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 ;)
Just an FYI... someone said a few days ago that shipping from My Favorite Things is slow? I ordered around dinner time last Thursday, the 7th... order arrived today. From Florida to Ohio in less than 5 days... pretty darn fast in my book. Especially considering that if I'd ordered PTI at the same time, I'd probably still be waiting for it to come a few hours across the state.
I found it humorous that Nichole decided to chime in on the discussion re: sweet blush ink but was completely silent when someone else posted about the inconsistency with the smokey shadow ink pads.
Someone mentioned before they have to have ink - its in their company name. I gave up on their ink a long time ago. Now if I can only break the paper habit.....
As far as Avery Elle shipping goes, I put 3 packages of 25 each cardstock in my cart and shipping was $6.50. Maybe the $10+ was Canada? I would LOVE to find an comparable alternative to PTI cardstock.
I so badly want to post on the Neon Colors thread that if anyone wants a neon ink just buy spring moss and wait a day....it will be neon eventually! bhahahahaaha...I crack myself up!
I'm really loving the sunshine cards. Yes, they look like a ton of work if you die cut everything and tap your pad 50 million times like she does, but I bet the normal user could stamp every other sunray in no time.
I might just have to order this month. The only PTI freeze I've been honoring is the "I refuse to buy ugly stuff" freeze and so far this has been the first release this year that I've been even tempted to get out that debit card.
I'm a little annoyed about the dye threads being locked. There was a lot of other conversation going on, where people were comparing the colors they got, that I personally found very helpful.
Nichole has mentioned on more than one occasion how the "Matching" products may not be an EXACT match, but are made to coordinate, things like buttons and ribbons are sometimes close enough to the cardstock color to pass off as the same. I found the discussion about the varying shades of ink color to be quite helpful, to know if my couple ink pads (I only have a few) are actually how they are supposed to look. I wouldn't want to start a customer service ticket, to replace a bad ink, just to get the same one back in return, and have them say that it is close enough to be right... all that hassle for no different outcome.
That thread has also reminded me to go check my Spring Moss pad, which I haven't used in over a month, to see if it has turned lime-ish green too.
I think it is really RUDE of Nichole to lock that thread (and really does look like they are trying to sweep everything under the rug), and leave people hanging, who were waiting on replies from their fellow PTI customers, who were having a discussion between ourselves... I understand locking a thread where someone was asking for a reply from Nichole/Design Team etc... after they replied, but this was just people comparing their experiences.
The Sunshine stamp set is a piece of s**t. Why design the rays to be sooooooooo small that you cannot stamp a full A2 card? Insteaed, you need to cut down the cardstock and use a smaller piece. Pathetic. I'll stick to the sunray sets from other companies.
I agree with you guys about NH locking the thread. Maybe you could start a new on saying something like "I'd love to see a comparison of inks of the following colors. Please PM me if you'd like to have a private friendly non-customer service related conversation about ink."
Joan announced she is shutting down her blog. She dumped any of her FB friends connected to stamping,has left PTI for good. The woman is having a mid-life crisis where stamping is concerned. I am worried for her.
@7:22. Sad to hear about that. But maybe it's for the best. Sounds like she had issues in the past that have come back/were never really resolved. Hope she's able to work things out and find peace.
She used to post a lot about how she never felt her stamping was good enough and how it distressed her. She seemed to always be looking to be on dt's to affirm herself. The woman is brilliant, witty, has a great marriage and a great kid, and yet stamping became this big thing for her. She seemed to be a lovely and sweet woman. I will miss her amazing writing. That is where she was able to shine. Writing is her big talent.
6:57 here. I know some unicorns are going to come here and say "you can stamp a full A2." Really? Take a close look at the cards on Betsy's blog and you can see that the sunrays don't reach to the outer corners of the card (first card), or the inner corners (second card). I'll give it to Betsy, though. She cleverly disguised the flaw in the second card.
"It's normal and ok to have blips in business. It's human. Thankfully blips get sorted and they pass. What is extraordinary is how you handle the blips with grace and professionalism. It's why we love being part of the Papertrey Ink "family". You're an inspiration to us all. :clap: :clap: "
Gag me with a spoon. She must be referring to some other company.
I love how NH is swooning all over the forum member who mentioned the $$ hit PTI is taking over the SAF mistake.
Ashjoy wrote: Nichole, I'm so sorry for such a huge mistake, even though it's making us very happy I'm sure the business end of things isn't seeing it as such a happy time.
Nichole wrote: I appreciate your thoughtful comment! Thank you for thinking of the situation from our point of view as well; I have a great deal of respect for you because of it!
Granted, it was super gushy but still. I wouldn't have even been able to mention THEIR HUGE MISTAKE without adding something like "maybe there is something to be learned in this situation."
why do you even need the sun ray dies? is it that hard to cut out triangles? not directed specifically at you, 07:24... i am just baffled that some people seem to think they need (to sell or to buy) a die for every. single. shape. they want to use on a project these days. too much, it's just getting to be too much!!
Is it "normal and okay" to have SO MANY blips? Really, PTI? Do you think this is okay, really? And it is the same blips over and over and over again.
Did you guys notice a couple-few days ago in the email exchange posted here between someone and Julie about the "sweet" stamp in the strawberry set, Julie claimed this is the first time they have made that mistake? HELLO, am I losing my memory or is this like the third or fourth time that has happened? Defensive dishonesty like that disgusts me.
I like the idea of being able to cut several 1.5" hex cuts with one pass (yes, I know they are advertising it as .75" but the total overall size from point to point would be 1.5" across):
OMG!!! I had not watched the hexagon video yesterday, but did watch the sunray video today from Nichole and the tapping of the inkpad was seriously driving me nuts. I had to mute the sound for a while. Oh Gosh!!!!!!! Plus she was repeating thing so many times. It was just so painful to watch the whole video. The sun rays set looks good, but why would you not design it to go all the way on a card base is something that I just cannot understand. I mean you are spending all this energy in designing this and all that, but they fell short of that. Too bad. I do like some of the stuff from this release, but maybe not enough to order it yet. I have been wanting to place another order with Stamps of Life as well as MFT Stamps. So No PTI This time I think.
8:27, how long were you able to handle watching? I only watched through the first 2 cards to see the incessant tap-tap-tap and then laugh at how annoying it must be to have her stamping in the next room.
I have to admit, I loved the cards she made with it. Not the green with the gold embossing, but the others were really pretty.
8:19: okay, i can see how someone would like that. stack up a bunch of paper, run it through, bada-bing bada-boom you're done. BUT it still seems easy enough to cut by hand that the el-cheapo in me thinks it's ridiculous to need a die to cut triangles. (please don't take that personally, i'm not trying to ridicule you.)
I love Nichole's first card, the green and blue one with glitter strips in the rays. It makes me want to try the look. But PTI as a company makes me want to run the other way. I'll do it with scissors and a pen, thankyouverymuch. Oh, and the pinked-circle nesties which I already own. The only thing I don't have is the sentiment to heat-emboss in white onto vellum. Hmmm, what to use to get that look...
Hexagons are trendy, and I thought I'd join the bandwagon. As usual, harder than it looks -- easy to make hexagons, not so easy to come up with designs that work.
Used my Silhouette to cut out hexagons and the honeycomb trim. If you have a Sihouette or Cameo, find "honeycomb" designs in the store. All you need is one as you can resize it -- $1.00 and you will have more hexagons that you ever want. This is a great way to use patterned paper.
I blatently ripped off Papertrey Ink's hexagon cover plate idea that is being released this week.
The only comment I'm gonna make about her shutting down her blog is that she really needs to step away from the internet entirely for her own well being.
@7:58, I don't have the AMuse stamp, but from the various photos I've seen, it looks like it will cover the front of an A2 card.
As for the Hero Arts stamp, I don't like the banner either, but the way it is designed, you can stamp the sunray without the banner. It's all about the placement. Take a look at this card which sold me on the Hero Arts stamp . . .
@19:10. The paper looks promising but the shipping for Lilly Belle is expensive. I was going to purchase two sample packs and a pack of clear A2 cards. $12.70shipping for a $16 order? Ouch.
As for the Hero Arts stamp, I don't like the banner either, but the way it is designed, you can stamp the sunray without the banner. It's all about the placement. Take a look at this card which sold me on the Hero Arts stamp . . .
===========
I thought the same thing when I saw that stamp, don't like the banner but I can cut that part out.
One pet peeve of mine is how in this creative industry how narrow minded some women are. "oh I don't like something because of this!" Well turn it upside down FFS. Sorry for the rant.
