I really hope this video is helpful! I'm still using a Magic Mat for Die Cutting and it has been a game changer. BTW, I am aware that the music is a bit loud in the video. If this gets irritating, I recommend turning down the volume and turning ON the Closed Captions. At this time, there isn't a way to turn the background music down without turning ALL of the audio down. I may make an updated video in 2023...let me know if you'd like to see one!
Hi Debbie, I have been using the same sandwich on my Gemini Jr. since I watched your video many months ago. Definitely a game changer. I also have the bigger Gemini. Could I use 1 Sizzix Big Shot Switch Plate 8.87"x12.75", 1 Magic Mat 9"x15" and then top off with the Gemini 9'x12.5" plate? My Gemini plate just cracked and so I need to make a purchase right away.
@@globalhomeenergy1002 You'll want to check the measurements. If the Switch plate is the same thickness as the other sizzix big shot plates and also fits through the machine, I would "assume" that you could use it as well. If the gemini and gemini jr plates are the same thickness, and the sizzix and Switch plates are the same thickness, then I think you should be able to use them in place of one another. If that makes sense. I don't work for either company, or for Scrapbook.com so I can't be certain. (also, my hubby used his calipers to measure... the gemini plates are a smidge thicker than the sizzix) I just experimented until I found the sandwich that worked for me... and I don't have to use tons of shims just to get the right pressure.
Thanks for the suggestion. I've been using a magic mat for 3 years and rarely need to use a foam pad... which means that I don't usually have one handy. LOL. The brush end on my toon-in-one, and a pokey tool pretty much take care of all the bits pretty quick.
LOL. I must be the only person watching this video that didn't mind the background music. I have hearing issues but for some reason could hear what you were saying without issue. Maybe because I always use ear buds when listening to videos on my Kindle. Wanted to let you know how much I appreciated the information you shared. I recently purchased the Magic Mat but hadn't tried it yet. Look forward to using it in my Big Shot machine.
Thanks for the info. I’m getting a jr today and wanted to check it out first to justify. (I hate to say anything but the music in the background, as nice a tone as it is, it’s loud enough to be a distraction). Thanks for your demonstration of the magic mat. May have to add it to my tools.
@@DebbieJsCraftingCorner I totally enjoyed your video - and the music too. Thanks for toning the volume down. 🤗. I am a new subscriber and look forward to your future videos.
Great video! If your Gemini Jr. plates are still warping you should try the sandwich I use. I even saw J McGuire (i think) using it! Unfortunately you’ll need a set of Crafter’s Companion (green) doubled-sides cut plates but it works like a charm…no more warped plates or dies at all for me!! These green plates are very thin. I’ve been using the following sandwich, same plates and all for at least 6 mos. w/ no warping. Sandwich: clear cut plate, green cut plate, cardstock & die, green cut plate, clear cut plate. Amen😬🤣 Neither of my clear plates have a single cut line in them🤗
Thanks so much Missi! I LOVE my magic mats and have been using then with every cut for almost 2 years. I die cut a ton more than I did before I got them (You'll see lots of Spellbinders videos here on my channel) and I haven't had to replace any of my die cutting plates. One is starting to warp... but I had heat-flattened it right before getting the magic mat, so that might have something to do with it. NOTE: When your magic mat warps (and it probably will), use your heat-it tool to flatten it back out. takes less than 5 minutes. I have a video showing that on my channel too. ~Big hugs and happy die cutting! ~Debbie J
I love your videos, but it would be so much easier to hear what you are saying without the background "music", I am fairly sure that I am not the only one who feels this way. Older people sometimes have hearing issues and background noise just makes it difficult to understand what is being said. I don't wish to complain, but I do like your videos just need to hear them better
Please turn your music off. I want to be sure I can hear your beautiful voice. I’m hear of hearing and it can be very distracting. Thank you just keep the tutorials coming.
Great info (thank you!) but please consider doing future videos without the background music as it really makes it difficult for those with sensory overload issues to watch 😢. And no closed captioning available on it to watch on mute for those of us who get overwhelmed with the extra background noise.
