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 ;)
Ditto about Gina K's stamps, I bought two of her stamp sets and have NEVER used them. I've had them a long time. I don't know what it is, they just don't do anything for me. I don't think Beth Silaika for Gina K is going to change things much for me, I've never purchased one of her stamps through PTI either.
She HAS outright called customers stupid (in "private" of course) and she used to be a lot more professional and kind in her dealings but has now become so full of herself you all can see that she's slipping and can't hide her contempt for all the "poens" purchasing from PTI.
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If her attitude is truly that heinous, and I personally believe these reports I've been reading on her character posted by insiders, is there any real rebounding from that? Wouldn't their contempt for customers naturally invalidate any complaints by those customers?
5:42 - I don't think they can rebound from that. You see it in the whole attitude that they assume customers are trying to screw them over when it was PTI's mistake to begin with. The contempt always comes oozing through.
I also for the most part believe the "inside" reports. I am not an insider, but I have occasionally been on the fringe. And from the very little that I have seen, PTI really does not have a very good reputation, aside from excellent product.
I still can't believe NH has an attitude/personality like people are saying. I guess it's true at some point but every time I see her photo she looks such a nice person. She's answered a few of my questions on the forum and seemed real nice. Oh but that was years ago.
No matter what their personalities are, I still can't fully stop buying PTI. I don't know why - their products are like magnets to me/my wallet. Is there something wrong with me?
"When people show you who they are, believe them the first time." Seriously, we ALL have our moments; the Mom meltdowns, being peeved at a partner, totally pissy with coworkers. I've been there done that. BUT when this rude, condescending, HATEFUL behavior is ongoing and across the board, it speaks volumes about people. You ARE seeing their true character. NO THANKS.
And regarding Gina's stamps, I can't, just cana't. Way too cartoonish and childish for me. Although, I am a fan of Scooby Doo and SpongeBob:)
I absolutely believe what the "insider" said about Nichole. We've seen it first hand over and over and over and over again. It's way past the point of "having a bad day". It's her personality.
Hopefully another company, be it Gina K, or whoever, comes along and takes most of PTI's customer base.
"Wouldn't their contempt for customers naturally invalidate any complaints by those customers? "
This.
This is why I don't see them ever getting any better. NH & Co. think they are the best and if customers complain then it's their own fault and should just shut up and praise them.
They'll never look past their upturned noses to see what's really wrong or deem it worthy to be fixed. I think they honestly feel that if you don't like it, go elsewhere.
There's no humility there. If they can't ever take a step back and see that they do make mistakes and their system/store/methods of doing business need improvement, then they'll never fix it. Period.
PTI's customers are not all going to "see the light" and migrate en masse to one other company that attempts to copy what PTI does.
As long as they stay in business, they'll have some customers. Those that do see the light will gradually migrate to a variety of other companies - that's already been happening.
PTI is a "has-been." They blew it.
Look at all of the mediocre companies out there -- there are many that have less than professional designs and still keep plugging away with their customer base. And there are stamp businesses that have been around forever that you've maybe never heard of because it's not your style. Most PTI fans, I'm guessing, are not also ATC-style/collage art style fans - and there are a ton of companies for that out there. There's something for everyone. PTI is just one of those somethings. And there are places that offer similar designs - maybe not the "whole package" that we used to see PTI has having, but a lot of you already know that you can get that fix somewhere else.
The best poetic justice in all of this is that Nichole will keep on keeping on with her design team and inspire people. They just won't take that inspiration to the PTI store. Which I kind of like. She's working for us for free :)
I agree that the blog hop is really ugly today. I have seen many, many of the cards this morning and there is only ONE I find appealing out of scores of cards.
I believe the insider because it's thoroughly consistent with everything else I've ever heard about NH. Aside from what we heard from her own (ex)DT members, there is as much in what is *NOT* being said. I have yet to hear anyone who has -ever- worked with/for PTI come out in defense of the owners. Most simply disappear into the woodwork of the stamping world. Not a peep from anyone who would know. That silence tells me a lot.
I just spent some time at Gina's store. There are very few sets I would actually buy but not because the images aren't pretty.
It seems like they cater to copic users so their large percentage of open images really do nothing for me.
And I've read people here mention her cardstock colors as not being that nice....I've never bought any of her cardstock but just by looking at the color swatch online, the colors aren't organized in any way that makes sense to my eye and I think this is distracting me from seeing the prettiness in the actual colors.
As a test, I copied her color swatches into Paint, took the color names out of the circles and put them all in black font below the color (for consistency), and arranged them in a way that made more sense. The colors look more appealing to me now.
So what I'm wondering is this....is her chaotic color swatch distracting people from the colors individually?
What are your thoughts?
I would happily send her my file to use in place of the one she's currently using.
I have Gina's white cardstock and I rarely use it. It has a glossy sheen to it and I don't care for it at all. It is good for one layer cards when using copics but the coloring is not as vivid as when I use PTI white cardstock. I've got a good thing with PTI cardstock and I'll stick with that.
I love her white cardstock and it is all I use now. It also dry embosses as well as PTI. The colors I have purchased just are not cutting edge. Kind of like the old basic SU colors. If her colors were nicer in real life, I would buy them, but despite trying sample packs, there is not a single color I have re-ordered. I buy about 4 stamp sets a year from her and when I buy those I load up on my Pure Luxury cardstock (in both weights). That stuff is like satin.
I bought Gina's cardstock after actually using it at a friend's. The CS embosses and die cuts nicely and the weight is comparable to PTI. You can't beat the shipping prices either.
7:52, you are right! There are ALL KINDS of wrong going on Gina's website. Here are a few.
-I bought all her assortment packs and the colors COME NOWHERE close to the colors on the screen. Even some of her own color swatches don't match each other (look at Ocean Mist in main swatch and in Spring swatch...??) -there aren't colors mentioned in the cardstock Collections. Look at the rose color in the Calypso, it doesn't come close to matching any color in the main swatch. So what is it? Is it new? And the orange color... again...???
-And lastly the way she organizes her stamps drives me batty! I don't know her designers and having them sorted by designer or alpha is ridic. Her stamps by theme are all messed up -lots of sets missing in each.
I think if she revamped her store, she would get more sales just from that!
As for the blog hop, she's right - there are some dog entries.
But I do like 24, 30, 49 & 53. BTW, 24's daughter is super cute. And no, I'm not her. I don't enter the blog hops or challenges or anything. I'm too lazy.
8:53 if you followed her you would know and why did this have to turn into a smack Gina, it hought it was about PTI? Her colors are beautiful and she has a great variety of stamps. Her site is so much easier to navigate than pti's new site. Give the poor woman a break!
8:53, yes I agree. Guess that shoots my theory in the leg of having the online color swatch better organized. Sounds like they need more accurate online color swatch altogether.
Thanks for sharing....I'm less inclined to buy her paper knowing the online representation is false.
Although I do like the idea of 120lb base weight paper. I might try that in white. It's hard to screw up white.
9:00, she wasn't smacking Gina at all. Just saying her site could use some work. And I agree.
Why should only the regular followers have the luxury of finding things easily? I don't follow her and as a new potential customer, it should be super important to Gina that I find what I need quickly. Because of the ADD this digital age has created in us shoppers, online businesses get very limited time to make a first impression.
ways to screw up white: too heavy, too light, too soft, too stiff, too cream-colored, too dingy-grey-colored, too absorbent, not absorbent enough, too slick, too textured, um need I go on? Sorry, I guess I'm just in a snarky mood today. :-P LOL (please don't take this as a personal attack, just having a bit of fun with you)
Also, 9:00, her colors may be beautiful, but if they don't match the online representation, that doesn't help new shoppers.
These things are simple web fixes for her. It's not like we are saying her website is irrepairable.
I would love to see a photo of her passionate pink cardstock next to the online version. Anyone here got some of those comparisons in their flickr account?
Ha- a smack is a smack is a smack! Anything goes so get used to it.
And seriously - I completely disagree with you. "..if you followed her..."
Really? You think someone has to "follow" someone to be able to figure out their store?? Uh-uh. Anyone should be able to visit ANY store for the first time and be able to find at least a general idea of what they offer or what they're looking for. I have visited Gina K's site off and on for years and also think it could use vast improvement.
And saying her site is easier to navigate than PTI's?? Well, everyone's is easier than PTI's, so that's not saying much.
I am 8:53 and geesh 9:00 lighten up! I "follow" Gina a little, not sure what you mean by "I should know". But whatever. I think accurate consistent color swatches on the website is crucial for color whores like me.
As for the color comparisons. I will finish up lunch and then do a quick comparison with the Gina K colors to the PTI colors.
Damn! I ordered from PTI on Wed 6/20. I checked the tracking on Fri 6/22. No movement. I forgot all about it until now and just checked and it says my package is in my town and out for delivery. Holy crap. I really anticipated this being my turn for a bad experience but so far so good.
Not saying they've fixed a damn thing. I'm really just thinking there were far fewer orders that there really was no excuse for stuff not shipping in a reasonable time.
We'll see when I get home from work to make sure it is all correct.
In light of what the close-to-being-an-insider has shared, confirming the owners are greedy and mean to everyone they come into contact with, I honestly feel guilty for ordering this past time.
I guess I was hoping things weren't really as bad as we all assumed. Now I just feel like I cannot continue to support such naughty behavior.
