PTI stands for Papertrey Ink. This is a collective smack blog and Papertrey Ink review page. Papertrey Ink's continuously poor customer service has lead to a page dedicated to discussion of this stamp company and recommendations for alternative stamp companies. Minimal censorship here- I prefer to leave it up to posters' discretion.
The opinions posted on this blog belong to our visitors and we are not paid for our honest reviews ;)
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Sunday, 15 April 2012
POST.
Featured comment, and oh, you are welcome.
Anonymous said...
Thank you for taking the time to share your disappointment in the new release.
Re: the lack of creativity at PTI. I get that there's not a lot new in the world of stamping and everybody copies everyone else. Trends seem to dictate that every company has a bicycle, chevron and French set.
But what do we see from PTI this month? Another bird set. After they just did a Bitty Birds Addition set last month. Another tree set. Quite reminiscent of Tree Tops set introduced in what, December of last year. Strawberries? This is their 3rd round of that theme. More tags. Too lazy to count how many they've done of those. They've milked YOF dry - a year long series, then little, this time names. And now Nichole is trolling for flower ideas on the forum.
If there is creative genius here anymore, I just don't see it.
Featured comment from Nichole ... first thought was "Wow, what a passive-aggressive biotch.". If customers are disappointed in the entire release, wouldn't you be trying to turn them on to it so they buy something this month? Nope. Guess she's doing so damn fine in this economy that she can be rude and condescending to posters (many of whom on the forum are also talking up what they plan to buy).
And there is nothing new stamp-wise under the PTI sun. How many new-to-PTI sets have we seen in the past three months? And the great NH is shamelessly trolling the forum to ask first for fall and holiday ideas and now for flowers? If I wanted to design my own set, I'd send some clip art to Staples and get them to turn it into a stamp. The head designer should not be coming to us time and time again for ideas. Isn't she the trend watcher?
And I'm a little ticked that the coffee cup die is still OOS. It's been almost 2 months.
Nichole is very very angry. Angrier than a good businesswoman (sorry Rick, she is not brilliant at being a businesswoman). She is furious over this blog, heartbroken over Jenn, and cannot figure out what the hell happened to her perch on top of the papercrafting world.
She really really does not get it. She thinks we are all unreasonable in our expectations.
I agree that the releases are way too much of the same thing. Tags and large sentiments and birds. Way to much. Maybe the idea is that if you don't like one bird, you might like the other. I can get that. However, the bloom is off this rose and I, for one, am sad to this happen.
I WANT to buy again but as long as the attitude towards customers exist I won't.
PTI needs me more than I need them, and Rick, if part of your job is to let them know what we are saying, you can tell them that.
Every time I go on the forum, I keep hoping to see that they have hired a professional manager and that Nichole and the other 2 are now silent partners with Nichole just showing up on her blog with awesome designs.
I like the strawberry set and I would also like to see lilacs and hydrangeas in a YOF format. I don't mind that Nichole asks for input into the stamps that she would like to design. I think that it's smart.
That being said, it wold be better for Nichole to stay quiet altogether when people are critisising anything that she does. "Thank you for taking the time to share your disappointment" or "I'm sorry to hear that some of you are not happy" just sounds terrible.
Was interested in yof labels but misspellings and passive aggressive response turned me off. And the Cedar ridge reference in gv2 completely turned me off. The rest sucks, IMHO.
In all fairness, the featured quote was not made by Nichole. I wrote it and it was in reference to a post that she made many months ago when people were complaining about the apple die in the fruit fusion set not working with the Teacher's Apple set. That was when she actually said "Thank you for taking the time to share your disappointment...."
Postby nichole » Wed May 11, 2011 8:11 am Thanks for taking the time to share all of your disappointment with us that this particular die does not coordinate with Teacher's Apple. I personally am REALLY excited about Melissa's apple design and die and look forward to using the two together for many fun projects!
The featured quote may not have been from Nichole verbatim, but the following is:
I'm sorry to hear that some of you feel the execution of this set does not meet your expectations. I used vintage seed packets as an inspiration for the titles, and that may not be everyone's preference. I would say that if you don't care for the selections made, you can totally pass on it and spend the money on another item from your wish list. ----------------------------------- That's the exact comment from the thread about the spelling errors in the YOF labels mini set. http://forum.papertreyink.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=34764&start=0
Maybe because it's only $5 we should suck it up and shut up. But, I do think it's interesting that Lizzie's little language gaffs resulted in ALL of her sets being pulled, but Nichole's is still going to be sold regardless of errors and customer satisfaction levels.
Well, 7:49, as day-glo Dawn would say there are mortgages to be paid.
And if you look at Nichole's pinterest that she linked in a thread on that subject, it would appear she's planning to add a pool at the house that stamps built.
And if you look at Nichole's pinterest that she linked in a thread on that subject, it would appear she's planning to add a pool at the house that stamps built.
Ugh ugh ugh. Maybe I just jalous? But I'm starting to really hate NH. Her sucky attitude and flaunting of her mansion when she clearly has no regard for customers has gone beyond minor irritation.
No attention to detail in stamp sets, frequent errors, defensive and passive aggressive - why would I want to give them any of my money?
I have to give credit where credit is due because I have almost daily smacked the dt for their lack of creativity this and last release. The samples shown this morning, IMO, were MUCH better than anything they have shown all week. I am not ordering but I did feel a bit more tempted due to what I saw on their blogs this morning. I saw several bits of evidence in those samples that told me that they all are reading this smack blog. Dawn toned down the colors, almost all of them did birds without the squirting tail feathers, and a few other things. As I opened each blog I saw evidence that they are reading here.
Looking through Nichole's Pinterest was eye opening. You can easily see where her values are in life. No wonder she is driven and angry when her plans are falling apart.
I think it all boils down to the fact that PTI got really big to quickly, and now they have no idea what to do. The releases each month are huge. Much to large in my opinion- who can afford to keep up with that? Who can stay inspired when they have to create SO MUCH for every monthly release? But dialing it down will lose them a lot of money. Although under the current atmosphere, I am sure that is already happening. I am sure Nichole is a bit panicked, but she doesn't deal with it well. She gets passive aggressive and snippy with the clients who are GIVING HER MONEY. You never bite the hand that feeds you, unless it is absolutely warranted. In this case- it is not. I can't say if I think PTI is a sinking ship, but I think it is highly possible if they don't revise their business plan/model.
Not to mention the personal friends that Nh is losing. People she once admired enough to add to her DT have gracefully distanced themselves. We'll never truly know what happened with Jenn but the likelihood that someone would leave before the dawn of "great new improvements" is unlikely unless things were truly bad.
I can't think of a single person who has ever been personally involved with PTI in some way who still supports them publicly. ex-DT, the owners of other stamp companies who organized the stamp cruise, ex-"guest"-stamp-designers, Jenn E, ...
Even some of the current stamp designers are remarkedly quiet on the forum. How often do you *hear* from Lisa J.? She has taken a step back from PTI since their anniversary and is not nearly as active in the forum as she use to be. I've also noticed that most of her release projects use competitor products like Zva crystals. Shouldn't she be using the rhinestones PTI carries and color them with Copics to match? Once upon a time, this never would've happened. Maybe Lisa just doesn't care anymore about the silly little rules.
I stopped reading what Nichole writes a long time ago but started again because of how they are running their business.
So they introduce something new to go with the seed packet design this time, right?
"We recieved a small die shipment last night that we will be able to add to the inventory tonight:
DIES:
Heart-2-Heart #1 die Seed Packet die Movers & Shakers: Poppers die collection Movers & Shakers: Zippers die collection"
A SMALL SHIPMENT of seed packet dies? Do they just assume no one is going to want it now or do they think everyone already has it?? what is the logic here? I don't get it.
With the exception of Dawn, I don't see anyone at all climbing over themselves to defend, or support, PTI. Even the current DT seems cold at best. Like they are going through the motions to get by.
"These items were supposed to arrive in time for the release, but the manufacturer has provided us with a longer turnaround time than expected. When this shipment arrives it will include:
This is the same old story every time. PTI seems to be THE company that doesn't have things in time. Who isn't checking with the manufacturer and more importantly -- everyone always defends various things because "these releases are planned MONTHS in advance." Well that die is NOT new. They could have requested it months ago if they are so all-fired prepared in advance. Lame excuses, every release.
