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 ;)
My son is 1, so I don't know that there is much I could do to take him out on a date and spend $100. He is pretty low maintainance. We do go out on the weekends and do things, and we go for walks during the week. I am just not good at taking photos during the week.
My book ends up all being about him and what we do with him rather than our lives. We throw the occasional date night, but for documenting receipts or tv shows or cups of coffee.... yeah not so much. I think of stories but never get around to writing them down, that kind of thing.
I just know once people start posting the "OMG It is sooo amazing!" I'll regret it if I don't sign up, but will I really get enough out of it to actually act on the topics discussed or will I still be lazy abou it?
It sounds like you know what to do....you just don't take the time to do it. Look around. Lots of online albums to peruse. Or take the class. Sometimes the only way that it becomes a priority is if you are heavily invested (ie you paid for it DEARLY). For me, I would take Shimelle's class over that one, but to each his own. Project life seems so self-explanatory somehow. And to be honest...the online albums are interesting for the people involved, but kind-of boring for the rest of us.
Just a small complaint....none of the links from Betsy's blog work anymore. I'm kind of new, and Betsy is my favorite designer. But when I look at one of her prior posts, the pti products aren't linked to the projects anymore. GRRR. I have to take the time to look them up, and if I happen to not spell it completey correctly, I have to search and search for the products.
project life is a cool idea, but I agree that I have no interest in looking at others'. it is boring. so do it for yourself and your family. i say take the class.
7:15, that's what happens when stores change their website. It's just the nature of the beast. Happens to all stores. It's a pain, but not much anyone can do.
The key is the store SHOULD have made the NEW design easier to navigate which would negate the PITA effect for the customers.
Don't know about the BH class - but yikes, $100 for a scrapbooking class is a little over the top! I wouldn't take the class - only because you dont seem all that invested in scrapbooking anyway. Why waste your money on something you'll feel guilty about NOT doing, because you spent all that moola? On the other hand, the onlinecardclasses run by Jennifer McGuire and Kristina Werner are such a good deal for the money! I am thoroughly enjoying them.
I agree with 14:12. I wouldn't spend my money on something I'd feel guilty for not doing. It isn't even like a regular class where you get some of the fee back in product. I admit I'm pretty loosey-goosey with my craft money but $100 for an online class definitely makes me pause.
holy crap! $100 for a PL class? Sorry, that's CRAZY! That PL crap drives me nuts, but I can't imagine anyone spending that kind of money to learn how to arrange your pages. ???
I'd rather spend the money on supplies and spend some time on Pinterest. Not like the ideas aren't readily available if you put forth the effort to look/read. Think of it this way. Instead of spending $100 on a class spend 5 hours looking for ideas instead of paying someone else to do it and you've basically made $20 an hour. Even a little at a time adds up.
OK, so I think you guys have talked me out of the PL class :) Anyone take Shimelle's Hitchhiker's class on TwoPeas? I am signed up for her JYC already (although that isn't really started) and I love glitter girl videos too.
Is the hitchhiker's class worth it?
What Jennifer/Kristina classes did you take
(PS - I think I'm going to use the $100 to buy my PL kits for next year (the baby and child kits) and then put the other towards a lower cost class.
(PPS - I'm also considering some fresh inks (next sale code) and maybe some gina k or mft paper - decisions, decisions.)
About these on-line classes---I've tried a few from different designers and have totally given up on them. I feel like it was money down the drain. Now, if they had come with product I may have felt differently and not like it was a complete loss.
I think us smackers could do as good as an on-line class just by sharing different views on a certain type of project!
Speaking of spending money.... Does anyone own the Scrapbox Workbox?? Is it really worth the money? It's a lot of money...I have a wooden cabinet filled with plastic containers but it's not really user friendly.
Agree with 19:06 & 20:17 Haven't spent a dime on any online class of any kind. Lots of free lessons on the Internet. I'm glad I read here first. I have been talking myself out of enrolling for a $49 Jessica Sprague online class for photo editing.
I thought the idea of Project Life was that it's so user-friendly and coordinated that you don't need a class. If she has tips and suggestions I wish she'd share them with those of us who have purchased the kit. I'd much rather spend $100 on actual products. There is plenty of free PL inspiration on the internets.
Check out BH blog for a free webinar on PL on Tuesday, Oct. 2 at 8:00 pm.
Her blog states:
In this interactive, live presentation, Jennifer will share:
- Selecting photos to use and subjects to photograph - Organizing photos and supplies for easy access and quicker scrapbooking - Planning and creating your PL pages
For those who were considering the PL class, what were you looking to get out of it? Since the concept of PL is basic by adding a photo, then journaling about it, what more do you need? There are no rules. Just add what is meaningful to you or what you want to remember in 10 or 20 years. Some of best things I've added are just a simple photo of our family at dinner time or watching tv. It is usually the time we have funny conversations and I will write about what was said. I like those memories even though they were simple and no major "event" was taking place. It's important to me especially since my children always ask me to tell them stories about what they did or said when they were little. Now I have a way to capture it all for them when they grow up.
23:33, Joan Bardee had a Scrapbox. She recently sold it, because they're moving and downsizing, but I know that she raved about it several times on her blog.
I've seen them in person, 'cuz a store I occasionally go to has one, and it's pretty amazing. It holds an enormous amount of stuff, and it appears to be well made. I thought about getting one a few years ago, but at that time the shipping was an additional chunk of money, and I really didn't want to put it together. I think the shipping is free these days, although they drop it in your driveway, no bringing it inside.
there's no way I'd pay $100 to have Becky Higgins to repeat over and over that we need to "cultivate a good life" and take pictures of "the every day." I don't really want to take pictures of the grilled turkey and cheese sandwiches I'm fixing for lunch or of my crafting stuff strewn everywhere as I craft. I want pictures of our family gatherings, not a close-up artistic shot of the centerpiece at Thanksgiving dinner. So many scrapbookers have turned PL into "artisic photos" - what the hell story do those tell? I'd rather have a photo of everyone gathered around the table visiting after we've eaten entirely too much. Yeah, I'd much rather spend $100 on product and get ideas from blogs. Or even spend the $100 on having my photos printed. Either is a better use of money.
