearly art fine tip comes out almost every time I take my pin out. I expect the plastic housing around it to break soon, as it did on my previous bottle. So I went to Amazon and got a pk of 10 black little bottles. These are NOT the same as the milky version from Gina K, or Darice. They were hard to use and hurt my hand. So save time and get the right tiny glue bottles.
Thank you for the code! I used to buy from them when they sold refills on ebay, which was eons ago. 😂 I needed 1/4 and just hadn't gotten around to getting any. Problem solved. Loved all the info and tips.
I use straight Dawn dish soap on stencils, glue residue, inks, Rub n buff, my hands and paint and it works great. Just don’t clean your sticky pads (like Cricut mat) because it will take off the stickiness (learned the hard way). I have tried glue be gone, didn’t work as well, still had to work a lot to get it clean, plus it’s expensive. Alcohol does not work well with water based products. With the Dawn, it takes care of everything and it’s not harsh on hands or product.
The sticky stencils didn’t bother me but when the Pixie spray left a residue on my cardstock that attracted dirt that put me off using it. I’ve also had issues with cardstock being cut by the office supply store - they did a bad job and it was not even a cheap service like everyone said. Maybe climate affects the cardstock in embossing folders. I’ve seen some people really wet it down while others just mist or wipe with a damp cloth. Climate can definitely change how well adhesives work. I think all hacks should come with a “your mileage may vary” warning!
Some cardstocks do a lot of cracking on me. I know how frustrating that can be. Especially the 3D embossing folders. I do love the pixie spray, and I put my stencils on wax paper or parchment paper before storing. This also stops them from becoming entangled with each other.
I have only had one problem at an office supply store cutting paper. I give them a piece of paper with the markings of where I want the cut. And never had a problem after giving them the template.
HiJesse! I appreciate videos like this. Thanks. An idea for you with the stencils that have Pixie spray on them is to use parchment paper envelopes to store them in. I've seen them at kitchen supply stores (used to make grilled cheese in a toaster.)
I store my stencils in page protectors. If I happen to have an adhesive spray of any kind on them, I just store the stencil on the outside of the page protector rather than trying to put it back inside.
Another great video! Love my ATG but wish there was a cap, so the tape wouldn’t stick to stuff in my travel bag. I’ve put nonstick paper in a large Ziplock, but it’s a little clunky. Even with your discount and the fact that it’s soooo much cheaper than the name brand (even with a coupon), I’d want to split the cost of the ATG tape with 10 people. 😕
Your video made me realize that in our tropical environs, without climate controlled interiors, I don't see regular paper cracking with dry embossing. I used to pre-mist because I saw others do it, but didn't know why.
I wonder if climate is the reason why some people swear by getting the paper really wet and other people barely mist or don’t need to at all. I’ve heard that climate (heat and humidity) has a big influence on the performance of glues and adhesives.
I will definitely be checking out your ATG video. I’ve been having issues with mine lately and I’m not sure why. As for embossing card stock, I’ve had the best results if I use the Tim Holtz mini mister. I think it’s the super fine spray that helps. I don’t generally use white core card stock though.
I actually have great luck with Dollar Tree double sided tape. (I don't have an ATG.) But it's not always in stock. And Accent is the best! And impossible to find. Going to try Hammermill.
The Dollar Tree tape does stick well. I just don't like peeling up the backing. The ATG is much faster for me. But it's great when you find what works for you. Yes the Accent is so tricky to find. I sometimes buy it when it's in stock even if I don't need it yet.
1:33 I struggled with Recollections 110 lb cardstock thinking my trimmer was not cutting correctly and/or the scoring was off. It turns out the cardstock itself was not exactly 8 1/2 x 11 and not cut straight!
I agree with all your tips! Have never had paper cut at an office supply store as I just heard to many horror stories. Thanks for to discount code, I am almost out of ATG tape 😊
I bought the Scotch Tape refills for the ATG from my favourite online craft store, and I was not happy with it. I love the applicator but the refill had a horrible backing paper to it, and I actually think it was thicker than the original but I'm not sure. I'm not sure that I got the same length. Quite disappointing. But I do use it for making my own books.