I know someone here was saying that they liked that vintage background from Heather but it looks a whole lot worse in the full reveal now!
Just imagine - anyone think PTI could sell stuff in a brick & mortar store?? Without the DT to lean on? SO many of their sets look blah.
I have to say I've been disappointed in the past, when I used to order things because I was inspired (a long time ago) and then it came and I saw the set and it just had no appeal on its own.
This seed packet stamp design is much better than the last one and I'd be all over that set if it weren't for the Cedar Ridge nonsense. That's a slap in the face.
Before little detective comes along - yes I did write a string of comments here in a row. Get over yourself.
I went through the reveals and added up - in complete honesty - what I would've bought if this release had been a year or two ago, before I became so disgusted with this company and started looking at things more critically.
Everybody is just jalous of Nicole. Leave her alone.
15 April 2012 09:42
You're so special you deserve bold and italic. Poor thing. So delusional and at such a young age I imagine since you don't know how to spell jealous. (I don't personally care if you misspell Nichole.)
Not claiming to know for sure what's going on, but having a hubs in the manufacturing business it's likely that the funds just aren't there to be getting on time and regular shipments of product. The amount of times PTI has used the excuse that it's the manufacturers fault that items don't come when said or are OOS for so long is most likely a lie...it's PTI not being able to cough up the funds in time. The manufacutring business does not work the way PTI tries to make it appear. They like blame shifting...it's the manufacuturers fault, the customers fault etc. And though designs on paper/computer are probably done months in advance, the actual product run is more than likely not done until very close the release, which has been proven in the fact that there have been many times the DT haven't gotten supplies in time or very close to when they are suppose to be showing projects. Anyway...all to say I think it's just more lies about how the business is really operating. IMO.
And certainly, while a set may not appeal to every customer out there, that doesn't mean that it needs to be re-worked in order to accommodate those that don't care for the set. Some will buy it because they love it and some won't....and that's totally ok.
It is NOT that we don't "care for" the set! It is that it is inaccurate. How can they defend that?
I'm glad to see you come to the defense of the manufacturer. It makes me sick every time I see that comment at PTI. It's poor business management flat out and I think you are spot on.
9:29- I've wondered that, too. But wouldn't it be nice to buy PTI directly from your local shop and cut out having to deal with PTI and crew? I saw Lawn Fawn items at my local shop the other day and smiled because I was happy to see a small company branching out.
I've wondered that, too. But wouldn't it be nice to buy PTI directly from your local shop and cut out having to deal with PTI and crew?
------------------------------- Except that one round of the customer service runaround that PTI is famous for, and none of those local stores would order from them again.
10:09, I think that may be the reason for some of the "quality" issues with product. They don't have the $$$ to pay, at the max of their credit line, etc.
All the while they sit on inventory that doesn't move.
Loving all the PTI release rip-offs that I am seeing on blogs this morning. You can get the "look" without buying their stuff! I am off to try it. Will post a picture if I get something presentable.
Everybody is just jalous of Nicole. Leave her alone. ======================= I'll guess that you don't see a thing wrong with Nichole's bad grammar and spellings, right? Keep stamping' sister....
That's what gets me. On the old site, sometimes I'd go back to see what amounts of inventory they had of some of the older stamp sets. Holy cow - why don't they put that stuff on sale, get some cash going, and get rid of it?! Then they could retire stuff and make their store a little cleaner. No business sense.
Pick a week or two each year - one summer, one winter or something - and have sale week. Feature the older stamp sets on the blogs, mark 'em down, and move 'em out.
Move on! I think part of that is the "resting on their laurels" attitude that is the same thing happening with stamp design. Enlarge something, tag it, add to it. Arrogance again.
"wouldn't it be nice to buy PTI directly from your local shop and cut out having to deal with PTI and crew?" ----------------------- The 3 owners would never give up the control. I mean...Lordy Bees, they can't even give enough control to their *one* CS person to solve anything.
Look at the great lengths they go to to retain control. Even if it means running off every customer until they are left with Ted and Audrey....they are still in control.
You have to go in to your cart as if you wanted to edit/delete something. Then, increase the 1 to a large quantity of an item. When you click save, it'll automatically drop it down to match inventory.
They definitely should retire things...I, for one, have been more tempted to buy when I see words such as "limited edition" or "retiring soon." You can always sell them later, but just the thought of not having that option makes me nervous enough to buy now!! Did it with the Tim Holtz Holiday inks, but I actually like those!
"limited edition" ... like as in the anniversary set? PTI's idea of "limited" is not what the rest of us think it is. I can not believe there are still people trying to get that set delivered. Good lord!
I do think they should retire some sets. And I think that's where the "limited" would come from. But don't say - now available for a limited time. That means, we have to see how well stock moves before we set a cutoff so we don't get stuck with it
Say these are retiring and when they're retired. Take what you can get and write it off as a loss.
Let's play, "If I were hired to do PR for PTI...."
I'll go first. If I were hired to do PR for PTI ... I would ban NH from commenting on the forum. It never leads to a positive vibe. CS could / would / should answer all common product questions.
If I were hired to do PR for PTI ... I would insist things were checked before implemented. Spelling and grammar. Missed sentiments. WEBSITES. Inventory. CS staff. BUSINESS PARTNERS WHO HATE CUSTOMERS.
If I was PTI PR ... I would have been the one person who raised a hand in the meeting and said, "I think that bird looks like it has issues. We need to re-work that tail. Trust me"
That brings up a point I've wondered about too -- DT (I mean, stamp designers) submit their sketches to NH. Does she ever sound out her DT on what they think of stamp designs? Step down from that mighty pedestal that stamps built and ask for a second, third or fourth pair of eyes?
One thing I would do would be to make sure all DT had all the items being released so they could showcase everything. For example, the new wisteria color wasn't included in anyone's goodies, so it wasn't showcased.
Hell's bells--even the mighty and powerful (insert snicker) Nichole didn't even use it.
I would have loved to see how the new cardstock looks, although it really doesn't matter since I won't be ordering anything for a long time.
Wow - cannot believe the lame excuses used to defend that error.
And I'm surprised a new (?) Canadian company hasn't come forward offering appropriate spellings for Canadians and better shipping. It seems like there's an audience just waiting!
Wasn't there a company a couple of years ago being criticized on SCS for ripping off PTI designs?
Clear Dollar Stamps was accused of ripping off PTI a few years back. I think that their nugget label stamps were very similar to PTI's and came out just after PTI's did.
I worked as a recording engineer for a number of years....and I noticed that the creative types had a HARD time dealing with criticism because they usually put their heart and soul into their work and had so much invested emotionally in the outcome/product.
As a creative type, I can understand that. I try not to pick on original artwork publicly, for instance, because I know that opens me up to scrutiny and I admit it could be brutal!
And I respect you, Rick, but that argument only works if you buy into the idea that spelling a word wrong is creative license.
I know of other stamp companies that solicit honest comments from their DT on stamp sets during the development process. Errors are caught and wonky elements and sentiments are reworked. Of course, that would be a sound business move .... oh, wait, never mind.
I don't think spelling things wrong is covered under the whole "creative license" thing at all. It wasn't an argument for or against the release of the set...it was an argument for an artist's reaction to criticism...based on my experience as an engineer.
A simple misspelling most likely wouldn't cause such an uproar IF it were an isolated incident. In PTI's case, this is the norm; TOTALLY unprofessional and UNACCEPTABLE.
Good golly Jennifer, thanks for these CUTE trees! http://www.jennifermcguireink.com/2012/04/glitter-trees.html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=glitter-trees
If I worked for PTI, I would ban Ted for the forum and when he asks why, I will say what he always says, "It's PTI's forum. I'll do what I want to do."
If I worked for PTI, I would ban Ted for the forum and when he asks why, I will say what he always says, "It's PTI's forum. I'll do what I want to do."
I agree with everything that Steph said but will just do it quietly here. If I answer on the forum it will just look like a pile on and I don't want to look like a sh** disturber.