I know, I know. Polly-come-lately to the PTI exodus party.
Ok, here are the color comparisons between Gina K and PTI cardstock:
Passionate Pink - in between Raspberry Fizz and Hibiscus Innocent Pink - exact to Sweet Blush Just Peachy - exact to Melon Berry Bubblegum Pink - "pretty close" with a touch more pink to Lavender Moon Red Hot - more brighter red to Pure Poppy Lipstick Red - exact to SU! Ridinghood Red Turquoise Sea - exact to Hawaiian Shores Ocean Mist - tiny bit bluer than Aqua Mist Green Apple - touch lighter than Avocado Grass Green - exact to New Leaf Lemon drop - yellower and brighter than Lemon Tart (much prettier than Tart) Wild Dandelion - darker than Summer Sunrise, almost exact to SU! Daffodil Delight Dark Chocolate - darker than Dark Chocolate
MIM is someone using a stamp set that is ready-made for layering, and wow, layering them. Just adding stamps that are already designed to work together????? Wow. *eye rolling here* I'm supposed to be inspired by someone using a stamp set the way it's designed????
Not a handslap, just some info for the color swatch issue on Gina's site... You can't blame GinaK's color swatch issue completely on her. Monitor calibrations also come into play here. What can look great on one computer monitor can look like shat on another - even the same brand monitor in the same house. Does Pure Poppy on PTI's website look anywhere near as vibrant on your monitor as it does in hand? I know it doesn't on mine. Definitely a monitor issue.
9:54, you would be shocked at the number of people who can't think outside the box. If they don't have EXACT instructions and supply lists, they are lost.
I guess you're right about the MIM. It just seems so silly to me - painfully obvious and not really helpful in how to "step up" the design of a card other than "use a set made to do that."
I am another one that would totally love to buy from Gina K if her stamp designs were not quite so dated. I also seem to be one of the rare few that still prefer rubber stamps over clear, so now with her offering both is fantastic. However, I just can't bring myself to buy her stamp sets. In addition to the stamp designs not being my style, I really dislike the way they are organized on her site as well.
I have not ordered from her in years. I pretty much discovered Gina K and PTI around the same time and ended up giving all my business to PTI. I would be happy to switch to Gina K (and other companies) if Gina K improved the designs. I would love to see her have more original illustrations instead of using royalty free designs that I have seen so much in her past stamp sets.
I have never used GK's colored card stock, but used to buy the white for copic use. I like the weight, but was never truly satisfied with it. To me, the color is not a true, bright white like PTI's white. I also had some trouble with it when using copics. It seemed that on every other piece of white I colored with copics, I would get a weird muddled texture that would show through the coloring and could not be corrected with anything I tried. I never had this issue with any other card stock I used with copics.
This is not a smack of GK...just my experience. I totally love her attitude and business sense!
I think that Gina K or someone close to her reads here. Might see some changes based on the suggestions made today. Let's keep it constructive and find out!
@ 11:19 oh I would bet that she does. Gina's not stupid when it comes to ppl talking. Unlike the "others" ;) that pretend nothing is wrong and that there is no life outside of their company Gina actually pays attention and tweaks according to what she sees/hears/reads is going on.
I'm not a fan of her stamp images either but already it's looking like she's trying to change that. And I'm sure it's only a matter of time before she starts tweaking her website too (and wow look at all these other companies that can make a website work!! It doesn't have to be so freaking difficult like PTI makes it out to be)
She is very active online and whenever appropriate she posts on SCS, too. She keeps her fingers on the pulse of the business and really pays attention. I completely agree - if you'd like to see changes at her store, it's smart to be constructive here!
To be honest, I think if you have constructive suggestions that Gina would be gracious if you wrote her a PM on SCS or sent her an email.
BTW - I am not an "insider" with Gina K... I have had some passing contact with her and respect her. But I am not trying to quietly tell you "I know this." It's just my feeling that she'd be receptive and that she probably reads here.
I absolutely think GinaK reads this blog. She posted this on Facebook today(about 2 hours ago):
"I just learned about a few things that I need to work on. Thanks to everyone out there that is helping me become better. You don't know what you don't know... and now I know some of what I didn't know. So now that I know... I know better..."
Then she added:
"There are a lot of know it alls out there, but... *whispering* -sometimes they are right... I'll take it as constructive criticism. If they didn't mean it that way, that's there path, not mine."
And then added:
"Thanks for all the sweet comments. My skin is pretty thick and I have to believe that some people really do have your best interests at heart when they tell you stuff. Here's my barometer- 1. Listen to what is being said. 2. Think about whether or not it makes sense. 3. If it does, try it. 4.If it doesn't, stay the course. I think I am going to try a few things... We'll see how it goes. I'll know quickly which way the "helpful comments" were intended..."
GINA: please know how much we LOVE and respect you and would LOVE to give you our business!!
I'm personally hoping that the addition of Becky will add just the right touch to your design team. :)
I really like the tone in here today. I like that we can discuss changes Gina could make to get things running more smoothly and if she sees it here she is receiving it well. I like that we are helping each other with color comparisons. I like that no one is really going off on any other smackers. I like that people are coming back to apologize for taking things the wrong way.
Big warm fuzzy hugs to smackers from me to you. =)
This is sincere. It's not me being sarcastically complimentary.
PTI uses royalty free images as well In fact there is at least one image that PTI and GinaK both have in common in their stamps. I don't see an issue. I look at how often NH says 'I illustrated' vs how often ' I designed'. Which to me is two different things
Gina, if you do read here or has someone that passes along information, here is my 2 cents. :-) I would love to see Michelle Wooderson added to your list of stamp designers. I really like the stamps that she has designed. Thank you. :-)
Yes, I'm also impressed with the constructive suggestions today. Who says we have to be snarky, smacking bitches 24/7??
I'd buy from Gina in a heartbeat if she infused some trendy, cutting edge stamp designs into her lineup. Love her vids, no migraine inducing stamp to ink tapping going on!! Rock on Gina!
I love that Gina K puts the focus on the stamp designers by making sure to credit them everywhere that the stamp set is seen. But I agree that sorting the offerings in the online store by designer isn't the most intuitive for most shoppers, especially new customers. Sure, it's fine as one of the options, but other options would be much appreciated.
If I'm not mistaken, weren't all of Michelle's designs a "collaboration" with NH? I was under the impression that Michelle provided sketches and NH did the actual computer work.
I would love to see Michelle Woodersons designs also. Not sure how many owners are willing to take her concepts and make stamps from them. I will never buy a stamp set from Dawn McVey, no matter where she works. I am torn about cardstock, first I thought here and then I thought there. The only thing I have decided is that it won't be from PTI. Decisions, decisions. I do like Gina K's site for tutorials, I have only watched a few and already I have a couple stamps on my list. I don't use rubber so I will have to go back and check it out. Right now I am gettin acquainted with my Cameo, but will have to make some sort of decision about cardstock soon,
So, high on the list of "you did what?!" comes the customer who ran her PTI impression plate through her machine with acrylic mats and NOT embossing pads. Her plate is warped and she's going to email customer service about replacing it. Now, I'm not a unicorn but should I expect PTI to replace something I ruined because I didn't get the sandwich right and I didn't use embossing pads? And in the customer's defense, does PTI discuss the correct sandwich anywhere on their website WITH the IPs or send instructions like they do out the butt with their stamps?
If you are looking for a cardstock replacement, try http://www.stampschool.com/shop/ as they have PopTone and Bazzill 100# cardstock in beautiful colors. They have their products by color so you can find matching cardstock, inks and felt.
I understand they are also looking at getting ribbon and buttons to match their cardstock too.
I really hope with all the additions Gina is making, her stamps will become more my style so I can purchase from her. I'm hoping Beth and Becky come up with some good stuff.
I would LOVE for Gina to snag Lisa Johnson! I have all of Lisa's PTI stamps and I really like her style.
I also can't wait to hear her Silhouette news. I'm hoping she starts selling cutting files for her dies.
I have NEVER heard one negative comment about Gina or her business. (I don't consider saying her stamps aren't your style as a negative comment.)
Honestly, at first, the customers who were vocal on the PTI forum were civil. It was the constant snarky responses from Jenn E and Nichole that turned us into smack blog bitches.
Nichole and company have created their own bad press due to their actions and re-actions, not the customers.
Honestly, at first, the customers who were vocal on the PTI forum were civil. It was the constant snarky responses from Jenn E and Nichole that turned us into smack blog bitches.
Nichole and company have created their own bad press due to their actions and re-actions, not the customers.
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So true! For the first few years, nobody could say anything bad about PTI. If you did, look out! Honesty, I think that was the beginning of their big egos.
Add me to the list of those who would love to see Lisa Johnson design for Gina K. Her stamp sets are my favorites at PTI. I liked Michelle's (concepts) but they always stretched them out into a massive product line and I didn't have the money for it all. Love the mason jars but can't justify $100 for all the pieces and parts of one concept. But Lisa....I'll be the first to buy wherever she ends up.
I've heard so many great things about Gina K and her customer service that I've gone to check out her store countless times, but I haven't found anything I like enough to put in an order. Her stamps just haven't fit my style. I'll be very interested to see what Becky Oehlers comes up with. I LOVE the PTI First Fruits set that she designed (or maybe co-designed with Nichole). I think that Gina K is looking to expand the style of her stamps and I look forward to seeing what happens. I agree that I would also love to see Lisa Johnson as a stamp designer for Gina K. Lisa always seemed like a class act, so I think she'd fit right in with Gina K.
