End of the week fresh post.
EDIT: I notice the Cameo talk! I have one but it is collecting dust at the moment- can anyone tell me what settings and which blade number they use for cutting PTI cardstock (yes I still use that because I bought a lot from before :|) My blade always seems to mess up images with finer details by dragging some paper along as it cuts -_- Thanks for any help
Also really happy to see that announcement from Gina K. - everything that was discussed here seems to have been taken onboard. Just wanted to say if Gina does read this blog, she is getting direct feedback from the most honest customers (smackers unite lolz) and I'm sure lots of us will be looking to her company for more designs that would catch our eye now that we found someone who will actually act on customer feedback!
Well, this never happens . . .
ReplyDeleteFirst
Other than that, I got nothing.
pti obsessed, eh?
ReplyDeletenope, not Canadian....
Yes. We are PTI obsessed. Hence the name of this blog. We think about PTI all day every day. We dream about PTI all night every night. We eat, sleep, drink, and breathe PTI. We are so obsessed with PTI we want to marry them. We are so obsessed with PTI we are on the FBI's Most Wanted list for being obsessed stalkers of PTI. So shut up and let us obsess some more over PTI, EH!!!!!
ReplyDeleteAnonymous said...
ReplyDeletepti obsessed, eh?
nope, not Canadian....
29 June 2012 03:38
Stay pressed :)
Smacker III, what does "Stay pressed" mean?
ReplyDeletenever mind...i looked it up.
ReplyDeletehaters gonna keep hatin' and there's nothing we can do about it.
Dissenters will inevitably abhor
ReplyDeleteSo the only must-have from the spellbinders reveals was yesterday's Asian Accents and Asian Motifs. The rest of the stuff seemed like a replay of things they've already done.
ReplyDeletehttp://forum.papertreyink.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=36709
ReplyDeleteWTF! This really is some stellar customer service:
Hmmm.....I haven't used mine yet but I recently returned a bloom builder die for a replacement for these same issues and they promptly sent the SAME one back with a letter saying they couldn't find anything wrong! Also included, was ways to make it cut completely. I'd already tried those things! I hope my hexagon die works!! Fingers crossed!
THat's some kind of fucked-up-ness!
I predict the Happy Hexagon issues thread will be locked when sausage fingers is up and at 'em this morning!
ReplyDeleteMy Bloom Builders die requires 30 passes and a metal shim and even then I cannot count on it cutting right. I have never had a problem with a spellbinders or MFT die ever. The PTI ones are hit and miss if they are detailed. But then since it has to be my fault when it comes to PTI, why bother to send it back.
ReplyDeleteWell if PTI won't replace a product that does not work THE WAY IT'S ADVERTISED, then that is fraud I believe. I'd be on the horn with the appropriate agency in charge of dealing with this sort of thing right quick!!
ReplyDelete$24 is not chump change in my book and I would NOT let it pass.
PTI COUNTS on people not pursuing issues because they are only stamps and dies after all, that is what they WANT customers to think.
We as the customers have the power to change things, yet we choose NOT to do anything.
Why would you buy the hexagon stamp after you have been treated like an idiot, and now you know they arent going to stand behind their promise of replacement.
ReplyDeleteI meant hexagon die
ReplyDeleteSo I read thru that linked Hexagon Die thread and had to chuckle at this comment:
ReplyDelete"Hmmm.....I haven't used mine yet but I recently returned a bloom builder die for a replacement for these same issues and they promptly sent the SAME one back with a letter saying they couldn't find anything wrong! Also included, was ways to make it cut completely. I'd already tried those things! I hope my hexagon die works!! Fingers crossed!"
WTF??? PTI SENT HER OWN DIE BACK AND SAID IT WAS FINE? I have no words...
I don't know why I'm shocked but I'm shocked. If someone returns something to a company for exchange, they've already exhausted all possible solutions and want a new one. To return the same item to the customer with a note and a list of recommendations is worth than a slap across the face. This is a whole new level of LOW.
ReplyDeletePTI, where we find new and creative ways to make our customers feel like liars.
ReplyDeleteYeah, I love how Nichole says
ReplyDelete"...If you have tried all of the tips outlined on the sheet and have still not had success with the die, I am confident if you contacted them again with your results even after giving it another go, that they would be more than happy to either exchange the item or provide a refund."
So the new policy is to contact CS, send your product back for a refund 2x and then maybe get resolution? Nice.
Why can't PTI just believe the customer to begin with???????????????????????????? If she bothered to send it back it isn't like she's trying to get a free new die AND keep her old one to sell on ebay or something. She just wants her shit to work as promised!!! Damn, they love making stuff as difficult as possible, don't they?
ReplyDeleteIt will be locked soon.
ReplyDeleteLike anyone believes thy have an army of big shots in the wharehouse to test dies.
ReplyDeleteThr ladies that package up the products have NO IDEA how to use them, none of them are crafters and that's straight from a wharehouse picker/packers mouth
OK you gals looking to really like Gina Ks stuff (I include myself as one of you). She had her new release yesterday. Here's what I thought.