If I worked for PTI I wouldn't brag how far in advance I prepare for each release. Especially if my DT can't get the goods to feature. Or if my warehouse didn't have the dies in stock for a featured set. Or if I didn't have any CS ....
I really like the strawberry set and I would love to know what kind of cut Mish gets for these types of collab sets. She sure doesn't seem to be promoting it very heavily! No flowery words on her blog over the past 2 releases.
I actually like Mish's drawing of the large strawberry stamp 1000 times more than NH's version. The one in the set is just too spread out for me, too much white space.
Do we really need a set with "Time" and "Rosemarie" in it? Cause you know NH will find something vintage with those spellings. Too bad she didn't realize that she's looking at a watch or an envelope and not the names of the actual herbs.
sorry but I think the forum comments that are so critical are out of line.
Come here and complain -- but why be so hostile to a company on its own forum unless you have a vendetta OR the company owes you something on the CS front. Otherwise, come here and smack or move on already.
Stephanie looks like she has no life and is stuck playing the mean girl in junior high with this smack blog as her chorus of friends.
Donna C, sorry honey but quit posting links to your blog. you do it everywhere on a million forums under a million different names and it isn't going to make you popular. Enough already.
reading those posts almost -- almost -- makes me want to place an order.
"I'm so sorry you didn't understand the way to use the forum. It was meant to tell me how wonderful I am and you are not using it in that way, so we are shutting it down."
Anyone want to ask Nichole to share the "vintage" seed packet where she got the spelling? Seems she would want to have a chance to prove she is telling the truth.
SO you're going to sacrifice yourself on the altar of PTI?
Give me a break. Take your high and mighty attitude back to the PTI forum.
The posts on their forum are NOT hostile.
And I think where you come from the "mean girls" must be the bright ones who correct the teacher. No the mean ones jump all over the nice ones who are just trying to share something nice with their friends.
Rick Geymonat said... wonder how much longer the forum is going to be around? ==================== At the rate NH is running off customers, I am surprised ANY of it is still around.
Yeah, Rick I think it is a super idea to shut down the forum. I mean that in an "only in PTI-logic way" kinda super. It would make total sense to cut off the only place left that your remaining customers can gather.
PTI was such an awesome company before all of those damn customers ruined everything.
Oh, I get it. Other people using their names post blog links to my blog on their blogs or on forums? I only use this name and Mrs. C on the GW board and only post at Papertrey and GW and no where else.
Donna C: I like your blog and I honestly don't think you want to increase its traffic; you just share things with us. Apparently there's a troll who can't stand a person with creativity!
@ 14:24 I don't agree at all. Steph was ganged up on IMO. She is (yet another) longtime customer who tactfully stated her opinion. You wanna talk mean girls? What do you call Dawn and Ashley coming along and declaring "it's fine". As Dawn implied - it's one of the sunshiny perks of being the designer. Sucks to be the customer.
To 14:33, you are correct. I have NO IDEA how many people even see my blog at all. I don't have a counter and have no clue how to know how many people see it. It was created purely to share with my stamping friends and even if no one ever saw it I would post there because I enjoy it.
NH needs to hire a damn proofreader already!! How many issues would not exist if she would have ONE intelligent person on her staff looking things over. For Pete's sakes get the DT to do that instead of piss people off on the forums. BE PROACTIVE ALREADY.
I have wondered in the past if they would shut down the blog. The only part that I would miss is the for sale board because I have found some great deals there. I would feel sad for those that are rabid fans though because they would have no place to gather. I am not being sarcastic about that either.
Does anyone else think that Ashley would be better off keeping her mouth shut? A good deal of her post did not make sense and adding words like "further" and "hence" don't make us think she's any smarter just like using old books in her blog photos doesn't fool anyone.
The forum seems like a lot of trouble to keep up. ------------------------------- ^ Yes, being defensive about errors in products takes a tremendous amy of effort. Not having any CS for customers to turn to creates a LOT of trouble for the forum. Needing the DT to spray the crowd with sunshine icons to subdue them ....
Yes, yes it is a tremendous amount of work to be incompetent and blame the customers. I agree.
@ 14:47 Once upon a time PTI had an educated, intelligent DT. (Becky comes to mind). It would take so much less of their time to spend 10 minutes proofreading a set than the time they spend defending the errors on the forum.
I just have so much trouble reading Nichole's posts and not have them colored by her past posts. Stephanie hit the nail on the head when she explained the proper way to apologize.
Rick, it would really only be the true fans that lose out if the forum gets shut down. The Ted's and Audrey's would be very hurt.
**disclaimer** I do not work for PTI, but I do love the people that run it. My observations may not be accurate or reflect those of the fine folks here on the smack blog...but they are real to me... **endofdisclaimer*
It is funny how some will call Nichole mean and hurtful names here, and in the same breath talk on the forum about how respectful their comments to her are meant to be.
Am I the only one who reads the forum and the smack blog?
Someone on the smack blog will say "watch me put a dig in on the forum and fuck with these people", and then two seconds later post on the forum "my comments were not meant to be offensive or hostile"..
I wonder why the people who are so hostile on here are not just as hostile and hateful on the forum? and just as proud of it there as they are here...
Pretty hard to change your behavior when your character stays the same and you keep publicly showing it on the forum. Most people know this and yes, it does make me sad. PTI had such huge potential once upon a time.
I don't know either. I watch to see what happens with PTI: Either I'll be validated in my opinions or they'll prove me wrong.
I don't like hypocrisy either. But I can see "speaking up" on the forum but in a respectful way so your voice can be heard and letting your hair down here.
There may be a few people who go back and forth as "sport" but I don't think it's many.
Yes, proofreading is needed. Every single time ANYTHING is released to the public. Stamp sets - absolutely. Nichole's blog posts - boy, it would be nice. Nichole's forum posts - yes, please! She is the master of introducing confusion and anger where none existed before. This happens because she tends to mis-use the same words again and again. For example, she used to use "in lieu of" on her blog all the time, but she used it to mean "because of", when the actual meaning is the opposite, "instead of". A long time ago, I sent a polite message to Jenn (because we can't send to Nichole) about it, and got a nice thank you from Jenn. After that, Nichole stopped using the phrase completely. But she still has others that are just as bad. It's so hard for customers to know what the heck you mean when you routinely say the opposite, either due to typing too fast, or because you just don't know what the words mean.
In the school PTAs that I volunteer with, we subject everything that goes out for public consumption to at least two rounds of proof-reading. And we catch errors every single time. It's important enough to do when we're run by 100% volunteers. Why isn't it important enough for a company that wants our money?
And yes, Rick, we see how very little it takes to set off people on the forum. Steph is absolutely correct and respectful, but has now had a formal warning. That warning is: Don't ever disagree with Nichole. Don't ever point out any mistakes she has made because she absolutely does NOT make mistakes. It is the fauit of a vintage seed packet, you know.
Once again Rick, I see where you're coming from. I am trying to keep my opinions here.
There are a few people here that are doing exactly what you are saying. They are posting smack here and that just makes them look like shit disturbers on the forum.
Huh. Well I was surprised at the uproar gladiolas caused. I was surprised when the original gladiolus set came out, because, as an uneducated non-gardener, I had only ever used the term "gladiola".
I think the only thing smackable about that is the inconsistency from the previous set. If you used gladiolus in one you probably should use gladioli or gladioluses in the subsequent set.
But then I would never use those two words as stamps because I say "gladiolas".
I'm going to also say, I thought Steph was respectful. But at the same time I felt like she was beating a dead horse there at the end. Get over it will ya?
Either buy the set or don't. Express your disappointment once. You don't need to pound the point into the ground.
I don't blame Steph for clarifying her views. For one thing, it's frustrating to have your points glossed over by people who can barely write a comprehensible sentence.
I guess if you're going to call it "beating a dead horse," then every time two points of view are expressed you probably think the last line should always be "agree to disagree." People complaining about Steph's stand are the ones who realize their argument does not hold water and the bottom line is that PTI and NicHole are embarrassed by it.
Rick, do you think that the forum will close? Is it just a big headache for the ptb right now?