I just bought a Gemini Jr a couple days ago. Haven’t gotten used to it yet. Just ordered a Magic Mat to eliminate all those shim pieces that were driving me crazy. I have a Big Kick too. Really heavy and takes up so much room. Gemini Jr. is so company. Thanks for showing me what to do.
Hi, fab video thank you. I have the original Gemini and have bought so many plates dont really want to purchase anymore plates. Seriously thinking of getting the Magic Mat but do i really need to buy a sissix plate as well wondering if i can still carry on and use my Gemini cutting plates just use the top abd bittom gemini cutting plates with the Magic Mat? Appreciate any help please!! Xx
I cannot tell you how happy I am right now. This sandwich worked perfectly in my Gemini. I use the jr. plates in the full size Gemini. I had stopped using it because I hated all the plates and shims especially if one was warped (metal shim). Thanks also for the tip on using the 120lb accent opaque for die cuts. I bought it for card bases but it was too heavy for my liking so I had set it aside. I didn’t use it in my big shot because it warped my dies. It cut perfectly with this sandwich. The best part is I already had everything you used. You have made my day.
Same. After 2 years and countless diff. sandwiches i finally found the PERFECT combo. No magnetic mat needed. Unfortunately it requires an additional purchase of a set of crafters companions (green) double-sided cut plates. These are much thinner than the clear cut plates. Sandwich: clear cut plate, green cut plate, die and cardstock, green cut plate, clear-cut plate. I’ve been using this sandwich for approx. 6 mos. w/ no warping whatsoever. You’re basically sandwiching die & c.s. between the green plates. I always cut into the same green one but it doesn’t matter. My Gemini Jr. was an overachiever. It had too much pressure w/ the recommended sandwich causing warped plates and usually leaving behind an impression of whichever die i was using (which looked awful). Now i ❤️ my Gemini Jr again. I don’t know if all the Gemini Jr.’s are like my machine so I hope it works for you. I die cut A LOT😬
Debbie thank you for your updated video using using the Magic Plate. I will try your idea of using a Sizzix plate as my bottom plate. I, also, love my Gemini Jr ---- just the right size and just the right weight so it is easy to move around. I got great ideas from your projects.
Thank you so much for all of the information in this video. Just one question... is there a reason why you wouldn't' use 2 of the Sizzix mats instead of one and a Gemini mat? The Sizzix didn't seem to be warping at all.
New to your channel and enjoyed this video. My Magic Mat is on the way, so I appreciate the tips. Thanks for sharing. Like your idea of emptying the scraps into a bin, saves on cleanup. I have a Big Kick too, but hardly ever use. Will be watching your video for that.
Great to know, thanks! I have a Big Shot and a Gemini, Jr., and I think they both take the same size of plates so assume I can just measure those and get that size of the Magic Mat if I get it. I like my Gemini, Jr., but honestly, I think those plates warp/curve quickly and pretty severely so that has made me not use that as much as I'd like because of the warping of the plates.
@@DebbieJsCraftingCorner Many thanks for your video. I adopted your method but don't understant really why you put the Sizzix plate first and the Gemini one on top? You said you finnaly found a way to fix your warped plates and will be sharing THAT video soon... did you make it? Thanks again for your advices it is very helpful!
Many thanks for your quick reply - no hurry - this video is very clear - always curious to learn more about how to better use my Gemini Junior which is the best for me (I sold my Big Shot...)
You can heat them on a cookie sheet at 200 degrees for a few minutes and they straighten right out. The only problem is I feel like I'm always having to straighten them out.
I haven't tried that yet but you could always give it a try. The normal sandwich for the Gemini Junior uses 2 clear cutting plates, the plastic shim and the rubber embossing mat... so maybe try using the magic mat in place of one of the clear plates? I'm gonna have to give this a try and see how it does... maybe share it on a future video :)
HI Jean! Great question. One of the things that I haven't been happy about with the gemini junior was all the various sandwich combinations. Scrapbook.com has instructions that say to use the magic mat in place of one of the plates with any of the existing sandwiches. The standard Gemini Jr. sandwich for die cutting is uses 2 Gemini Jr. cutting plates, the magnetic shim AND plastic shim in addition to your die and cardstock. Give it a try, replacing one of your cutting plates with the magic mat. If you need more pressure, you may need additional shims. If you need less, you may not need one of the shims. Let me know how it works for you! ~Big Hugs! Debbie J
You kind of threw me when you said you were using 300lb. card stock. I think maybe you were looking at the g/m2 or GSM (Grams per Square Meter) which is 300 on the 110lb card stock. You would need a chainsaw to cut through 300lb if they even made it! Just thought you would want to know.