ReplyDeleteI loved Pretty Patterns and will be buying it. I love all the patterns and now that she offers clear (the main reason I never bought before), it will be easy to line up!
Still on the fence with Becky's set, I Do.
I liked Grand Tags, but all my grandparents have passed, fortunately there are a couple sentiments not grandparent related, and I love how it coordinates with the older set Masculine Tags. Buying this one.
I will pass on The Good Life (not my thang in the least) and Tropical Nature is a disaster of epic proportions!
here is the link
http://www.shop.ginakdesigns.com/category.sc?categoryId=16
@9:54
ReplyDeleteYou should spend less time here and more time learning to spell.
09:54 if you knew anything about the packaging at the warehouse, you would not be talking about the "ladies" that work in the warehouse.
ReplyDelete^^^ Hi PTI!! We knew you read here!
ReplyDeleteNow quit screwing around on the smack blog and get your shit fixed! And don't worry about 9:54's spelling errors. That should be the VERY LEAST of your worries.
So what do you think of the Gallery Idol winner? Her last card won it for her, obviously. If it had been judged overall, not the strongest.
ReplyDeleteI really liked her card. I admit that I haven't followed the contest very closely so I don't remember what the rest of her cards looked like.
ReplyDeleteI do remember thinking when JJ Bolton didn't make it through that it was just a popularity contest. I scratched my head when she didn't make it past 1 or 2 of the top 5.
9:54 here typing from my iPhone so grow up
ReplyDeleteSpoke to several packers personally. They were staffing the SAF tables last year ( big surprise)
They told us all about how they spool the twine and ribbon, and put the dies and buttons in baggies themselves
And NONE of them were crafters....or had much of an idea how to use the product
So GFY! K thanks!
And the majority of staffers were women
I'm not sure I would call this year a popularity contest with PaperCrafts Gallery thing. I have never heard of the winner.
ReplyDeleteThanks for that link to Gina K release. I really like that borders set.
I do recall seeing the winner post a vote for me on 2Peas. Her card is great, I'm just saying that if you ask for votes on a major message board (and it is great), people will vote for you. One of the other runner ups cards weren't great IMO, but she has a large group of friends/followers and asked for votes.
ReplyDeleteSince I have never heard of JJ before about a month ago, I figured that she didn't have as strong of a following.
I believe that it generally is a popularity contest. I do also think that the best card in the final round won. Her second to the last card, using household items and she used the computer disk, was good too.
ReplyDeleteCan someone please post a link to the winning card? Thx!!!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.papercraftsconnection.com/blog/2012/06/gallery-idol-2012-winner-announced/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+PaperCraftsConnection+%28Paper+Crafts+Connection%29
ReplyDeleteAfter looking at her cards again, they really are all nice cards. I think it was the photography in the You Color My World card that was throwing me off. They are all nice, but were they all the best? Again, I stand behind what I said earlier in that her last card was the best in that round. But all around best, I think not so much.
ReplyDeleteI didn't love any of the interactive cards really
ReplyDeleteI kinda liked Elena's..but that's it...
Thanks for the link! I think all of her cards were really good. I think the right person won!
ReplyDeleteI've never heard of her before this week, and I voted for 2 out of her 5 cards. Overall, I thought all of her cards were good, but the last one was amazing.
ReplyDeleteI like the trailer set, but don't have a use for it. For her other sets, I wish she would use different fonts. They remind me of Comic Sans.
ReplyDeleteAs for gallery idol, the winner's card was the only one in the final round that was even at all special. The rest were sub-par as far as "contest worthy" submissions go.
ReplyDeleteI actually liked most of Elena's cards, and voted for her at least twice in the earlier rounds, but I did vote for the winner's last card.
Good news from Claire posted on SCS (ironically in the 'Frustrated with PTI' thread. Ha!) that Waltzingmouse is working on getting an American distributor. Yet another company who listens, and actually hears, their customers!
ReplyDeleteAlso, since Claire's announcement was a direct answer to another comment made on that thread, it confirms what most of us already know - that "brilliant business women" keep informed about major problems in their industry.
ReplyDeleteI still believe (as many other posters have suggested) that if people keep ordering and "forgive" bad customer service over and over, there is no incentive for PTI to change.
ReplyDeleteWhen the cut in sales is deep enough, they will either change OR sell...
People ... sacrifice (wait) now for potential future gain... wouldn't we all like to see a better PTI, where we can feel valued as customers?
Yes, 15:44, that is what I am doing. Even though I would love to order some cardstock, buttons, ribbon, and several of PTI's stamp sets from them... I just can't bring myself to reward their bad attitude with my money. I know I am just one drop in the ocean but maybe it will make a difference as more time goes on.
ReplyDeleteWonder what they will have in their July release??
ReplyDeleteI love stamping. Until I can find equal or better, I will order from them now and then for things that I really want. It is a risk. I know that, but I don't want subquality things instead. I am in love with the $12 pattern paper packs, the cardstock, and stamp sets.