Oh the go to an Office store and get your paper cut perfectly myth!! I’m in Canada and I had 2 packages of paper cut at Staples, I’m using them but I have to recut each one myself because they are not accurate!! What a pain! I also have had endless problems with my ATG, finally I threw it out and purchased a new one, it still doesn’t work well, I bought the tape refills at Michaels and I’ve watched many videos on how to load the tapes I’ve still had no luck, the sticky stuff seems to be on the wrong side! 😮
I've had this same issue of the tape being on the "wrong side" several times and found this excellent video tutorial: ua-cam.com/video/ZiPSrke49aA/v-deo.html It works for me every time and now it is no big deal if I find one that is like this. I LOVE Tape Jungle and always order from them!
Can you get dotty tape or tape pens through either of these places? If so, do they work more than a few times? I spent a fortune on tape pens that quit after a few uses... yes, i did what they told me after losing the first one. I see even their own demonstrators struggle with them. None of the adhesives i get from.them work like they show on their tubes. I followed their tubes and advice, but i am left with little yuckie strings all over my intricate die cuts that i can not remove. Theirs looks great. The adhesive one lady demonstrated would not pucker the paper, puckered mine, and i used it sparingly, less than she did. It does bond terrifically, but it puckers some cardstock terribly. I have ordered some adhesive sheets and roll to use for die cutting to see if that works, but the tape idea seems so much easier and should be less costly. But after throwing out around 70 meters of unusable tape, i quit! They are expensive. A friend got her dotty tapes from another well-known stamping company, but within a few weeks, people told her they fell apart. The cards she gave me did, too. I would so appreciate finding a good supplier of card making supplies. Thank you for any help!
Hi Jess. New subscriber. ❤❤Are you or anyone else here familiar with Stampin' Up basic white cardstock? It's wonderful. Has a smooth surface and accepts ink beautifully. Super high quality. Is the Accent cardstock on par with Stampin' Up's made in the USA paper?
Hi! I'm not familiar with the Stampin Up. I've always heard great things. Honestly I use the Accent Opaque for card bases that often don't get inked directly so I can't speak to that too much. My main priority for card base cardstock is true white and sturdy enough to stand upright when displayed. Accent Opaque is made in the USA as well though and is FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified .
@@JessCrafts thank you Jess. After lots of research I learned that they do make a smooth finish cardstock for stamping and marking. I'm super excited to order it. Thank you for referring!!!
I had the same thing happen to me when I had an office supply store cut my paper. To this day I cringe every time I grab this paper. Have to recut every piece. Thank you for the pixie spray hack. I have debated about buying it but the residue would drive me crazy. Great video as I have struggled with many of these "hacks" myself and thought it was just me.
Question about ATG tape - why are you unhappy with the Amazon/generic product? Is it that the adhesive is not great quality or an incorrect fit to the ATG itself? I’m curious. I picked up an ATG second hand but haven’t yet bought Scotch tape for it because it’s expensive. Unfortunately so is Tape Jungle because I’m not in USA and postage is a killer
There are probably some generic/Amazon refills that are fine but the ones I got the roll kept breaking and the adhesive didn't come off the roll reliably. So I prefer to shop at a place with known quality and wanted to share with others in case it was helpful. Sorry it's not helpful to those outside of the US.
What comes to my mind right away for the pixie spray is maybe put a piece of parchment paper on the sticky side of the stencil to store it, and not clean the sticky side…
$50 for a tape dispenser?!!!! Seriously ?!!! Can you recommend one that works as well for maybe half that cost? That’s crazy high price for a tape runner isn’t it?
I have had mine since 1995, and it still works perfectly. Mine is so old that they didn’t have the pretty colored ones for craft market - it’s machine yellow. Large upfront cost, but because it was quality, its per use cost has long since paid for itself.
Also try when you can use a coupon. Mine was $30-$40 and I have had it for close to 30 years and still works like brand new. They are an investment but it pays for itself quickly
My local Joann’s has it on sale right now for 33.59$ I bought mine with a 50% off single use coupon. The refills are around 9$ right now too . The actual scotch brand
It is definitely a bigger up front cost but it's lasted over 10 years and I can get refills for less than $2 a roll. I don't know anything cheaper long term.
The cracking on the paper has to do with the type of paper it is because of the fibers in it and how it is manufactured, trying different card stock gets different results.