^^ LOL. It's like praising someone for washing their hands after they doo-doo.
I've ordered from plenty of smaller companies and received the wrong item. What did those companies tell me to do? Keep the item and "share it with a friend if [I] don't need it." Now that's customer service.
@17:36, I have both and don't love the Hero Arts inks. They just (in my opinion) aren't as crisp on the page as Fresh ink. But I am a big Fresh Ink fan.
I too have to agree with the above posters -- Hero inks just do not stamp crisply. I much prefer memento and fresh inks. Heros colors are nice, but they are SO splotchy -- I dont buy the explanation about them smoothing out over time. It just isn't true.
I have taken several of Shimelles classes - including the hitchhikers class, and I have enjoyed them immensely. The pretty papers one was excellent.... I took one collection kit and made like 30 layouts. Her videos are very informative and she has a forum for discussions. She is also very accessible and friendly. I haven't been disappointed yet.
20:22 - thanks for the comments on Shimelle classes...
Do the classes overlap (hitchhikers and pretty paper) at all? I did take The perfect collection which talks about cutting up a collection and getting to starting points - would you think the pretty paper owuld still be worth it, or with hitchhikers and perfect collection I would be good?
I'm thinking of the cover to cover class, as I like whole albums to coordinate and then the hitchhikers class.
Is there something wrong me? When i think limeade ice I think more green. But the limeade ice looks yellow to me. I am not judging the color or quality but I am questioning my thinking
In my opinion, the Cameo will cut the vellum with ease but it is tricky to get it off of the cutting mat without it warping or tearing because it is somewhat delicate.
I'm not Trell, but I always receive Wplus9 orders much faster than any PTI shipment I've ever had - usually about 4 or 5 days after ordering. I've never had an order from PTI arrive in less than 10 days, and it's typically closer to 14 days. It has always frustrated me not to have much of a chance to receive and use my new supplies before the next way-too-big release begins, a factor that has caused me to cut back severely on how much I order from PTI.
I am excited to see Wplus9 adding more cardstock colors, although I really don't care for pigment ink and probably won't purchase any of that. Wplus9 stamps are great, and I love that the amount of items released every two months feels just right, rather than a big overwhelming fiasco each month, IMHO.
8:27 - the cover to cover was a good informative one, but its more for how to organize your albums versus ideas for layouts etc. I also do her learn something new everyday album, and I really enjoy it. Once you pay, you get in every year for free. This was my second year. I really liked her hitchhikers class, found it different from perfect collection. Which I also loved. I feel her classes are good value for money as she explains her thought process rather than just give you layouts to copy.
Have you seen JJ's Christmas tree card? I love her talent and creativity. http://rgcards.blogspot.com/2012/10/avery-elle-october-release-day-1-fanfare.html
17:46, I plan to use vellum for the inserts in my December daily album.so I have started cutting vellum following the instructions on the silhouette studio and, since I tend to cut very intricate designs (snowflakes), I set it at the lowest speed (1). Even though the design was too delicate, the whole piece came out perfectly. If your mat is new, try to rub it on some fabric, but just briefly enough to get some of the stickiness.
Um whoever said the Hero Arts inks do not smooth out after you stamp them is dead wrong or has the wrong ink type. Their mid tone shadow inks are incredible. I have all but two of the colors and there is nothing like them for good even coverage. A couple minutes after you stamp them they turn velvety.
Has anyone read the PTI boards & beams revisited blog posts? I just LOVE both Betsy and Melissa's projects/cards. Maile's projects are really getting bad :( I'm not impressed with the cards or how the watercolor effect ended up. They look like she just rushed and blah.
I think Dawn needs to try out some card sketches or something. It seems most of her cards use the same 1-2 basic layouts. I am so sick of seeing her use a vertical card with a piece of cardstock down the middle with something layered on top. Change it up a bit! For that matter, I wish Heather would lay off the Kraft card stock.
I really liked the snowflakes stamps and die combo - does any other company have them? I like the idea of cutting out snowflakes with felt. Maybe Sizzix? Did I answer my own question? lol
The people who mentioned the less-than-stellar quality of Maile's Boards and Beams post weren't kidding. Sorry to say that when I saw the first card, I honestly thought it looked like a house on fire, which couldn't be the look she was going for.
10:38 I have the cricut machine with the close to my heart art philosophy cart and CTMH snowflakes stamp set that looks just like PTI stamp set and die
I got the BEST deal on a SLICE machine on ebay. I got several carts with it too. There are several others there still if anyone is interested. Some amazing deals with many cartridge chips, and all kinds of accessories.
Boards and beams (stamps and dies) and Home for the holidays (stamps and dies) have been in my wishlist for sometime now. It just might be time to shop now.
^^ I forgot to mention that I have high hopes for Fresh Squeezed because the owners -- Ryann Salamon and Shannon Fralish -- are (also) tremendously talented . . . IMHO. =)
The only problem with the Fresh Squeezed is that they simply have copied other companies. Not a single offering that is anything but nearly identical to other mainstream stamps.
I like some of the things I am seeing in the new WPlus9 release. I am thinking about putting in my first order with that company. The blog says the stuff goes on sale on the 5th, but doesn't mention a time. Is it like PTI where the stuff goes live at a certain time and you have to order right away or be in danger of quick sell outs? I hope not, but would love to hear from personal experience with the company.
I am going to be spending my money at Avery Elle this month. Love their latest release and the projects their design team made. I believe Wplus9 loads products at midnight.
So there was a very great place to order memory box dies, they had free shipping ( even to Canada) I can't remember the name at all ringing a bell with anyone??
so does that mean the store closes at 11pm on the 4th and reopens on the 5th at midnight? Or closes on the 5th and reopens on the 6th at midnight? I was thinking it would be the first....