ReplyDeleteI am pretty set for inks and cardstock as I'm not married to PTI's but I love so many of the stamps still. When I find a set that I want I just wait and watch the for sale forum. Papertrey hasn't gotten any of my money since last September.
ReplyDeleteNichole ob the die issues:
ReplyDelete"While I do not have any knowledge of the original correspondence exchanged between you and customer service, I would assume that they were under the impression that you had not tried the tips listed on the worksheet because the die worked flawlessly when tested in the home office machine."
Translation: "We are perfect and you, little customer, are a dumbass.HTH!"
Did she think the customer wouldn't have tried the suggestions before going through the trouble of sending it back!!?!
So what are the die tips? I have tried new plates, a shim, switching placement on the plate, etc.
ReplyDelete19:58- that's pretty much it from what I've heard. That and switching the die face up or face down. If you are using new plates and a shim and still having problems, I think the die isn't doing it's job.
ReplyDeleteSomeone did a thread congratulating Erin on her new baby and it only got a few posts, but Dawn got two pages for her birthday?
ReplyDeleteouch.
ReplyDeleteWhat is wrong with the PTI dies? I never have these problems with MFT dies or very similar dies from other companies. It is only the PTI ones that are hit and miss for me.
ReplyDeleteDoes PTI carry the Copic Refills?
ReplyDeleteNichole ob the die issues:
ReplyDelete"While I do not have any knowledge of the original correspondence exchanged between you and customer service, I would assume that they were under the impression that you had not tried the tips listed on the worksheet because the die worked flawlessly when tested in the home office machine."
......................
As one of the three owners, I find it hard to believe that she doesn't know what is going on in customer services exchanges with the customer. Sounds like the usual cop-out; and yes, the customer must be at fault.
21:27.i agree with you. And if she doesnt know, than she needs to keep her yap closed because her words are neither helpful or factusl. She continually makes issues worse.
DeleteAnd she gets so defensive! !
Don't know what it is with the PTI dies - I have dies from MFT, Memory box, Spellbinders and they all cut perfectly in my old faithful Cuttlebug, bent plates and all!!!
ReplyDeleteIt is her job to find out what went on with customer service before she even answers that customer. It should not take more than 3 minutes to make a call BEFORE she attacks the customer's credibility,.
ReplyDeleteIt only seems to be the intricate PTI ones that cause problems - bloom builders #3 and the cover plates ... the rest don't seem to cause problems. I wonder if the cutting part is not deep enough for those??
ReplyDelete^^ I don't perceive her post as being defensive at all.
ReplyDeletei am 0345 and to clarify I meant Nichole gets defensive
ReplyDeleteJust checking on the new WMS release - one of the things that stands out is that when Claire introduces a new set, she invites you to check out the DT ladies FIRST, before she shows us her stuff.
ReplyDeleteThat's rather nice.
Yeah, I noticed that too. But Claire is an amazing person, her generous spirit comes through in everything she does and says. (Unlike NH who is sugary sweet on the surface only.)
ReplyDeleteClaire used to use a lot of PTI stuff before she opened WMS, and I always wondered why NH didn't snap her up. I almost got the impression that something unpleasant turned Claire off to PTI, because she stopped using PTI abruptly. Then she started her own line of stamps and the rest is history.
If Claire started her own line of papers, cut files, digital products, ribbons, and other coordinating products, I would drop PTI like a hot potato and never look back.
Hey, it could happen, right?!!
05:08
ReplyDeleteThe way I understand the beginning of WMS, is that Claire was going to send some of her designs to a stamp company (don't know which one) but her husband had them made up instead for her to start her own company.
Maybe someone else has all the finer details but that is my understanding.
Further to 05:08 - Claire is gradually introducing cut files (there is a freebie for her new release) and she does have a little patterned paper (which is really lovely).
ReplyDeleteCardstock is really something else - most of the manufacturers seem to be in the US (lucky you) where you obviously have a much larger market. I am international and am always surprised at the lack of colored cardstock available, especially at the really good prices you have available.
By the time Bazzill arrives on our doorsteps, it can cost 80 cents per sheet (the 8-1/2 x 11 size).
That's why I got onto the PTI CS wagon, even with the crazy shipping prizes. I am off the wagon now though !!!!
Count me in as someone who is glad Claire struck it out on her own! She makes wonderful cards and for a while I was sure she would end up on the PTI DT
ReplyDeleteBut can you imagine Nichole et al mailing a package to Ireland free every month?!?!?!?!
I was happy when she started her own company, and though not all her sets are my style I'm happy for her success..she is always sweet and apologetic when there is an error.
Omg the old PTI thread that got ressurected within the current thread....I hate it that I'm a unicorn defending them there.
ReplyDeleteHangs head in shame
LOL @ the Fiskars thread on the forum. No digs there (sarcasm)!
ReplyDeleteWhich old PTI thread? Link please. :-)
ReplyDeleteIt was my understanding that she (Claire) approached NH about designing/submitting designs and was turned down by NH quite rudely.
ReplyDelete7:09 That was what I've heard of the Claire/PTI situation as well, though I don't have any sort of real knowledge of the situation.