I think there has been a vast improvement in Gina K's stamps over the last year, especially the large kit sets. Even today's sneak peek with the piano is cool.
Try looking at the sets: Hello Sunshine http://www.shop.ginakdesigns.com/product.sc?productId=1286&categoryId=16
Petals and Wings http://www.shop.ginakdesigns.com/product.sc?productId=1290&categoryId=146
15:47 - yes, Stewart Superior makes PTI's stamps. And let me tell you, with my dealings with Stewart Superior it is almost 99.9% never Stewart's fault with manufacturing.
If the Sweet stamp set had the word Sweet on the file PTI sent them, it would have been included. My guess is it was added later on a revision the designer made, but it didn't get sent to Stewart.
I would say with almost 100% certainty that they make PTI's inks as well as that is one of Stewart's pieces of their business (they make Hero's inks, etc). I really don't know why the inks are such a problem and why PTI thinks they need to re-invent the wheel when it comes to inks.
From reading Lisa's blog lately, I would guess she is heading to Kim Hughes' company - Paper Smooches. Her last few cards have been from Paper Smooches. Don't get me wrong - I would love to see her designing for Gina K - but I suspect she is headed elsewhere. (And I don't care where she goes as long as she keeps designing. Her sets are my favorite PTI sets.)
Sorry 17:03... count me as another who knows that Gina is a class act, but those stamps are still the same ol' ho-hum! And the sneak peeks going on right now are no exception. :(
The big difference between Gina and PTI is that a PTI stamp set tends to have one overwhelming theme. Only Flip Flops, Only Stockings, One kind or One style of flowers etc.
Just looking through those links rang the bell about why PTI has worked for me. I never have to remember that the floral spray I'm looking for was in set "x" and the script writing was part of set "y". I just go grab the floral SET I'm looking for and the SET of text stamps.
Looks like the Desktop File stamp set may be mucked up. Just saw a thread that someone got two of the same sheet of stamps. Wonder if NH will blame the manufacturers. And so it begins ... What happened to the days of accurate (albeit slow) release orders? They have a major product inconvenience Every. Single. Month.
17:30 I think I get what you're saying but not quite.
You don't like the blend of images and sentiments in a set?
I know there are a lot of big-time PTI fans here, but I have found their recent offerings to be pretty dull. Lately it seems PTI is having very one-dimensional sets to me with lots of images repeated with different patterns. A lot of it looks like lazy designing. They are rehashing old sets a lot, too.
17:56 - I'll try to explain, I agree that a lot of the new PTI release stuff leaves me feeling a bit 'meh'. But I wonder if it's because they're trying to milk $24 out of something that should have been $5 or $15, not that the idea was a complete loss.
The flip flop set is a great example, and Gina's new summer set has flip flops too, so let me see if I can elucidate a bit. I'd rather have one smaller set completely devoted to flip flops than a set that has flip flops and floral silhouettes in it. It's too random for how my mind functions. Also, flip flops from Gina's set can be colored or pieced, but I'd like some stamped options too. Overall I liked the concept behind the PTI flip flop set but didn't buy - $24 was way too steep for what was a pretty limited idea.
Sentiments are great when they fit, like Lisa Johnson's "potato optional" in her couch set. Giving me another "Happy Birthday" to pump up a set size just makes me cranky. (And I'm afraid I just found the flip flop sentiments silly.)
I'm 17:11, my best guess is that she is paying around $4 per set, not including packaging. I think she is actually paying less than $4 but probably around $5-6 including packaging.
18:12 I definitely understand your point better now. Thanks for taking the time to explain :) .
It's not easy to even self-analyze - why we like or dislike what we do in stamps/sets!
I can often talk myself out of stamp sets over things like you mentioned - it isn't really a good value, or it's a mish-mash... sometimes it just doesn't inspire.
I'm 17:03 and I get what you are saying 18:12. I do have an issue with the sentiments in general with her sets (they are mostly double lined and hard to stamp in a small space on my card, like on a small tag). I have enough sentiment stamp sets in my collection I am mostly looking for cute and trendy images. Also, Gina has 1 or 2 sentiment sets that are my go-to for cards using her images.
Let's face it, no company is perfect. But with all we know about PTI and Gina K, given a choice I will spend my money with Gina anytime. God knows PTI isn't floating my boat lately!
Hi 17:03, I'm 18:12, I didn't intend to pick on you personally in my post (beggin your pardon in all seriousness!), it's just when I followed the links I had an epiphany :)
I'd love to see Gina soar and WISH I could just LOVE her stamps.
I have 50 bajillion stamps that say Happy Birthday, Thank You, etc. They just annoy the heck out of me. Within the first 5 sets a new stamper buys are a couple of each of those. From then on they don't need to be in every darn set!
I used to buy stamps from Stewart Superior. I know I still have their pricing sheet somewhere. I'm sick right now but will look it up in the next day of so.
The customer who got duplicates in her Desk Top stamp set is still waiting on an answer from customer service - 6 days after she submitted her zendesk enquiry. Not sounding good.
19:47 - Some stampers are new and don't have all of the basic sentiments--happy birthday, thanks, etc. I've been stamping forever and do like some basic add-ins because the font matches the image (whimsical, fancy, etc.) Plus, even if I had my own matching sentiment, it would mean I have to actually remember it and locate it.
So new sets should cater to new stampers? Wouldn't it be better business sense to release fresh, new innovative product to keep your original customer base AND showcase "classic, basic" sets? Instead of using three new sets on a countdown card, use one new + one basic. It would also help move older inventory that newer customers never knew existed.
Well take another DT member out of the PTI picture for a couple of months, Erin Lincoln is taking a break for two months because of her new baby. Maybe she'll decide not to come back...
let google be your friend - look for photopolymer stamp manufacturers. You don't necessarily need to make a 1000, but the the cost of course goes down when you make more.
Well I think Erin's got a good reason...and I DO NOT see her leaving She does a lot for them tech wise ( remember PTI radio LOL!) She is the pinterest person I think and the Facebook as well ( posts the daily shout outs, etc)
I think I'm with the person who posted about miscellaneous items all put in the same set. I never know how to categorize those sets in my space and there is no way I'll remember what fabulous stamps are in which sets. And I know it is possible to separate a set into different categories but the idea of that makes me cringe even though I have done it (with my clearance Big Lots stamp sets.)
The idea of separating stamps into categories really made me twitch for the longest time, but now that I've done it, I love it. I wish I'd done it years ago. I can find anything in just seconds with no searching at all. I have everything cross-referenced back to what set things came in so that I can find all of the stamps easily if I sell a set.
Any of you following the spellbinders summer reveal blog hop?
I found this designer today and I have to say....for someone who claims 20 years in the jewelry designing industry, it is with shock and awe that I present to you this appalling piece of shitastickness:
Having your own stamps made could have some setup fees for the first time, a minimum number of sheets, and costs go down based on quantity. There are also places that cater to the individual and you don't have to order huge quantities, but your costs are going to be closer to retail.
SSNS - interesting blog. Will try to remember to check it out on Saturdays (even though your post seems to be here purely to promote your blog ;) )
I have a very visual memory and store my stamps by company. Each company I own has its own style, so it's easy to aim for what I want. And I count on those sets to have coordinating sentiments... but if I want something from a different set, there are a handful of strictly sentiment sets that I'll turn to.
1. Now here is a business idea! Create a company that makes stamps you design! I bet there would be a market.
2. I have had my stamps organized by category for years. All birthday stamps in one file, all thank you's in another, all roses in another. It is the only way to go!
don't get the problem with the duplicates -- did she pay for two? did she get everything in her order but just extra? then who cares?? the company screwed up and lost $...too bad for them. Any other company, and I'd send it back with a note. PTI? They don't care - why would you???
I read a few more threads and it's just so irritating I have to walk away ;) !
of course there are companies that make stamps "you" design. you realize that stamp companies don't always manufacture the stamps themselves, right? They go to manufacturers/companies that make the stamps they design..
if you have the seed of a fresh idea with this, I'm not getting it.
No she did not get 2 full stamp sets. The set comes divided between 2 4x6 sheets and she got 2 of the same sheet. She is missing half of the stamp set and has duplicates of the other half. Why hasn't Nichole chimed in with her helpful zendesk offer and locked the thread?
She said she has already contacted Zendesk, but six days later is still waiting for a reply. Who wants to bet on PTI blaming the manufacturer for incorrect packaging of this stamp set????
7:09, yes am following the spellbinders peeks. I am on the fence about a lot of the releases -the whole card creators line has me confused, do we really need dies to layer our cardstock? Ever heard of a paper trimmer?
Yes, that necklace from Julianna is god awful. I couldn't believe what I saw! But, the set of flower dies she designed being revealed today is really pretty. Maybe she should scrap the jewelry making part!
Speaking of today's spellbinder hop. I usually love Iwona's stuff, but her cards today are really bad.
07:14 said: "of course there are companies that make stamps "you" design."
Do you have links or recommendations? I've been looking for somewhere to order some stamps for my job. These wouldn't be decorative, but some non-standard word phrases.
Now that you've mentioned it in the context of crafting, that's got my interest too.
I think maybe Office Max and Staples might do the text kind and Stampin UP! has some limited ones, but would be interested in hearing more.