9:29 here. I only made it to 1:51 of Nichole's video today. Sorry folks could not take one more second of her sausage fingers tapping the hell out of that sunray stamp.
Someone needs to tell Nichole all that tapping is NOT NORMAL!!!
I can't help myself. Smack about the Sunray video from today. Between the raspy voice, sloooooow pace, and that damn tap, tap,tap, I couldn't stand to watch more than about 8 min. NH videos are like nails on a chalkboard for me. I do like the impression sunrise impression plate but I have never thought the impressions were deep enough
I like the impression plates, but it seems like I have to do a lot of work to get a good impression from them (I do have some older plates). Apparently, my machine isn't quite perfect and I have to spend more time than I want shimming and trying other tricks.
For me, I think the sunrise set would get old quickly. I do like the look of it in it's intended orientation, but the alternative uses look forced and don't appeal to me. If I could get the impression plates to work, that would be enough of the sun ray look for me.
I dislike the long videos. I don't even start to watch, it is too long. I'd prefer photos and text, with video only for unusual steps. Or at least include a transcript if it has to be a video.
Gallery Idol cards for this round? Anyone look? What did you think? I hate how bragadocious Miss T sounds in her intro about her cards; but, dammit, Janet, I like the cards. Not my favorites, but I like them.
@9:41. I considered buying that stamp and may still do so. I smile when I see it, though, because with the circle in the middle, all I can think is"land of the rising sun..."
I do have the Amuse Grunged Sunrays stamp, and it's definitely not large enough to cover a card front - it measures 4 inches by a little less than 2.5 inches. It's a great stamp, though.
@9:33 - Before you work yourself into a froth over the narrow-mindedness in the creative industry today, consider the discussion that was underway. We were discussing sunray stamps that cover an A2 card. PTI's does not. AMuse does not. Hero Arts appears to but they placed a fugly banner in the middle. Which means if you want to cut it off, it will no longer cover an A2 card. And that gets added to the list of pros vs. cons when comparing similar stamps between companies when trying to decide which one to purchase. Can you understand that or are you too narrow-minded?
Anyone knows what is going on with Practicing Creativity? Are they still doing business? I wanna order but most of the sets are OOS and it's been like that for a while.
Since some of the smackers said how much the phrase "on trend" bothered them. Does it bother anyone else get annoyed when people referring to time spent stamping as "playing?"
11:07 I think you are the one working yourself up into a froth. A a whole paragraph written in defense??? 95% of all stamps made won't fit a A2 card. whatever @@
If you don't like the Hero Arts one with the banner, they have another one in the Studio Calico line that covers a whole card front. http://shop.heroarts.com/products/productdetail/Starburst+Background/part_number=330056/1571.0.1.1.59307.1021766.0.0.0?pp=12&
12:30 - thank you. that hero arts/studio calico one is exactly what i was looking for. don't want to bother with lining up the sunrays when i could just stamp once and be done with it.
There's a shipping question on the forum and Nichole answered. Here's the post and N's answer: --------------------------- The excuse before was that the old yahoo store had limitations on varying shipping charges. I thought this was one of the changes promised with the new website. I don't understand why one die cannot be wrapped in tissue paper and mailed for 50¢?
--------------------------------- There is currently a flat shipping rate of $6.50 for orders totaling less than $70.
It may seem simple to mail single items in an envelope, but it takes a special operating system that is able to calculate the mass of items in addition to weight when you check out. We are still establishing whether or not it is cost effective to invest in this new system but we will certainly keep you updated when/if other options officially become available.
Just tried to watch video (made it about 4.5 minutes) and am already worn out just watching how to use that sunburst stamp. Would much rather have one like the HA/SC linked above.
To all you bloggers out there: I am no Joan B... I am a HORRIBLE writer and I blog to primarily share my DT creations with my readers, and for my own gratification. I have a question though, do you ever use language like this? Quote: (NOTE: please be sure to click on the photos of this project to enlarge so you can see all the amazing detail!)
Do you call your own creations amazing? I just cringe when people use words like this to describe their own work.
14:15, it's too complex, you little people don't understand how difficult this is, our big heads must work tirelessly day and night to figure it out, ...
You know what ticks me off so much about the shipping crap? They said over and over and over that it would be an option with the new site and not until customers are bringing it up they figure they have to check into it. Why weren't they working on it long before now, long before the last website go live debacle? So tired of the excuses and them padding their pockets even more!!!!!
Since some of the smackers said how much the phrase "on trend" bothered them. Does it bother anyone else get annoyed when people referring to time spent stamping as "playing?"
I just think that it is stupid... we are grown women and men, not 7 year olds with toys. But it doesn't "bother" me, I just won't use the phrase.
As for NH's shipping comment... it's funny how most companies find it cost effective to invest in this system. Then again, most companies find it easy to have a decent web-site, good CS, respect for their customers, etc, etc.
I like that the sun rays are separate on the PTI set. Much easier to make something multi-colored when they're separate. And I like to use multiple colors in a project. But I really didn't care much for the samples made with the stamp set. The ones with the die-cut rays, I liked most of them. So I'll save the money on both and just cut triangles with a paper cutter or exacto knife if I want to make sun rays. It's really not all that difficult to make the angles (I use a quilting template).
I don't get the shipping either. Print invoice. Pull items off shelf. Place in box. Set on scale. Enter weight into the shipping sotware and select the method of shipping based on the customer's preference. Done. What was so hard about that? Other companies let you select your shipping method. And some companies even send you a refund for the difference in shipping charges. Both The Craft's Meow and Crafty Secrets have sent me shipping refunds before.
Oh and it would help to have USPS, FedEX or UPS to have a daily pick up too. What's so hard about that?
I ordered a cardstock sampler and two stamp sets from Avery Elle yesterday... they shipped today. My shipping charge was $6.95 on an order under $60, which isn't too bad. I will update about the cardstock quality and stamp quality when my stuff arrives. And one of their new sets is a sunray set... I didn't order that one, but it is $15, not $24, and is super cute.
16:12... I don't see as taking one for the team! I enjoy trying out new stamp companies, and I haven't been burned yet. :-) This year I've tried Wplus9 (LOVE them!), Paper Smooches, My Cute Stamps, and There She Goes stamps. All great alternatives for PTI.
If the existing system automatically calculates weight to put crap in a box, WTH can't it calculate weight for a freakin' envelope? If the items are too heavy for a standard letter mail envelope a decent system could default to a box. It's nowhere near as hard as they make it out to be.
BTW - if a priority box within the US is $5, why is the under $70 shipping cost $6.50? Are businesses not allowed to use those boxes?
Very little fits in a $5 priority box. 3 packages of paper would never fit, even though they are less in price than the cost of one large set of stamps.
How beautiful this card turned out, http://marketstreetstamps.blogspot.com/2011/01/tutorial-large-background-stamps.html
She has fussy cut this one. Quite good too, http://jenniferwills.blogspot.com/2012/03/sunny-vibes.html http://jenniferwills.blogspot.com/2011/11/sunshine-love.html
I don't have a problem using the word "playing" to describe my creative time. It is what I do for fun. I am nearly 41 and I don't think that just because I am an adult the word or concept of "play" no longer applies to me. To me a life with no play in it is a life not worth living. Just my opinion!
Exactly 00:49. I'm 42 and I definitely play. When I'm playing I'm doing something just for fun. It's not my job, it's not housework or errands, it's not any of those dreaded responsibility things.
I just got a new laptop recently and I was telling everyone that I was playing with my new toy.
not really a fan of that rustic looking one from MSS, but thanks for sharing because I'm sure it will appeal to someone.
as for NH's non answer on the shipping, so typical. the LAST time this was brought up months ago, she said they had just been discussing it in a board meeting that morning or the day before or something.
it is glaringly obvious this is a back burner issue for them. they put it off until someone starts poking around asking questions.
Well, the rolodex file stuff has sparked an idea for a color reference for me. I know I won't be buying the dies, as silhouette has a cut file for them. I'll have to do some more thinking on the stamps and see whether they would work for me and whether it's worth $24 for me to not have to figure it out on my own.
I love how there are 3 dies in that rolodex system. Is it just me or does anyone else see that the left tab can be flipped around and becomes a *gasp* right tab????? LOL!
A while back, someone posted about Stamp School and their cardstock. They were a new company, so I waited a while, but I recently placed an order with them for some cardstock, inks and felt.
The cardstock is really nice and thick. It cuts easy with my Big Shot and it is heavy enough for my base. I'm really impressed with it!