I ordered the tape from Tape Jungle and it’s great but I have so much trouble with the Scotch ATG , the tape keeps getting on the wrong side of the paper. I have to undo the roll and start over placing back in the glider. So I gave up and don’t use it or the tape. 🙆🏼♀️
I doubt the office supply store screwed up. The Recollections cardstock isn't perfectly 8.5" x 11", at least in my experience. I like the weight of the Recollections 110lb cardstock, but the size is not accurate. I've tried several different packs/colors/etc. So, yeah. 🙄
I agree the Recollections are not perfectly 8.5x11. In my experience few papers and cardstocks are exactly the size they say but the cuts were diagonal so the office store definitely messed up too.
I have good experience in buying bulk at Tape Jungle just not from random Amazon resellers, for instance, so I wanted to share a specific reliable business for those looking for a deal. Buying adhesive in bulk is such great way to save money.
I learned from someone (don't remember who) to use Tombow Mono Multi liquid glue for stencils. I use a cheap cosmetic sponge to dab the glue on the back of the stencil, allow to dry until tacky before pressing on to your cardstock. The stencil does remain a little tacky (which means you can reuse the tack later) but I store mine in a binder and put wax paper behind the tacky stencil to keep it from sticking to anything. As for the fingerprints in ink blending, Therese at Lost in Paper uses little fingertip covers, which I was able to find at Dollar Tree. They are great and keep my hands clean.
Great suggestions! I like the idea of wax paper stored behind them to make it easier for a binder. Maybe that would make sticky stencils easier for me to handle.
I keep all my release sheets from my used double sided adhesive and I cut them down to put behind my stencils with pixie spray before I put them in their storage sleeves. I love all your videos, Jess!
Inhate the scoch atg we have them at work and i used it & decided noto buy one because of that & you don't have to spray the pixy spray outside i use it but yea the fact that the stencil stays sticky is anoying
I think it’s mostly 3D embossing folders but, if not, it can be the pressure of the individual machine which will loosen up in time. My platinum machine is so tight that I can’t use certain dies and sandwiches in it without it cutting all the way thru. It will loosen up in time, bit in the mean time I have to improvise or use my old sizzix.
Rubbing alcohol or goo gone is the easiest way to clean off stencils after pixie spray. Hope that helps. Fun video
Have you tried a baby wipe on the cardstock before the embossing folder, I find that helps. Also letting it dry naturally without a heat gun has stopped all cracking for me even on 130lb.
When I ink blend I use a piece of card much larger than needed so I can hold that paper down wherever I want, that way I can also cut the A2 from the best blended piece with flawless edges.
Thank you for sharing these not so successful hacks. I am a 1 handed crafter, so I thought stencils were off limits for me and Pixie Spray didn't help, but recently I got a sticky mat and it is amazing. The mat held everything in place so I could ink blend, there are several brands and types now and most crafters either love the mats or hate them.
I have some goo-gone I spray on my stencils after using pixie spray. I let it sit for a minute & then put the stencil in soapy water & gently wash it off with a brush. Works really well.
These are some good tips. Thank you!!
Thank you for the Tape Jungle code! I needed to stock up and this is also my favorite way to get supplies.
If you store your ATG tape rolls flat instead of on their sides you'll have better luck. Even just standing the box on end so that they are stacked on top of each other will help... When you leave them on their side in the box like in the video, they can get misshapen and wonky and end up being a true headache when you load them into your ATG gun.
I lost two entire boxes of tape because I just stuck them in the closet and didn't think about them again. Until I needed them - and had to throw out almost all of the rolls because they were lopsided and I just couldn't get them to work.
I appreciate the tip about stacking. Personally I have stored them both ways and not had an issue but I live in a dry and temperate climate and I know moisture and temperature can effect adhesive.
So frustrating that that happened to two boxes!
I get my atg tape refills through tape depot. I am on a 3 month subscription where I get 12 rolls delivered every 3 months and I love never running out. I’ve been subscribed for probably a year now and I absolutely love this tape!!!
I love their tape as well. I order a case since I do production card making for a realtor.
Great ideas. Thank you for sharing. 😊🤗
Sticky stencil residue: embrace it. Instead of cleaning after each use, use it to your advantage of not spraying every single time. Save a backer sheet from stickers, vinyl, etc and place your stencil on that. Cut it to size and then store it.
Also, use a brayer over your stencil before inking. If it is still lighting/moving on you...spray more adhesive in that spot.
I am going to check out your atg video because my tape keeps rolling off of the cardboard roll sideways. It never did that when I first purchased my gun years ago. But, I hate the new refills. Something is not right about them. It sits in a drawer. I might try these other refill suggestions.