9:57, I feel the same way about the card creators. At first I thought "Man, that would save time" but no, it will not. Drag out cuttlebug, find plates, drag out dies, make sure paper isn't wider than 6", roll through machine. Oooooooor, *swipe swipe* with my paper trimmer and done.
I actually am not impressed with much of their summer release. Although I did like the item on the first day, the majestic medallions or something like that. And I do not like their M-bossabilities.
I wasn't loving today's flower die until I watched the video on making that paper rose and *gasp* it actually looks easy to replicate. I don't know why/when I would ever need a huge ass paper flower, but if I do I now know how to make one! LOL
Oh goodness, if you just want words there are a million and one companies that do those for businesses. With or without self-inking handles. Your company might already have a vendor that does them with their other offerings. Maybe whoever does printing or business cards (if you use those services)? Otherwise, google "self-inking stamps" and you will have more options than you know what to do with. I'd be willing to bet there are options local to you too, they seem to be all over the place.
Kind of a jerky move by PTI not to be the very first to support/congratulate one of their fellow sisters.
And I'm not siding with NH when I say this, but sounds like it was a last minute decision on Erin's part. Although she had what, 9 whole months to decide how to handle her work load once the new baby was born yet she JUST decided to take 2 months off when she got home with the baby. That seems ill planned.
Anyway, congrats on the new baby, Erin. He's adorable.
The Paper Crafts Top 5 gallery is up. Interactive cards? Geesh! Seriously PC? How about giving them a challenge that allows them to make cute cards? These 5 cards are really bad. I honestly don't like a single one. Won't be voting and don't care who wins at this point.
13:22 are you an insider? I'd love to see Lisa join Gina's team. Not only because her sets are great but it would be so fun to see 3 girls from PTI there
I don't see anything unusual about Erin taking time off.
Only one person said that it was a last minute decision and 2 others chimed in that it was odd that there was no mention of it by Nichole nor was there a congratulations thread.
Gina, living well is the best revenge. You go girl!! Many of us are behind you! Going clear was genius and now putting a design team like this together (particularly at this time) is brilliant. Just keep your sweetness and your stellar customer service and I predict you will be on top by Christmas!!
To the smackers--if you haven't seen Gina's lace borders, go take a look. Delicious!
Gina's a class act. I'm going to be checking to see if the few designs I do love from her store are in clear and if they are I'm a customer -- a customer looking forward to what the future holds because she is someone who knows how to listen to customers and I expect exciting things from her. Yay!
I'm not really up to date with all of SU's products and have a question for you guys.
I have a .pdf file that is a Holiday Catalog and they don't have a date on the front like they used to...
It shows a hand holding a multilayered ornament with a clear jewel/pearl embellishment in the center in front of pine branches. Is this the new Holiday Catalog for this summer?? And when is it "shoppable??" TIA
Numbering system for stamps? I do have a system where each stamp set has a code, which is a letter or two for the company plus a number. So my PTI stamps are P1, P2, etc. The Stampin' Up ones are S1, S2, and so on. Is that what you mean? There are a few posts on my blog showing how I've organized my stamps. I have posted so little this year that they're pretty close to the top at the moment.
I think PTI is desperate to keep customers from knowing how big the hole in the bottom of the boat really is. I think they will keep taking orders and then fold with hundreds out of luck.
I have all but 6 of the Fresh Inks and I hardly know where to begin. I really do use them all. Mango, Pool, Island, Red Currant, Chamomile, Harvest, Basil are the ones I use the very most. I have already gone through a reinker in a year and a half of having those pads.
17:03, you think PTI will fold with paid, unfulfilled orders??? I doubt that.
If they fold, they'll have to say something like as of such-and-such date and time they will no longer take orders and fulfill every paid order up to that point. They don't have to give a lot of notice of course.
They could, for example, say - as of midnight tonight, they aren't taking any more orders, and just disable the cart at that point.
I wish we could hear something/anything from past DT why they really left. Mish was so close with NH before right? I remember reading about their CHA experiences. Senior pictures and all.
Gina is very smart to snag past DT members for her company. I am not a Gina K customer because I am not a fan of her designs. Sorry Gina.
I still hope for PTI to get their act together and do great like before - if they are as low (in business) as I have read here.
With all the designers jumping ship one by one in rapid succession, Nichole HAS to know PTI has a big problem. As they go to Gina, they take a good number of customers right along with them. Down the tubes for PTI very shortly.
I haven't purchased from Gina because I just can't bring myself to buy any more red rubber. What I do have (a LOT) just collects dust now. But now that she's offering clear stamps, I'll pay more attention to the releases. Looking forward to seeing what the future holds for Gina.
221 comments:
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Are you Canadian, 3:29?
Ditto about Gina K's stamps, I bought two of her stamp sets and have NEVER used them. I've had them a long time.
I don't know what it is, they just don't do anything for me. I don't think Beth Silaika for Gina K is going to change things much for me, I've never purchased one of her stamps through PTI either.
from the last thread:
She HAS outright called customers stupid (in "private" of course) and she used to be a lot more professional and kind in her dealings but has now become so full of herself you all can see that she's slipping and can't hide her contempt for all the "poens" purchasing from PTI.
**************************
If her attitude is truly that heinous, and I personally believe these reports I've been reading on her character posted by insiders, is there any real rebounding from that? Wouldn't their contempt for customers naturally invalidate any complaints by those customers?
I don't see how they can ever truly change.
5:42 - I don't think they can rebound from that. You see it in the whole attitude that they assume customers are trying to screw them over when it was PTI's mistake to begin with. The contempt always comes oozing through.
I also for the most part believe the "inside" reports. I am not an insider, but I have occasionally been on the fringe. And from the very little that I have seen, PTI really does not have a very good reputation, aside from excellent product.
I still can't believe NH has an attitude/personality like people are saying. I guess it's true at some point but every time I see her photo she looks such a nice person. She's answered a few of my questions on the forum and seemed real nice. Oh but that was years ago.
No matter what their personalities are, I still can't fully stop buying PTI. I don't know why - their products are like magnets to me/my wallet.
Is there something wrong with me?
What is "poens"?
"When people show you who they are, believe them the first time."
Seriously, we ALL have our moments; the Mom meltdowns, being peeved at a partner, totally pissy with coworkers. I've been there done that. BUT when this rude, condescending, HATEFUL behavior is ongoing and across the board, it speaks volumes about people. You ARE seeing their true character. NO THANKS.
And regarding Gina's stamps, I can't, just cana't. Way too cartoonish and childish for me.
Although, I am a fan of Scooby Doo and SpongeBob:)
I think she meant "peons", the little people, nobodies, bottom of the ladder, and so on.
Need a good orange ink that goes with Orange Zest. Doesn't have to be an exact match. Recommendations?
A Muse Orange is a perfect match.
I really like Dawn's 3rd sample on today's MIM.
I absolutely believe what the "insider" said about Nichole. We've seen it first hand over and over and over and over again. It's way past the point of "having a bad day". It's her personality.
Hopefully another company, be it Gina K, or whoever, comes along and takes most of PTI's customer base.
"Wouldn't their contempt for customers naturally invalidate any complaints by those customers? "
This.
This is why I don't see them ever getting any better. NH & Co. think they are the best and if customers complain then it's their own fault and should just shut up and praise them.
They'll never look past their upturned noses to see what's really wrong or deem it worthy to be fixed. I think they honestly feel that if you don't like it, go elsewhere.
There's no humility there. If they can't ever take a step back and see that they do make mistakes and their system/store/methods of doing business need improvement, then they'll never fix it. Period.
There are some ugly fucking cards on todays blog hop!
All Kitchen Sink Stamps are 40% off for the next few days!!
PTI's customers are not all going to "see the light" and migrate en masse to one other company that attempts to copy what PTI does.
As long as they stay in business, they'll have some customers. Those that do see the light will gradually migrate to a variety of other companies - that's already been happening.
PTI is a "has-been." They blew it.
Look at all of the mediocre companies out there -- there are many that have less than professional designs and still keep plugging away with their customer base. And there are stamp businesses that have been around forever that you've maybe never heard of because it's not your style. Most PTI fans, I'm guessing, are not also ATC-style/collage art style fans - and there are a ton of companies for that out there. There's something for everyone. PTI is just one of those somethings. And there are places that offer similar designs - maybe not the "whole package" that we used to see PTI has having, but a lot of you already know that you can get that fix somewhere else.
The best poetic justice in all of this is that Nichole will keep on keeping on with her design team and inspire people. They just won't take that inspiration to the PTI store. Which I kind of like. She's working for us for free :)
Wow! The stamp set even has the same name!
http://deconstructingjen.com/archives/6059?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+deconstructingjen%2FXhlc+%28deconstructing+jen%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
I agree that the blog hop is really ugly today. I have seen many, many of the cards this morning and there is only ONE I find appealing out of scores of cards.
LOL - I can imagine her getting so pissed at that thought.
Snap, I thought my comment would be right under "she's working for us for free".
I believe the insider because it's thoroughly consistent with everything else I've ever heard about NH. Aside from what we heard from her own (ex)DT members, there is as much in what is *NOT* being said. I have yet to hear anyone who has -ever- worked with/for PTI come out in defense of the owners. Most simply disappear into the woodwork of the stamping world. Not a peep from anyone who would know. That silence tells me a lot.