Personally I think that Nichole is a wonderful designer and a creative genius. It really might be in Papertrey's best interest to close the forum. I guess it really comes down to whether or not the money that the forum generates in sales is more than the headache that it has probably become.
Perhaps if they keep it open, Nichole could stay away and the dt could refer questions that they really don't know the answer to to Nichole but have you answer. KWIM?
Really, first?
ReplyDelete2nd and this release sucks BIG TIME
ReplyDelete^^^^^
ReplyDeleteCongrats for being first, InkStink! :)
And goodness, yes, this release sucks... I am glad I don't have to be tempted by this company and will just stay the heck away :D
Re: the lack of creativity at PTI. I get that there's not a lot new in the world of stamping and everybody copies everyone else. Trends seem to dictate that every company has a bicycle, chevron and French set.
ReplyDeleteBut what do we see from PTI this month? Another bird set. After they just did a Bitty Birds Addition set last month. Another tree set. Quite reminiscent of Tree Tops set introduced in what, December of last year. Strawberries? This is their 3rd round of that theme. More tags. Too lazy to count how many they've done of those. They've milked YOF dry - a year long series, then little, this time names. And now Nichole is trolling for flower ideas on the forum.
If there is creative genius here anymore, I just don't see it.
how about something technology.....ipods/ipads/computers.....that would be fun - good for male and teenagers too
ReplyDeleteFeatured comment from Nichole ... first thought was "Wow, what a passive-aggressive biotch.". If customers are disappointed in the entire release, wouldn't you be trying to turn them on to it so they buy something this month? Nope. Guess she's doing so damn fine in this economy that she can be rude and condescending to posters (many of whom on the forum are also talking up what they plan to buy).
ReplyDeleteAnd there is nothing new stamp-wise under the PTI sun. How many new-to-PTI sets have we seen in the past three months? And the great NH is shamelessly trolling the forum to ask first for fall and holiday ideas and now for flowers? If I wanted to design my own set, I'd send some clip art to Staples and get them to turn it into a stamp. The head designer should not be coming to us time and time again for ideas. Isn't she the trend watcher?
And I'm a little ticked that the coffee cup die is still OOS. It's been almost 2 months.
Nichole is very very angry. Angrier than a good businesswoman (sorry Rick, she is not brilliant at being a businesswoman). She is furious over this blog, heartbroken over Jenn, and cannot figure out what the hell happened to her perch on top of the papercrafting world.
ReplyDeleteShe really really does not get it. She thinks we are all unreasonable in our expectations.
I agree that the releases are way too much of the same thing. Tags and large sentiments and birds. Way to much. Maybe the idea is that if you don't like one bird, you might like the other. I can get that. However, the bloom is off this rose and I, for one, am sad to this happen.
I WANT to buy again but as long as the attitude towards customers exist I won't.
PTI needs me more than I need them, and Rick, if part of your job is to let them know what we are saying, you can tell them that.
Every time I go on the forum, I keep hoping to see that they have hired a professional manager and that Nichole and the other 2 are now silent partners with Nichole just showing up on her blog with awesome designs.
PULEEZE
Overall this release is lame. I like Dawn's tag set. Does anyone know the font used for it? TIA!
ReplyDeleteI like the strawberry set and I would also like to see lilacs and hydrangeas in a YOF format. I don't mind that Nichole asks for input into the stamps that she would like to design. I think that it's smart.
ReplyDeleteThat being said, it wold be better for Nichole to stay quiet altogether when people are critisising anything that she does. "Thank you for taking the time to share your disappointment" or "I'm sorry to hear that some of you are not happy" just sounds terrible.
Was interested in yof labels but misspellings and passive aggressive response turned me off. And the Cedar ridge reference in gv2 completely turned me off. The rest sucks, IMHO.
ReplyDeleteIn all fairness, the featured quote was not made by Nichole. I wrote it and it was in reference to a post that she made many months ago when people were complaining about the apple die in the fruit fusion set not working with the Teacher's Apple set. That was when she actually said "Thank you for taking the time to share your disappointment...."
ReplyDeleteHere you go -
ReplyDeleteRe: The new apple die---
Postby nichole » Wed May 11, 2011 8:11 am
Thanks for taking the time to share all of your disappointment with us that this particular die does not coordinate with Teacher's Apple. I personally am REALLY excited about Melissa's apple design and die and look forward to using the two together for many fun projects!
Having Ted on ignore doesn't stop me from being able to see his stupid thread titles.
ReplyDeleteThe featured quote may not have been from Nichole verbatim, but the following is:
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry to hear that some of you feel the execution of this set does not meet your expectations. I used vintage seed packets as an inspiration for the titles, and that may not be everyone's preference. I would say that if you don't care for the selections made, you can totally pass on it and spend the money on another item from your wish list.
-----------------------------------
That's the exact comment from the thread about the spelling errors in the YOF labels mini set. http://forum.papertreyink.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=34764&start=0
Maybe because it's only $5 we should suck it up and shut up. But, I do think it's interesting that Lizzie's little language gaffs resulted in ALL of her sets being pulled, but Nichole's is still going to be sold regardless of errors and customer satisfaction levels.
Well, 7:49, as day-glo Dawn would say there are mortgages to be paid.
ReplyDeleteAnd if you look at Nichole's pinterest that she linked in a thread on that subject, it would appear she's planning to add a pool at the house that stamps built.
Gotta keep the money coming in no matter what.
And if you look at Nichole's pinterest that she linked in a thread on that subject, it would appear she's planning to add a pool at the house that stamps built.
ReplyDeleteUgh ugh ugh. Maybe I just jalous? But I'm starting to really hate NH. Her sucky attitude and flaunting of her mansion when she clearly has no regard for customers has gone beyond minor irritation.
No attention to detail in stamp sets, frequent errors, defensive and passive aggressive - why would I want to give them any of my money?
I give them 6 months.
I have to give credit where credit is due because I have almost daily smacked the dt for their lack of creativity this and last release. The samples shown this morning, IMO, were MUCH better than anything they have shown all week. I am not ordering but I did feel a bit more tempted due to what I saw on their blogs this morning. I saw several bits of evidence in those samples that told me that they all are reading this smack blog. Dawn toned down the colors, almost all of them did birds without the squirting tail feathers, and a few other things. As I opened each blog I saw evidence that they are reading here.
ReplyDeleteLooking through Nichole's Pinterest was eye opening. You can easily see where her values are in life. No wonder she is driven and angry when her plans are falling apart.
ReplyDeleteI think it all boils down to the fact that PTI got really big to quickly, and now they have no idea what to do. The releases each month are huge. Much to large in my opinion- who can afford to keep up with that? Who can stay inspired when they have to create SO MUCH for every monthly release? But dialing it down will lose them a lot of money. Although under the current atmosphere, I am sure that is already happening. I am sure Nichole is a bit panicked, but she doesn't deal with it well. She gets passive aggressive and snippy with the clients who are GIVING HER MONEY. You never bite the hand that feeds you, unless it is absolutely warranted. In this case- it is not. I can't say if I think PTI is a sinking ship, but I think it is highly possible if they don't revise their business plan/model.
ReplyDeleteI continue to wonder how they can support the inventory investment. If sales fall, they are going to be in a heap of trouble.
ReplyDeleteClear sign will be if they ever have a sale. I mean, a real sale. Not 5% off because it's their anniversary.
Not to mention the personal friends that Nh is losing. People she once admired enough to add to her DT have gracefully distanced themselves. We'll never truly know what happened with Jenn but the likelihood that someone would leave before the dawn of "great new improvements" is unlikely unless things were truly bad.
ReplyDeleteI can't think of a single person who has ever been personally involved with PTI in some way who still supports them publicly. ex-DT, the owners of other stamp companies who organized the stamp cruise, ex-"guest"-stamp-designers, Jenn E, ...
ReplyDeleteCan anyone else?
She was once friendly with Gina K and other vendors and I understand they have nothing to do with her anymore.