The felt was really nice too. The colors are very pretty, although maybe not a 100% match to the cardstock color, it's close enough for me.
Their shipping wasn't horrible, but not fantastic either. It was $7.25 flat rate. I didn't order enough to get free shipping (which was after $75 I think).
I don't usually pay attention tot he Gallery Idol hoopla, but since someone asked, I checked it out.
There were some truly hideous cards in Round 3. Made me wonder how these people were still in the competition. But, so as not to hurt anyone's feelings, I'll call out the ones I thought were truly AWESOME. Bear in mind, I don't know any of these girls, so there isn't any bias.
Aga's monochromatic set was cool use of woodgrain, which I don't normally like. But I liked it on her cards.
I liked Amy Kollings "picture frame" cards (mainly the feminine one)
I thought JJ's flower card was really pretty and the beer mug card super clever!!!!! I think I have time to make my husband one of those for father's day.
Jennifer's popsicle stick cards were cute but her blog name is unfortunate....ourchangeofart. No, I'm not 7 but the word fart just sticks out way too much.
I like Heathers hex cards but the sentiment stamps, I don't like the fonts. they look like paper smooches or something. not my style.
Okay, this is where I'm a little biased against an artist....Miss T's wedding cards are great but she seems full of herself "As usual, I don't do things the easy way...." gag!
For non forum readers, this is what Nichole posted on her blog post:
EDITED TO ADD FAQ: I don't understand why it is necessary to have a left die and a right die. Can't you just cut one left or one right and flip it over?
There are actually a couple reasons why there is a left and a right die. First is, some of customers really like the "good", nice rounded edge side of a die-cut to be face up at all times, so this gives them the option to be able to do that if they choose. Also, if people want to die-cut a *specific* area of a magazine clipping, it is much easier to get placement on the front of the picture, rather than the back.
The reason why all three dies are sold separately is so you can choose what you would need/how you would like to use them. So, if you want to flip your die-cuts rather than buying both left and right, you totally can! Or, for the people that would prefer to have both, they have that option too. Hope that helps!
And I am sick to death of all these money-grabbing "systems" from PTI. Just give us some damn stamps and paper and ink that works. *********************************** But, but, but, they're trying to be "innovative"!
Pinterest is good for idea stuff. Of course if you're like me, you walk over to the computer to check an inspiration photo and 2 hours later after checking Pinterest, Facebook, countless blogs, etc., I still haven't gotten a damn thing accomplished.
In my case, I want to have samples of colors, which of the 84275 inks I have match those colors, and so on available without having to get up. I use to have a different system in my old craft room, but it doesn't work quite as well for me now. So this sparked an idea that may work for me. Mind, as I said, I'll be buying the Silhouette cut file for $0.99 instead of the PTI dies...
I can see some thinking it would be fun to make a whole system and then never really using it to create cards with. It is just kind of like organizing for the sake of organizing for those who are obsessive organizers. I do think a color sample card would be nice, but why not just make a page with little tabs of labeled cardstock and keep it on your desk?
I think people forget that PTI is a business, their aim is to make money. If you started a business that would most likely be your goal too. If suckers and idiots exist out there (and obviously they do otherwise infomercials would not exist) then a silly antiquated filing system is just the thing to try and sell them! They'll use it once, realize what a PITA it is use to use and go back to using Pinterest. Oh, and there will be tons of sets on the FSOT board. But they won't care because the next 'big' thing will be released on the 15th. That's what sheeple do.
I don't think the rolodex system for storing ideas is a sustainable system. I'm imagining the effort of:
1. copying my idea images off the internet. 2. Pasting them into some kind of editing program. 3. Resizing them. 4. Printing them. 5. Punching/cutting them out. 6. Cutting paper into a rolodex card. 7. Stamping the grids/forms. 8. stamping my ink colors into those tiny little boxes. 9. handwriting the details.
I just don't see many people using this method for very long once the effort required is fully realized.
But if some see value in it, good for them. I hope it works for you and you can keep up with it. I don't have time for that. I barely have time to craft.
When I make a card, I just sit down and make it. I don't go through reference pages for layouts and color and all that. Do people really do all that "research" to make a card? I have never "sketched" out a card in my life.
I created a system for my inks that has worked really well and I've already used it several times.
I found a solid flower image and stamped it in every color of ink that I own onto white cardstock.
This was good for a couple of reasons...1) some of the inks have never been used and i realized how pretty they actually are and 2) some of the SU inks don't match the color on the outside of the case but are actually prettier than I thought they would be.
Then I punched the flower out using an SU tag punch.
I wrote the color of ink and the initials of the manu on the back of the tag (SU, VM for versa magic, M for memento, B for brilliance ink, etc.) and then punched a hole with my crop o dile through about 5 or 6 tags each so it went quickly.
Then I bought a 2" or 3" book ring (like a giant key ring but hinged for easy open/close) from Staples and put all the tags on the ring.
Now I can flip through quickly and see which ink matches the project du jour.
I've used it so many times so far and it takes up a tiny bit of space and I can easily add to it when I get new ink. (I'm obsessed with getting every color of versa magic chalk ink and memento dye ink! LOL)
All in all it took about 2 evenings of tv time while DH and I were watching Property Brothers after kiddo went to bed.
7:40, i think this would be helpful for design team people or the newb scrapper who hasn't yet found their groove, but I craft like you and don't see a need for it at all. if I had to do all that crap to come up with an idea i doubt i'd even craft.
I love the desk top file system, I've been meaning to create a stamp index using one. I won't be using PTIs to do it though, way too much work. I'll just buy the pre-made cards.
I really appreciate the detail and thought that went into the sunray set, especially the guide. But damn, every one of the cards made is ass ugly.
does anyone really use these new dies? I won a set and gave them away because i thought the concept was lame and since they've come out i haven't seen any blogs where people are using it. except for maybe the people who work with/for spellbinders.
I find the sunray set just too much work. I'd personally rather have a large stamp. It reminds me of the doily stamps where you had to stamp each half individually and it looked like a pain to line up.
8:54, I believe you. But I also believe me and 7:46. It's an aggravating problem. I had my cart stay in tact once. And that was it.
The time after that I thought it dumped because i just had stuff in there too long. but this most recent time i put some things in just yesterday and i checked this morning and *poof* gone.
IMO what browser you're using, or OS makes no difference to the cart dumping issue. I didn't have the dumping issue for months, then out of the blue nothing will stay in it longer than 24 hrs. Here's why the cart issue hasn't been fixed: 1- The web guy is a distant Heskamp cousin who only does that as a hobby. He has no idea how to fix the cart dumping issue. J & J won't hire a real web guy because they don't want to offend their cousin and risk offending that wealthy part of the family. 2- J & J couldn't be bothered to deal with the piddling problems PTI's web store has, their real job is Heskamp printing. PTI is only something they do on the side when someone needs some spare cash for a new in ground pool. 3- PTI doesn't NEED to fix the web store issues. People will shop there regardless of how difficult it is.
I will bet $100 that the web store will still have the same issues a year from now. They have no intentions of fixing it.
Is there a nice way to ask people on the forum to use more descriptive thread titles? It drives me batty when I see threads that say nothing more than "what do you think" or "I would love to..." .
09:36, I think about that when I start a thread in the forum. Plus, I'm the same way I'd rather see a more detailed title so I know whether I even want to bother reading it.
As I reviewed Nichole's post today some thoughts came to mind: A. Too long. Much like the video yesterday, this post was too long and too involved. B. This idea is too involved as a previous poster pointed out. Too many steps to set up this system. C. One word, no two: Evernote. Pinterest. Both words previously mentioned here.
However, I love office supplies so I may just get that Rolodex die to use as an accent on cards or make mini books. If I get the dies, I will just buy two because I know how to flip and make the left tab the right or vice versa.
rolodex stuff is cool but I won't use it for the elaborate inspiration system. Why would I print out my pinterest thumbnails, cut them out, and make a little card for every freaking pin? I have hundreds of pins. It's a dumb way to sell the set.
I've been hoping for a rolodex die though for rolodex swaps on SCS.
I like the hexagon set and will probably get it for $5 but have no intention of paying the ridiculous amount for the die. I'll cut it on my silhouette.
Nichole's hexagon samples sold me all the way!
I'm waiting until SAF so I can get the free set for my trouble.
How much do you think the dies will be each? Given the odd pricing system that they seem to have for dies, my bet would be $10 a piece. I am just guessing though.