I just spent some time at Gina's store. There are very few sets I would actually buy but not because the images aren't pretty.
It seems like they cater to copic users so their large percentage of open images really do nothing for me.
And I've read people here mention her cardstock colors as not being that nice....I've never bought any of her cardstock but just by looking at the color swatch online, the colors aren't organized in any way that makes sense to my eye and I think this is distracting me from seeing the prettiness in the actual colors.
As a test, I copied her color swatches into Paint, took the color names out of the circles and put them all in black font below the color (for consistency), and arranged them in a way that made more sense. The colors look more appealing to me now.
So what I'm wondering is this....is her chaotic color swatch distracting people from the colors individually?
What are your thoughts?
I would happily send her my file to use in place of the one she's currently using.
7:46, that is plain evil but I love it. although the PTI set is rosIE posIE. and looks nicer.
I have Gina's white cardstock and I rarely use it. It has a glossy sheen to it and I don't care for it at all. It is good for one layer cards when using copics but the coloring is not as vivid as when I use PTI white cardstock. I've got a good thing with PTI cardstock and I'll stick with that.
I love her white cardstock and it is all I use now. It also dry embosses as well as PTI. The colors I have purchased just are not cutting edge. Kind of like the old basic SU colors. If her colors were nicer in real life, I would buy them, but despite trying sample packs, there is not a single color I have re-ordered. I buy about 4 stamp sets a year from her and when I buy those I load up on my Pure Luxury cardstock (in both weights). That stuff is like satin.
0732. Regarding the cards on the blog hop... Do you say this stuff for the fun of smacking or are you like that in general?
I bought Gina's cardstock after actually using it at a friend's. The CS embosses and die cuts nicely and the weight is comparable to PTI. You can't beat the shipping prices either.
8:31, I'm not 7:32 but my question is this - are you this hand-slappy all the time, or just here?
7:52, you are right! There are ALL KINDS of wrong going on Gina's website. Here are a few.
-I bought all her assortment packs and the colors COME NOWHERE close to the colors on the screen. Even some of her own color swatches don't match each other (look at Ocean Mist in main swatch and in Spring swatch...??)
-there aren't colors mentioned in the cardstock Collections. Look at the rose color in the Calypso, it doesn't come close to matching any color in the main swatch. So what is it? Is it new? And the orange color... again...???
-And lastly the way she organizes her stamps drives me batty! I don't know her designers and having them sorted by designer or alpha is ridic. Her stamps by theme are all messed up -lots of sets missing in each.
I think if she revamped her store, she would get more sales just from that!
As for the blog hop, she's right - there are some dog entries.
But I do like 24, 30, 49 & 53. BTW, 24's daughter is super cute. And no, I'm not her. I don't enter the blog hops or challenges or anything. I'm too lazy.
8:53 if you followed her you would know and why did this have to turn into a smack Gina, it hought it was about PTI? Her colors are beautiful and she has a great variety of stamps. Her site is so much easier to navigate than pti's new site. Give the poor woman a break!
8:53, yes I agree. Guess that shoots my theory in the leg of having the online color swatch better organized. Sounds like they need more accurate online color swatch altogether.
Thanks for sharing....I'm less inclined to buy her paper knowing the online representation is false.
Although I do like the idea of 120lb base weight paper. I might try that in white. It's hard to screw up white.
09:00, tell those of us who don't follow her and therefore don't know, whatever it is that you are referring to.
9:00, she wasn't smacking Gina at all. Just saying her site could use some work. And I agree.
Why should only the regular followers have the luxury of finding things easily? I don't follow her and as a new potential customer, it should be super important to Gina that I find what I need quickly. Because of the ADD this digital age has created in us shoppers, online businesses get very limited time to make a first impression.
I respect art and creativity on all levels. If you are a true stamper/crafter you would understand
ways to screw up white: too heavy, too light, too soft, too stiff, too cream-colored, too dingy-grey-colored, too absorbent, not absorbent enough, too slick, too textured, um need I go on? Sorry, I guess I'm just in a snarky mood today. :-P LOL (please don't take this as a personal attack, just having a bit of fun with you)
Also, 9:00, her colors may be beautiful, but if they don't match the online representation, that doesn't help new shoppers.
These things are simple web fixes for her. It's not like we are saying her website is irrepairable.
I would love to see a photo of her passionate pink cardstock next to the online version. Anyone here got some of those comparisons in their flickr account?
9:09, I'm 9:03 and I was totally laughing. Yes, I guess those are all valid ways to screw up white! LOL!
And I do loathe the dingy grey colored white.
Speaking of other stamp companies, someone mentioned Denami earlier - cute, not my style; but amazed to see how expensive the stamps are.
Ha- a smack is a smack is a smack! Anything goes so get used to it.
And seriously - I completely disagree with you. "..if you followed her..."
Really? You think someone has to "follow" someone to be able to figure out their store?? Uh-uh. Anyone should be able to visit ANY store for the first time and be able to find at least a general idea of what they offer or what they're looking for. I have visited Gina K's site off and on for years and also think it could use vast improvement.
And saying her site is easier to navigate than PTI's?? Well, everyone's is easier than PTI's, so that's not saying much.
I am 8:53 and geesh 9:00 lighten up! I "follow" Gina a little, not sure what you mean by "I should know". But whatever. I think accurate consistent color swatches on the website is crucial for color whores like me.
As for the color comparisons. I will finish up lunch and then do a quick comparison with the Gina K colors to the PTI colors.
Let me preface this by admitting I own NO store, online or B&M.
Knowing the propensity we crafters have for organization, any online store should first be one thing: ORGANIZED.
^^^ adding to that....store owners...if you want me to buy more of your crap make it easy for me to find it. I mean "like a caveman could do it" easy.
9:19, thanks for your effort on the color comparison. I look forward to seeing it!!
I think Dawn's MIM was very helpful. I know I need help stepping things up a notch.
I wish I could send all my plain jane scrapbook pages to someone to have them tell me what I need to add to step them up a bit.
Damn! I ordered from PTI on Wed 6/20. I checked the tracking on Fri 6/22. No movement. I forgot all about it until now and just checked and it says my package is in my town and out for delivery. Holy crap. I really anticipated this being my turn for a bad experience but so far so good.
Not saying they've fixed a damn thing. I'm really just thinking there were far fewer orders that there really was no excuse for stuff not shipping in a reasonable time.
We'll see when I get home from work to make sure it is all correct.
^^^ adding...
In light of what the close-to-being-an-insider has shared, confirming the owners are greedy and mean to everyone they come into contact with, I honestly feel guilty for ordering this past time.
I guess I was hoping things weren't really as bad as we all assumed. Now I just feel like I cannot continue to support such naughty behavior.
I know, I know. Polly-come-lately to the PTI exodus party.
Ok, here are the color comparisons between Gina K and PTI cardstock:
Passionate Pink - in between Raspberry Fizz and Hibiscus
Innocent Pink - exact to Sweet Blush
Just Peachy - exact to Melon Berry
Bubblegum Pink - "pretty close" with a touch more pink to Lavender Moon
Red Hot - more brighter red to Pure Poppy
Lipstick Red - exact to SU!
Ridinghood Red
Turquoise Sea - exact to Hawaiian Shores
Ocean Mist - tiny bit bluer than Aqua Mist
Green Apple - touch lighter than Avocado
Grass Green - exact to New Leaf
Lemon drop - yellower and brighter than Lemon Tart (much prettier than Tart)
Wild Dandelion - darker than Summer Sunrise, almost exact to SU! Daffodil Delight
Dark Chocolate - darker than Dark Chocolate
P.S. If I missed a color you are looking at, let me know and I'll see if I have it. I didn't compare all the colors.
^^^ Thanks! That is helpful! Especially with the SU references thrown in.
Okay, this is hysterical!!
MIM is someone using a stamp set that is ready-made for layering, and wow, layering them. Just adding stamps that are already designed to work together????? Wow. *eye rolling here* I'm supposed to be inspired by someone using a stamp set the way it's designed????
Not a handslap, just some info for the color swatch issue on Gina's site... You can't blame GinaK's color swatch issue completely on her. Monitor calibrations also come into play here. What can look great on one computer monitor can look like shat on another - even the same brand monitor in the same house. Does Pure Poppy on PTI's website look anywhere near as vibrant on your monitor as it does in hand? I know it doesn't on mine. Definitely a monitor issue.
9:54, you would be shocked at the number of people who can't think outside the box. If they don't have EXACT instructions and supply lists, they are lost.
I guess you're right about the MIM. It just seems so silly to me - painfully obvious and not really helpful in how to "step up" the design of a card other than "use a set made to do that."
I am another one that would totally love to buy from Gina K if her stamp designs were not quite so dated. I also seem to be one of the rare few that still prefer rubber stamps over clear, so now with her offering both is fantastic. However, I just can't bring myself to buy her stamp sets. In addition to the stamp designs not being my style, I really dislike the way they are organized on her site as well.
I have not ordered from her in years. I pretty much discovered Gina K and PTI around the same time and ended up giving all my business to PTI. I would be happy to switch to Gina K (and other companies) if Gina K improved the designs. I would love to see her have more original illustrations instead of using royalty free designs that I have seen so much in her past stamp sets.