I love those fonts/sayings for the iconic images.... love the tree - can't wait to see it all together. (my work blocks half the photos so I have to go look more tonight)
15:08 geesh. Can't you just go to their store and look at the announcement yourself? I am all for being helpful, but come on. If you are actually going to order, you are already there, aren't you?
Yes, the store closes at 11 pm on the 4th and reopens at midnight on the 5th. It's a bit confusing - I had to go back to the August release post to confirm the times.
How novel that some people actually shut their websites down prior to release to get everything right.
I think I remember PTI saying that if they shut down their store for an hour before release, they would lose money. That seems an odd statement = surely no one would be ordering 1 hr before a new release.
Whoever is trying to sell off their used Slice machine (see the ebay post above) is barking up the wrong tree. Everyone here is aware how obsolete that machine is. If I'm paying 145.00, it will go towards a Cameo!
A report of good customer service (very un-PTI-like)from Clear and Simple Stamps... makes me want to support a company that not only tells their customers that they care and that they stand behind their products... but actual proof from customers that they do care.
I haven't bought any Gina K paper because, like everything else, nothing has really grabbed my attention. I hate glossy paper so I guess it's a good thing. Thanks for the heads up.
Dang! I just placed an order at Wplus9 for some of their release products, and it was so stinkin' easy compared to the months of pain ordering at PTI. I love it!
Totally unrelated to PTI..but has anyone ever taken a class from Christy Tomlinson? I love the concepts she used to come up with but her poor grammar and horrible spelling turn me off. Her stuff is all starting to look the same..a girl.in a dress. with some random "words of wisdom". Anyone have experience they can share?
21:15 Just placed my first order with Wplus9. What can I say. I love the country Christmas look. What an annoying experience. They need to redo their website. The Christmas tree die was already sold out. :( I guess I'm used to the ease of PTI's site when it comes to ordering the new releases. Does anyone know how fast their shipping is? Will it be weeks before they restock out of stock items? Do they send tracking numbers? Where do they ship from? Thanks.
17:53 When I order I order for the stamps, not the case it comes in. Who cares if they don't carry them anymore. I like the new packaging better anyway.
I like the clothesline type stamp in Wplus9 set http://www.wplus9.com/heartfelt-mix/ but I don't want to pay $19 just for that stamp. I don't want to draw it and I don't own any clear stitching stamps that I can bend on the acrylic block (just getting that out of the way, lol). Are there any suitable alternatives that are cheaper? Preferably clear?
I don't care about the packaging and I am neither 6:03 or 6:06. I use my own CD cases. Now if they could do away with the outer boxes and save me some postage (like that will ever happen), I would be happy.
I agree with 14:44, Gina's pattern paper is not quite glossy, more sateen.
And I agree with lots of other posters, the designs on the paper are stale and not fresh and inspiring. I bought 1 paper pack and there was only 1 design in it I liked.
But her cardstock rocks and stamp designs are getting better. The kits are the cutest IMO.
I put my order in on the WPlus9 site this morning and it was super easy! Can't wait!
Instead of PTI, I have spent my $ at I Heart Papers, Impress, and Avery Elle. I still haven't totally gone off PTI, but it's getting easier. I only buy the items at PTI that I totally love and can only get there. I cut out the stuff that I just liked and stopped buying cardstock that I can get elsewhere.
Have you seen that the new WMS stamps are back in stock? That's where the remainder of my $ is going this month. Yay!!!
I have finally turned a corner. While reading my blog list this morning I was shocked to see PTI sneaks! I TOTALLY forgot it was that time of the month. First time in years. Usually I excitedly anticipate it and it was totally off my radar. I am now in the "recovering" stage.
So glad to see that WMS is finally getting stock. Have been anxiously awaiting the seed packets and lanterns! Those new nestie images look pretty sweet, too. It's so cool that Claire has Spellbinders dies of her own now!
I know PTI gets a lot of criticism here about the spotchy results from their ink, but I just wanted to point out that I noticed that with other companies too. Not sure what inks they are using, but I saw spotchy stamping all over WPlus9 and Hero Arts as well. I agree that PTI's inks are not suitable, but it seems to be a wide spread problem, which I have always attributed to using Dye inks with clear stamps.
Everyone praises Fresh Inks, but I have yet to hear anything about the amount of staining they leave on clear stamps. Can someone fill me in? I would love to get some, but am worried they are going to stain as bad as my chalk inks since they are pigment. Thanks!
They stain a little. More with the darker colors, but not as bad as chalk inks. What I don't get is why anyone cares if stamps are stained. It is kind of like not wanting your water paints to get wet.
I don't mind my stamps getting a little stained, but when I used chalk ink on one of my stamps it became completely opaque and impossible to stamp accurately without the use of a stamp positioner. Yes, I admit to being a lazy stamper and hate having to pull out my extra tools.
Buried in the Papertrey Ink Customer Service Communications Center & Forum
DVD Storage Cases
Terry Weigand
asked this on Sep 28 11:03
I have the DVD storage cases on my wishlist on the store website because they were out of stock. When I click on the wishlist item now or search for "DVD" they no longer show up at all in the store. Will you be restocking these?
Hi Terry,
We are no longer stocking that product. We found they were too difficult to ship without breakage. So sorry for the inconvenience.
I don't order stamps because of the case, but I did favor a place that included storage. I was going to be willing to buy the storage from them. They don't have an advantage now over other companies.
I agree with the one who said it would be good to not have the outer box too.
Everyone has there likes and dislikes but I love Fresh Ink. The coverage is good and the colors are beautiful. I have not had any staining. Staining doesnt bother me if it happens but clumps of ink that need a tooth brush to clean does tick me off.
I also love Memento. I am finished with Close to My Heart and Stampin' Up! inks they are like water color. Also the lids on the SU ink are awful.
14:59 - you may want to check out 10:10 because she does post. Not sure why she deleted it. I saw the post and it was completely fine...not even a smacking post.
18:36 Stop being a effin idiot! When you click into the post (instead of clicking into the comments at the bottom) it shows her damn name! Give me a break DONNA!