Shifting my crafting dollars to newer/more responsive companies....... ordered from Wplus9 on 6/10 and received on 6/13, ordered from Avery Elle on 6/12 and received on 6/14. Amazing!
I don't have any idea if their prices/quality/CS is good or not but I found this shop today and thought of my UK fellow smackers who might want a local resource for scrap goodies.
It looks like they sell cardstock, stamps, paper packs, etc.
I stared an evernotes file and I have everything a Rolodex file would have. Gee, I can even post notes and sample/inspirational swatches. I'm not about to start another file system. Not even tempted on this one!
The Rolodex system just seems like so much busy work to get it set up. While I was watching AshleyI'mSoAwesome's video I couldn't help but wonder how many hours of real-time work it took her to get all those little file cards cut and stamped and embellished and written on. Definitely a system for people who love to make cute little embellished papercrafty org systems just for the sake of the cute little embellished papercraftyness of them. I wonder how many of the design team will actually convert to the systems they were assigned to make for this release, and continue to use them going forward, long term.
OH Thank you for that SU catty link! I'm so glad to have this blog to get the links early without all the SU demo unicorns getting all pissy for it being leaked early.
I really appreciate the link the SU holiday catalog. Getting a sneak peek is always nice. I can't believe it, but nothing really appeals to me this time. Oh well, more money for other things.
16:07 - you know how when you die cut cardstock it sort of curls the edges of it down as it pushes through it? It gives a nice finished edge. Nichole was saying, some people don't like to reverse their die cuts because then the back side of the curled edge sticks up and doesn't look nice like the front side does. Does that help?
Yes, what 17:05 said about the "right" side of the die cuts. And some of us also prefer that side because our cutting plate is so scarred up that the back side of the die cut looks like crumpled tissue paper.
Why buy the dies to make a color swatch Rolodex when you can buy the color swatch binder? Less money and effort. Easier to use. Although, I do like the dies for scrapbooks or smash journals. They're actually a good size for journalling.
Oh Chris, I forgot about that lovely texture our scarred-up cutting plates give! LOL Actually I think that would be fun to use on purpose for something or other some day. :-D
Um, did you notice, they have left the color swatch binder in the dust as far as promoting it goes? Like someone here mentioned earlier, they wanted to push a new "system" on the sheeple.
17:40, ITA about how small the rolodex cards are. **IF** I ever did a system like this I would use nothing smaller than 3x5 index cards. (And that's a big if.)
That link to the Holiday Catalog isn't working for me. I keep getting a runtime error. It appears like maybe StampinUp has programmed that link so it can't be accessed any longer. Or, it's just my computer :)
I keep trying but it tells me the website wants me to log in and then there is the box with the runtime error. So, guess it must be settings on my computer :(
I just tested the link again. It took less than a minute to load, with 10 tabs open including one of them playing a tv show on hulu. My computer kicks butt! hahahahaha
190 comments:
First? Nothing to say, however.
Second time I'm second.
I've dropped one!!
It looks like PTI should just stop carrying ink. I bet Nichole was not happy to read those posts.
Just an FYI... someone said a few days ago that shipping from My Favorite Things is slow? I ordered around dinner time last Thursday, the 7th... order arrived today. From Florida to Ohio in less than 5 days... pretty darn fast in my book. Especially considering that if I'd ordered PTI at the same time, I'd probably still be waiting for it to come a few hours across the state.
If you have to tap a stamp 50 times as Nichole does, it is crappy ink.
Where can you see the Avery Elle gallery or design team? I want to see the stamps in action and the blog is blank when it comes to samples.
I found it humorous that Nichole decided to chime in on the discussion re: sweet blush ink but was completely silent when someone else posted about the inconsistency with the smokey shadow ink pads.
Humph.
Lather, rinse, repeat. Same shit every time. How can they release ink that changes colors in a matter of days? WOW!
Someone mentioned before they have to have ink - its in their company name. I gave up on their ink a long time ago. Now if I can only break the paper habit.....
How many series of PTI inks will people keep investing in, only to be disappointed when they are bad? 3 strikes on the ink PTI and you are out.
I ordered from MFT recently and shipping to Canada took 10 days - I thought that was pretty darn speedy. Liked them so much I ordered again.
As far as Avery Elle shipping goes, I put 3 packages of 25 each cardstock in my cart and shipping was $6.50. Maybe the $10+ was Canada? I would LOVE to find an comparable alternative to PTI cardstock.
Hmm ... so is the $60plus in extra tote bag merchandise all INK? Lol!!!!
Lilly Belle paper is comparable to PTI's cardstock in regards to weight, color and price. http://www.lillybellespaperie.com/
I ordered some to try it out and I love it. The customer service was fast and friendly. Definitely give it a try!
It is being reported on the forum that SAF kits are missing dies.
^^^gee what a surprise!!! @@
The ink threads have now been locked by Nichole.
The new sunray set looks like a lot of work.
Thanks so much for posting that Averyelle site! It looks extremely promising!!!
Did someone order any yet?? If I hear its heavy weight cardstock id switch in a heartbeat....and I actually like the look of the stamps too!
On the website they say their averyelle cardstock is 100lb but their white is 110lb. You are in luck.
I'm very tempted to get Averyelle's sunshining set. Much cheaper than PTI's
Of course there is crap missing. They wound up in someone else's Add-on kit or make & take kit. This whole thing is hilarious.
Wait, I have a question. Are the SAF kits
1) missing the dies that are supposed to come in the kits or
2) missing some of the extra dies Nichole said were accidentally put into the bags?
Because if it's #1 then I would be pissed but not surprised.
If it's #2 then people shouldn't even be bitching that they didn't get the free accidental extra dies.
I so badly want to post on the Neon Colors thread that if anyone wants a neon ink just buy spring moss and wait a day....it will be neon eventually! bhahahahaaha...I crack myself up!
I do not get the sunshine thing at all.
I'm really loving the sunshine cards. Yes, they look like a ton of work if you die cut everything and tap your pad 50 million times like she does, but I bet the normal user could stamp every other sunray in no time.
I might just have to order this month. The only PTI freeze I've been honoring is the "I refuse to buy ugly stuff" freeze and so far this has been the first release this year that I've been even tempted to get out that debit card.
I'm a little annoyed about the dye threads being locked. There was a lot of other conversation going on, where people were comparing the colors they got, that I personally found very helpful.
Nichole has mentioned on more than one occasion how the "Matching" products may not be an EXACT match, but are made to coordinate, things like buttons and ribbons are sometimes close enough to the cardstock color to pass off as the same. I found the discussion about the varying shades of ink color to be quite helpful, to know if my couple ink pads (I only have a few) are actually how they are supposed to look. I wouldn't want to start a customer service ticket, to replace a bad ink, just to get the same one back in return, and have them say that it is close enough to be right... all that hassle for no different outcome.
That thread has also reminded me to go check my Spring Moss pad, which I haven't used in over a month, to see if it has turned lime-ish green too.
I think it is really RUDE of Nichole to lock that thread (and really does look like they are trying to sweep everything under the rug), and leave people hanging, who were waiting on replies from their fellow PTI customers, who were having a discussion between ourselves... I understand locking a thread where someone was asking for a reply from Nichole/Design Team etc... after they replied, but this was just people comparing their experiences.
...ugh... (correction from the last post)
I meant to say between themselves
(I was not involved in that thread, but may have replied with my own question if it weren't locked!)
They need to make a little icon of a gagged mouth that Nichole can use on threads she locks.
I agree. Stupid for Nichole to lock the thread. It's not a customer service issue; it's just customers having a dialogue about their experiences.
The Sunshine stamp set is a piece of s**t. Why design the rays to be sooooooooo small that you cannot stamp a full A2 card? Insteaed, you need to cut down the cardstock and use a smaller piece. Pathetic. I'll stick to the sunray sets from other companies.
I agree with you guys about NH locking the thread. Maybe you could start a new on saying something like "I'd love to see a comparison of inks of the following colors. Please PM me if you'd like to have a private friendly non-customer service related conversation about ink."
6:49, let us know how your spring moss stamped image turns out. I'm curious if it ends up being lime-y.
6:57, that's a very good point. Thanks for reminding me. Maybe I will check out a similar set from another company.
It's those little silly details that have kept me away from PTI for so long. And they love to brag about how much thought goes into each set. Whatevs.
Joan announced she is shutting down her blog. She dumped any of her FB friends connected to stamping,has left PTI for good. The woman is having a mid-life crisis where stamping is concerned. I am worried for her.
Don't need those sunshine stamps at all. Just the dies and some pretty paper and you can get the look!