ReplyDelete@20:25... MANY other online stores carry Copic refills! I don't know whether PTI does or not, but PLEASE patronize another online business if that's what you're looking for! I highly recommend i{heart}papers... no affiliation, just an always happy customer! Kate's customer service is TOP NOTCH! http://www.iheartpapers.com/
ReplyDeleteIt could be that the person asking about Copic refills wants to cash out gift certs or reward points.
ReplyDelete7:25, you are correct and that is why I asked.
ReplyDeleteI don't think Claire will do cardstock until she has a US distributor. Shipping cardstock from Ireland would be a whole different matter than shipping stamps and dies.
Claire and Gina are both people of integrity and both know how to run a business. They need to just pick up some more designers in order to offer a bigger variety in style.
Check this out: http://www.ginakdesigns.blogspot.com/2012/06/afterglow.html
ReplyDeleteI just read that from Gina. The second that I see something that I want to buy, I will be buying from Gina. That is how to run a business.
ReplyDelete@7:25 or maybe her Copics need to be refilled. SMH
ReplyDeleteThis TE mermaid image is unusual (I am NOT slamming the card).
ReplyDeletehttp://shellypop.com/2012/06/30/te-release-party-continues/
Don't mermaids usually have bikini tops?
Not when it's a merman.
ReplyDelete@7:23 why don't you beg her not to shop PTI??
ReplyDeleteIn my quest to support good companies with good customer service, I placed my first order with Gina K this morning. Got some of her patterned paper and matching cardstock to try it out.
ReplyDeleteWill also be placing an order with Claire tomorrow.
Sorry 20:25... didn't think about rewards points, etc. as a reason for asking about Copic refills.
ReplyDeleteTo everyone so quick to slap my hand for suggesting another company... CHILL OUT! FFS! Can't anyone around here criticize without being bitchy??? There are daily suggestions for other companies on this blog, but I get slapped for suggesting one?
Gina's Strawberry pack of paper is amazing. I just purchased my third pack of it.
ReplyDeleteGina's post on the changes and improvements is AMAZING. Go, Gina! You will be getting 100% of my PTI dollars this month.
ReplyDeleteWhy does that mermaid have a man's chest? Creepy!
ReplyDeleteI'm shocked at Gina's announcement. Can she get any better! She is actually listening to feedback/suggestions. Yes, when we make these suggestions, it's in a positive tone so it's easier to accept than if it's in a bitchy tone.
ReplyDeleteThis IS how we used to give feed back to PTI. But instead of a classy response, we got bitch slapped. The ball was in their court and they were the assholes.
Way to go Gina! I can't wait to see what you have in store. I want to place my first order with you so bad!
Gina has the open door to be on top in this industry and so does Claire. All they have to do is get the designs right and they are going to wipe out the bad companies.
ReplyDeleteGina K. is definitely a class act. I look forward to the upcoming changes and addition of new stamp styles. I would love to start shopping there.
ReplyDeleteIt has been mentioned here several times about GK adding cut files for the Cameo. Is this something that she officially announced or is this wishful thinking? Sorry, sort of out of the loop when it comes to her products.
How does the weight of GinaK cardstock compare to PTI? I'm mainly interested in the white and kraft colors at this point.
ReplyDeleteI'm a little confused, because it looks like there is white listed at 120 pounds, also white and many other color listed as 100 to 110 - it doesn't seem to say which are which, and also 80 pound layering weight.
That merman has girly hair and a girly face to me.
ReplyDelete@9:45 - Gina's June 1st blog post had this statement:
ReplyDeleteWe will also be introducing cut files for the Silhouette so stay tuned for that.
I don't think anything else has been said yet.
To everyone so quick to slap my hand for suggesting another company... CHILL OUT! FFS! Can't anyone around here criticize without being bitchy??? There are daily suggestions for other companies on this blog, but I get slapped for suggesting one?
ReplyDelete***********************************
I think that it was the tone of your post that caused people to react the way that they did. The exclamation marks and the begging tone of the PLEASE.
Just my guess.
Someone a few days ago mentioned wanting Michelle Wooderson to collaborate with Gina K.
ReplyDeleteGina, I would love to see this too!
Does a Silhouette require knowing how to use a computer really well? Will it work with a MAC? How complicated? I gave up on Cricut.
ReplyDeleteI see Ted is licking sausage fingers ass again! I wonder if he got another free stamp in the mail as an i'm sorry? Of if she apologized to him secretly.
ReplyDeleteWhat are your favorite things about PTI stamps? My reason for asking this is that the longer PTI's issues go on, the more apparent it becomes that things are not going to change. If there are other companies that read this blog, maybe they would be helped by this information.
ReplyDeleteI'll go first. Aside from the designs, I love that PTI gets so many stamps into a $24 set. I really wanted to buy the berry set from Wplus9 but when I compared the perceived value to the PTI strawberry set, I didn't like it as much.
I swear I love Gina for that post that was linked here.
ReplyDeleteIt's like she does read here and does care to make as many customers/potential customers as happy as can be. She gets it! She realizes that happy customers who get what they want to spend money on WILL SPEND MONEY WITH HER - DO YOU HEAR ME NICHOLE???? JULIE??????