Donna C. said... This comment has been removed by the author. 5 October 2012 10:10
Good Lord, only one Donna C. in the stamping world? Who in the heck cares if it WAS her and she deleted a NON_SMACKING post. What is wrong with you people? Maybe whomever it was just noticed that no one uses names here and then removed it. WHAT WAS IT ABOUT that has all of you so shaken by it?
LOLOLOL__ it was a post showing a pretty card made with Fresh Ink. Outrageous thing, right? Get a life smackers. Not enough drama at PTI to feed you anymore?
Dye inks are probably not going to give as good a coverage as pigment on clear stamps, but splotchiness aside, PTI's trouble seems that their colors are not stable. A couple of my Memento (lighter colors) get a little spotty - I use the old Versamark trick, ink that first, then the dye ink and that seems to solve the problem. At least the color does not change like what is happening with some of the PTI inks.
I won't buy inks that are not excellent all on their own. If I have to turn to tricks (not turn tricks, lol) I am not going to put money into them. Fresh Ink is the only way I am going to go from now on.
I love versafine and just recently bought the impress inks. I'm not sure what their pads are made of but I love the texture. PTI should have tsukineko manufacture their inks.
Great DT projects today. I especially like BB: Stripes. I thought I'd be safe on that one until I saw Danielle's card where she created plaid with them.
184 comments:
fart
yeah I'm the one who asked about the BH class.
My son is 1, so I don't know that there is much I could do to take him out on a date and spend $100. He is pretty low maintainance. We do go out on the weekends and do things, and we go for walks during the week. I am just not good at taking photos during the week.
My book ends up all being about him and what we do with him rather than our lives. We throw the occasional date night, but for documenting receipts or tv shows or cups of coffee.... yeah not so much. I think of stories but never get around to writing them down, that kind of thing.
I just know once people start posting the "OMG It is sooo amazing!" I'll regret it if I don't sign up, but will I really get enough out of it to actually act on the topics discussed or will I still be lazy abou it?
first world problems, I know.
fart
It sounds like you know what to do....you just don't take the time to do it. Look around. Lots of online albums to peruse. Or take the class. Sometimes the only way that it becomes a priority is if you are heavily invested (ie you paid for it DEARLY). For me, I would take Shimelle's class over that one, but to each his own. Project life seems so self-explanatory somehow. And to be honest...the online albums are interesting for the people involved, but kind-of boring for the rest of us.
I love PTI. :)
Just a small complaint....none of the links from Betsy's blog work anymore. I'm kind of new, and Betsy is my favorite designer. But when I look at one of her prior posts, the pti products aren't linked to the projects anymore. GRRR. I have to take the time to look them up, and if I happen to not spell it completey correctly, I have to search and search for the products.
project life is a cool idea, but I agree that I have no interest in looking at others'. it is boring. so do it for yourself and your family. i say take the class.
0715. The links could be broke because of the new web page stuff.
or they could be broken
7:15, that's what happens when stores change their website. It's just the nature of the beast. Happens to all stores. It's a pain, but not much anyone can do.
The key is the store SHOULD have made the NEW design easier to navigate which would negate the PITA effect for the customers.
should be a comma before "which"
Apparently Grammar Nazi is in the house. {eyeroll}
Or the poster was just correcting their own grammar.
What time is the grammar quiz today? And are you going to the dance at school tonight?
Or the poster was correcting his or her own grammar.
ignore the grammer lady and she will disappear.
oh you make it so easy.
Don't know about the BH class - but yikes, $100 for a scrapbooking class is a little over the top! I wouldn't take the class - only because you dont seem all that invested in scrapbooking anyway. Why waste your money on something you'll feel guilty about NOT doing, because you spent all that moola? On the other hand, the onlinecardclasses run by Jennifer McGuire and Kristina Werner are such a good deal for the money! I am thoroughly enjoying them.
Anyone take the Kickstart class? What did you think of it? Worth it or not? Learn anything new? Good inspiration?
I agree with 14:12. I wouldn't spend my money on something I'd feel guilty for not doing. It isn't even like a regular class where you get some of the fee back in product. I admit I'm pretty loosey-goosey with my craft money but $100 for an online class definitely makes me pause.
I love doing PL and Becky Higgins, but 100 dollars for a class stopped me as well. WOW..That is a lot I think.
holy crap! $100 for a PL class? Sorry, that's CRAZY! That PL crap drives me nuts, but I can't imagine anyone spending that kind of money to learn how to arrange your pages. ???
I'd rather spend the money on supplies and spend some time on Pinterest. Not like the ideas aren't readily available if you put forth the effort to look/read. Think of it this way. Instead of spending $100 on a class spend 5 hours looking for ideas instead of paying someone else to do it and you've basically made $20 an hour. Even a little at a time adds up.
this place can be pretty cool when there's no smacking going on.
OK, so I think you guys have talked me out of the PL class :) Anyone take Shimelle's Hitchhiker's class on TwoPeas? I am signed up for her JYC already (although that isn't really started) and I love glitter girl videos too.
Is the hitchhiker's class worth it?
What Jennifer/Kristina classes did you take
(PS - I think I'm going to use the $100 to buy my PL kits for next year (the baby and child kits) and then put the other towards a lower cost class.
(PPS - I'm also considering some fresh inks (next sale code) and maybe some gina k or mft paper - decisions, decisions.)
18:36- word :)
About these on-line classes---I've tried a few from different designers and have totally given up on them. I feel like it was money down the drain. Now, if they had come with product I may have felt differently and not like it was a complete loss.
I think us smackers could do as good as an on-line class just by sharing different views on a certain type of project!
I agree. If we "pooled" our knowledge, it would really help us all.
Speaking of spending money....
Does anyone own the Scrapbox Workbox?? Is it really worth the money? It's a lot of money...I have a wooden cabinet filled with plastic containers but it's not really user friendly.