@7:22. Sad to hear about that. But maybe it's for the best. Sounds like she had issues in the past that have come back/were never really resolved. Hope she's able to work things out and find peace.
She used to post a lot about how she never felt her stamping was good enough and how it distressed her. She seemed to always be looking to be on dt's to affirm herself. The woman is brilliant, witty, has a great marriage and a great kid, and yet stamping became this big thing for her. She seemed to be a lovely and sweet woman. I will miss her amazing writing. That is where she was able to shine. Writing is her big talent.
6:57 here. I know some unicorns are going to come here and say "you can stamp a full A2." Really? Take a close look at the cards on Betsy's blog and you can see that the sunrays don't reach to the outer corners of the card (first card), or the inner corners (second card). I'll give it to Betsy, though. She cleverly disguised the flaw in the second card.
http://scrapbookgirl.typepad.com/paper_scissors_and_superh/
Some nice full page Sunray sets . . .
AMuse Studio
http://totogal62.blogspot.com/search/label/a%7Cs%20Grunged%20Sunrays
Hero Arts
http://shop.heroarts.com/products/productdetail/Radiant+Banner/part_number=CG446/1571.0.1.1.0.0.0.0.0
The AMuse sunray doesn't look like it covers an A2 card, does it?
I like the Hero Arts one, but could do without the banner in the center.
"It's normal and ok to have blips in business. It's human. Thankfully blips get sorted and they pass. What is extraordinary is how you handle the blips with grace and professionalism. It's why we love being part of the Papertrey Ink "family". You're an inspiration to us all. :clap: :clap: "
Gag me with a spoon.
She must be referring to some other company.
Yeah, "grace and professionalism"? Not two words that come to mind when I hear PTI...
Placed an order last night with Avery Elle. Ordered cardstock and stamps. Will post my review when I have the order in hand.
I love how NH is swooning all over the forum member who mentioned the $$ hit PTI is taking over the SAF mistake.
Ashjoy wrote:
Nichole, I'm so sorry for such a huge mistake, even though it's making us very happy I'm sure the business end of things isn't seeing it as such a happy time.
Nichole wrote:
I appreciate your thoughtful comment! Thank you for thinking of the situation from our point of view as well; I have a great deal of respect for you because of it!
Granted, it was super gushy but still. I wouldn't have even been able to mention THEIR HUGE MISTAKE without adding something like "maybe there is something to be learned in this situation."
Awe, poor Kelly and Anne. They are trying so hard to get a {heart} from NH as well.
7:58 - where the fuck is that posted???
why do you even need the sun ray dies? is it that hard to cut out triangles? not directed specifically at you, 07:24... i am just baffled that some people seem to think they need (to sell or to buy) a die for every. single. shape. they want to use on a project these days. too much, it's just getting to be too much!!
Because when you need 10-15 per card, die cutting several layers at once makes it well worth the $6 for the dies.
Is it "normal and okay" to have SO MANY blips? Really, PTI? Do you think this is okay, really? And it is the same blips over and over and over again.
Did you guys notice a couple-few days ago in the email exchange posted here between someone and Julie about the "sweet" stamp in the strawberry set, Julie claimed this is the first time they have made that mistake? HELLO, am I losing my memory or is this like the third or fourth time that has happened? Defensive dishonesty like that disgusts me.
37 minutes to teach us to use the sunshine stuff? Really? And once again, tap, tap, tap, with the crappy ink!
I like the idea of being able to cut several 1.5" hex cuts with one pass (yes, I know they are advertising it as .75" but the total overall size from point to point would be 1.5" across):
http://www.simonsaysstamp.com/servlet/the-34391/656663-1.5-HEXAGON-HEXAGONS/Detail
Who has time to watch a 37 minute video introducing stamp sets? 37 minutes? How much of that time is rat-a-tat-tat pounding of a stamp on an ink pad?
OMG!!! I had not watched the hexagon video yesterday, but did watch the sunray video today from Nichole and the tapping of the inkpad was seriously driving me nuts. I had to mute the sound for a while. Oh Gosh!!!!!!! Plus she was repeating thing so many times. It was just so painful to watch the whole video. The sun rays set looks good, but why would you not design it to go all the way on a card base is something that I just cannot understand. I mean you are spending all this energy in designing this and all that, but they fell short of that. Too bad. I do like some of the stuff from this release, but maybe not enough to order it yet. I have been wanting to place another order with Stamps of Life as well as MFT Stamps. So No PTI This time I think.
8:27, how long were you able to handle watching? I only watched through the first 2 cards to see the incessant tap-tap-tap and then laugh at how annoying it must be to have her stamping in the next room.
I have to admit, I loved the cards she made with it. Not the green with the gold embossing, but the others were really pretty.
If all the crap that PTI has gone thru are "blips", what the heck do the sheeple consider "huge fuck ups"?
I know some of them are reading here, nutjob, care to clue us in???
8:19: okay, i can see how someone would like that. stack up a bunch of paper, run it through, bada-bing bada-boom you're done. BUT it still seems easy enough to cut by hand that the el-cheapo in me thinks it's ridiculous to need a die to cut triangles. (please don't take that personally, i'm not trying to ridicule you.)
It was posted on the second page of this thread -
http://forum.papertreyink.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=36300
I love Nichole's first card, the green and blue one with glitter strips in the rays. It makes me want to try the look. But PTI as a company makes me want to run the other way. I'll do it with scissors and a pen, thankyouverymuch. Oh, and the pinked-circle nesties which I already own. The only thing I don't have is the sentiment to heat-emboss in white onto vellum. Hmmm, what to use to get that look...
I thought Joan was a PTI forum sheeple???
This is an interesting post:
Hexagons are trendy, and I thought I'd join the bandwagon. As usual, harder than it looks -- easy to make hexagons, not so easy to come up with designs that work.
Used my Silhouette to cut out hexagons and the honeycomb trim. If you have a Sihouette or Cameo, find "honeycomb" designs in the store. All you need is one as you can resize it -- $1.00 and you will have more hexagons that you ever want. This is a great way to use patterned paper.
I blatently ripped off Papertrey Ink's hexagon cover plate idea that is being released this week.
The only comment I'm gonna make about her shutting down her blog is that she really needs to step away from the internet entirely for her own well being.
@7:58, I don't have the AMuse stamp, but from the various photos I've seen, it looks like it will cover the front of an A2 card.
As for the Hero Arts stamp, I don't like the banner either, but the way it is designed, you can stamp the sunray without the banner. It's all about the placement. Take a look at this card which sold me on the Hero Arts stamp . . .
http://cheironbrandon.typepad.com/my_weblog/2012/03/sunshine-cards-.html
@19:10. The paper looks promising but the shipping for Lilly Belle is expensive. I was going to purchase two sample packs and a pack of clear A2 cards. $12.70shipping for a $16 order? Ouch.
Jeez, why do you people make me go to Nichole's blog??? It's like a train wreck. But I will not sit through the whole 37 mins damn it!!!
As for the Hero Arts stamp, I don't like the banner either, but the way it is designed, you can stamp the sunray without the banner. It's all about the placement. Take a look at this card which sold me on the Hero Arts stamp . . .
===========
I thought the same thing when I saw that stamp, don't like the banner but I can cut that part out.
One pet peeve of mine is how in this creative industry how narrow minded some women are. "oh I don't like something because of this!" Well turn it upside down FFS. Sorry for the rant.
I bought this sun stamp last year, love it!
http://www.marketstreetstamps.com/here-comes-the-sun/
9:29 here. I only made it to 1:51 of Nichole's video today. Sorry folks could not take one more second of her sausage fingers tapping the hell out of that sunray stamp.
Someone needs to tell Nichole all that tapping is NOT NORMAL!!!
I can't help myself. Smack about the Sunray video from today. Between the raspy voice, sloooooow pace, and that damn tap, tap,tap, I couldn't stand to watch more than about 8 min. NH videos are like nails on a chalkboard for me. I do like the impression sunrise impression plate but I have never thought the impressions were deep enough
I like the impression plates, but it seems like I have to do a lot of work to get a good impression from them (I do have some older plates). Apparently, my machine isn't quite perfect and I have to spend more time than I want shimming and trying other tricks.
For me, I think the sunrise set would get old quickly. I do like the look of it in it's intended orientation, but the alternative uses look forced and don't appeal to me. If I could get the impression plates to work, that would be enough of the sun ray look for me.
I dislike the long videos. I don't even start to watch, it is too long. I'd prefer photos and text, with video only for unusual steps. Or at least include a transcript if it has to be a video.