Thanks for the question. I don't work for Scrapbook.com, but from what I understand, the magic mat isn't designed for dry embossing. It's designed to take the place of a cutting plate and will help your plates to last longer. For embossing with an embossing folder, I just use my standard sandwich that was recommended by crafter's companion (or which ever company made your specific die cutting/embossing machine)
I think this one was from Hobby Lobby... but other companies have it too. It's a "tool 'n one". Here is the one from spellbinders shrsl.com/4cghg ~Big Hugs! Debbie J
@@DebbieJsCraftingCorner Thank you very much, Debbie! 🤍 I immediately ordered one. Such a great idea, and no doubt easier than poking out tiny pieces with a needle. ☺️
Hi Laura! I checked the Scrapbook.com product listings. Looks like this one should work for you. www.scrapbook.com/store/sbc-mmat-4.html I recommend checking the compatibility and confirming that the size will fit your machine. Scrapbook.com has come out with new sizes since I got my first one 3 years ago (when I recorded the video). I use the Magic Mat for all of my die cutting these days, with a Platinum 6 machine, and I die cut A LOT, thanks to this mat. BTW, they are ALSO coming out with some magnetic mats soon... I can't wait to try one of them out!
First crafter instruction with background music while speaking I've ever watched. I feel it doesn't add anything and is distracting for me. I may try reading the transcript instead.
Thanks Nancy. I was having breathing issues and tried to cover it up with background music... and hadn't yet gotten the balance about right when this video was posted. My recent videos don't have that issue. Watching with closed captions may help. However, I do want to say that you ARE NOT doing anything wrong. The magic mat DOES warp over time as you use it because it's taking all of the pressure that you would have been putting into your plates. But I DO have another video showing how to flatten them back out in less than 5 minutes. I hope that helps.
Is there a specific size of the Magic Mat that aligns with the cutting plates for the Big Kick or Big Shot? I saw there were different sizes so wasn't sure what size of Magic Mat to order. Thanks!
I've been using the standard plates, with only one to be the "receiver" for the die (that gets cut into). The warping seems to come from accumulated surface distortion by the die impressions. When that plate begins to warp, I just turn it over so the other side of it gets more impressions. I just keep doing this, periodically flipping the plate to equalize the wear, and preventing warping. Just an idea that works for me anyway.
Thanks Jerry. Believe me, I tried that too, before getting my first magic mat. Every machine is different and maybe mine just use too much pressure. I'm not really sure. I do know that my Big Kick (the first one I got about 6 years ago), my Gemini Junior (about 3 years old) and my Platinum 6 (about a year old) all cause a LOT of warping no matter how often I flip the plates. Plus the dies didn't always cut. I've been using the Magic Mat for about 2 and a half years (since they were first released) and die cut a ton more than before, almost every day now (I hated to die cut before partially because I was so frustrated with the plates)
@@DebbieJsCraftingCorner Thanks, that is quite an encouraging endorsement! I may have to try one to see how much it helps my setup. So far I have good die cuts with 65 lb to 110 lb cardstock.
recollections 300lb? you mean 110 lb 300 gsm? as far as i know recollections doesnt make 300 lb that would be insane. Do you see an advantage of buying the magic mat instead of an A5 self healing off amazon (way cheaper?)