I'm eager to see the re-vamped color swatches and the new graphic stamp sets that come out in the future. I'm excited to make my first purchase from Gina K!!!
What a humble and graceful gal. Her business will go far. I know some don't like the preachy stuff, but here is why Gina will do well and why PTI is having so many problems. Remember, I didn't write the mail....I'm just delivering it:
Proverbs 11:2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.
Question: Why are there so many fights between PTI and their customers?
Answer: Proverbs 13:10
Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.
Proverbs 29:23
A man's pride brings him low, but a man of humiliy gains honor.
Yes but Ted also made a dig at PTI on the Fiskars thread. At least I thought so.
ReplyDeleteI love the way you get a lined stamp, a bold stamp, and several pattern stamps for the same image (like the flip flops). I love the matching designer paper packs, and most of all I love PTI's colors better than any other I have seen. I hate their ink!
ReplyDeleteBTW, you can get Fresh Ink on sale at Impress today with the code that was mentioned. They also have some amazing dies. Everything in the store on sale with the code.
A Silhouette can be used by someone with very basic computer knowledge. Some of the new software is not as intuitive as the previous versions, but it is not difficult to learn the basic cutting. If you want to do the print and cut or scanning stamps and making cut files with them, a little bit more computer savvy is helpful.
ReplyDeleteYes, it does work with a MAC.
BTW, their customer service rocks!
Yeah, right, Ted. I see lots of uses for a groom's set. Making all those bachelor party invites for the guys. An X rated stamp set, perhaps?
ReplyDelete:rolls eyes:
How does a Silhoette compare with a Slice, a Cricut, etc? Why is it better?
ReplyDeleteI got my Cameo in January and I had never used an electric cutting machine. It was out of the box and i was cutting within 15 minutes. I'm sure I'm only using about 20% of it's capabilities. I have a lot to learn.
ReplyDeleteI also go my first Mac in September. Both have worked extremely easily together.
You can download the software for free and play with it to see if you like it. You do not need the machine to actually try out the software.
I strongly recommend it!
How does the weight of GinaK cardstock compare to PTI? I'm mainly interested in the white and kraft colors at this point.
ReplyDeleteI'm a little confused, because it looks like there is white listed at 120 pounds, also white and many other color listed as 100 to 110 - it doesn't seem to say which are which, and also 80 pound layering weight.
30 June 2012 09:49
*****
I have both the layering and base weight of Gina's cardstock.
The base weight is the same as PTI. Here is the difference in their white cardstock. Gina's is smooth whereas PTI has a bit of "tooth" to it.
I don't pay any attention to the "lb" number as it seems to vary from mfr to mft, just know that the Base weight is the same thickness of PTI. Layering weight is perfect for layers.
I just had an image of what Copic refill service would look like with PTI...send in your colorless blender for a refill and have it filled with Black...and it would somehow be YOUR fault.
ReplyDeleteI am not going to answer Nichole's questions because she has already lost my $$. I have just recently decided that Papertrey is probably not going to change.
ReplyDeleteIs Gina K's card stock Poptone or something else?
ReplyDelete10:11 that cracked me up! I was thinking the same thing...what fiancee would say "Honey, I'LL make your bachelor party invitations for you!!!" LOL
ReplyDelete10:35, I don't know as I have never seen Poptone.
ReplyDeleteI should mention that the Ivory cardstock is just like PTIs, meaning it is not smooth like the white. It is a slightly "richer" ivory color compared to PTI which is a slightly lighter tone. I love the Ivory cardstock better than PTI.
So totally hooked on Gina's White and Ivory cardstock. I love the 80 lb. for layering and it takes ink so well that I never have a splotch or bare place anywhere.
ReplyDeleteIt kind of irks me that NH is pandering for ideas again.
ReplyDeleteI get that companies want to make things their customers will buy, but from PTI it comes across as more of a money grab than graciously appealing to the customer's wants/needs.
I guess if they were more attentive to what we needed in regards to CS, I'd be okay with them wanting stamp suggestions. But they ONLY care about ways they can get money out of our pockets with little concern for the transaction follow through.
:irked:
Why doesn's she ask for customer service ideas?
ReplyDeleteShe has to ask for help. She had a dt mutiny.
ReplyDeleteI think Gina's cardstock is a bit heavier than PTI's. Both the layering and heavy weights are very nice, but I'm not partial to the colors. I adore PTI's Spring Moss, Blush and Ocean Tides and can't find anything that comes even close.
ReplyDeleteI would be willing to drop PTI's colors IF another company offered the same coordinating products for comparable prices. SU is the only co I can think of that comes close, but their prices are higher and they're always retiring products. Not to mention their cardstock is too flimsy for the larger, heavily embellished cards I like to make.
PTI, unfortunately has cornered the market with their super value cardstock and ribbon. They can't be beat....yet.
I think Gina has outdone PTI with her white cardstock, but I agree that her other colors are too much like construction paper colors.