Agree with 19:06 & 20:17
Haven't spent a dime on any online class of any kind. Lots of free lessons on the Internet. I'm glad I read here first. I have been talking myself out of enrolling for a $49 Jessica Sprague online class for photo editing.
I do agree this place is awesome at times ;)
Waiting for the next impress sale too (please be 20% and free shipping, lol!) but sticking with PTI papers.
I thought the idea of Project Life was that it's so user-friendly and coordinated that you don't need a class. If she has tips and suggestions I wish she'd share them with those of us who have purchased the kit. I'd much rather spend $100 on actual products. There is plenty of free PL inspiration on the internets.
Check out BH blog for a free webinar on PL on Tuesday, Oct. 2 at 8:00 pm.
Her blog states:
In this interactive, live presentation, Jennifer will share:
- Selecting photos to use and subjects to photograph
- Organizing photos and supplies for easy access and quicker scrapbooking
- Planning and creating your PL pages
Worth a shot for FREE.
For those who were considering the PL class, what were you looking to get out of it? Since the concept of PL is basic by adding a photo, then journaling about it, what more do you need? There are no rules. Just add what is meaningful to you or what you want to remember in 10 or 20 years. Some of best things I've added are just a simple photo of our family at dinner time or watching tv. It is usually the time we have funny conversations and I will write about what was said. I like those memories even though they were simple and no major "event" was taking place. It's important to me especially since my children always ask me to tell them stories about what they did or said when they were little. Now I have a way to capture it all for them when they grow up.
Impress usually has a sale in January.
23:33, Joan Bardee had a Scrapbox. She recently sold it, because they're moving and downsizing, but I know that she raved about it several times on her blog.
I've seen them in person, 'cuz a store I occasionally go to has one, and it's pretty amazing. It holds an enormous amount of stuff, and it appears to be well made. I thought about getting one a few years ago, but at that time the shipping was an additional chunk of money, and I really didn't want to put it together. I think the shipping is free these days, although they drop it in your driveway, no bringing it inside.
Good luck with your decision!
there's no way I'd pay $100 to have Becky Higgins to repeat over and over that we need to "cultivate a good life" and take pictures of "the every day." I don't really want to take pictures of the grilled turkey and cheese sandwiches I'm fixing for lunch or of my crafting stuff strewn everywhere as I craft. I want pictures of our family gatherings, not a close-up artistic shot of the centerpiece at Thanksgiving dinner. So many scrapbookers have turned PL into "artisic photos" - what the hell story do those tell? I'd rather have a photo of everyone gathered around the table visiting after we've eaten entirely too much. Yeah, I'd much rather spend $100 on product and get ideas from blogs. Or even spend the $100 on having my photos printed. Either is a better use of money.
I see a lot aboud the Fresh Inks here. What does everyone think about the Hero Arts ink? Is it any good?
http://forum.papertreyink.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=38384
^^ LOL. It's like praising someone for washing their hands after they doo-doo.
I've ordered from plenty of smaller companies and received the wrong item. What did those companies tell me to do? Keep the item and "share it with a friend if [I] don't need it." Now that's customer service.
@17:36, I have both and don't love the Hero Arts inks. They just (in my opinion) aren't as crisp on the page as Fresh ink. But I am a big Fresh Ink fan.
I don't care for Hero inks at all. IMO, nothing out there beats Fresh Ink. I have all but 3 of them now with the reinkers. Each sale I buy 5 more.
I also like fresh inks better than hero arts. Much better impression, plus the stamped image looks so nice on the paper.
That thread on PTI Forum is just so funny. She is happy because they paid return postage for a wrong item that they sent. GOSH Too much.
I too have to agree with the above posters -- Hero inks just do not stamp crisply. I much prefer memento and fresh inks. Heros colors are nice, but they are SO splotchy -- I dont buy the explanation about them smoothing out over time. It just isn't true.
Thanks for the input on the Hero Arts inks. You all just saved me some money!
I just ordered these new Pink Paislee stamps. They look really fun to use for Project Life:
http://www.simonsaysstamp.com/servlet/the-49377/00763-PORTFOLIO-SPEECH-BUBBLE/Detail
That is an awesome stamp set and reasonably priced
May have to give those Fresh Inks a try but I'll wait for their next coupon. How's their shipping outside of the states?
Whatcha think about this?
http://ginakdesigns.blogspot.com/2012/09/why-i-wont-buy-hersheys-chocolate-this.html
^^^^So the lawyers must not have had anyrhing better to do it appears.
Can anyone tell me how well the Silhouette Cameo cuts vellum ?
I have taken several of Shimelles classes - including the hitchhikers class, and I have enjoyed them immensely. The pretty papers one was excellent.... I took one collection kit and made like 30 layouts. Her videos are very informative and she has a forum for discussions. She is also very accessible and friendly. I haven't been disappointed yet.
Oh snap. WPlus9 is bringing it. Colored cardstock, ink, more dies. Loving what I see.
Me, too. WPlus is on it this month.
^^^^I ordered! Love their Fall stuff
Hey Trell - do you know how fast there shipping is?
20:22 - thanks for the comments on Shimelle classes...
Do the classes overlap (hitchhikers and pretty paper) at all? I did take The perfect collection which talks about cutting up a collection and getting to starting points - would you think the pretty paper owuld still be worth it, or with hitchhikers and perfect collection I would be good?
I'm thinking of the cover to cover class, as I like whole albums to coordinate and then the hitchhikers class.
Is there something wrong me? When i think limeade ice I think more green. But the limeade ice looks yellow to me. I am not judging the color or quality but I am questioning my thinking
I agree with you 10:34. Limeade ice looks more yellow with green undertones.
In my opinion, the Cameo will cut the vellum with ease but it is tricky to get it off of the cutting mat without it warping or tearing because it is somewhat delicate.
I'm not Trell, but I always receive Wplus9 orders much faster than any PTI shipment I've ever had - usually about 4 or 5 days after ordering. I've never had an order from PTI arrive in less than 10 days, and it's typically closer to 14 days. It has always frustrated me not to have much of a chance to receive and use my new supplies before the next way-too-big release begins, a factor that has caused me to cut back severely on how much I order from PTI.