The last few times I have had the rolls that seem to be rolled "wrong" & it is a complete headache. Wastes so much tape by the time I'm able to get it on.
I try not to buy delicate stencils because sometimes even with pixie spray, it may move. I love pixie spray and sometimes alcohol can remove the residue from the back. I usually just place a piece of parchment paper behind the stencil then store it in my stencil pocket, that way it’s not sticking to anything and easy to remove from pocket. I agree about using tape when ink blending that never worked for me either. As for embossing folders, I usually spray the back with a spritz of water and usually it helps with cracking, but depends on the type of embossing folder and pressure of your die cut machine sandwich. Thanks for sharing, always appreciate your crafty insights. 🙏☺️
This was very helpful, I've had some of the same problems as you! To hold down my panel while ink blending, I cut a small rectangle piece of acetate, and I put washi tape on two ends. I put the tape on it so I could find it, and it's easier to pick up. I use this if I want to hold my panel. It's reusable, I've never had a problem with inks transferring and it's easy to clean off if I need to.
Great tip! Thanks for sharing!
Love my ATG, I've had it for probably 8 years. And the only time I had a problem with a couple refills the eBay seller refunded me and sent me replacements immediately. I love it. My crafty girlfriend's on the other hand, don't like it because it's too big for them.
Thank you.. every bit of information is a good thing.
Thank you so much! I agree with every one of your hacks that do not work. They dont work for me either! Thank you for saying it. I thought it was me somehow, tho i tried so hard to make them work.
I use the same😅trimmer . I do use the cheap for my same tape gun,I will check your tips on atg. Thanks
Good to know about tape jungle & someone else mentioned tape depot. My ATG is in storage & I mostly use liquid glue now, but if I go back to ATG it's nice to know where I can get tape. I always bought 12 rolls @ framing supplies but of course they're out of business now.
I'm the same as you when it comes to pixie spray. Bought it, sprayed one stencil. It worked great to hold the delicate stencil down while ink blending, but I want to also use my stencils for things where I don't want the glue like foiling. Once I get my Brother SNC unpacked I plan to see if the spray will work well to stick cardstock to the mat.
I love that you did this video! Some UA-cam videos make it all look so seamless and as a fellow UA-cam creator, particularly when you are filming, it seems that everything possible can go wrong! I’m sure that it gives beginners and the more experienced confidence that it not just them!! ❤
I had cardstock messed up twice by office supply stores. The first time, they left a rough edge, the second time a different store cut it wrong. After that I purchased a new guillotine trimmer and cut my own. I also agree about the atg refills. They slide off the spool and gum up. I actually stopped using my atg because I got tired of fighting with it.
The office store cutting is so frustrating! It's a bummer that the ATG doesn't work well for everyone. I've used it for 10+ years happily and have had almost no issue except with cheap no brand refills. I wish I could magically fix it for others.
I am very new to this channel. I understood all you talked about. I am an elderly woman just watching the days go by in this chair. I have been making junk journals for a year or so and look for good and easy for me. I am going blind also...yiks I hope I am right to this channel. Thank you
I love tape jungle, I also order foam tape rolls from them! I love the bulk purchase :)
Thank you for your Tape Jungle code! I just purchased some ATG tape from them and look forward to getting them in the mail! :)
Hope you enjoy it as much as I have!
Tape Jungle is the BEST! Great product and customer service!
Glad you have had the same fabulous experience! Thanks for watching Sharon!
Thanks for this info. Very helpful.
Agree about office supply stores - one ruined my cardstock. So I purchased a Carl cutter, and can cut 10-15 pieces of cardstock at once. The CS is clamped down and the cutting mechanism is simply slid back and forth.)
I use PIxie Spray and never tried to remove the stickiness because it can be used again without spraying, or may just need the tiniest spritz. Stencils just slip into clear pockets (45 rpm record sleeves purchased on Amazons) and I cut open one side for easier storage. BTW, a clean brayer helps to firmly stick down the stencil. Or a dirty brayer with copy paper over the stencil. Following the direction of skinny stencil lines (if there are lines) rather than going across them perpendicularly helps too.
A wider piece of Post-It tape or a note can help avoid putting an inky part onto the next part of the panel. Just have to shift the tape a bit.
But everyone makes different choices about what’s worth doing and what’s not. I loved watching your what-doesn’t-work video, refreshing! And you can send that uber-delicate stencil right to me, no problem. 😉Thank you!