ReplyDeleteEven some of the current stamp designers are remarkedly quiet on the forum. How often do you *hear* from Lisa J.? She has taken a step back from PTI since their anniversary and is not nearly as active in the forum as she use to be. I've also noticed that most of her release projects use competitor products like Zva crystals. Shouldn't she be using the rhinestones PTI carries and color them with Copics to match? Once upon a time, this never would've happened. Maybe Lisa just doesn't care anymore about the silly little rules.
ReplyDeleteI stopped reading what Nichole writes a long time ago but started again because of how they are running their business.
ReplyDeleteSo they introduce something new to go with the seed packet design this time, right?
"We recieved a small die shipment last night that we will be able to add to the inventory tonight:
DIES:
Heart-2-Heart #1 die
Seed Packet die
Movers & Shakers: Poppers die collection
Movers & Shakers: Zippers die collection"
A SMALL SHIPMENT of seed packet dies? Do they just assume no one is going to want it now or do they think everyone already has it?? what is the logic here? I don't get it.
With the exception of Dawn, I don't see anyone at all climbing over themselves to defend, or support, PTI. Even the current DT seems cold at best. Like they are going through the motions to get by.
ReplyDeleteOkay - in fairness, I think, here's the rest:
ReplyDelete"These items were supposed to arrive in time for the release, but the manufacturer has provided us with a longer turnaround time than expected. When this shipment arrives it will include:
MORE DIES:
Linen & Canvas Impression Plate
Seed Packet Frame die"
This is the same old story every time. PTI seems to be THE company that doesn't have things in time. Who isn't checking with the manufacturer and more importantly -- everyone always defends various things because "these releases are planned MONTHS in advance." Well that die is NOT new. They could have requested it months ago if they are so all-fired prepared in advance. Lame excuses, every release.
It's the day of the release and this:
ReplyDelete"If anything else is brought to my attention as they make preparations in the warehouse, I will certainly let you know here."
The 15th sneaking up on you all again now, is it?
Someone give that woman a calendar.
I know someone here was saying that they liked that vintage background from Heather but it looks a whole lot worse in the full reveal now!
ReplyDeleteJust imagine - anyone think PTI could sell stuff in a brick & mortar store?? Without the DT to lean on? SO many of their sets look blah.
I have to say I've been disappointed in the past, when I used to order things because I was inspired (a long time ago) and then it came and I saw the set and it just had no appeal on its own.
This seed packet stamp design is much better than the last one and I'd be all over that set if it weren't for the Cedar Ridge nonsense. That's a slap in the face.
ReplyDeleteBefore little detective comes along - yes I did write a string of comments here in a row. Get over yourself.
ReplyDeleteI went through the reveals and added up - in complete honesty - what I would've bought if this release had been a year or two ago, before I became so disgusted with this company and started looking at things more critically.
They just lost a $151 sale.
Everybody is just jalous of Nicole. Leave her alone.
ReplyDeleteOK, troll, you made your point. Now head on back to the safety of the PTI forum where you can learn to spell Nichole's name. Buh-bye.
ReplyDeleteis there a rule against a string of posts? I do it all the time. Why is it a problem??
ReplyDeleteIt's not a problem ;) . Someone the other day posted -- oh gee, I think the same person posted a whole bunch in a row, duh.
ReplyDeleteLOL! I just thought it was lame.
We'll keep that person busy playing detective, 09:53 and 09:54!
ReplyDeleteAnonymous said...
ReplyDeleteEverybody is just jalous of Nicole. Leave her alone.
15 April 2012 09:42
You're so special you deserve bold and italic. Poor thing. So delusional and at such a young age I imagine since you don't know how to spell jealous. (I don't personally care if you misspell Nichole.)
Go back under your bridge.
The misspelling of jalous and Nicole was intentional. It was a joke. Sorry, I forgot to add the covering my face smilie.
ReplyDeleteRules of this blog:
ReplyDeleteYou cannot post in a string.
You may not ask how to see page 2 of posts.
You must spell Nichole Heady's name correctly.
OK--got it, now!
Jalous comes from a famous hair flip on 2Peas. I guess not so famous.
ReplyDeleteThose tell-tale spelling errors! They'll out you every time, LOL!
ReplyDeleteAnd "Rules of this blog," above all, when it doubt, we love sarcasm ;) ;)
Not claiming to know for sure what's going on, but having a hubs in the manufacturing business it's likely that the funds just aren't there to be getting on time and regular shipments of product. The amount of times PTI has used the excuse that it's the manufacturers fault that items don't come when said or are OOS for so long is most likely a lie...it's PTI not being able to cough up the funds in time. The manufacutring business does not work the way PTI tries to make it appear. They like blame shifting...it's the manufacuturers fault, the customers fault etc. And though designs on paper/computer are probably done months in advance, the actual product run is more than likely not done until very close the release, which has been proven in the fact that there have been many times the DT haven't gotten supplies in time or very close to when they are suppose to be showing projects. Anyway...all to say I think it's just more lies about how the business is really operating. IMO.
ReplyDelete09:57: Intentional? Add a wink or something next time (eyes rolling)
ReplyDeleteFrom Dawn:
ReplyDeleteAnd certainly, while a set may not appeal to every customer out there, that doesn't mean that it needs to be re-worked in order to accommodate those that don't care for the set. Some will buy it because they love it and some won't....and that's totally ok.
It is NOT that we don't "care for" the set! It is that it is inaccurate. How can they defend that?
I'm glad to see you come to the defense of the manufacturer. It makes me sick every time I see that comment at PTI. It's poor business management flat out and I think you are spot on.
ReplyDelete9:29- I've wondered that, too. But wouldn't it be nice to buy PTI directly from your local shop and cut out having to deal with PTI and crew?
ReplyDeleteI saw Lawn Fawn items at my local shop the other day and smiled because I was happy to see a small company branching out.
Besides, I think most people know who their manufacturers are.
ReplyDelete"know who their manufacturers are." and it is an insult to their reputation to make those claims!
ReplyDeleteLol. Too funny. ^^^
ReplyDeleteMy reason for not buying is the owners sheer arrogance. They are the only ones in this industry with this attitude. Is there anyone else?
I've wondered that, too. But wouldn't it be nice to buy PTI directly from your local shop and cut out having to deal with PTI and crew?
ReplyDelete-------------------------------
Except that one round of the customer service runaround that PTI is famous for, and none of those local stores would order from them again.
I think you're right. Arrogance is at the root of all of their problems. No humility.
ReplyDeleteAlso, there are a lot of companies who participate with some sort of charitable cause. What has PTI ever given back?
Stamp-a-Faire, LOL!!!! *gag*
They're their own favorite charity case!
ReplyDeleteOh you are so right! If they ever dreamed of getting their products into stores, that ship has sailed. No one would touch them now.
ReplyDeleteAt the height of their popularity, that would have been such a good move. Never really thought of it before.
ReplyDeleteWhat might have been. . . .
10:09, I think that may be the reason for some of the "quality" issues with product. They don't have the $$$ to pay, at the max of their credit line, etc.
ReplyDeleteAll the while they sit on inventory that doesn't move.
Loving all the PTI release rip-offs that I am seeing on blogs this morning. You can get the "look" without buying their stuff! I am off to try it. Will post a picture if I get something presentable.
ReplyDeleteEverybody is just jalous of Nicole. Leave her alone.
ReplyDelete=======================
I'll guess that you don't see a thing wrong with Nichole's bad grammar and spellings, right? Keep stamping' sister....
That's what gets me. On the old site, sometimes I'd go back to see what amounts of inventory they had of some of the older stamp sets. Holy cow - why don't they put that stuff on sale, get some cash going, and get rid of it?! Then they could retire stuff and make their store a little cleaner. No business sense.
ReplyDeletePick a week or two each year - one summer, one winter or something - and have sale week. Feature the older stamp sets on the blogs, mark 'em down, and move 'em out.
Move on! I think part of that is the "resting on their laurels" attitude that is the same thing happening with stamp design. Enlarge something, tag it, add to it. Arrogance again.
^^^ I'm late to post again! Damn - I can't keep up.
ReplyDelete10:34 that was perfect ;) !!
ReplyDeleteLead us to those blogs, Donna!! I loved Katarina's (yesterday I think).
I think retiring sets would help, too. A lot of people would buy if they thought there'd come a time that they couldn't get it anymore.