ReplyDeleteGina, make some 50 ct cardstock packs and sell them for $9.25, and when you come out with all your great new colors, I bet you will sway those of us who are clinging to the PTI cardstock life preserver.
ReplyDeleteLook how this Smack Blog is changing and affecting stamp companies. It is truly apparent who is listening and who is not. Support those who listen to us.
ReplyDeleteRight on 11:24
ReplyDeleteI think the reason why some, like Meredith, stay quiet about the PTI problems is because they are hoping for a dt spot someday. Once you burn a bridge with NH, it cannot be rebuilt. I think Meredith's creations are wonderful.
ReplyDelete50% off SU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!, But only for a few hours. Here is the link:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.cnn.com/video/?hpt=hp_c2#/video/us/2012/06/29/sot-express-meade-obama-scotus-dancing.hln
I don't think so! cnn.com/video? Obama?
ReplyDeleteMeredith who?
ReplyDeleteShoot, I hope I can find that link again. It was on a blog.
ReplyDeleteHere is the 50% off SU link------
ReplyDeletehttp://creatinwithkirsteen.com/news-a-announcements/1069-50-off-today-only-order-by-30-june.html
Maybe Obama was dancing because he gets 50% off all his SU until 8 pm tonight!!!!
ReplyDeleteWow...someone's majorly last minute gunning for the cruise! Good luck to her....
ReplyDeleteI am in Canada or else I'd probably buy some cardstock.
ReplyDeleteA whole bunch of PTI sets for sale:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.simpleflourishes.com/p/for-sale.html?spref=fb
12:46, thanks for sharing the link re: SU 50% discount. I know I can always count on you all to send inofrmation about sales/discounts my way! =)
ReplyDelete@10:55 Why is it OK for Gina to welcome your suggestions but when Nicole asks it's pandering. If Nicole didn't ask you'd bitch about that too.
ReplyDelete19:58 - So true.
ReplyDeleteBecause Gina asks for everything, not just things we will dump money for. She wants to know what we need in order to RESPECT her product and her SERVICE. Nichole only wants to know what we will shell out money for and be willing to risk the horrible customer service to get our hands on it. Nichole's is about greed. Gina's is about integrity.
ReplyDelete19:58/20:05 - So NOT true. Nichole is only interested in PRODUCT ideas. She doesn't give a damn about improving the customer experience. When customer service suggestions are made, all Queen Nichole does is put them down or lock the fucking threads.
ReplyDeleteKeep throwing your money that way if you want. I, for one, am eager to see what other companies have in store - especially when they are companies who are interested in hearing what people want - NOT just for new products, but for a better consumer experience.
PTI Smack: I have only cut PTI's stamper select white card stock. I choose the "heavy card stock" setting and change my blade to 5 on both the software and the actual blade.
ReplyDeleteI mostly use SU card stock and when I cut that I select "heavy card stock" and change my blade to 4 on both the software and the actual blade.
Did any of you see Dawn's latest post. There's a new "little" in the family.
ReplyDeleteWTF? They still don't have the DVD cases yet?
ReplyDeletehttp://forum.papertreyink.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=36791&sid=b87b6733a1a3523c0a5a46e3e5c2ed82
Didn't they hype these up during a release months and months ago? I remember thinking I wanted to order some back then but lost interest after they were delayed for one reason or another. I haven't ordered in ages so I never realized they still don't have them.
I just had an image of what Copic refill service would look like with PTI...send in your colorless blender for a refill and have it filled with Black...and it would somehow be YOUR fault.
ReplyDelete30 June 2012 10:25
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Funniest thing I have read - so sad, but true.
Sale at Ellen Hutson now through July 4. 15% off everything. Use coupon code july412 at checkout.
ReplyDeleteOmg. Finally. My uine says su going clear next year!!! That is why the ink has changed. At last!!
ReplyDeleteHmm. Hope u meant upline. My sister's. Bff is in founders circle and said something Like your sister is going to be happy next year. Wasn't sure what that meant . Wonder if this is it.
ReplyDeleteCannot cut papertrey with cameo and small designs
ReplyDeleteIf SU goes clear, then I might actually buy some of their sets!
ReplyDeleteI would also like to add that I adore Gina K as well.
PTI and DVD cases. I will believe it when I see it.
ReplyDeleteSU and clear stamps. If that is true, I wonder how that will work? Will it be a separate, limited collection in clear? Or some stamps in all 3 types? I thought that, from what I've heard and read that detailed designs don't work well in clear, so I would think that there would be quite a few of SU designs that wouldn't translate well to clear.
Umm...there are thousands of very detailed and intricate designs in clear and people buy them all the time, myself included.
ReplyDeleteThey work fine, which is why people keep buying them.
As far as SU going clear? Makes no difference to me, I'm a stamp whore, I'll use whatever I like - clear, rubber, cling. Maybe if SU lowered their prices a bit, as well as they ridiculous shipping prices, I might buy more from them.
Guess I'm the only one who thinks it is unprofessional and tacky of Gina to be so obvious about responding to this blog . Don't mind the PTI bashing but the customer bashing makes it awful that she is so open about coming here. Read here but don't say so in such an obvious way. Or own it . Lost all respect and now no PTI, no Gina k! Snack me. Don't care.