That sucks they messed up your paper. I had that happen the first time I used a copy center to cut half ream, and it was a little crooked. The second time I tried I made a simple template on copy paper. I also let them know the issue I had the first time. I am lucky the associates at my store were kind and helpful and now they always cut it right and I save a bunch of time.
I use the Amazon generic tape and it works great. Never had an issue
Really funny thing, just this morning I heard someone say they just tried the jungle tape for their ATG and it was terrible! They will now only buy Scotch tape. Until today, I had never heard of jungle tape. Maybe try one roll first, to see if it works for you, or not, before committing to a whole box that may not work for you. Given such different reviews, it is possibly an ambient temperature / humidity issue. Like tombow mono, it is fabulous in some climates and terrible in others. Thanks, Jess for all of your info. Its always good to hear what works, or not, for others. 😊
Adhesive certainly can perform differently in different climates. I think I've only used Tape Jungle in a dry climate. But my ATG has served me well when I lived in a humid climate as well.
I'm with you on the Pixie Spray - wish I had not purchased it. Love sticky mats but be aware that the one from Dollar Tree sometimes loses little "chips" of the blue sticky part. Not a big deal because it would probably stick to the back of your card, but be aware. Thanks also for the link to your ATG supplier.
Thanks for letting me know about the Dollar Tree mat and thanks for watching!
Hi Jess. Very helpful video. TFS and making life that little bit easier. God bless. 💙🤗
This was very helpful! I don't use delicate stencils for that very reason!!! TYFS!
To get rid of pixie spray all you have to do is soak stencil for a few mins in warm water with washing up liquid then just clean with fingers , not a brush and you’ll not damage it . Works every time .
So nice to be validated. I AGREE with all of your non-workable hacks. Thanks Jess.
Put one piece of paper towel in with your cardstock inside the embossing folder. Mine never crack because it provides enough cushion to prevent the sharp edges on the embossing folders from splitting the paper. Just make sure that you place the paper towel on the sharp edge side of the embossing folder.
Thanks Jess! Appreciate the tape coupon! These hacks make so much sense that many dont consider. Good ole common sense gal :))
Great video! And thank you for the discount code! I just placed my first order with them after comparing pricing to where I normally get my refills from.
I’m
Glad I saw this bc I wanted to try the pixie dust. I think I will refrain and stick with taping it down.
Hi Jess This video was so helpful! Thank you so much for sharing, I really appreciate all your suggestions and how to's💖
Have a wonderful weekend 🌷🪻🌸
If the misting doesn't work try stacking paper in your machine instead of using the traditional stack... I found I had the same issue, misted everything, same issue, couldn't get the plates any thinner so out of sheer desperation used paper/card to stack the thickness up and it worked!
Same. I use the stiff, shiny paper that marketers send in the mail. Cruise lines, banks, etc.send them in envelopes and are almost exactly the same size as my platform. My typical sandwich is: platform, 2-4 adverts, Magic Mat, folder with lightly misted CS. Once I get the best impression, I adhere washi tape to the bottom front and record the sandwich with a permanent marker. Then I don't have to figure it out each time. For thicker/thinner CS it's quick to add/remove an advert. For misting, I spray into the air, swipe one side CS through it, mist again, swipe the other side. I'll do 6-8 pieces at once, then emboss while still slightly dampm assembly line style. I use solid CS and have no cracking.
@@michiganlighthouse brilliant idea! I never thought to tape them together!
Great video Jess. I am guilty. I quit using my ATG because it constantly needed adjustment. I had purchased a case of the cheap tape rolls. I will be using your link to get some good stuff. Lord knows with the amount of cards I make, using my ATG will help. Glue prices are just crazy.
A tip I discovered and learned from my mistake. I wanted to purchase some of the little glue bottles to fill. My Bearly art fine tip comes out almost every time I take my pin out. I expect the plastic housing around it to break soon, as it did on my previous bottle. So I went to Amazon and got a pk of 10 black little bottles. These are NOT the same as the milky version from Gina K, or Darice. They were hard to use and hurt my hand. So save time and get the right tiny glue bottles.
It also depends on what kind of glue you put in them. The connect glue from Gina K works best because it doesn't clog like other glues I have tried.
Thanks for tips
Thank you for the code! I used to buy from them when they sold refills on ebay, which was eons ago. 😂 I needed 1/4 and just hadn't gotten around to getting any. Problem solved.