I have never used GK's colored card stock, but used to buy the white for copic use. I like the weight, but was never truly satisfied with it. To me, the color is not a true, bright white like PTI's white. I also had some trouble with it when using copics. It seemed that on every other piece of white I colored with copics, I would get a weird muddled texture that would show through the coloring and could not be corrected with anything I tried. I never had this issue with any other card stock I used with copics.
This is not a smack of GK...just my experience. I totally love her attitude and business sense!
WOW! Thanks to whoever linked Rosy Posey from Taylor. I love that set.
I think that Gina K or someone close to her reads here. Might see some changes based on the suggestions made today. Let's keep it constructive and find out!
@ 11:19 oh I would bet that she does. Gina's not stupid when it comes to ppl talking. Unlike the "others" ;) that pretend nothing is wrong and that there is no life outside of their company Gina actually pays attention and tweaks according to what she sees/hears/reads is going on.
I'm not a fan of her stamp images either but already it's looking like she's trying to change that. And I'm sure it's only a matter of time before she starts tweaking her website too (and wow look at all these other companies that can make a website work!! It doesn't have to be so freaking difficult like PTI makes it out to be)
I'm 99% sure that Gina would read here!
She is very active online and whenever appropriate she posts on SCS, too. She keeps her fingers on the pulse of the business and really pays attention. I completely agree - if you'd like to see changes at her store, it's smart to be constructive here!
To be honest, I think if you have constructive suggestions that Gina would be gracious if you wrote her a PM on SCS or sent her an email.
BTW - I am not an "insider" with Gina K... I have had some passing contact with her and respect her. But I am not trying to quietly tell you "I know this." It's just my feeling that she'd be receptive and that she probably reads here.
I absolutely think GinaK reads this blog. She posted this on Facebook today(about 2 hours ago):
"I just learned about a few things that I need to work on. Thanks to everyone out there that is helping me become better. You don't know what you don't know... and now I know some of what I didn't know. So now that I know... I know better..."
Then she added:
"There are a lot of know it alls out there, but... *whispering* -sometimes they are right... I'll take it as constructive criticism. If they didn't mean it that way, that's there path, not mine."
And then added:
"Thanks for all the sweet comments. My skin is pretty thick and I have to believe that some people really do have your best interests at heart when they tell you stuff. Here's my barometer- 1. Listen to what is being said. 2. Think about whether or not it makes sense. 3. If it does, try it. 4.If it doesn't, stay the course. I think I am going to try a few things... We'll see how it goes. I'll know quickly which way the "helpful comments" were intended..."
GINA: please know how much we LOVE and respect you and would LOVE to give you our business!!
I'm personally hoping that the addition of Becky will add just the right touch to your design team. :)
I really like the tone in here today. I like that we can discuss changes Gina could make to get things running more smoothly and if she sees it here she is receiving it well. I like that we are helping each other with color comparisons. I like that no one is really going off on any other smackers. I like that people are coming back to apologize for taking things the wrong way.
Big warm fuzzy hugs to smackers from me to you. =)
This is sincere. It's not me being sarcastically complimentary.
PTI uses royalty free images as well
In fact there is at least one image that PTI and GinaK both have in common in their stamps.
I don't see an issue. I look at how often NH says 'I illustrated' vs how often ' I designed'. Which to me is two different things
Gina, if you do read here or has someone that passes along information, here is my 2 cents. :-)
I would love to see Michelle Wooderson added to your list of stamp designers. I really like the stamps that she has designed.
Thank you. :-)
Yes, I'm also impressed with the constructive suggestions today. Who says we have to be snarky, smacking bitches 24/7??
I'd buy from Gina in a heartbeat if she infused some trendy, cutting edge stamp designs into her lineup. Love her vids, no migraine inducing stamp to ink tapping going on!! Rock on Gina!
I love that Gina K puts the focus on the stamp designers by making sure to credit them everywhere that the stamp set is seen. But I agree that sorting the offerings in the online store by designer isn't the most intuitive for most shoppers, especially new customers. Sure, it's fine as one of the options, but other options would be much appreciated.
If I'm not mistaken, weren't all of Michelle's designs a "collaboration" with NH? I was under the impression that Michelle provided sketches and NH did the actual computer work.
I would love to see Michelle Woodersons designs also. Not sure how many owners are willing to take her concepts and make stamps from them. I will never buy a stamp set from Dawn McVey, no matter where she works. I am torn about cardstock, first I thought here and then I thought there. The only thing I have decided is that it won't be from PTI. Decisions, decisions. I do like Gina K's site for tutorials, I have only watched a few and already I have a couple stamps on my list. I don't use rubber so I will have to go back and check it out. Right now I am gettin acquainted with my Cameo, but will have to make some sort of decision about cardstock soon,
So, high on the list of "you did what?!" comes the customer who ran her PTI impression plate through her machine with acrylic mats and NOT embossing pads. Her plate is warped and she's going to email customer service about replacing it. Now, I'm not a unicorn but should I expect PTI to replace something I ruined because I didn't get the sandwich right and I didn't use embossing pads? And in the customer's defense, does PTI discuss the correct sandwich anywhere on their website WITH the IPs or send instructions like they do out the butt with their stamps?
If you are looking for a cardstock replacement, try http://www.stampschool.com/shop/ as they have PopTone and Bazzill 100# cardstock in beautiful colors. They have their products by color so you can find matching cardstock, inks and felt.
I understand they are also looking at getting ribbon and buttons to match their cardstock too.
I really hope with all the additions Gina is making, her stamps will become more my style so I can purchase from her. I'm hoping Beth and Becky come up with some good stuff.
I would LOVE for Gina to snag Lisa Johnson! I have all of Lisa's PTI stamps and I really like her style.
I also can't wait to hear her Silhouette news. I'm hoping she starts selling cutting files for her dies.
I have NEVER heard one negative comment about Gina or her business. (I don't consider saying her stamps aren't your style as a negative comment.)
Honestly, at first, the customers who were vocal on the PTI forum were civil. It was the constant snarky responses from Jenn E and Nichole that turned us into smack blog bitches.
Nichole and company have created their own bad press due to their actions and re-actions, not the customers.
oopps...that was cutting files for her stamps.
Honestly, at first, the customers who were vocal on the PTI forum were civil. It was the constant snarky responses from Jenn E and Nichole that turned us into smack blog bitches.
Nichole and company have created their own bad press due to their actions and re-actions, not the customers.
-----------------------
So true! For the first few years, nobody could say anything bad about PTI. If you did, look out! Honesty, I think that was the beginning of their big egos.
Yeah, here's hoping for some fresh designs from Gina K, she seems like a class act, but I don't see anything cute at all.
14:08 I agree with everything you said!!
@12:27 - what facebook page are those Gina K comments posted on? I don't see them on the Stamp TV page.
^^^ they were on Gina's personal page.
Add me to the list of those who would love to see Lisa Johnson design for Gina K. Her stamp sets are my favorites at PTI. I liked Michelle's (concepts) but they always stretched them out into a massive product line and I didn't have the money for it all. Love the mason jars but can't justify $100 for all the pieces and parts of one concept. But Lisa....I'll be the first to buy wherever she ends up.
@14:37... agreed!
So this is PTI's supplier for stamps?
http://www.stewartsuperior.com/html/buy_online_now.html
I've heard so many great things about Gina K and her customer service that I've gone to check out her store countless times, but I haven't found anything I like enough to put in an order. Her stamps just haven't fit my style. I'll be very interested to see what Becky Oehlers comes up with. I LOVE the PTI First Fruits set that she designed (or maybe co-designed with Nichole). I think that Gina K is looking to expand the style of her stamps and I look forward to seeing what happens. I agree that I would also love to see Lisa Johnson as a stamp designer for Gina K. Lisa always seemed like a class act, so I think she'd fit right in with Gina K.
9:43--I am in love with you.
Gina is a class act. I know from a personal interaction with her. It was integrity above and beyond.
I think there has been a vast improvement in Gina K's stamps over the last year, especially the large kit sets. Even today's sneak peek with the piano is cool.
Try looking at the sets:
Hello Sunshine
http://www.shop.ginakdesigns.com/product.sc?productId=1286&categoryId=16
Petals and Wings
http://www.shop.ginakdesigns.com/product.sc?productId=1290&categoryId=146
Nature's Greetings
http://www.shop.ginakdesigns.com/product.sc?productId=1186&categoryId=146
Garden Fresh
http://www.shop.ginakdesigns.com/product.sc?productId=1129&categoryId=146
15:47 - yes, Stewart Superior makes PTI's stamps. And let me tell you, with my dealings with Stewart Superior it is almost 99.9% never Stewart's fault with manufacturing.
If the Sweet stamp set had the word Sweet on the file PTI sent them, it would have been included. My guess is it was added later on a revision the designer made, but it didn't get sent to Stewart.
I would say with almost 100% certainty that they make PTI's inks as well as that is one of Stewart's pieces of their business (they make Hero's inks, etc). I really don't know why the inks are such a problem and why PTI thinks they need to re-invent the wheel when it comes to inks.
From reading Lisa's blog lately, I would guess she is heading to Kim Hughes' company - Paper Smooches. Her last few cards have been from Paper Smooches. Don't get me wrong - I would love to see her designing for Gina K - but I suspect she is headed elsewhere. (And I don't care where she goes as long as she keeps designing. Her sets are my favorite PTI sets.)
Sorry 17:03... count me as another who knows that Gina is a class act, but those stamps are still the same ol' ho-hum! And the sneak peeks going on right now are no exception. :(
About Gina K's stamps and the links provided.