ReplyDeleteYes, link to the blogs with PTI-alternative projects. Puhleeeeze? :)
ReplyDelete"wouldn't it be nice to buy PTI directly from your local shop and cut out having to deal with PTI and crew?"
ReplyDelete-----------------------
The 3 owners would never give up the control. I mean...Lordy Bees, they can't even give enough control to their *one* CS person to solve anything.
Look at the great lengths they go to to retain control. Even if it means running off every customer until they are left with Ted and Audrey....they are still in control.
This company will be featured in every business school. How NOT to run a business 101. Almost everything they do is ass backwards.
ReplyDeleteOn the old web site one could find out how much stock there was of each stamp set, die, etc.
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone know if this can still be done on the new site.
You have to go in to your cart as if you wanted to edit/delete something. Then, increase the 1 to a large quantity of an item. When you click save, it'll automatically drop it down to match inventory.
DeleteI did this in less than 5 minutes. I already had the cloud background made for something else.
ReplyDeletehttp://rubystamper.blogspot.com/2012/04/making-do-with-what-i-have.html
I have seen at least 4-5 rip offs this morning, but I viewed over 300 blogs. If I see any more I will be sure to post them here.
ReplyDeleteLoved your card Donna - did you handcut the tree trunks?
ReplyDeleteThey definitely should retire things...I, for one, have been more tempted to buy when I see words such as "limited edition" or "retiring soon." You can always sell them later, but just the thought of not having that option makes me nervous enough to buy now!! Did it with the Tim Holtz Holiday inks, but I actually like those!
ReplyDeleteI used a Savvy Stamps Tree die and just cut all the leaves off, but they would be easy enough to hand cut or use a branch die you already have.
ReplyDeleteYes 10:53. You can. I tried right after they launched it.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your reply Donna - really clever and a fabulous design. Looks better than PTI's version too.
ReplyDelete"limited edition" ... like as in the anniversary set? PTI's idea of "limited" is not what the rest of us think it is. I can not believe there are still people trying to get that set delivered. Good lord!
ReplyDeleteThanks! It was extremely simple.
ReplyDeleteHA!!! "Limited Edition" redefined by PTI! LOL!!!
ReplyDeleteRelinquish control??? They have completely lost control IMHO.
Love your card, Donna!!! WTG!!!
Oh, Steph, you're going to get this thread locked.
ReplyDelete"Clearly it was my misunderstanding that PTI only wanted to offer quality products."
This thread is about the misspelling in the YOF Titles set.
http://forum.papertreyink.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=34764
I do think they should retire some sets. And I think that's where the "limited" would come from. But don't say - now available for a limited time. That means, we have to see how well stock moves before we set a cutoff so we don't get stuck with it
ReplyDeleteSay these are retiring and when they're retired. Take what you can get and write it off as a loss.
Love a girl who can speak her mind!
ReplyDeleteI see a lock in the future too
"Move along folks. Nothing to see here!"
ReplyDeleteLOCK.
Way to go, Steph. You are spot on and will probably be banned by the end of the day. How dare you expect quality? lol
ReplyDelete^^^what was misspelled ? I really don't want to go to the forum. Thx
ReplyDeletePlural of gladiola is gladious not gladiolas.
ReplyDeleteI think the cap "S" at the end of every word looks stupid.
Crap - gladiolus.
ReplyDeleteLet's play, "If I were hired to do PR for PTI...."
ReplyDeleteI'll go first. If I were hired to do PR for PTI ... I would ban NH from commenting on the forum. It never leads to a positive vibe. CS could / would / should answer all common product questions.
If I were hired to do CS, I would treat every customer like they were the difference between my company making it or going under.
ReplyDeleteIf I were hired to do PR for PTI ... I would insist things were checked before implemented. Spelling and grammar. Missed sentiments. WEBSITES. Inventory. CS staff. BUSINESS PARTNERS WHO HATE CUSTOMERS.
ReplyDeleteLol
... I would delete the link to Cedar Ridge and any mention on Pinterest of NH building a pool.
ReplyDeleteIf I were hired by PTI I would get the business a damn phone number. Then I'd make Dave answer it.
ReplyDeleteIf I was PTI PR ... I would have been the one person who raised a hand in the meeting and said, "I think that bird looks like it has issues. We need to re-work that tail. Trust me"
ReplyDeleteI'd hire all of you for PR! :)
ReplyDeleteThat brings up a point I've wondered about too -- DT (I mean, stamp designers) submit their sketches to NH. Does she ever sound out her DT on what they think of stamp designs? Step down from that mighty pedestal that stamps built and ask for a second, third or fourth pair of eyes?
That'd be smart.
So I guess not.
I would only let the DT design cards that are showcased at release time.
ReplyDeleteNot being a smart aleck but I'm not sure what you mean 11:54. ??
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry but BB:Postmarks just looks like a hot mess.
ReplyDeleteHeather is that you?!
ReplyDeleteBwaahahahahaha!!!
She and NH are the ones who should be saying sorry for that!
(seriously - amen, sistah!)
Some cute round tree stamps:
ReplyDeletehttp://scrappermomsworld.blogspot.com/2011/05/all-things-grow-bella-trees.html
And these are cute too:
ReplyDeletehttp://stampact.typepad.com/my_weblog/2011/03/crazy-4-challenges-friendship-is-a-sheltering-tree.html
One thing I would do would be to make sure all DT had all the items being released so they could showcase everything. For example, the new wisteria color wasn't included in anyone's goodies, so it wasn't showcased.
ReplyDeleteHell's bells--even the mighty and powerful (insert snicker) Nichole didn't even use it.
I would have loved to see how the new cardstock looks, although it really doesn't matter since I won't be ordering anything for a long time.
I probably just set myself up to be back on the ban list, but I don't want Steph's excellent and articulate post to scroll off.
ReplyDeleteBan mode - engaged
ReplyDeleteA busy 15th, of course.
ReplyDeleteWow - cannot believe the lame excuses used to defend that error.
And I'm surprised a new (?) Canadian company hasn't come forward offering appropriate spellings for Canadians and better shipping. It seems like there's an audience just waiting!
Wasn't there a company a couple of years ago being criticized on SCS for ripping off PTI designs?
Ha - locked and loaded??
ReplyDeleteI cannot wait until tomorrow when we do writing group in my classroom and they tell me that the errors are "creative license". Arghhh!
ReplyDeleteAm I the only one that doesn't think that this particular spelling issue isn't that big of a deal?
ReplyDeleteThe way that NH is defending it is a different story altogether.She should stay away from the forum!
Clear Dollar Stamps was accused of ripping off PTI a few years back. I think that their nugget label stamps were very similar to PTI's and came out just after PTI's did.
ReplyDeleteAm I the only one that doesn't think that this particular spelling issue isn't that big of a deal?
ReplyDeleteOkay, yes I see the humor in my own post.
MY bad! LOL! I meant IS that big of a deal.
I worked as a recording engineer for a number of years....and I noticed that the creative types had a HARD time dealing with criticism because they usually put their heart and soul into their work and had so much invested emotionally in the outcome/product.
ReplyDeleteWhoever said they like the new seed packet die but hate the Cedar Ridge Nursery business - I agree 100%. Couldn't have said it better.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with you Rick. That is why I think that Nichole should stay off of the forum, especially when it comes to defending her work.
ReplyDeleteAs a creative type, I can understand that. I try not to pick on original artwork publicly, for instance, because I know that opens me up to scrutiny and I admit it could be brutal!
ReplyDeleteAnd I respect you, Rick, but that argument only works if you buy into the idea that spelling a word wrong is creative license.
I know of other stamp companies that solicit honest comments from their DT on stamp sets during the development process. Errors are caught and wonky elements and sentiments are reworked. Of course, that would be a sound business move .... oh, wait, never mind.
ReplyDeleteI don't think spelling things wrong is covered under the whole "creative license" thing at all. It wasn't an argument for or against the release of the set...it was an argument for an artist's reaction to criticism...based on my experience as an engineer.
ReplyDeleteGood. You weren't going to get anywhere with that, right? ;)
ReplyDeleteSorry for misunderstanding - it just seemed like a response to the spelling issue.