Gallery Idol cards for this round? Anyone look? What did you think? I hate how bragadocious Miss T sounds in her intro about her cards; but, dammit, Janet, I like the cards. Not my favorites, but I like them.
@9:41. I considered buying that stamp and may still do so. I smile when I see it, though, because with the circle in the middle, all I can think is"land of the rising sun..."
I do have the Amuse Grunged Sunrays stamp, and it's definitely not large enough to cover a card front - it measures 4 inches by a little less than 2.5 inches. It's a great stamp, though.
Practicing Creativity has a good sunrays set, I use mine a lot.
@9:33 - Before you work yourself into a froth over the narrow-mindedness in the creative industry today, consider the discussion that was underway. We were discussing sunray stamps that cover an A2 card. PTI's does not. AMuse does not. Hero Arts appears to but they placed a fugly banner in the middle. Which means if you want to cut it off, it will no longer cover an A2 card. And that gets added to the list of pros vs. cons when comparing similar stamps between companies when trying to decide which one to purchase. Can you understand that or are you too narrow-minded?
Anyone knows what is going on with Practicing Creativity? Are they still doing business? I wanna order but most of the sets are OOS and it's been like that for a while.
Since some of the smackers said how much the phrase "on trend" bothered them. Does it bother anyone else get annoyed when people referring to time spent stamping as "playing?"
11:07 I think you are the one working yourself up into a froth. A a whole paragraph written in defense??? 95% of all stamps made won't fit a A2 card. whatever @@
Holy Shit! I thought you guys were exaggerating at the amount of ink tapping Nichole did on the video. But WOW.
I will echo what someone else said. IF YOU NEED TO TAP YOUR STAMP THAT MUCH, GET BETTER INK!
If you don't like the Hero Arts one with the banner, they have another one in the Studio Calico line that covers a whole card front. http://shop.heroarts.com/products/productdetail/Starburst+Background/part_number=330056/1571.0.1.1.59307.1021766.0.0.0?pp=12&
Oh hey, I like that HA/SC background stamp! Thanks 12:30!
The ink is fine. Tap. Taptap. Just fine. Taptap. Tapitytaptap. No problems here. Poundpoundpound...
12:30 - thank you. that hero arts/studio calico one is exactly what i was looking for. don't want to bother with lining up the sunrays when i could just stamp once and be done with it.
I would love to do a parody video of the tap tap tapping. Dayum!!
13:03 - Love it!! ha ha
There's a shipping question on the forum and Nichole answered. Here's the post and N's answer:
---------------------------
The excuse before was that the old yahoo store had limitations on varying shipping charges. I thought this was one of the changes promised with the new website. I don't understand why one die cannot be wrapped in tissue paper and mailed for 50¢?
---------------------------------
There is currently a flat shipping rate of $6.50 for orders totaling less than $70.
It may seem simple to mail single items in an envelope, but it takes a special operating system that is able to calculate the mass of items in addition to weight when you check out. We are still establishing whether or not it is cost effective to invest in this new system but we will certainly keep you updated when/if other options officially become available.
Just tried to watch video (made it about 4.5 minutes) and am already worn out just watching how to use that sunburst stamp. Would much rather have one like the HA/SC linked above.
To all you bloggers out there: I am no Joan B... I am a HORRIBLE writer and I blog to primarily share my DT creations with my readers, and for my own gratification. I have a question though, do you ever use language like this?
Quote: (NOTE: please be sure to click on the photos of this project to enlarge so you can see all the amazing detail!)
Do you call your own creations amazing? I just cringe when people use words like this to describe their own work.
14:15, it's too complex, you little people don't understand how difficult this is, our big heads must work tirelessly day and night to figure it out, ...
In other words, we don't want to do it.
You know what ticks me off so much about the shipping crap? They said over and over and over that it would be an option with the new site and not until customers are bringing it up they figure they have to check into it. Why weren't they working on it long before now, long before the last website go live debacle? So tired of the excuses and them padding their pockets even more!!!!!
I guess I'm in the minority... I like the option of "building' my sunrays
Then all the cards made with that stamp set don't look the same..
Re: SAF kit is awesome!
Unread postby pinefeather » Tue Jun 12, 2012 10:46 am
I am looking forward to seeing the tote and all of the fun goodies inside!
________________________________________________________________________
Am I the only one that thinks that it is sad and illogical that the customers get the bags before the DT?
Anonymous said...
Since some of the smackers said how much the phrase "on trend" bothered them. Does it bother anyone else get annoyed when people referring to time spent stamping as "playing?"
13 June 2012 11:50
_______________________________________________________________________
I just think that it is stupid... we are grown women and men, not 7 year olds with toys. But it doesn't "bother" me, I just won't use the phrase.
As for NH's shipping comment... it's funny how most companies find it cost effective to invest in this system. Then again, most companies find it easy to have a decent web-site, good CS, respect for their customers, etc, etc.
I like that the sun rays are separate on the PTI set. Much easier to make something multi-colored when they're separate. And I like to use multiple colors in a project. But I really didn't care much for the samples made with the stamp set. The ones with the die-cut rays, I liked most of them. So I'll save the money on both and just cut triangles with a paper cutter or exacto knife if I want to make sun rays. It's really not all that difficult to make the angles (I use a quilting template).
I don't get the shipping either. Print invoice. Pull items off shelf. Place in box. Set on scale. Enter weight into the shipping sotware and select the method of shipping based on the customer's preference. Done. What was so hard about that? Other companies let you select your shipping method. And some companies even send you a refund for the difference in shipping charges. Both The Craft's Meow and Crafty Secrets have sent me shipping refunds before.
Oh and it would help to have USPS, FedEX or UPS to have a daily pick up too. What's so hard about that?
I ordered a cardstock sampler and two stamp sets from Avery Elle yesterday... they shipped today. My shipping charge was $6.95 on an order under $60, which isn't too bad. I will update about the cardstock quality and stamp quality when my stuff arrives. And one of their new sets is a sunray set... I didn't order that one, but it is $15, not $24, and is super cute.
I am super interested in your review 15:46
Thanks for taking one for the team lol
Hey Rick, where did all the good smilies go?!? It looks like a bunch of them got pruned!
16:12... I don't see as taking one for the team! I enjoy trying out new stamp companies, and I haven't been burned yet. :-) This year I've tried Wplus9 (LOVE them!), Paper Smooches, My Cute Stamps, and There She Goes stamps. All great alternatives for PTI.
If the existing system automatically calculates weight to put crap in a box, WTH can't it calculate weight for a freakin' envelope? If the items are too heavy for a standard letter mail envelope a decent system could default to a box. It's nowhere near as hard as they make it out to be.
BTW - if a priority box within the US is $5, why is the under $70 shipping cost $6.50? Are businesses not allowed to use those boxes?
Very little fits in a $5 priority box. 3 packages of paper would never fit, even though they are less in price than the cost of one large set of stamps.
The $5 Priority box is 4x6. So there's no way CS could fit in there. They are perfect for stamp sets and ink pads.
One package of cardstock could fit in a $5 priority envelope but then people would scream that it was bent.
I had not seen the Sun Ray background stamp from market street before. It is really nice and covers the entire card front. Look what I found :))))
http://scrappinnavywife.blogspot.com/2012/03/you-are-my-world.html
How beautiful this card turned out,
http://marketstreetstamps.blogspot.com/2011/01/tutorial-large-background-stamps.html
She has fussy cut this one. Quite good too,
http://jenniferwills.blogspot.com/2012/03/sunny-vibes.html
http://jenniferwills.blogspot.com/2011/11/sunshine-love.html
http://jenniferwills.blogspot.com/2012/06/crown-jewels.html
http://www.typicalaquarian.com/2012/02/new-market-street-stamps-a-winner/
http://snippitysnap.blogspot.com/2012/01/another-valentine-days-card.html
http://www.erinleecreative.com/2012/01/happy-birthday-angelica-peachy-princess.html
How is it that so many companies come out with the nearly identical concepts within days/weeks of each other? chevrons, hexagons, starbursts, etc.
http://virginialusblog.blogspot.com/2012/06/hisher-cards-take-2.html
I don't have a problem using the word "playing" to describe my creative time. It is what I do for fun. I am nearly 41 and I don't think that just because I am an adult the word or concept of "play" no longer applies to me. To me a life with no play in it is a life not worth living. Just my opinion!
Exactly 00:49. I'm 42 and I definitely play. When I'm playing I'm doing something just for fun. It's not my job, it's not housework or errands, it's not any of those dreaded responsibility things.