ReplyDeleteGina, just remember that this crowd will turn on you in a second.
As far as SU going clear? Makes no difference to me, I'm a stamp whore, I'll use whatever I like - clear, rubber, cling. Maybe if SU lowered their prices a bit, as well as they ridiculous shipping prices, I might buy more from them.
ReplyDeleteThis is exactly how I feel.
I don't buy small amounts of anything because the shipping to Canada always seems too expensive for 1 or 2 items. I usually make large purchases but I have to like a handful of things for that to happen.
Or she is a smart businesswoman who realizes that if you only consider opinions from the people who love you no matter what, you are getting a skewed view.
ReplyDeletethat's baloney about SU going clear. I've been a demo for years and my upline would know and she says that's bogus.
ReplyDelete5:55 - definitely see your point of view.
ReplyDelete20:14 - Asking for customer input is just part of product development. Nichole excels in this area, so she should continue to focus here. Her weakness is customer service and operations, so she should hire someone who can handle these areas.
ReplyDeleteGina and Nichole each have their own strengths, and the key is to backfill their weaknesses, which Gina appears to be doing with some recent designers.
BTW, I think Nichole reads here too. Yesterday I said Gina's fonts remind me of Comic Sans. Yesterday, Nichole referred to stamps at big box stores as having Comic Sans font. Coincidence?
ReplyDeleteI respect Gina for responding to and being open to all sources of feedback. If stamp companies do not read here, they're missing out on valuable honest feedback.
ReplyDeleteI know there's the occasional inappropriate post here, but I would say that 75%+ of the posts have valid points.
Besides, how do we know that Gina is responding only based on this site? I think the feedback here only reinforces what she already knows.
NH may or may not read here, but I wouldn't say that just based on the Comic Sans remark. I see plenty of Comic Sans mocking on FB and other forums.
ReplyDeleteSo did anyone here go on that cruise? I'd be interested to hear more about that. Which other stamp companies went again? PTI, Gina K and Stamping Bella?
ReplyDeleteEllen Hutson is having a warehouse sale through July 4th - on everything except Copic products. Use code july412 I just received a newsletter today and thought I would share the news. I always get fast delivery from Ellen, but I live less than 500 miles from Seattle.
ReplyDeleteSU will be dumping all the wood starting next year. The 2 options will be red rubber and clear. Yes, this is why the ink changed and there will be some other changes too.
ReplyDeleteI went on the stamping cruise. It was just the three mentioned -- Gina, Nichole, and Emily. All three were incredibly friendly, gracious and generous. The goodie bag was over-the-top amazing. From PTI, we received several stamp sets, samples of each ribbon (which I still have not used up yet), many ink cubes, etc. We had 3 classes with each of them while the ship was out at sea. Then during the day we went on shore, did excursions, etc.
ReplyDeleteLots of planning and attention to detail needed to pull it off successfully. No complaints here -- it was great.
and you know this how 7:47?
ReplyDeleteCruise - they also gave us product from other vendors. For example, everybody received a Scorepal. We also received Prisma glitter, colored pencils, watercolors, gamsol, etc. It was great.
ReplyDeleteJust made a huge order to Ellen Hutson. Even her overstocks (marked up to 40% off) get an additional 15% off at checkout.
ReplyDelete@5:55 my thoughts exactly. Kudos to you for posting. This crowd will turn on her too like a bunch of rabid dogs.
ReplyDeleteThe Frustrated w/PTI thread at SCS upsets me in that they would let this bashing go on and on. One poster is an Amuse rep. I wanted to order some ink from her but there's no way I will now. If she is a business woman she shouldn't be bashing another business.
I don't even see a PTI thread on the first 10 pages of Gen Stamping at SCS.
ReplyDeleteLooking for a person to buy A Muse from who is open minded and not overly political about things.
ReplyDelete@9:44 Search the forum. I typed Frustrated and it came right up.
ReplyDeleteI hate when I see demos and reps from other companies posting here. Big turn-off for me as well.
ReplyDelete^^^^ I totally agree.
ReplyDeleteI get nothing on the search at SCS.
ReplyDeleteAgree. It's one thing for customers to complain about service, but it's something else when demos/reps of other companies pile on.
ReplyDeleteEven so, I'm kind of surprised how long that thread has been going on at SCS. It must not be violating their TOS, but it reminds me of the Hannah Stamps thread a few years ago.
Some of you people are ignorant! The smackers gave PTI so many chances to turn their shit around before we became "rabid".
ReplyDeleteIf Gina K or anyone else has shitty service over and over and over and makes bad customer service decisions over and over and over then yeah, people will turn on her. But it won't happen in a heartbeat!
As for people representing other companies posting on the PTI thread. Are they not allowed to have an opinion? Should whoever you work for be penalized because you've posted your opinion? How ignorant! Some of you holier than thou's need a reality check!
@7:47, I'm also curious about your sources and additional info.