Thanks for the input. My more recent videos don't have the same sound issues... this was recorded 3 years ago and I know that the music was overpowering my voice. I hope it was helpful anyway. ~Big Hugs! Debbie J
I get it. this video is a couple of years old and I was in the middle of figuring out the volume levels for background music. If you've seen any of my even older videos, you might hear that I got out of breath quite a lot, and this video went up around the time that I was mostly better.... I had been using music to mask my getting out of breath because even I didn't like listening to them. I've been meaning to do an update and hopefully that will be soon. Oh... by the way, youtube has closed captions on pretty much all videos, so you could mute and read the captions. and if you have any questions I can answer, just let me know. I still use the magic mat whenever I die cut and my clear plates last a LOT longer. And I'm doing a lot more die cutting.
thanks for the feedback... the video is 2 yrs old, and you should see the pinned comment says that I know that the music is too loud. Check out some of my more recent videos. I took care of that issue quite a while back... but think that the info in the video is still useful so I've left the video up. I plan on making a new one... I still use a magic mat almost daily and do so much more die cutting than I did before. I hope the video was at least helpful for you.
Thanks Kat! Mine did too... and it's supposed to. The magic mat is gonna warp because it's taking all the pressure to prevent your hard clear plates from warping. But that's ok, because it's super easy to flatten back out in about 5 minutes! I have another real-time video here: ruclips.net/video/9Iro5Ras3eo/видео.html I hope this helps. I've been using a magic mat for all my die cutting for 3 years now, and it has been a game changer.
Thanks Joy. This video was recorded quite a while ago (I'm actually planning on doing an update video because I still LOVE my magic mats) and I was struggling with breathing issues. Up to then, I was using music to try to help cover my poor voice sound. I'm sure you will find all of my recent (as in 6 - 12 months worth, and there are a lot of them) are much better in that area. I'd love for you to give them a listen to see what you think. I have new videos up several times a week. If you have any questions about using the magic mat, please let me know. I'm happy to help.
Thanks for the feedback. This video was recorded shortly after I received my first Magic Mat... 3 years ago. I've been using it ever since and have not had to even open the extra ones that I bought (you can see it in action in most of my videos... thanks to this mat, I die cut a LOT more than before. I plan on doing another video on the Magic Mat. Unfortunately I just haven't had the time with all of the other projects I've been working on. I hope the video was helpful. I Love my Magic Mat.
Hi Linda.. thanks for the feedback. Please take a look at the pinned message. I know the music is too loud . This video was recorded 2 years ago when I was having breathing issues, and music was my way of eliminating dead air. I've worked hard to improve the audio and the more recent videos reflect this. Even with the audio issues, I hope the video was helpful.
Thanks for the feedback. I've struggled with breathing issues and have used background music to help mask all the dead space over the last several years. So, two years ago, when I shared this video, I was still using a lot of background music. (I just re-listened to this one... yes the music is a bit loud. And I can tell that I'm having trouble catching my breath during the video) These days, I don't use much and it's really quiet. Great thing, though, is that youtube has added closed captions so you can see what I'm saying even with the audio muted! I hope you find some of my more recent videos easier to listen to. ~Big Hugs! Debbie J
@@DebbieJsCraftingCorner Thank you, I never even thought of closed caption! Now I can finish watching, so sorry but that "music" was very irritating and repetitive.
Your video is nice but I was hoping you would show how to use the Magic Mat with the Gemini Jr using just the Gemini's plates not using a sizzix plate for some of us who don't own a Big Shot. Your title is a little deceiving and I'm sorry to agree with other comments but the music is annoying.
@@DebbieJsCraftingCorner Thank you for the links to your other videos. I didn't see them before as this is the first time I have watched any of your videos. I purchased the Magic Mat but have not received it yet. I'll let you know how it works with my Gemini Jr. I've heard so many good things about this Mat. I have subscribed to your channel.
Honey I know. This was recorded 3 years ago and I've changed the way I use background music since then. (I pinned a comment a year ago about this) I can't change what was already uploaded... But I am planning making a new Magic Mat video as soon as I get a chance. I've been using it for the last 3.5 years and it has been a game changer for me. ~Big Hugs! Debbie J
Thanks for the feedback. since this is a recording, I cannot remove the background music. also, I uploaded it about a year and a half ago. I'm still using my magic mat and you can see it in most of my more recent videos... this fun tool has been a game changer and I use more die cuts than ever before. As to the music, I've struggled with breathing issues and have used music to help make my videos tolerable. These days, my music is much less audible, so reducing the volume of the video can pretty much eliminate it all together. I've tried so hard to make my videos as easy to watch and listen to for everyone. And I continue to do so. I hope that my more recent ones are more appealing to you. And I hope that the information was helpful. If the music is really a problem, closed captions may be an option. ~Big Hugs! Debbie J
@@DebbieJsCraftingCorner Thank you Debbie - I was able to watch the rest of the video and just ordered a pair of Magic Mats. I bought the Gemini Jr. last week and don't like having to cut into the plates and I was told that the Gemini plates warp badly. Sorry to have complained but the music was as loud as your voice - maybe it is my computer. I appreciate your answer and your recommendation about closed caption. Look forward to watching more.