I just got a new laptop recently and I was telling everyone that I was playing with my new toy.
I may be blind, but where is today's release info on nichole's blog??? I just see the post from yesterday, re: Hello Sunshine.
Never mind, it just loaded . . .
loving that HA/SC sunray bg stamp.
not really a fan of that rustic looking one from MSS, but thanks for sharing because I'm sure it will appeal to someone.
as for NH's non answer on the shipping, so typical. the LAST time this was brought up months ago, she said they had just been discussing it in a board meeting that morning or the day before or something.
it is glaringly obvious this is a back burner issue for them. they put it off until someone starts poking around asking questions.
Well, the rolodex file stuff has sparked an idea for a color reference for me. I know I won't be buying the dies, as silhouette has a cut file for them. I'll have to do some more thinking on the stamps and see whether they would work for me and whether it's worth $24 for me to not have to figure it out on my own.
I love how there are 3 dies in that rolodex system. Is it just me or does anyone else see that the left tab can be flipped around and becomes a *gasp* right tab????? LOL!
That is freaking hilarious about the left and right Rolodex die! It will be funny to see the response on the forum when somebody points this out.
A while back, someone posted about Stamp School and their cardstock. They were a new company, so I waited a while, but I recently placed an order with them for some cardstock, inks and felt.
The cardstock is really nice and thick. It cuts easy with my Big Shot and it is heavy enough for my base. I'm really impressed with it!
The felt was really nice too. The colors are very pretty, although maybe not a 100% match to the cardstock color, it's close enough for me.
Their shipping wasn't horrible, but not fantastic either. It was $7.25 flat rate. I didn't order enough to get free shipping (which was after $75 I think).
I don't usually pay attention tot he Gallery Idol hoopla, but since someone asked, I checked it out.
There were some truly hideous cards in Round 3. Made me wonder how these people were still in the competition. But, so as not to hurt anyone's feelings, I'll call out the ones I thought were truly AWESOME. Bear in mind, I don't know any of these girls, so there isn't any bias.
Aga's monochromatic set was cool use of woodgrain, which I don't normally like. But I liked it on her cards.
I liked Amy Kollings "picture frame" cards (mainly the feminine one)
I thought JJ's flower card was really pretty and the beer mug card super clever!!!!! I think I have time to make my husband one of those for father's day.
Jennifer's popsicle stick cards were cute but her blog name is unfortunate....ourchangeofart. No, I'm not 7 but the word fart just sticks out way too much.
I like Heathers hex cards but the sentiment stamps, I don't like the fonts. they look like paper smooches or something. not my style.
Okay, this is where I'm a little biased against an artist....Miss T's wedding cards are great but she seems full of herself "As usual, I don't do things the easy way...." gag!
Evidently Nichole reads here because she updated her blog post to explain the left and right tabbed file cards. The explanation is too funny!
I posted on my blog, years ago, about my rolodex system of card colors, embossing folder samples, etc. and Nichole commented on it way back then.
For non forum readers, this is what Nichole posted on her blog post:
EDITED TO ADD FAQ: I don't understand why it is necessary to have a left die and a right die. Can't you just cut one left or one right and flip it over?
There are actually a couple reasons why there is a left and a right die. First is, some of customers really like the "good", nice rounded edge side of a die-cut to be face up at all times, so this gives them the option to be able to do that if they choose. Also, if people want to die-cut a *specific* area of a magazine clipping, it is much easier to get placement on the front of the picture, rather than the back.
The reason why all three dies are sold separately is so you can choose what you would need/how you would like to use them. So, if you want to flip your die-cuts rather than buying both left and right, you totally can! Or, for the people that would prefer to have both, they have that option too. Hope that helps!
http://www.bosskut.com/0529addresscardmsrp1350.aspx
I paid $4.99 for this at JoAnn. I like that it has no tabs as I make my own tabs with a little die I have.
I think the rolodex is a silly antiquated idea. Isn't this what Pinterest is for??
http://scrapbooking.lovetoknow.com/Scrapping_with_Rolodex_Cards
And I am sick to death of all these money-grabbing "systems" from PTI. Just give us some damn stamps and paper and ink that works.
And I am sick to death of all these money-grabbing "systems" from PTI. Just give us some damn stamps and paper and ink that works.
***********************************
But, but, but, they're trying to be "innovative"!
Pinterest is good for idea stuff. Of course if you're like me, you walk over to the computer to check an inspiration photo and 2 hours later after checking Pinterest, Facebook, countless blogs, etc., I still haven't gotten a damn thing accomplished.
In my case, I want to have samples of colors, which of the 84275 inks I have match those colors, and so on available without having to get up. I use to have a different system in my old craft room, but it doesn't work quite as well for me now. So this sparked an idea that may work for me.
Mind, as I said, I'll be buying the Silhouette cut file for $0.99 instead of the PTI dies...
money grab is right!!!
antiquated is also right!!
Pinterest being the rolodex of the digital age is even more right!!!
7:21, I'm laughing right along with ya!!
I can see some thinking it would be fun to make a whole system and then never really using it to create cards with. It is just kind of like organizing for the sake of organizing for those who are obsessive organizers. I do think a color sample card would be nice, but why not just make a page with little tabs of labeled cardstock and keep it on your desk?
That rolodex system is stupid. It's just another "thing" that PTI does and drops a couple months later.
I think people forget that PTI is a business, their aim is to make money. If you started a business that would most likely be your goal too. If suckers and idiots exist out there (and obviously they do otherwise infomercials would not exist) then a silly antiquated filing system is just the thing to try and sell them! They'll use it once, realize what a PITA it is use to use and go back to using Pinterest. Oh, and there will be tons of sets on the FSOT board. But they won't care because the next 'big' thing will be released on the 15th. That's what sheeple do.
I don't think the rolodex system for storing ideas is a sustainable system. I'm imagining the effort of:
1. copying my idea images off the internet.
2. Pasting them into some kind of editing program.
3. Resizing them.
4. Printing them.
5. Punching/cutting them out.
6. Cutting paper into a rolodex card.
7. Stamping the grids/forms.
8. stamping my ink colors into those tiny little boxes.
9. handwriting the details.
I just don't see many people using this method for very long once the effort required is fully realized.
But if some see value in it, good for them. I hope it works for you and you can keep up with it. I don't have time for that. I barely have time to craft.
Once you use the stamps that say sketches, layouts, etc. on one card, those stamps are now useless aren't they?
When I make a card, I just sit down and make it. I don't go through reference pages for layouts and color and all that. Do people really do all that "research" to make a card? I have never "sketched" out a card in my life.
I created a system for my inks that has worked really well and I've already used it several times.
I found a solid flower image and stamped it in every color of ink that I own onto white cardstock.
This was good for a couple of reasons...1) some of the inks have never been used and i realized how pretty they actually are and 2) some of the SU inks don't match the color on the outside of the case but are actually prettier than I thought they would be.
Then I punched the flower out using an SU tag punch.
I wrote the color of ink and the initials of the manu on the back of the tag (SU, VM for versa magic, M for memento, B for brilliance ink, etc.) and then punched a hole with my crop o dile through about 5 or 6 tags each so it went quickly.
Then I bought a 2" or 3" book ring (like a giant key ring but hinged for easy open/close) from Staples and put all the tags on the ring.
Now I can flip through quickly and see which ink matches the project du jour.
I've used it so many times so far and it takes up a tiny bit of space and I can easily add to it when I get new ink. (I'm obsessed with getting every color of versa magic chalk ink and memento dye ink! LOL)
All in all it took about 2 evenings of tv time while DH and I were watching Property Brothers after kiddo went to bed.
7:40, i think this would be helpful for design team people or the newb scrapper who hasn't yet found their groove, but I craft like you and don't see a need for it at all. if I had to do all that crap to come up with an idea i doubt i'd even craft.
My entire cart just dumped again.
I didn't know you could still buy rolodexes(?) I'll stick to my evernote.
I love the desk top file system, I've been meaning to create a stamp index using one. I won't be using PTIs to do it though, way too much work. I'll just buy the pre-made cards.
I really appreciate the detail and thought that went into the sunray set, especially the guide. But damn, every one of the cards made is ass ugly.
7:46, mine too. And i'm really pissed about it. I doubt I'll fill it again though. I've just had it.
Not that I want to stick up for PTI in any way...but my cart has been loaded for over a month and has not dumped.
I've even added a stamp, die and paper here and there over the few weeks just to see if it would dump.