ReplyDeleteHmm...demos from other companies are customers too
ReplyDeleteIf she said anything unprofessional it might turn me off,but nothing overly bad stands out at me
Oh, and if you're looking for the Frustrated With PTI thread on SCS, it's currently on Page 2 of the General Stamping section. It might make it easier to find under the column for "Replies." Right now there are 402 replies, so looking there makes it a bit easier to find it -- most of the threads around it have a much lower number. Once you find it, you might want to consider subscribing to the thread if you want to stay current with the conversation.
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like 1 person above writing multiple posts to make their point look more valid. I doubt that many people here really care if Amuse consultants once bought from PTI. Just MY opinion. :-)
ReplyDelete@10:38 the use of profanity and calling people names makes YOU look ignorant.
ReplyDeleteYes, everyone is entitled to an opinion but it's not good business to be so vocal with those opinions when it could be hurting another company.
@11:06....wrong. I am one of those that posted re: Amuse and was surprized to see someone else post too.
ReplyDeleteNo one hurts PTI. PTI hurts themselves and continues even after they know the issues.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDelete10:38 - rabid? um, yeah.
ReplyDeletethere's a difference between being a customer only and being a customer AND a rep, at least to the people who posted.
there's more than one person who shares that point of view, because I did not write all of the comments above.
The SCS forums have a little glitch where if you don't have the member company posts turned off, as topics move toward the bottom of page one, they disappear into limbo for a while before popping up at the top of page 2. That's probably why some of you can see it and some can't.
ReplyDeleteWho cares if you work or are a rep for a company?
ReplyDeleteGood for you to read here, hopefully you won't make the same CS mistakes as PTI.
I hope SU makes clear stamps!!!
ReplyDeleteSimply Scored Diagonal Plate just cracks me up. People don't know to turn their paper a quarter turn on a regular scoring board??????
ReplyDeleteTo the poster looking for an Amuse consultant: Monica (mpqtpie on the PTI forum) is a nice person and an Amuse consultant. Also lauren34 (I think her forum name). I haven't ordered from either, but I saw them post.
ReplyDeleteAnd I'm another who thinks reps from one company shouldn't bash another.
11:29, I had noticed that glitch about SCS threads disappearing at the bottom of page 1, so thanks for explaining that.
ReplyDeleteWell everyone is entitled to their opinion but I for one think the diagonal scoring plate is a genius idea and I can't wait to get one. I sometimes have problems with accuracy turning my paper 45 degrees.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous said...
ReplyDeleteSimply Scored Diagonal Plate just cracks me up. People don't know to turn their paper a quarter turn on a regular scoring board??????
1 July 2012 13:31
I look at it this way...people can make hamburgers at home but they buy fast food so I guess its the same theory. Cause its easier?
Do you find it strange that a demo you buy from would unfriend you on FB? Would you not buy from that person again?
ReplyDeleteI don't get the cut files thing. Do they think we all have fancy machines?
ReplyDelete"Do you find it strange that a demo you buy from would unfriend you on FB? Would you not buy from that person again?"
ReplyDeleteI think friending or unfriending someone on FB is pretty meaningless. I certainly wouldn't just stop buying from her based on that. If it bothers you, ask her what's up. Could be plenty of explanations.
Cut files are just another option. Once you invest in the machine, cut files inexpensive, cheaper than traditional dies.
ReplyDelete^^^ and no storage issues.
ReplyDeleteno, companies don't think we all have cut file machines, but they know that SOME do. so why not offer that option?
ReplyDeleteIf you don't have a 'fancy machine' to use the cut files, then you are encouraged to buy the dies, or cut it out by hand. That is what I did until I got tired of shelling out hundreds of dollars a year for metal dies. I bought a Cameo 6 months ago and now I hardly ever buy metal dies. Another 6 -9 months without buying dies and the Cameo will have paid for itself.
ReplyDelete13:34, I purchased from Monica and, while I don't know her personnally and can't speak to whether she is a nice person or not, I found her service to be lacking. [I do give her kudos for posting ink comparisons on the SCS forum. That's part of the reason why I went with her.] Maybe Amuse does things differently, but when I order from my SU demo, I at least get a message from her acknowledging (and thanking me for)y order and another one following up on my satisfication. I"ll be ordering from another Amuse demo when the time comes for my next one.
ReplyDeleteI've ordered from Lauren34 and she is fantastic! She is extremely nice and has great customer service. As a matter of fact, I'll be ordering from her this month during her free shipping special. :)
ReplyDeleteAll A Muse is 50% off!
ReplyDeletewww.amuseartstamps.com/
But, I cannot find the ink pads.
So how do we find Lauren34?
ReplyDelete16:37, I think you're seeing old information from before Amuse switched to direct sales. That's their old store link, I believe.
ReplyDeleteWhy in the world would A Muse keep that site active?
ReplyDeleteHere's Lauren's blog:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.lauren-myprettylittlethings.blogspot.com/
It appears to be a near abandoned blog and she only posts about 3 times a year. I don't trust that. She doesn't even have the latest specials listed. Lauren, if you read here, you just lost a customer.
ReplyDelete