Love your idea of using the magic mat . Please ditch the music in the future , it’s very distracting. To the point I probably won’t watch another one of your videos And that would be sad.
Thanks Betty. This is an old video, and the pinned comment address this issue. I hope the video was helpful, and I do have a new short video on the Magic Mat in the works. ~Big Hugs! Debbie J
I know. I'm not able to remove it after posting the video 3 years ago. I've already left a pinned comment on the video to address this. I hope the information was helpful though. Turning down the volume or muting it and turning on captions may help.
I really hope this video is helpful! I'm still using a Magic Mat for Die Cutting and it has been a game changer. BTW, I am aware that the music is a bit loud in the video. If this gets irritating, I recommend turning down the volume and turning ON the Closed Captions. At this time, there isn't a way to turn the background music down without turning ALL of the audio down. I may make an updated video in 2023...let me know if you'd like to see one!
Hi Debbie, I have been using the same sandwich on my Gemini Jr. since I watched your video many months ago. Definitely a game changer. I also have the bigger Gemini. Could I use 1 Sizzix Big Shot Switch Plate 8.87"x12.75", 1 Magic Mat 9"x15" and then top off with the Gemini 9'x12.5" plate? My Gemini plate just cracked and so I need to make a purchase right away.
@@globalhomeenergy1002 You'll want to check the measurements. If the Switch plate is the same thickness as the other sizzix big shot plates and also fits through the machine, I would "assume" that you could use it as well. If the gemini and gemini jr plates are the same thickness, and the sizzix and Switch plates are the same thickness, then I think you should be able to use them in place of one another. If that makes sense. I don't work for either company, or for Scrapbook.com so I can't be certain. (also, my hubby used his calipers to measure... the gemini plates are a smidge thicker than the sizzix) I just experimented until I found the sandwich that worked for me... and I don't have to use tons of shims just to get the right pressure.
@@DebbieJsCraftingCorner Thank you Debbie
A foam pad under the brusher helps get the pieces out and gives the brush some space to punch thru the paper
Thanks for the suggestion. I've been using a magic mat for 3 years and rarely need to use a foam pad... which means that I don't usually have one handy. LOL. The brush end on my toon-in-one, and a pokey tool pretty much take care of all the bits pretty quick.
LOL. I must be the only person watching this video that didn't mind the background music. I have hearing issues but for some reason could hear what you were saying without issue. Maybe because I always use ear buds when listening to videos on my Kindle. Wanted to let you know how much I appreciated the information you shared. I recently purchased the Magic Mat but hadn't tried it yet. Look forward to using it in my Big Shot machine.
Thanks for the info. I’m getting a jr today and wanted to check it out first to justify. (I hate to say anything but the music in the background, as nice a tone as it is, it’s loud enough to be a distraction). Thanks for your demonstration of the magic mat. May have to add it to my tools.
@@DebbieJsCraftingCorner I totally enjoyed your video - and the music too. Thanks for toning the volume down. 🤗. I am a new subscriber and look forward to your future videos.
Great video! If your Gemini Jr. plates are still warping you should try the sandwich I use. I even saw J McGuire (i think) using it! Unfortunately you’ll need a set of Crafter’s Companion (green) doubled-sides cut plates but it works like a charm…no more warped plates or dies at all for me!! These green plates are very thin. I’ve been using the following sandwich, same plates and all for at least 6 mos. w/ no warping. Sandwich: clear cut plate, green cut plate, cardstock & die, green cut plate, clear cut plate. Amen😬🤣 Neither of my clear plates have a single cut line in them🤗
Thanks so much for showing the Magic Mat in use! I was ready to give up on my Gemini.....but I decided to get the magic mats!