I have right-brain days and left-brain days so I'm my own worst critic ~ I think most people are.
13:12, me too. I don't know if it goes on at PTI or not.
ReplyDeleteI understand what you are saying Rick.
ReplyDeleteA simple misspelling most likely wouldn't cause such an uproar IF it were an isolated incident. In PTI's case, this is the norm; TOTALLY unprofessional and UNACCEPTABLE.
ReplyDeleteGood golly Jennifer, thanks for these CUTE trees!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.jennifermcguireink.com/2012/04/glitter-trees.html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=glitter-trees
If I worked for PTI, I would ban Ted for the forum and when he asks why, I will say what he always says, "It's PTI's forum. I'll do what I want to do."
ReplyDeleteThose are cute trees. Some others that came up here made me think of Kim Hughes but I forgot to mention it. Nice designs.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous Anonymous said...
ReplyDeleteIf I worked for PTI, I would ban Ted for the forum and when he asks why, I will say what he always says, "It's PTI's forum. I'll do what I want to do."
15 April 2012 13:34
^^^ when copy and paste goes wrong.
ReplyDeletemeant to say - gets my vote for a great post.
13:30
ReplyDeleteLove that stamp set. Cute trees and non-pooping birds.
I agree with everything that Steph said but will just do it quietly here. If I answer on the forum it will just look like a pile on and I don't want to look like a sh** disturber.
ReplyDeleteThat spelling thread. Picture NH.
ReplyDeleteDo you see this:
*pout* Why do these people insist on spoiling MY release day!? *stomp feet*
Or this:
*hair flip* Whatever. I'm still the best and they know it. They must be jalous. *roll eyes*
(Jalous - definitely on purpose ;) )
If I worked for PTI I wouldn't brag how far in advance I prepare for each release. Especially if my DT can't get the goods to feature. Or if my warehouse didn't have the dies in stock for a featured set. Or if I didn't have any CS ....
ReplyDeleteCedar Ridge Nursery School.
ReplyDeleteWhere spelling and grammar are optional no matter how many times before this issue has cost you.
If I worked PR for PTI. . .
ReplyDeleteI'd have to go to confession every day.
Can anyone recommend some cute bird sets? Please, no feces.
ReplyDelete13:49 - ROFL!!!!
ReplyDeleteIf I worked for PTI I wouldn't send out the long-overdue anniversary sets 4x without any tracking.
ReplyDeleteNo wonder Nh wants a pool. She was likely inspired by the giant hole her company is digging.
ReplyDeleteI don't think Clear Dollar STamps look anything like PTI. Ick!
ReplyDeleteIf I worked for PTI, I wouldn't issue board warnings to people trying to help me see the error of my ways.
ReplyDeleteIf I was hired to be PR for PTI I would make the smack blog required reading for all employees. Reality check aisle 4!
ReplyDeleteSteph, love your wrong/right versions. Interesting how your "wrong" looks so much like how Nichole says everything. And that was your point.
ReplyDeleteBrilliant!!
I really like the strawberry set and I would love to know what kind of cut Mish gets for these types of collab sets. She sure doesn't seem to be promoting it very heavily! No flowery words on her blog over the past 2 releases.
ReplyDeleteVery impressed by Steph's last post. I wonder how many heads those comments just flew right over.
ReplyDeleteSteph's my new hero. <3
DeleteI think that it was the timing of the very popular nugget set that made it look so much like blatant copying.
ReplyDeleteSorry, the nugget set post was in reference to the clear dollar stamp comment above.
ReplyDeleteLoving Steph's 'How Not to Apologize' post! Beautiful!
ReplyDeleteI actually like Mish's drawing of the large strawberry stamp 1000 times more than NH's version. The one in the set is just too spread out for me, too much white space.
ReplyDeleteLOL! Does anyone else find the porn links funny on a smack blog? Thanks for the warning at least spammy!
ReplyDeleteWell now it just looks like I'm crazy! The links were there a second ago. Good catch !
ReplyDeleteI would like to see another frame introduced that is a bit more balanced looking. It could have herb names included to fill up a $24 set.
ReplyDeleteDo we really need a set with "Time" and "Rosemarie" in it? Cause you know NH will find something vintage with those spellings. Too bad she didn't realize that she's looking at a watch or an envelope and not the names of the actual herbs.
Deletewonder how much longer the forum is going to be around?
ReplyDeleteI bet Nichole does not begin to understand Steph's last post.
ReplyDelete14:19
ReplyDeleteReally? Do tell...what a predictable move if they shut it down.
^^^^ You've got to be kidding. Maybe it's just your delivery. Tell me this is meant to be funny.
ReplyDeleteYes, the forum bring the truth to light and we cannot have that!
ReplyDeleteThe must be kidding comment was for 14:18.
ReplyDeleteReally, Rick? I think it looks like the happy people are still humming along in their threads. They know to stay away from controversial ones.
ReplyDeleteI think it was a joke. Do you really think they could spell herb names? LOLOL
ReplyDeletesorry but I think the forum comments that are so critical are out of line.
ReplyDeleteCome here and complain -- but why be so hostile to a company on its own forum unless you have a vendetta OR the company owes you something on the CS front. Otherwise, come here and smack or move on already.
Stephanie looks like she has no life and is stuck playing the mean girl in junior high with this smack blog as her chorus of friends.
Donna C, sorry honey but quit posting links to your blog. you do it everywhere on a million forums under a million different names and it isn't going to make you popular. Enough already.
reading those posts almost -- almost -- makes me want to place an order.
"I'm so sorry you didn't understand the way to use the forum. It was meant to tell me how wonderful I am and you are not using it in that way, so we are shutting it down."
ReplyDeleteAnyone want to ask Nichole to share the "vintage" seed packet where she got the spelling? Seems she would want to have a chance to prove she is telling the truth.
ReplyDelete14:24
ReplyDeleteWell, that is interesting as I only use two stamp forums and my blog is part of my signature for both.
Get over it!
Rick, are you trying to tell us the forum is gonna be closed soon?
ReplyDeleteSO you're going to sacrifice yourself on the altar of PTI?
ReplyDeleteGive me a break. Take your high and mighty attitude back to the PTI forum.
The posts on their forum are NOT hostile.
And I think where you come from the "mean girls" must be the bright ones who correct the teacher. No the mean ones jump all over the nice ones who are just trying to share something nice with their friends.
Rick Geymonat said...
ReplyDeletewonder how much longer the forum is going to be around?
====================
At the rate NH is running off customers, I am surprised ANY of it is still around.
I hate when people call total strangers "honey."
ReplyDeleteYeah, Rick I think it is a super idea to shut down the forum. I mean that in an "only in PTI-logic way" kinda super. It would make total sense to cut off the only place left that your remaining customers can gather.
ReplyDeletePTI was such an awesome company before all of those damn customers ruined everything.
Oh, I get it. Other people using their names post blog links to my blog on their blogs or on forums? I only use this name and Mrs. C on the GW board and only post at Papertrey and GW and no where else.
ReplyDeleteDonna C: I like your blog and I honestly don't think you want to increase its traffic; you just share things with us. Apparently there's a troll who can't stand a person with creativity!
ReplyDelete@ 14:24 I don't agree at all. Steph was ganged up on IMO. She is (yet another) longtime customer who tactfully stated her opinion. You wanna talk mean girls? What do you call Dawn and Ashley coming along and declaring "it's fine". As Dawn implied - it's one of the sunshiny perks of being the designer. Sucks to be the customer.
ReplyDeleteTo 14:33, you are correct. I have NO IDEA how many people even see my blog at all. I don't have a counter and have no clue how to know how many people see it. It was created purely to share with my stamping friends and even if no one ever saw it I would post there because I enjoy it.
ReplyDeleteIf I worked for PTI ... I would hire someone exactly like Steph to be my spokesperson. She is tactful, intelligent, and organized.
ReplyDeleteHer "how to apologize" was the best.post.ever.
"sorry but I think the forum comments that are so critical are out of line"
ReplyDeleteIt's a risk you run in an open forum - there may be posts you disagree with. Only people who drink the Kool-Aid should be allowed?