I use a Mac with Safari but I have no idea what version because I'm not at home right now.
does anyone really use these new dies? I won a set and gave them away because i thought the concept was lame and since they've come out i haven't seen any blogs where people are using it. except for maybe the people who work with/for spellbinders.
http://scrapace.com/spellbinderspectacularspinbundle.aspx
i might come around if I see this in action.
I find the sunray set just too much work. I'd personally rather have a large stamp. It reminds me of the doily stamps where you had to stamp each half individually and it looked like a pain to line up.
8:54, I believe you. But I also believe me and 7:46. It's an aggravating problem. I had my cart stay in tact once. And that was it.
The time after that I thought it dumped because i just had stuff in there too long. but this most recent time i put some things in just yesterday and i checked this morning and *poof* gone.
IMO what browser you're using, or OS makes no difference to the cart dumping issue. I didn't have the dumping issue for months, then out of the blue nothing will stay in it longer than 24 hrs. Here's why the cart issue hasn't been fixed:
1- The web guy is a distant Heskamp cousin who only does that as a hobby. He has no idea how to fix the cart dumping issue. J & J won't hire a real web guy because they don't want to offend their cousin and risk offending that wealthy part of the family.
2- J & J couldn't be bothered to deal with the piddling problems PTI's web store has, their real job is Heskamp printing. PTI is only something they do on the side when someone needs some spare cash for a new in ground pool.
3- PTI doesn't NEED to fix the web store issues. People will shop there regardless of how difficult it is.
I will bet $100 that the web store will still have the same issues a year from now. They have no intentions of fixing it.
I HATE those Spin Spellbinders.. So tacky and dated.
Is there a nice way to ask people on the forum to use more descriptive thread titles? It drives me batty when I see threads that say nothing more than "what do you think" or "I would love to..." .
Anyone have a link to the Stampin Up Holiday mini catalog???
09:36, I think about that when I start a thread in the forum. Plus, I'm the same way I'd rather see a more detailed title so I know whether I even want to bother reading it.
As I reviewed Nichole's post today some thoughts came to mind:
A. Too long. Much like the video yesterday, this post was too long and too involved.
B. This idea is too involved as a previous poster pointed out. Too many steps to set up this system.
C. One word, no two: Evernote. Pinterest. Both words previously mentioned here.
However, I love office supplies so I may just get that Rolodex die to use as an accent on cards or make mini books. If I get the dies, I will just buy two because I know how to flip and make the left tab the right or vice versa.
An observation I have made. Trends come hard, and they go fast. Quatrefoil,Herringbone,Chevrons,and now Hexagons, and Sunrays! Everywhere!
LOL!
Carry on ;)!
rolodex stuff is cool but I won't use it for the elaborate inspiration system. Why would I print out my pinterest thumbnails, cut them out, and make a little card for every freaking pin? I have hundreds of pins. It's a dumb way to sell the set.
I've been hoping for a rolodex die though for rolodex swaps on SCS.
I like the hexagon set and will probably get it for $5 but have no intention of paying the ridiculous amount for the die. I'll cut it on my silhouette.
Nichole's hexagon samples sold me all the way!
I'm waiting until SAF so I can get the free set for my trouble.
I agree the organizing system looks like too much work. The die is cute though.
How much do you think the dies will be each? Given the odd pricing system that they seem to have for dies, my bet would be $10 a piece. I am just guessing though.
The dies are listed as $7 each in NH's blog post. (Warning:That may or may not have anything to do with the actual price come release night...)
Thanks. I never actually read her posts. :-o
Shifting my crafting dollars to newer/more responsive companies....... ordered from Wplus9 on 6/10 and received on 6/13, ordered from Avery Elle on 6/12 and received on 6/14. Amazing!
I ordered from wp9 on 6/9 and still haven't received it yet. And only one die. Shame.
10:21, using the rolodex die cut on a card does seems like a cute idea. THANKS! ;)
I don't have any idea if their prices/quality/CS is good or not but I found this shop today and thought of my UK fellow smackers who might want a local resource for scrap goodies.
It looks like they sell cardstock, stamps, paper packs, etc.
http://www.craftworkcards.co.uk/products/whats-new.html
11:15 do tell about your Avery Elle order???!!!?!?!?
11:15 - I'm also interested in your Avery Elle order. What do you think of their cardstock?
I like the rainbow background and think that it will be a nice companion to the Rosie Posie set. It has an Amy Butler feel to it.
I stared an evernotes file and I have everything a Rolodex file would have. Gee, I can even post notes and sample/inspirational swatches. I'm not about to start another file system. Not even tempted on this one!
re: Avery Elle. Seriously, only 4 stamp sets and they're ugly. What a joke.
The Rolodex system just seems like so much busy work to get it set up. While I was watching AshleyI'mSoAwesome's video I couldn't help but wonder how many hours of real-time work it took her to get all those little file cards cut and stamped and embellished and written on. Definitely a system for people who love to make cute little embellished papercrafty org systems just for the sake of the cute little embellished papercraftyness of them. I wonder how many of the design team will actually convert to the systems they were assigned to make for this release, and continue to use them going forward, long term.
SU holiday catalog - very pretty!
http://www.stampinup.com/us/images/20120601_Holiday_en-US.pdf
SU holiday catalog - very pretty!
http://www.stampinup.com/us/images/20120601_Holiday_en-US.pdf
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Who ever you are, you ROCK!
OH Thank you for that SU catty link! I'm so glad to have this blog to get the links early without all the SU demo unicorns getting all pissy for it being leaked early.
I love that SU stuff, but the prices are ridiculous. $25 for a few little dies?
What does Nichole mean by wanting the rounded edges up on a die cut (explaining why you need a right and left)? I don't get it.
From Michelle W's blog:
Question: Will you have any more collaborative sets coming out with PTI this year? Your designs are some of my favourite stamps!
Answer: Sorry, not at this time.
If people buy all 3 of the dies, they really are smitten with PTI.
That's too bad about Michelle not designing sets. I wonder why it was okay for her to say something but Nichole wouldn't?
I really appreciate the link the SU holiday catalog. Getting a sneak peek is always nice. I can't believe it, but nothing really appeals to me this time. Oh well, more money for other things.
16:07 - you know how when you die cut cardstock it sort of curls the edges of it down as it pushes through it? It gives a nice finished edge. Nichole was saying, some people don't like to reverse their die cuts because then the back side of the curled edge sticks up and doesn't look nice like the front side does. Does that help?
Perhaps it was Michelle's decision to not collaborate on any further sets. Nichole may have felt it was Michelle's place to comment and not hers.
Yes, what 17:05 said about the "right" side of the die cuts. And some of us also prefer that side because our cutting plate is so scarred up that the back side of the die cut looks like crumpled tissue paper.
The rolodex cards are so tiny. 4 by 2 1/2 inches - hardly any space to write in/draw in.
And they take up too much time to make.
What a dud!
Why buy the dies to make a color swatch Rolodex when you can buy the color swatch binder? Less money and effort. Easier to use. Although, I do like the dies for scrapbooks or smash journals. They're actually a good size for journalling.
Oh Chris, I forgot about that lovely texture our scarred-up cutting plates give! LOL Actually I think that would be fun to use on purpose for something or other some day. :-D
Um, did you notice, they have left the color swatch binder in the dust as far as promoting it goes? Like someone here mentioned earlier, they wanted to push a new "system" on the sheeple.
17:40, ITA about how small the rolodex cards are. **IF** I ever did a system like this I would use nothing smaller than 3x5 index cards. (And that's a big if.)
That scalloped tulle ribbon looks really pretty in the SU catalog!
That link to the Holiday Catalog isn't working for me. I keep getting a runtime error. It appears like maybe StampinUp has programmed that link so it can't be accessed any longer. Or, it's just my computer :)
Watch out PTI...SU is coming for your die obsessed customers. Mwahahahahaha!
19:45, I've been oggling it for the past hour. I think it still works.
I keep trying but it tells me the website wants me to log in and then there is the box with the runtime error. So, guess it must be settings on my computer :(
If the catalog link isn't working any more, you might be able to email someone who might have saved a copy to their hard drive.
The SU link still works fine but it takes about 3-4 minutes to load.
I just tested the link again. It took less than a minute to load, with 10 tabs open including one of them playing a tv show on hulu. My computer kicks butt! hahahahaha
I might be losing my mind...my PTI cart has stuff from a cart that dumped several weeks back. My recent cart is not there.
That's because they probably were tinkering around (again) with the site, crashed it, and had to restore from a backup from several weeks back!
5:47, I have the same cart I had several weeks ago too... empty! Hahaha
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