Thanks so much Missi! I LOVE my magic mats and have been using then with every cut for almost 2 years. I die cut a ton more than I did before I got them (You'll see lots of Spellbinders videos here on my channel) and I haven't had to replace any of my die cutting plates. One is starting to warp... but I had heat-flattened it right before getting the magic mat, so that might have something to do with it. NOTE: When your magic mat warps (and it probably will), use your heat-it tool to flatten it back out. takes less than 5 minutes. I have a video showing that on my channel too. ~Big hugs and happy die cutting! ~Debbie J
Debbie... Don't you have a video that shows the plate sandwich for the Gemini...a Sizzix plate, a magic mat and a craft First plate??
Hi Ramona! I'm not familiar with "Craft First". I've only used sizzix and Gemini plates and the magic mat with my Gemini Junior. Sorry
@@DebbieJsCraftingCorner ok..maybe it was another crafter...I like that sandwich of Sizzix and craft first plate...with the magic mat
I love your videos, but it would be so much easier to hear what you are saying without the background "music", I am fairly sure that I am not the only one who feels this way. Older people sometimes have hearing issues and background noise just makes it difficult to understand what is being said. I don't wish to complain, but I do like your videos just need to hear them better
@@DebbieJsCraftingCorner , I personally, would rather hear the dead space.
Please turn your music off. I want to be sure I can hear your beautiful voice. I’m hear of hearing and it can be very distracting. Thank you just keep the tutorials coming.
I love my magic mat! I’ve used the same one forever with my Sizzix machine and no warping plates! Thank you for showing it with the Gemini!
Love mine too!
Thank you for your video, I’ve just started using the magic mat in my Gemini Junior. the mat is well warped already so will try with my heat gun.TSM
Great info (thank you!) but please consider doing future videos without the background music as it really makes it difficult for those with sensory overload issues to watch 😢. And no closed captioning available on it to watch on mute for those of us who get overwhelmed with the extra background noise.
I just bought a Gemini Jr a couple days ago. Haven’t gotten used to it yet. Just ordered a Magic Mat to eliminate all those shim pieces that were driving me crazy. I have a Big Kick too. Really heavy and takes up so much room. Gemini Jr. is so company. Thanks for showing me what to do.
Good demonstration!
I was thinking with all those little circles that one die cut made you could make so so so many baby wobblers 😂😂😂😉
💛TR
Why have I not thought of using a plastic shoebox to catch the pieces?! Smart girl. Love the mat. Awesome! I shall have to get some.
I do the same sandwich with a sizzix plate, magic mat, paper & die with clear Gemini jr. plate on top.
I love my magic mat!
Hi, fab video thank you. I have the original Gemini and have bought so many plates dont really want to purchase anymore plates. Seriously thinking of getting the Magic Mat but do i really need to buy a sissix plate as well wondering if i can still carry on and use my Gemini cutting plates just use the top abd bittom gemini cutting plates with the Magic Mat? Appreciate any help please!! Xx
I cannot tell you how happy I am right now. This sandwich worked perfectly in my Gemini. I use the jr. plates in the full size Gemini. I had stopped using it because I hated all the plates and shims especially if one was warped (metal shim). Thanks also for the tip on using the 120lb accent opaque for die cuts. I bought it for card bases but it was too heavy for my liking so I had set it aside. I didn’t use it in my big shot because it warped my dies. It cut perfectly with this sandwich. The best part is I already had everything you used. You have made my day.
Same. After 2 years and countless diff. sandwiches i finally found the PERFECT combo. No magnetic mat needed. Unfortunately it requires an additional purchase of a set of crafters companions (green) double-sided cut plates. These are much thinner than the clear cut plates. Sandwich: clear cut plate, green cut plate, die and cardstock, green cut plate, clear-cut plate. I’ve been using this sandwich for approx. 6 mos. w/ no warping whatsoever. You’re basically sandwiching die & c.s. between the green plates. I always cut into the same green one but it doesn’t matter. My Gemini Jr. was an overachiever. It had too much pressure w/ the recommended sandwich causing warped plates and usually leaving behind an impression of whichever die i was using (which looked awful). Now i ❤️ my Gemini Jr again. I don’t know if all the Gemini Jr.’s are like my machine so I hope it works for you. I die cut A LOT😬
Debbie thank you for your updated video using using the Magic Plate. I will try your idea of using a Sizzix plate as my bottom plate. I, also, love my Gemini Jr ---- just the right size and just the right weight so it is easy to move around. I got great ideas from your projects.