The big difference between Gina and PTI is that a PTI stamp set tends to have one overwhelming theme. Only Flip Flops, Only Stockings, One kind or One style of flowers etc.
Just looking through those links rang the bell about why PTI has worked for me. I never have to remember that the floral spray I'm looking for was in set "x" and the script writing was part of set "y". I just go grab the floral SET I'm looking for and the SET of text stamps.
If Gina is reading here I HTH!
Which sets were by Lisa? The only one I remember is the couch set, which I have and like.
Looks like the Desktop File stamp set may be mucked up. Just saw a thread that someone got two of the same sheet of stamps. Wonder if NH will blame the manufacturers. And so it begins ... What happened to the days of accurate (albeit slow) release orders? They have a major product inconvenience Every. Single. Month.
17:30 I think I get what you're saying but not quite.
You don't like the blend of images and sentiments in a set?
I know there are a lot of big-time PTI fans here, but I have found their recent offerings to be pretty dull. Lately it seems PTI is having very one-dimensional sets to me with lots of images repeated with different patterns. A lot of it looks like lazy designing. They are rehashing old sets a lot, too.
17:11-So in you dealing with Stewart Superior, do you know what PTI's cost vs. sale point is?
17:56 - I'll try to explain, I agree that a lot of the new PTI release stuff leaves me feeling a bit 'meh'. But I wonder if it's because they're trying to milk $24 out of something that should have been $5 or $15, not that the idea was a complete loss.
The flip flop set is a great example, and Gina's new summer set has flip flops too, so let me see if I can elucidate a bit. I'd rather have one smaller set completely devoted to flip flops than a set that has flip flops and floral silhouettes in it. It's too random for how my mind functions. Also, flip flops from Gina's set can be colored or pieced, but I'd like some stamped options too. Overall I liked the concept behind the PTI flip flop set but didn't buy - $24 was way too steep for what was a pretty limited idea.
Sentiments are great when they fit, like Lisa Johnson's "potato optional" in her couch set. Giving me another "Happy Birthday" to pump up a set size just makes me cranky. (And I'm afraid I just found the flip flop sentiments silly.)
Mud??
I'm 17:11, my best guess is that she is paying around $4 per set, not including packaging. I think she is actually paying less than $4 but probably around $5-6 including packaging.
Thank you to the person who replied what "peons" are and to the person who posts Taylor's flower set.
18:12 I definitely understand your point better now. Thanks for taking the time to explain :) .
It's not easy to even self-analyze - why we like or dislike what we do in stamps/sets!
I can often talk myself out of stamp sets over things like you mentioned - it isn't really a good value, or it's a mish-mash... sometimes it just doesn't inspire.
(not "mud" at all ;) )
I'm 17:03 and I get what you are saying 18:12. I do have an issue with the sentiments in general with her sets (they are mostly double lined and hard to stamp in a small space on my card, like on a small tag). I have enough sentiment stamp sets in my collection I am mostly looking for cute and trendy images. Also, Gina has 1 or 2 sentiment sets that are my go-to for cards using her images.
Let's face it, no company is perfect. But with all we know about PTI and Gina K, given a choice I will spend my money with Gina anytime. God knows PTI isn't floating my boat lately!
Hi 17:03, I'm 18:12, I didn't intend to pick on you personally in my post (beggin your pardon in all seriousness!), it's just when I followed the links I had an epiphany :)
I'd love to see Gina soar and WISH I could just LOVE her stamps.
I have 50 bajillion stamps that say Happy Birthday, Thank You, etc. They just annoy the heck out of me. Within the first 5 sets a new stamper buys are a couple of each of those. From then on they don't need to be in every darn set!
I dunno, how much Stewart Superior charges, but I've been told that stamp sets have like a 90% mark up.
I used to buy stamps from Stewart Superior. I know I still have their pricing sheet somewhere. I'm sick right now but will look it up in the next day of so.
The customer who got duplicates in her Desk Top stamp set is still waiting on an answer from customer service - 6 days after she submitted her zendesk enquiry.
Not sounding good.
So can a random person design a clear stamp set and order it? How much would that cost if you made one of your own?
Most places have a 1000 set minimum.
Goodnight smackers. Goodnight person who keeps calling the smackers "PTI obsessed, eh?". See y'all tomorrow.
19:47 - Some stampers are new and don't have all of the basic sentiments--happy birthday, thanks, etc. I've been stamping forever and do like some basic add-ins because the font matches the image (whimsical, fancy, etc.) Plus, even if I had my own matching sentiment, it would mean I have to actually remember it and locate it.
So new sets should cater to new stampers? Wouldn't it be better business sense to release fresh, new innovative product to keep your original customer base AND showcase "classic, basic" sets? Instead of using three new sets on a countdown card, use one new + one basic. It would also help move older inventory that newer customers never knew existed.
Well take another DT member out of the PTI picture for a couple of months, Erin Lincoln is taking a break for two months because of her new baby. Maybe she'll decide not to come back...
let google be your friend - look for photopolymer stamp manufacturers. You don't necessarily need to make a 1000, but the the cost of course goes down when you make more.
Just think before you buy regardless of where. :)
Well I think Erin's got a good reason...and I DO NOT see her leaving
She does a lot for them tech wise ( remember PTI radio LOL!)
She is the pinterest person I think and the Facebook as well ( posts the daily shout outs, etc)
I think I'm with the person who posted about miscellaneous items all put in the same set. I never know how to categorize those sets in my space and there is no way I'll remember what fabulous stamps are in which sets. And I know it is possible to separate a set into different categories but the idea of that makes me cringe even though I have done it (with my clearance Big Lots stamp sets.)
The idea of separating stamps into categories really made me twitch for the longest time, but now that I've done it, I love it. I wish I'd done it years ago. I can find anything in just seconds with no searching at all. I have everything cross-referenced back to what set things came in so that I can find all of the stamps easily if I sell a set.
Any of you following the spellbinders summer reveal blog hop?
I found this designer today and I have to say....for someone who claims 20 years in the jewelry designing industry, it is with shock and awe that I present to you this appalling piece of shitastickness:
http://juliannahudgins.com/jewelry/jewel-goddess-wire-pendant-necklace/
^^^ oh, and I don't claim 20 years making jewelry. SHE does.
:face:
Couple of things --
Having your own stamps made could have some setup fees for the first time, a minimum number of sheets, and costs go down based on quantity. There are also places that cater to the individual and you don't have to order huge quantities, but your costs are going to be closer to retail.
SSNS - interesting blog. Will try to remember to check it out on Saturdays (even though your post seems to be here purely to promote your blog ;) )
I have a very visual memory and store my stamps by company. Each company I own has its own style, so it's easy to aim for what I want. And I count on those sets to have coordinating sentiments... but if I want something from a different set, there are a handful of strictly sentiment sets that I'll turn to.
That necklace is a whole lot of blech! Puke-a-licious! LOL!
Maybe a NJ Real Housewife would like it.
1. Now here is a business idea! Create a company that makes stamps you design! I bet there would be a market.
2. I have had my stamps organized by category for years. All birthday stamps in one file, all thank you's in another, all roses in another. It is the only way to go!
My gosh, that necklace looks like something Tammy Faye Baker would wear.
checking out the forum today:
that quatrefoil die sounds like a royal pain
don't get the problem with the duplicates -- did she pay for two? did she get everything in her order but just extra? then who cares?? the company screwed up and lost $...too bad for them. Any other company, and I'd send it back with a note. PTI? They don't care - why would you???
I read a few more threads and it's just so irritating I have to walk away ;) !
of course there are companies that make stamps "you" design. you realize that stamp companies don't always manufacture the stamps themselves, right? They go to manufacturers/companies that make the stamps they design..
if you have the seed of a fresh idea with this, I'm not getting it.
The pricing for the Stewart Superior clear stamps in 8x12" sheets is:
12 sheets $16
48 sheets $12
144 sheets $10
250 sheets $9
There is a $30 set up fee for each design.
^^^the pricing is for each sheet.
No she did not get 2 full stamp sets. The set comes divided between 2 4x6 sheets and she got 2 of the same sheet. She is missing half of the stamp set and has duplicates of the other half.
Why hasn't Nichole chimed in with her helpful zendesk offer and locked the thread?
She said she has already contacted Zendesk, but six days later is still waiting for a reply.
Who wants to bet on PTI blaming the manufacturer for incorrect packaging of this stamp set????
Well, we know it's not going to be PTI's fault!
Since they do their own packaging I would live to see who they blame
Thanks 8:21 - figures! Jeesh. Just keep screwing up :/.
And probably a 2-sheet min on those stamps from SS?
7:09, yes am following the spellbinders peeks. I am on the fence about a lot of the releases -the whole card creators line has me confused, do we really need dies to layer our cardstock? Ever heard of a paper trimmer?
Yes, that necklace from Julianna is god awful. I couldn't believe what I saw! But, the set of flower dies she designed being revealed today is really pretty. Maybe she should scrap the jewelry making part!
Speaking of today's spellbinder hop. I usually love Iwona's stuff, but her cards today are really bad.
07:14 said: "of course there are companies that make stamps "you" design."
Do you have links or recommendations? I've been looking for somewhere to order some stamps for my job. These wouldn't be decorative, but some non-standard word phrases.
Now that you've mentioned it in the context of crafting, that's got my interest too.