Loved all the info and tips.
I use straight Dawn dish soap on stencils, glue residue, inks, Rub n buff, my hands and paint and it works great. Just don’t clean your sticky pads (like Cricut mat) because it will take off the stickiness (learned the hard way). I have tried glue be gone, didn’t work as well, still had to work a lot to get it clean, plus it’s expensive. Alcohol does not work well with water based products. With the Dawn, it takes care of everything and it’s not harsh on hands or product.
Great food for thought! And I agree, the lg buy at tape jungle - even if it takes a long time to get thru it - is the way to gp
The sticky stencils didn’t bother me but when the Pixie spray left a residue on my cardstock that attracted dirt that put me off using it. I’ve also had issues with cardstock being cut by the office supply store - they did a bad job and it was not even a cheap service like everyone said. Maybe climate affects the cardstock in embossing folders. I’ve seen some people really wet it down while others just mist or wipe with a damp cloth. Climate can definitely change how well adhesives work. I think all hacks should come with a “your mileage may vary” warning!
So glad I'm not the only one with embossing cracking issues. I have been so frustrated with that.
I found using a piece of printer paper in the embossing folder helped the most with cracking.
Some cardstocks do a lot of cracking on me. I know how frustrating that can be. Especially the 3D embossing folders. I do love the pixie spray, and I put my stencils on wax paper or parchment paper before storing. This also stops them from becoming entangled with each other.
Love the wax paper tip! Thanks for sharing!
Who need Pixie Spray (with the health and environmental disadvantages) anymore when there Paper Pouncers 🤩
I have only had one problem at an office supply store cutting paper. I give them a piece of paper with the markings of where I want the cut. And never had a problem after giving them the template.
I thank you so much for your ATG video and suggestion to order tape from Tape Jungle. You helped me so much! Love using the ATG now.
Great tips!
I love tape jungle! I get mine from them all the time
They are awesome!
I love Tape Jungle too!!
HiJesse! I appreciate videos like this. Thanks. An idea for you with the stencils that have Pixie spray on them is to use parchment paper envelopes to store them in. I've seen them at kitchen supply stores (used to make grilled cheese in a toaster.)
I store my stencils in page protectors. If I happen to have an adhesive spray of any kind on them, I just store the stencil on the outside of the page protector rather than trying to put it back inside.
Another great video!
Love my ATG but wish there was a cap, so the tape wouldn’t stick to stuff in my travel bag. I’ve put nonstick paper in a large Ziplock, but it’s a little clunky.
Even with your discount and the fact that it’s soooo much cheaper than the name brand (even with a coupon), I’d want to split the cost of the ATG tape with 10 people. 😕
A cap for the ATG would be nice. I certainly wouldn't use it day to day but would love it for traveling.
Your video made me realize that in our tropical environs, without climate controlled interiors, I don't see regular paper cracking with dry embossing. I used to pre-mist because I saw others do it, but didn't know why.
I wonder if climate is the reason why some people swear by getting the paper really wet and other people barely mist or don’t need to at all. I’ve heard that climate (heat and humidity) has a big influence on the performance of glues and adhesives.
I will definitely be checking out your ATG video. I’ve been having issues with mine lately and I’m not sure why. As for embossing card stock, I’ve had the best results if I use the Tim Holtz mini mister. I think it’s the super fine spray that helps. I don’t generally use white core card stock though.
Totally agree with the ATG tape! It's just not worth it to get a poorer version of the tape.
appreciate your tips tfs hugs
I actually have great luck with Dollar Tree double sided tape. (I don't have an ATG.) But it's not always in stock. And Accent is the best! And impossible to find. Going to try Hammermill.
The Dollar Tree tape does stick well. I just don't like peeling up the backing. The ATG is much faster for me. But it's great when you find what works for you. Yes the Accent is so tricky to find. I sometimes buy it when it's in stock even if I don't need it yet.
1:33 I struggled with Recollections 110 lb cardstock thinking my trimmer was not cutting correctly and/or the scoring was off. It turns out the cardstock itself was not exactly 8 1/2 x 11 and not cut straight!
Agreed about the cardstock. I have a huge pack that was cut and I had to do them all over again myself grrrrrrr
So frustrating!
Thank for sharing this informative video and also for the Tape Jungle link and code. May I ask where you purchased your blending brushes?