Where do you get the clear plate that does not warp?! I need!!!
Do you know if you can change pressure on the Gemini?
Thank you so much for all of the information in this video. Just one question... is there a reason why you wouldn't' use 2 of the Sizzix mats instead of one and a Gemini mat? The Sizzix didn't seem to be warping at all.
New to your channel and enjoyed this video. My Magic Mat is on the way, so I appreciate the tips. Thanks for sharing. Like your idea of emptying the scraps into a bin, saves on cleanup. I have a Big Kick too, but hardly ever use. Will be watching your video for that.
i just got mine! so far, i've really liked it with my gemini junior!
Great to know, thanks! I have a Big Shot and a Gemini, Jr., and I think they both take the same size of plates so assume I can just measure those and get that size of the Magic Mat if I get it. I like my Gemini, Jr., but honestly, I think those plates warp/curve quickly and pretty severely so that has made me not use that as much as I'd like because of the warping of the plates.
@@DebbieJsCraftingCorner Many thanks for your video. I adopted your method but don't understant really why you put the Sizzix plate first and the Gemini one on top? You said you finnaly found a way to fix your warped plates and will be sharing THAT video soon... did you make it? Thanks again for your advices it is very helpful!
Many thanks for your quick reply - no hurry - this video is very clear - always curious to learn more about how to better use my Gemini Junior which is the best for me (I sold my Big Shot...)
I bought this. Used in gemini jr. it warped so wavy in a couple weeks. And only cuts with a shim. Now ruined the pressure on gemini.
You can heat them on a cookie sheet at 200 degrees for a few minutes and they straighten right out. The only problem is I feel like I'm always having to straighten them out.
What I meant to ask if you can use the magic mats for embossing with your dyes?
I haven't tried that yet but you could always give it a try. The normal sandwich for the Gemini Junior uses 2 clear cutting plates, the plastic shim and the rubber embossing mat... so maybe try using the magic mat in place of one of the clear plates? I'm gonna have to give this a try and see how it does... maybe share it on a future video :)
Hi, I don’t have a Gemini but wonder if the mat would work with platinum. T4s
Can the magic mat work with the full size gemini
There is a page on the scrapbook.com product page that says yes, and shows which mats will work. shrsl.com/12ri1-5qd-k1s9gd_1-1
It helps if you use a foam surface to brush on.
so true! Luckily, my dies cut so much better now and I don't have to use a brush very often any more. :D
I just order the magic mat the other day when I came back in stock!! I can’t wait to use it
What if you don’t have a sizzix plate. Is there something you can substitute?
HI Jean! Great question. One of the things that I haven't been happy about with the gemini junior was all the various sandwich combinations. Scrapbook.com has instructions that say to use the magic mat in place of one of the plates with any of the existing sandwiches. The standard Gemini Jr. sandwich for die cutting is uses 2 Gemini Jr. cutting plates, the magnetic shim AND plastic shim in addition to your die and cardstock. Give it a try, replacing one of your cutting plates with the magic mat. If you need more pressure, you may need additional shims. If you need less, you may not need one of the shims. Let me know how it works for you! ~Big Hugs! Debbie J
You kind of threw me when you said you were using 300lb. card stock. I think maybe you were looking at the g/m2 or GSM (Grams per Square Meter) which is 300 on the 110lb card stock. You would need a chainsaw to cut through 300lb if they even made it! Just thought you would want to know.
Is there a sandwich for fry embossing?