I think maybe Office Max and Staples might do the text kind and Stampin UP! has some limited ones, but would be interested in hearing more.
9:57, I feel the same way about the card creators. At first I thought "Man, that would save time" but no, it will not. Drag out cuttlebug, find plates, drag out dies, make sure paper isn't wider than 6", roll through machine. Oooooooor, *swipe swipe* with my paper trimmer and done.
I actually am not impressed with much of their summer release. Although I did like the item on the first day, the majestic medallions or something like that. And I do not like their M-bossabilities.
I wasn't loving today's flower die until I watched the video on making that paper rose and *gasp* it actually looks easy to replicate. I don't know why/when I would ever need a huge ass paper flower, but if I do I now know how to make one! LOL
Oh goodness, if you just want words there are a million and one companies that do those for businesses. With or without self-inking handles. Your company might already have a vendor that does them with their other offerings. Maybe whoever does printing or business cards (if you use those services)? Otherwise, google "self-inking stamps" and you will have more options than you know what to do with. I'd be willing to bet there are options local to you too, they seem to be all over the place.
So no congratulations or mention of Erin taking a few months off on either Nichole's blog or the forum.
Can someone link the rose video please?
rose video:
http://lindaduke.typepad.com/lindas_works_of_heart/2012/06/spellbinders-summer-spectacular-day-six-.html
12:08, I noticed that too.
Kind of a jerky move by PTI not to be the very first to support/congratulate one of their fellow sisters.
And I'm not siding with NH when I say this, but sounds like it was a last minute decision on Erin's part. Although she had what, 9 whole months to decide how to handle her work load once the new baby was born yet she JUST decided to take 2 months off when she got home with the baby. That seems ill planned.
Anyway, congrats on the new baby, Erin. He's adorable.
Thanks for the link. That rose IS gorgeous and I had never seen that blog. Amazing.
I'm also surprised that not a single person has started a thread to congratulate Erin.
The Paper Crafts Top 5 gallery is up. Interactive cards? Geesh! Seriously PC? How about giving them a challenge that allows them to make cute cards? These 5 cards are really bad. I honestly don't like a single one. Won't be voting and don't care who wins at this point.
Lisa says there are 'great things coming' ...
http://www.poppypaperie.com/poppy_paperie/2012/06/so-grateful.html
thoughts?
Ordered Sunday night at 11PM from Ellen Stamps. Order arrived 3 hours ago. Total, about 34 hours!
I mean Ellen Hutson.
Yes, let's play which company will Lisa join. MFT, Paper Smooches or Gina K?
Lisa raving about Gina K, is not a coincidence *wink*
My money is on MFT. The Pop-Tone paper links & matching ribbon go to the MFT store.
13:22 are you an insider? I'd love to see Lisa join Gina's team. Not only because her sets are great but it would be so fun to see 3 girls from PTI there
I didn't realize that Lisa had so many stamps sets. I have on my couch but that's it. The others don't appeal to me.
I am guessing she will go to Paper Smooches...
Based on today's post, I think Lisa will go with Gina.
Yeah, I just read her post from today. Maybe Gina...?? I would LOVE that!
"...but it would be so fun to see 3 girls from PTI there"
That would be so flippin' hilarious. And just the kind of slap in the face PTI needs.
Erin had her baby, 2 wks early, and by emergency C-section, so that could be the reason it all seemed sudden & she needs to take time off.
What's so unusual about Erin taking a couple of months off? And why make a big deal out of it and speculate.
haha, that's how we roll here, right?
OMG, I hope Lisa goes to Gina K! If that's not the biggest middle finger to Nichole, I don't know what is!
How come Sir Farts A Lot doesn't participate in the blog hop anymore? Come out, come out where ever you are!
If we're calling out old smackers, I would love to see Lice Girl come back!!
Anyone who has an early baby by C-sec and doesn't take a couple of months off is nuts!
I don't see anything unusual about Erin taking time off.
Only one person said that it was a last minute decision and 2 others chimed in that it was odd that there was no mention of it by Nichole nor was there a congratulations thread.
Who made a big deal out of it?
I miss omath.
I think Lisa is going with Gina K too! I think she gave us a hint. I am keeping my fingers crossed.
Gina just posted Lisa's blog post on her FB page. I wonder what that means...hmmmmm.....
Gina, you are torturing us! Just grab Lisa for your DT already!!! :)
Gina, living well is the best revenge. You go girl!! Many of us are behind you! Going clear was genius and now putting a design team like this together (particularly at this time) is brilliant. Just keep your sweetness and your stellar customer service and I predict you will be on top by Christmas!!
To the smackers--if you haven't seen Gina's lace borders, go take a look. Delicious!
Gina just posted about Lisa on her Facebook page. Go Gina!!!
Good on ya Gina! :-)
Now, how about Michelle W?
I agree that living well is the best revenge! LOL!
Impress is having an online sale, 15% off, if you use code "hello summer". Their Fresh Inks are the best ink pads ever. Off to buy a few more!
Gina's a class act. I'm going to be checking to see if the few designs I do love from her store are in clear and if they are I'm a customer -- a customer looking forward to what the future holds because she is someone who knows how to listen to customers and I expect exciting things from her. Yay!
Sir Farts A Lot is here! Sir Farts A Lot was banned and just hasn't tried again in a while :(
banned from here or PTI's forum?
who is sir farts? (that's almost too painful to type) and where is omath? Miss her.
use your reward points girls, pti doesn't have much time left! I don't see them lasting too long after SAF (which is just a big cash grab).
I am cashing everything out with my SAF order because I am fairly convinced that PTI is in it's last throes of life.
I'm not really up to date with all of SU's products and have a question for you guys.
I have a .pdf file that is a Holiday Catalog and they don't have a date on the front like they used to...
It shows a hand holding a multilayered ornament with a clear jewel/pearl embellishment in the center in front of pine branches. Is this the new Holiday Catalog for this summer?? And when is it "shoppable??" TIA
I just read Shelli's "letter" at the beginning - this must be it, because she says it's a bigger size than in the past.
Guys, gimme a break. PTI isn't in their last throws. Just your wishful thinking!
Has anyone tried using a numbering system with their stamps? I feel out of control when it goes to finding words and some images.
SU holiday catalog - orders can be placed July 1 by demos, August 1 by everyone else.
Numbering system for stamps? I do have a system where each stamp set has a code, which is a letter or two for the company plus a number. So my PTI stamps are P1, P2, etc. The Stampin' Up ones are S1, S2, and so on. Is that what you mean? There are a few posts on my blog showing how I've organized my stamps. I have posted so little this year that they're pretty close to the top at the moment.
Has anyone ordered from Simon Says Stamps? I want to order a few things but have heard mixed reviews
I think PTI is desperate to keep customers from knowing how big the hole in the bottom of the boat really is. I think they will keep taking orders and then fold with hundreds out of luck.
Yes, Chris. I was thinking PTI-FL-01 meaning PTI Flower #1.
Yes, I love Simon Says. Takes about 3 days after ordering for them to ship, but I love the huge variety I can order all at once to get free shipping,
Holiday Mini is definitely much larger than the previous mini catalogs.
I've ordered several times from SimonSays. Never had a problem. So what Fresh Ink colors from Impress are must haves??
I miss omath.
----------------
Me too! Omath, are you still around?
I have all but 6 of the Fresh Inks and I hardly know where to begin. I really do use them all. Mango, Pool, Island, Red Currant, Chamomile, Harvest, Basil are the ones I use the very most. I have already gone through a reinker in a year and a half of having those pads.
I use Distress, Versamagic and Amuse inks, but I have to say I love those names of the Fresh Ink inks!!!
17:03, you think PTI will fold with paid, unfulfilled orders??? I doubt that.
If they fold, they'll have to say something like as of such-and-such date and time they will no longer take orders and fulfill every paid order up to that point. They don't have to give a lot of notice of course.
They could, for example, say - as of midnight tonight, they aren't taking any more orders, and just disable the cart at that point.
Fresh Ink and A Muse are made by the same company but colors are different.
I don't think PTI is anywhere close to folding.
17:49 well if the cart is disabled maybe it will THEN stop dumping. HA!
Is there an accessible list of PTI/Fresh Ink comparisons?
Thanks for the discount code 15:42!
18:01 that's hysterical!
When does that discount code for Impress expire? I hope it's good till Friday, I'm broke at the moment, but LOVE their inks.
I wonder when the forum topic " list by designer" will be locked?
I love it though!
Impress Sale is through Sunday.
Nichole must be away today.
Thanks for sharing the Impress sale code.
I wish we could hear something/anything from past DT why they really left. Mish was so close with NH before right? I remember reading about their CHA experiences. Senior pictures and all.
Gina is very smart to snag past DT members for her company. I am not a Gina K customer because I am not a fan of her designs. Sorry Gina.
I still hope for PTI to get their act together and do great like before - if they are as low (in business) as I have read here.
With all the designers jumping ship one by one in rapid succession, Nichole HAS to know PTI has a big problem. As they go to Gina, they take a good number of customers right along with them. Down the tubes for PTI very shortly.
I haven't purchased from Gina because I just can't bring myself to buy any more red rubber. What I do have (a LOT) just collects dust now. But now that she's offering clear stamps, I'll pay more attention to the releases. Looking forward to seeing what the future holds for Gina.
^^^ me too!!
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