I am excited to see Wplus9 adding more cardstock colors, although I really don't care for pigment ink and probably won't purchase any of that. Wplus9 stamps are great, and I love that the amount of items released every two months feels just right, rather than a big overwhelming fiasco each month, IMHO.
I get my WPlus9 orders in about 2 business days. But, I also live in Alabama, and she ships from Florida.
Market Street just released new sets. Love the little cute fang guy.
placed an order with PTI on fri and got it today that's pretty fast shipping
8:27 - the cover to cover was a good informative one, but its more for how to organize your albums versus ideas for layouts etc. I also do her learn something new everyday album, and I really enjoy it. Once you pay, you get in every year for free. This was my second year. I really liked her hitchhikers class, found it different from perfect collection. Which I also loved. I feel her classes are good value for money as she explains her thought process rather than just give you layouts to copy.
Have you seen JJ's Christmas tree card? I love her talent and creativity. http://rgcards.blogspot.com/2012/10/avery-elle-october-release-day-1-fanfare.html
18:59- I tried to look but it says the page doesn't exist.
i just looked and the page exists
17:46, I plan to use vellum for the inserts in my December daily album.so I have started cutting vellum following the instructions on the silhouette studio and, since I tend to cut very intricate designs (snowflakes), I set it at the lowest speed (1). Even though the design was too delicate, the whole piece came out perfectly. If your mat is new, try to rub it on some fabric, but just briefly enough to get some of the stickiness.
I hope it helped.
Um whoever said the Hero Arts inks do not smooth out after you stamp them is dead wrong or has the wrong ink type. Their mid tone shadow inks are incredible. I have all but two of the colors and there is nothing like them for good even coverage. A couple minutes after you stamp them they turn velvety.
Has anyone read the PTI boards & beams revisited blog posts?
I just LOVE both Betsy and Melissa's projects/cards.
Maile's projects are really getting bad :(
I'm not impressed with the cards or how the watercolor effect ended up.
They look like she just rushed and blah.
Thanks for vellum info. Going to give it try tonight
I agree. I was shocked at the quality of Maile's projects. What was she thinking?
Looks like Gina K is doing Project Life now too. Going to keep an eye on that. Especially since it won't cost me $100.
I think Dawn needs to try out some card sketches or something. It seems most of her cards use the same 1-2 basic layouts. I am so sick of seeing her use a vertical card with a piece of cardstock down the middle with something layered on top. Change it up a bit! For that matter, I wish Heather would lay off the Kraft card stock.
The dt are deteriorating. Either they are stuck in a rut or just getting plain sloppy.
At first I was going to be annoyed at the critical comments but then I went and saw for myself. YIKES. You guys are right
It appears to me that she was trying to do two companies blog posts in one. Sometimes that works. This time, not so much.
7:13 That is not true about Betsy. Her projects always amaze.
I am so ready for the countdown. :)
Yeah, I'm ready for the final month of PTI! :P
Let's see how underwhelmed I am.
PS
Where is sausage fingers team post?
Chicken little is back.
I really liked the snowflakes stamps and die combo - does any other company have them? I like the idea of cutting out snowflakes with felt. Maybe Sizzix? Did I answer my own question? lol
0943 Betsy always knocks it out of the park for me. Her things are always tastefully done
The people who mentioned the less-than-stellar quality of Maile's Boards and Beams post weren't kidding. Sorry to say that when I saw the first card, I honestly thought it looked like a house on fire, which couldn't be the look she was going for.
10:38 I have the cricut machine with the close to my heart art philosophy cart and CTMH snowflakes stamp set that looks just like PTI stamp set and die
13:29pm I did go back and look at the card and I see what you mean by house on fire.
I got the BEST deal on a SLICE machine on ebay. I got several carts with it too. There are several others there still if anyone is interested. Some amazing deals with many cartridge chips, and all kinds of accessories.
Betsy's little Boards and Beams ornament was fab...made me sad that I just sold that set on the forum. Melissa's pink house card was lovely, too.
I want the Santa Stationery set, but can't seem to put together enough items to earn free shipping.
^^^ why don't you ask if someone wants to order with you. Enough to get free shipping, of course.
That's actually a great idea, 19:52 :) Thanks!
Boards and beams (stamps and dies) and Home for the holidays (stamps and dies) have been in my wishlist for sometime now. It just might be time to shop now.
Several people on the sale board have Boards/Beams for sale.
Yep, Betsy is the only dt member who seems to be still giving A+ work. At least that's the way I see it.
Me too 23:36
She's an inspiration. Love her work!
If you were unable to participate in the free PL webinar last night, you can watch it for the next 7 days here:
http://www.layoutaday.com/oct-scrap
http://freshsqueezedstamps.blogspot.com/
New stamp company with an all-star guest DT. (I think Jennifer Rsaza and Virginia Lu are really, really talented.)
And, yes, it looks like more than one hexagon stamp can be "happy." LOL
^^ I forgot to mention that I have high hopes for Fresh Squeezed because the owners -- Ryann Salamon and Shannon Fralish -- are (also) tremendously talented . . . IMHO. =)
The only problem with the Fresh Squeezed is that they simply have copied other companies. Not a single offering that is anything but nearly identical to other mainstream stamps.
Was about to say that too 6:48
And not trying to be snarky or bitchy but I am not wowed by their DT.
I have never found anything at Taylored Expressions that I like before but I am digging the new hexagon and holly cutting plates.
I like some of the things I am seeing in the new WPlus9 release. I am thinking about putting in my first order with that company. The blog says the stuff goes on sale on the 5th, but doesn't mention a time. Is it like PTI where the stuff goes live at a certain time and you have to order right away or be in danger of quick sell outs? I hope not, but would love to hear from personal experience with the company.
I am going to be spending my money at Avery Elle this month. Love their latest release and the projects their design team made. I believe Wplus9 loads products at midnight.