Hi Susan! Thank you for watching! I purchased my blending brushes on Amazon. They are from Yoseng. Here's a link: amzn.to/41A7r3N (affiliate link)
I thought I was the only one who didn't love pixie spray
I second tape jungle! I use this all the time! I need to place an order!
I agree with all your tips! Have never had paper cut at an office supply store as I just heard to many horror stories. Thanks for to discount code, I am almost out of ATG tape 😊
Ditto the discount code.
I find the pixie spray helps me hold my paper on the scan n cut.
I’ve never had good luck using ATG so maybe I’ll check out your video on it.
I bought the Scotch Tape refills for the ATG from my favourite online craft store, and I was not happy with it. I love the applicator but the refill had a horrible backing paper to it, and I actually think it was thicker than the original but I'm not sure. I'm not sure that I got the same length. Quite disappointing. But I do use it for making my own books.
Oh the go to an Office store and get your paper cut perfectly myth!! I’m in Canada and I had 2 packages of paper cut at Staples, I’m using them but I have to recut each one myself because they are not accurate!! What a pain! I also have had endless problems with my ATG, finally I threw it out and purchased a new one, it still doesn’t work well, I bought the tape refills at Michaels and I’ve watched many videos on how to load the tapes I’ve still had no luck, the sticky stuff seems to be on the wrong side! 😮
I've had this same issue of the tape being on the "wrong side" several times and found this excellent video tutorial:
ua-cam.com/video/ZiPSrke49aA/v-deo.html
It works for me every time and now it is no big deal if I find one that is like this. I LOVE Tape Jungle and always order from them!
Same! I went to an Office Depot and the paper was cut soooo unevenly 🤦🏽♀️
Ive not had that issue with embossing foulders you have to much pressure probably
I love tape jungle, I order from them too ❤
They are great! Thanks for watching!
Can you get dotty tape or tape pens through either of these places? If so, do they work more than a few times? I spent a fortune on tape pens that quit after a few uses... yes, i did what they told me after losing the first one. I see even their own demonstrators struggle with them. None of the adhesives i get from.them work like they show on their tubes. I followed their tubes and advice, but i am left with little yuckie strings all over my intricate die cuts that i can not remove. Theirs looks great. The adhesive one lady demonstrated would not pucker the paper, puckered mine, and i used it sparingly, less than she did. It does bond terrifically, but it puckers some cardstock terribly. I have ordered some adhesive sheets and roll to use for die cutting to see if that works, but the tape idea seems so much easier and should be less costly. But after throwing out around 70 meters of unusable tape, i quit! They are expensive. A friend got her dotty tapes from another well-known stamping company, but within a few weeks, people told her they fell apart. The cards she gave me did, too. I would so appreciate finding a good supplier of card making supplies. Thank you for any help!
Part of the trouble is that most shops don't have the correct equipment to cut cardstock.
I always use Tape Jungle. Local office supply store ruined my catalog when I paid to have it spiral bound 🥺
Hi Jess. New subscriber. ❤❤Are you or anyone else here familiar with Stampin' Up basic white cardstock? It's wonderful. Has a smooth surface and accepts ink beautifully. Super high quality. Is the Accent cardstock on par with Stampin' Up's made in the USA paper?
Hi! I'm not familiar with the Stampin Up. I've always heard great things. Honestly I use the Accent Opaque for card bases that often don't get inked directly so I can't speak to that too much. My main priority for card base cardstock is true white and sturdy enough to stand upright when displayed. Accent Opaque is made in the USA as well though and is FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified .
@@JessCrafts thank you Jess. After lots of research I learned that they do make a smooth finish cardstock for stamping and marking. I'm super excited to order it. Thank you for referring!!!
I had the same thing happen to me when I had an office supply store cut my paper. To this day I cringe every time I grab this paper. Have to recut every piece. Thank you for the pixie spray hack. I have debated about buying it but the residue would drive me crazy. Great video as I have struggled with many of these "hacks" myself and thought it was just me.
You can spray rubbing alcool on your paper just before you embosse it and the paper won't crack then you let it dry.
When they mess up your cardstock at the store do they replace it?
I don't know if they would. It would probably depend on the individual store.