If they don't want any criticism than change the terms of use or whatever: All posts must be agreeable to PTI and our products.
give me break!
I was just thinking that too. Steph would be the idea CS person for PTI.
ReplyDeleteNH needs to hire a damn proofreader already!! How many issues would not exist if she would have ONE intelligent person on her staff looking things over. For Pete's sakes get the DT to do that instead of piss people off on the forums. BE PROACTIVE ALREADY.
ReplyDeleteRick Geymonat said...
ReplyDelete"wonder how much longer the forum is going to be around?"
^^^ Classic PTI. Ban everyone.
I have wondered in the past if they would shut down the blog. The only part that I would miss is the for sale board because I have found some great deals there.
ReplyDeleteI would feel sad for those that are rabid fans though because they would have no place to gather. I am not being sarcastic about that either.
The forum seems like a lot of trouble to keep up.
Does anyone else think that Ashley would be better off keeping her mouth shut? A good deal of her post did not make sense and adding words like "further" and "hence" don't make us think she's any smarter just like using old books in her blog photos doesn't fool anyone.
ReplyDeleteThe forum seems like a lot of trouble to keep up.
ReplyDelete-------------------------------
^ Yes, being defensive about errors in products takes a tremendous amy of effort. Not having any CS for customers to turn to creates a LOT of trouble for the forum. Needing the DT to spray the crowd with sunshine icons to subdue them ....
Yes, yes it is a tremendous amount of work to be incompetent and blame the customers. I agree.
yes, get a proofreader, but NOT THE DT!!!
ReplyDeleteFrying pan -> fire.
14:46 Yes. I have already lost all respect for Dawn after seeing her true colors on the forum. I don't want to lose Ashley too.
ReplyDelete@ 14:47 Once upon a time PTI had an educated, intelligent DT. (Becky comes to mind). It would take so much less of their time to spend 10 minutes proofreading a set than the time they spend defending the errors on the forum.
ReplyDeleteSpelling mistakes happen. When they happen all.the.time and create havoc all.the.time it might be time to get a proofreader. I agree.
ReplyDeleteHow NH / Dawn / Ashley handles Steph's forum post has left me kind of depressed that things are never going to change at paper trey. Anyone else?
ReplyDeleteI'm feeling sad.
Sorry 14:48. I think your best bet is to not click on Ashley's comments in the forum.
ReplyDeleteI just have so much trouble reading Nichole's posts and not have them colored by her past posts. Stephanie hit the nail on the head when she explained the proper way to apologize.
ReplyDeleteRick, it would really only be the true fans that lose out if the forum gets shut down. The Ted's and Audrey's would be very hurt.
14:55, they may change customer service. They may have zendesk. They may one day fix the website.
ReplyDeleteBut at the core, things will never change because of the arrogant attitude.
Awww. Poor Teds and Audreys. That's what you get with unrequited love. Hurt.
ReplyDelete*sob*
:p
I feel like my standards have already been lowered too far. I'm thrilled when someone gets their anniversary set after waiting a year. Really?
ReplyDeleteIt's become too much about righting the wrongs that the owners can't/won't see. I can't even begin to imagine getting back to what it used to be.
And NH is more concerned about her pool than about the customers who have been supportive since the beginning. No, it will never be what it was.
ReplyDeleteIt would be just awful for Ted, Audrey and the faithful(as well as some smackers) to get a life and not post 24/7 on an online forum....
ReplyDeleteI have to say, bless her little Crafty Card Shark heart, I know she's on "our" side but WHOA! Ashley's a piker compared to this girl.
ReplyDeleteBecause she "gets" the issue, I won't pick on her spelling but sweetheart ~ less is more.
**disclaimer** I do not work for PTI, but I do love the people that run it. My observations may not be accurate or reflect those of the fine folks here on the smack blog...but they are real to me... **endofdisclaimer*
ReplyDeleteIt is funny how some will call Nichole mean and hurtful names here, and in the same breath talk on the forum about how respectful their comments to her are meant to be.
Am I the only one who reads the forum and the smack blog?
Someone on the smack blog will say "watch me put a dig in on the forum and fuck with these people", and then two seconds later post on the forum "my comments were not meant to be offensive or hostile"..
I wonder why the people who are so hostile on here are not just as hostile and hateful on the forum? and just as proud of it there as they are here...
Pretty hard to change your behavior when your character stays the same and you keep publicly showing it on the forum. Most people know this and yes, it does make me sad. PTI had such huge potential once upon a time.
ReplyDeleteThey're a'skeered o' gettin' banned?
ReplyDelete;)
I don't know either. I watch to see what happens with PTI: Either I'll be validated in my opinions or they'll prove me wrong.
I don't like hypocrisy either. But I can see "speaking up" on the forum but in a respectful way so your voice can be heard and letting your hair down here.
There may be a few people who go back and forth as "sport" but I don't think it's many.
15:09 here... that was in response to Rick's comment.
ReplyDeleteYes, proofreading is needed. Every single time ANYTHING is released to the public. Stamp sets - absolutely. Nichole's blog posts - boy, it would be nice. Nichole's forum posts - yes, please! She is the master of introducing confusion and anger where none existed before. This happens because she tends to mis-use the same words again and again. For example, she used to use "in lieu of" on her blog all the time, but she used it to mean "because of", when the actual meaning is the opposite, "instead of". A long time ago, I sent a polite message to Jenn (because we can't send to Nichole) about it, and got a nice thank you from Jenn. After that, Nichole stopped using the phrase completely. But she still has others that are just as bad. It's so hard for customers to know what the heck you mean when you routinely say the opposite, either due to typing too fast, or because you just don't know what the words mean.
ReplyDeleteIn the school PTAs that I volunteer with, we subject everything that goes out for public consumption to at least two rounds of proof-reading. And we catch errors every single time. It's important enough to do when we're run by 100% volunteers. Why isn't it important enough for a company that wants our money?
LOLOL 15:14
ReplyDeleteAnd yes, Rick, we see how very little it takes to set off people on the forum. Steph is absolutely correct and respectful, but has now had a formal warning. That warning is: Don't ever disagree with Nichole. Don't ever point out any mistakes she has made because she absolutely does NOT make mistakes. It is the fauit of a vintage seed packet, you know.
Once again Rick, I see where you're coming from. I am trying to keep my opinions here.
ReplyDeleteThere are a few people here that are doing exactly what you are saying. They are posting smack here and that just makes them look like shit disturbers on the forum.
I have absolutely no desire to communicate with PTI again. I keep my thoughts on this forum only.
ReplyDeleteHuh. Well I was surprised at the uproar gladiolas caused. I was surprised when the original gladiolus set came out, because, as an uneducated non-gardener, I had only ever used the term "gladiola".
ReplyDeleteI think the only thing smackable about that is the inconsistency from the previous set. If you used gladiolus in one you probably should use gladioli or gladioluses in the subsequent set.
But then I would never use those two words as stamps because I say "gladiolas".
I'm going to also say, I thought Steph was respectful. But at the same time I felt like she was beating a dead horse there at the end. Get over it will ya?
Either buy the set or don't. Express your disappointment once. You don't need to pound the point into the ground.
I don't blame Steph for clarifying her views. For one thing, it's frustrating to have your points glossed over by people who can barely write a comprehensible sentence.
ReplyDeleteI guess if you're going to call it "beating a dead horse," then every time two points of view are expressed you probably think the last line should always be "agree to disagree." People complaining about Steph's stand are the ones who realize their argument does not hold water and the bottom line is that PTI and NicHole are embarrassed by it.
I know this Jen girl (CraftyCardShark) means well but I hope she never comes to my defense ;). Sorry but her post is all over the place.
ReplyDeleteRick, do you think that the forum will close? Is it just a big headache for the ptb right now?
ReplyDeletePersonally I think that Nichole is a wonderful designer and a creative genius. It really might be in Papertrey's best interest to close the forum. I guess it really comes down to whether or not the money that the forum generates in sales is more than the headache that it has probably become.
Perhaps if they keep it open, Nichole could stay away and the dt could refer questions that they really don't know the answer to to Nichole but have you answer. KWIM?