Where did I see the silhouette stamp of the carolers and the lamppost? Those dt cards were gorgeous.
So there was a very great place to order memory box dies, they had free shipping ( even to Canada) I can't remember the name at all ringing a bell with anyone??
Chic and sassy crafters or something like that.
Amber Shaw's Chic and Savy Crafters doesn't charge postage for dies or stamps (I believe).
Perfect!! That's the one thanks all!!
The silhouette stamp of the carolers and lamp post are from WPlus9 upcoming release. I am thinking about that set and coordinating dies.
Re: WPlus 9. The store shuts down at 11:00 est and reopens at midnight. I'm usually ordering at midnight so I can't say how quickly things sell out.
Shipping is quick. Orders typically arrive in 3 to 4 days for me.
so does that mean the store closes at 11pm on the 4th and reopens on the 5th at midnight? Or closes on the 5th and reopens on the 6th at midnight? I was thinking it would be the first....
I love those fonts/sayings for the iconic images.... love the tree - can't wait to see it all together. (my work blocks half the photos so I have to go look more tonight)
15:08 geesh. Can't you just go to their store and look at the announcement yourself? I am all for being helpful, but come on. If you are actually going to order, you are already there, aren't you?
It appears that people are moving on to other companies. Thats a healthy move
Yes, the store closes at 11 pm on the 4th and reopens at midnight on the 5th. It's a bit confusing - I had to go back to the August release post to confirm the times.
How novel that some people actually shut their websites down prior to release to get everything right.
I think I remember PTI saying that if they shut down their store for an hour before release, they would lose money.
That seems an odd statement = surely no one would be ordering 1 hr before a new release.
Betsy always makes great stuff, but I really love Melissa. But, that's the style I gravitate towards the most.
I admit that Melissa is really good...I guess her style is just more fussy than mine so I tend to overlook her. But she does do beautiful work.
Wow, this is an amazing deal when you look at all you get for this!
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=271069897815#ht_956wt_97
Whoever is trying to sell off their used Slice machine (see the ebay post above) is barking up the wrong tree. Everyone here is aware how obsolete that machine is. If I'm paying 145.00, it will go towards a Cameo!
Gina K. is getting into PL? that is good for my wallet!
wish her designer paper was more like Crate Paper or LilyBee -- heavier - not glossy. Love her cardstock -
What is PL?
^^Yeah, her cs is good, but that pp needs a complete overhaul. So does her DT.
10:18 PL = Project Life
Found this while checking out blogs today...
http://chrissycards.blogspot.com/2012/10/a-rave-and-card.html
A report of good customer service (very un-PTI-like)from Clear and Simple Stamps... makes me want to support a company that not only tells their customers that they care and that they stand behind their products... but actual proof from customers that they do care.
Stupid me purchased Gink K patterned paper - didn't realize it was glossy. I hate glossy paper!
I haven't bought any Gina K paper because, like everything else, nothing has really grabbed my attention. I hate glossy paper so I guess it's a good thing. Thanks for the heads up.
It is slightly glossy, but I would use the term satin and not glossy.
Thanks 14:44. I've always been tempted by Gina's patterned paper but now I won't be. I do love her cardstock though.
Nothing about Gina K appeals to me, especially after her dumb boycott against Hershey
She never suggested people boycott anyone. Her experience was pretty eye opening though!
16:31, it's not a dumb boycott. She was in the right. Hershey did not have a claim.
So PTI will not be stocking the DVD cases anymore (per Zen Desk post) So what does that mean? Nothing to store them in...but the prices is the same?
Must not be a boycott she said she bought the kisses.
Dang! I just placed an order at Wplus9 for some of their release products, and it was so stinkin' easy compared to the months of pain ordering at PTI. I love it!
Totally unrelated to PTI..but has anyone ever taken a class from Christy Tomlinson? I love the concepts she used to come up with but her poor grammar and horrible spelling turn me off. Her stuff is all starting to look the same..a girl.in a dress. with some random "words of wisdom".
Anyone have experience they can share?
PTI's new knit background. Been there, done that. Plenty of other companies have a knit background stamp.
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz...............
21:15 Just placed my first order with Wplus9. What can I say. I love the country Christmas look. What an annoying experience. They need to redo their website. The Christmas tree die was already sold out. :( I guess I'm used to the ease of PTI's site when it comes to ordering the new releases.
Does anyone know how fast their shipping is? Will it be weeks before they restock out of stock items? Do they send tracking numbers? Where do they ship from? Thanks.
17:53 When I order I order for the stamps, not the case it comes in. Who cares if they don't carry them anymore. I like the new packaging better anyway.
6:03 and 6:06 -- good try!
^^^ what do you mean "good try"
I like the clothesline type stamp in Wplus9 set http://www.wplus9.com/heartfelt-mix/ but I don't want to pay $19 just for that stamp. I don't want to draw it and I don't own any clear stitching stamps that I can bend on the acrylic block (just getting that out of the way, lol). Are there any suitable alternatives that are cheaper? Preferably clear?
I don't care about the packaging and I am neither 6:03 or 6:06.
I use my own CD cases. Now if they could do away with the outer boxes and save me some postage (like that will ever happen), I would be happy.
I agree with 14:44, Gina's pattern paper is not quite glossy, more sateen.
And I agree with lots of other posters, the designs on the paper are stale and not fresh and inspiring. I bought 1 paper pack and there was only 1 design in it I liked.
But her cardstock rocks and stamp designs are getting better. The kits are the cutest IMO.
Anonymous said...
6:03 and 6:06 -- good try!
5 October 2012 06:57
Anonymous Anonymous said...
^^^ what do you mean "good try"
5 October 2012 07:23
------------
I think 6:57 means that the Uni has returned to toot PTI with 6:03's the "ease of PTIs site when ordering" comment. Nice try Uni!
I put my order in on the WPlus9 site this morning and it was super easy! Can't wait!