Question about ATG tape - why are you unhappy with the Amazon/generic product? Is it that the adhesive is not great quality or an incorrect fit to the ATG itself? I’m curious. I picked up an ATG second hand but haven’t yet bought Scotch tape for it because it’s expensive. Unfortunately so is Tape Jungle because I’m not in USA and postage is a killer
There are probably some generic/Amazon refills that are fine but the ones I got the roll kept breaking and the adhesive didn't come off the roll reliably. So I prefer to shop at a place with known quality and wanted to share with others in case it was helpful. Sorry it's not helpful to those outside of the US.
Where did you get the colored clips on your brushes please? Thank you!
They are from Make it by Marko on Etsy
What comes to my mind right away for the pixie spray is maybe put a piece of parchment paper on the sticky side of the stencil to store it, and not clean the sticky side…
Great idea with the parchment paper!
Where does you black grid mat come from? I love the bolded marks in the center. I'm not able to find that.
$50 for a tape dispenser?!!!! Seriously ?!!! Can you recommend one that works as well for maybe half that cost? That’s crazy high price for a tape runner isn’t it?
I have had mine since 1995, and it still works perfectly. Mine is so old that they didn’t have the pretty colored ones for craft market - it’s machine yellow. Large upfront cost, but because it was quality, its per use cost has long since paid for itself.
Also try when you can use a coupon. Mine was $30-$40 and I have had it for close to 30 years and still works like brand new. They are an investment but it pays for itself quickly
My local Joann’s has it on sale right now for 33.59$
I bought mine with a 50% off single use coupon. The refills are around 9$ right now too . The actual scotch brand
It is definitely a bigger up front cost but it's lasted over 10 years and I can get refills for less than $2 a roll. I don't know anything cheaper long term.
The cracking on the paper has to do with the type of paper it is because of the fibers in it and how it is manufactured, trying different card stock gets different results.
I ordered the tape from Tape Jungle and it’s great but I have so much trouble with the Scotch ATG , the tape keeps getting on the wrong side of the paper. I have to undo the roll and start over placing back in the glider. So I gave up and don’t use it or the tape. 🙆🏼♀️
Where do you get your stencils?
I use Tape Jungle.
As for cracking, the solution is solid color core paper.
Yes, I have an ATG, and it is just awful. I am going to find your video to watch. Thanks!!!
Embossingfolder: Try less presure. 🙋♀️🇨🇭
I doubt the office supply store screwed up. The Recollections cardstock isn't perfectly 8.5" x 11", at least in my experience. I like the weight of the Recollections 110lb cardstock, but the size is not accurate. I've tried several different packs/colors/etc. So, yeah. 🙄
I agree the Recollections are not perfectly 8.5x11. In my experience few papers and cardstocks are exactly the size they say but the cuts were diagonal so the office store definitely messed up too.
❤️❤️❤️
Thanks for watching!
If you rub your embossing buddy across the back it won't be sticky anymore.
I’ve always had good results from my bulk tape purchases maybe I go to a different place
I have good experience in buying bulk at Tape Jungle just not from random Amazon resellers, for instance, so I wanted to share a specific reliable business for those looking for a deal. Buying adhesive in bulk is such great way to save money.
I learned from someone (don't remember who) to use Tombow Mono Multi liquid glue for stencils. I use a cheap cosmetic sponge to dab the glue on the back of the stencil, allow to dry until tacky before pressing on to your cardstock. The stencil does remain a little tacky (which means you can reuse the tack later) but I store mine in a binder and put wax paper behind the tacky stencil to keep it from sticking to anything. As for the fingerprints in ink blending, Therese at Lost in Paper uses little fingertip covers, which I was able to find at Dollar Tree. They are great and keep my hands clean.
Great suggestions! I like the idea of wax paper stored behind them to make it easier for a binder. Maybe that would make sticky stencils easier for me to handle.
I keep all my release sheets from my used double sided adhesive and I cut them down to put behind my stencils with pixie spray before I put them in their storage sleeves. I love all your videos, Jess!
Inhate the scoch atg we have them at work and i used it & decided noto buy one because of that & you don't have to spray the pixy spray outside i use it but yea the fact that the stencil stays sticky is anoying
I don’t get the paper cracking with my embossing folders. Maybe it’s your machine.
I think it’s mostly 3D embossing folders but, if not, it can be the pressure of the individual machine which will loosen up in time. My platinum machine is so tight that I can’t use certain dies and sandwiches in it without it cutting all the way thru. It will loosen up in time, bit in the mean time I have to improvise or use my old sizzix.
Great tips!
Thanks for watching!