Instead of PTI, I have spent my $ at I Heart Papers, Impress, and Avery Elle. I still haven't totally gone off PTI, but it's getting easier. I only buy the items at PTI that I totally love and can only get there. I cut out the stuff that I just liked and stopped buying cardstock that I can get elsewhere.
Have you seen that the new WMS stamps are back in stock? That's where the remainder of my $ is going this month. Yay!!!
I have finally turned a corner. While reading my blog list this morning I was shocked to see PTI sneaks! I TOTALLY forgot it was that time of the month. First time in years. Usually I excitedly anticipate it and it was totally off my radar. I am now in the "recovering" stage.
So glad to see that WMS is finally getting stock. Have been anxiously awaiting the seed packets and lanterns! Those new nestie images look pretty sweet, too. It's so cool that Claire has Spellbinders dies of her own now!
would like to know what pti is doing about the 3rd round of bad inks.
Loving the new A Muse stamps. They really have some great new sets!
I know PTI gets a lot of criticism here about the spotchy results from their ink, but I just wanted to point out that I noticed that with other companies too. Not sure what inks they are using, but I saw spotchy stamping all over WPlus9 and Hero Arts as well. I agree that PTI's inks are not suitable, but it seems to be a wide spread problem, which I have always attributed to using Dye inks with clear stamps.
http://laurafadora.wordpress.com/2012/10/05/get-well-soon-2/
Fresh Inks on Kraft!
Everyone praises Fresh Inks, but I have yet to hear anything about the amount of staining they leave on clear stamps. Can someone fill me in? I would love to get some, but am worried they are going to stain as bad as my chalk inks since they are pigment. Thanks!
OMG those A Muse dies are outrageous. Several are $60 apiece and they are nothing special.
They stain a little. More with the darker colors, but not as bad as chalk inks. What I don't get is why anyone cares if stamps are stained. It is kind of like not wanting your water paints to get wet.
I don't mind my stamps getting a little stained, but when I used chalk ink on one of my stamps it became completely opaque and impossible to stamp accurately without the use of a stamp positioner. Yes, I admit to being a lazy stamper and hate having to pull out my extra tools.
Donna C - Deleting your posts is getting old! Stand by your comments or pay attention and post anon!
Buried in the Papertrey Ink Customer Service Communications Center & Forum
DVD Storage Cases
Terry Weigand
asked this on Sep 28 11:03
I have the DVD storage cases on my wishlist on the store website because they were out of stock. When I click on the wishlist item now or search for "DVD" they no longer show up at all in the store. Will you be restocking these?
Hi Terry,
We are no longer stocking that product. We found they were too difficult to ship without breakage. So sorry for the inconvenience.
Rick
I don't order stamps because of the case, but I did favor a place that included storage. I was going to be willing to buy the storage from them. They don't have an advantage now over other companies.
I agree with the one who said it would be good to not have the outer box too.
My WPlus9 order placed this morning at 6:00 has shipped!
I haven't noticed any staining at all from Fresh Inks. They are not like the chalk inks at all. They are much better.
Everyone has there likes and dislikes but I love Fresh Ink. The coverage is good and the colors are beautiful. I have not had any staining. Staining doesnt bother me if it happens but clumps of ink that need a tooth brush to clean does tick me off.
I also love Memento. I am finished with Close to My Heart and Stampin' Up! inks they are like water color. Also the lids on the SU ink are awful.
IMO Fresh Inks are superior in every way. Only light staining and probably because I don't clean mine until all finished stamping.
11:41, who in the hell cares. She has not posted here in months.
14:59 - you may want to check out 10:10 because she does post. Not sure why she deleted it. I saw the post and it was completely fine...not even a smacking post.
Couldn't be her. She is a school teacher and teaching at that time.
18:15 - Right...because teachers have no breaks during the day.
Not where she works and she has no internet access in max security. I happen to know her via another board. It was not her.
18:36 Stop being a effin idiot! When you click into the post (instead of clicking into the comments at the bottom) it shows her damn name! Give me a break DONNA!
Donna C. said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
5 October 2012 10:10
^^^ Oh snap! Busted Donna!
anyone shopping for world cardmaking day........discount coupons anyone?
Good Lord, only one Donna C. in the stamping world? Who in the heck cares if it WAS her and she deleted a NON_SMACKING post. What is wrong with you people? Maybe whomever it was just noticed that no one uses names here and then removed it. WHAT WAS IT ABOUT that has all of you so shaken by it?
It may have been mentioned before, but Ellen Hutson is having a big sale.
Promo: WCMD2012
15% off almost everything except Copic markers.
LOLOLOL__ it was a post showing a pretty card made with Fresh Ink. Outrageous thing, right? Get a life smackers. Not enough drama at PTI to feed you anymore?
http://forum.papertreyink.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=95&t=38518
How long before PTI kills the FSOT board or puts significant limits on what can be sold? My guess? SOON!
http://forum.papertreyink.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=38512
Another ink thread.
Dye inks are probably not going to give as good a coverage as pigment on clear stamps, but splotchiness aside, PTI's trouble seems that their colors are not stable.
A couple of my Memento (lighter colors) get a little spotty - I use the old Versamark trick, ink that first, then the dye ink and that seems to solve the problem.
At least the color does not change like what is happening with some of the PTI inks.
I won't buy inks that are not excellent all on their own. If I have to turn to tricks (not turn tricks, lol) I am not going to put money into them. Fresh Ink is the only way I am going to go from now on.
Yeah, I like inks to 'work' too. My all time favorite is Versafine - sigh, just wish they would bring out more colors.
PTI seems to be the only inks that 'change' color.
That would be annoying. Glad I never bought into them.
I love versafine and just recently bought the impress inks. I'm not sure what their pads are made of but I love the texture. PTI should have tsukineko manufacture their inks.
^^^ I referred to loving the versafine pads.
The snowflakes in today's PTI sneak peeks don't look like snowflakes to me. But they do look like they'd make great suns.
Great sneak peeks on day 3.
Great DT projects today. I especially like BB: Stripes. I thought I'd be safe on that one until I saw Danielle's card where she created plaid with them.
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