Thanks for the question. I don't work for Scrapbook.com, but from what I understand, the magic mat isn't designed for dry embossing. It's designed to take the place of a cutting plate and will help your plates to last longer. For embossing with an embossing folder, I just use my standard sandwich that was recommended by crafter's companion (or which ever company made your specific die cutting/embossing machine)
What is the name of the little rolling brush tool you used with the pointed end? Thanks for a reply from anyone. 😊
I think this one was from Hobby Lobby... but other companies have it too. It's a "tool 'n one". Here is the one from spellbinders shrsl.com/4cghg ~Big Hugs! Debbie J
@@DebbieJsCraftingCorner Thank you very much, Debbie! 🤍 I immediately ordered one. Such a great idea, and no doubt easier than poking out tiny pieces with a needle. ☺️
Is there one made for the original/larger Gemini?
Hi Laura! I checked the Scrapbook.com product listings. Looks like this one should work for you. www.scrapbook.com/store/sbc-mmat-4.html I recommend checking the compatibility and confirming that the size will fit your machine. Scrapbook.com has come out with new sizes since I got my first one 3 years ago (when I recorded the video). I use the Magic Mat for all of my die cutting these days, with a Platinum 6 machine, and I die cut A LOT, thanks to this mat. BTW, they are ALSO coming out with some magnetic mats soon... I can't wait to try one of them out!
First crafter instruction with background music while speaking I've ever watched. I feel it doesn't add anything and is distracting for me. I may try reading the transcript instead.
Thanks Nancy. I was having breathing issues and tried to cover it up with background music... and hadn't yet gotten the balance about right when this video was posted. My recent videos don't have that issue. Watching with closed captions may help. However, I do want to say that you ARE NOT doing anything wrong. The magic mat DOES warp over time as you use it because it's taking all of the pressure that you would have been putting into your plates. But I DO have another video showing how to flatten them back out in less than 5 minutes. I hope that helps.
Is there a specific size of the Magic Mat that aligns with the cutting plates for the Big Kick or Big Shot? I saw there were different sizes so wasn't sure what size of Magic Mat to order. Thanks!
I've been using the standard plates, with only one to be the "receiver" for the die (that gets cut into). The warping seems to come from accumulated surface distortion by the die impressions. When that plate begins to warp, I just turn it over so the other side of it gets more impressions. I just keep doing this, periodically flipping the plate to equalize the wear, and preventing warping. Just an idea that works for me anyway.
Thanks Jerry. Believe me, I tried that too, before getting my first magic mat. Every machine is different and maybe mine just use too much pressure. I'm not really sure. I do know that my Big Kick (the first one I got about 6 years ago), my Gemini Junior (about 3 years old) and my Platinum 6 (about a year old) all cause a LOT of warping no matter how often I flip the plates. Plus the dies didn't always cut. I've been using the Magic Mat for about 2 and a half years (since they were first released) and die cut a ton more than before, almost every day now (I hated to die cut before partially because I was so frustrated with the plates)
@@DebbieJsCraftingCorner Thanks, that is quite an encouraging endorsement! I may have to try one to see how much it helps my setup. So far I have good die cuts with 65 lb to 110 lb cardstock.
recollections 300lb? you mean 110 lb 300 gsm? as far as i know recollections doesnt make 300 lb that would be insane. Do you see an advantage of buying the magic mat instead of an A5 self healing off amazon (way cheaper?)
informative video but the music playing was very annoying. It would have been much better without it... :)
I agree. Loved the video, but music is not needed.
Good video. I would like it better without the music.
Thanks for the input. My more recent videos don't have the same sound issues... this was recorded 3 years ago and I know that the music was overpowering my voice. I hope it was helpful anyway. ~Big Hugs! Debbie J
I really enjoyed the video, but the infernal tune in the background was so distracting!
I get it. this video is a couple of years old and I was in the middle of figuring out the volume levels for background music. If you've seen any of my even older videos, you might hear that I got out of breath quite a lot, and this video went up around the time that I was mostly better.... I had been using music to mask my getting out of breath because even I didn't like listening to them. I've been meaning to do an update and hopefully that will be soon. Oh... by the way, youtube has closed captions on pretty much all videos, so you could mute and read the captions. and if you have any questions I can answer, just let me know. I still use the magic mat whenever I die cut and my clear plates last a LOT longer. And I'm doing a lot more die cutting.
I put my magic outside on a flat surface in the sun. Flattens out in no time.
Fabulous!
Just a suggestion. The music is too much.
thanks for the feedback... the video is 2 yrs old, and you should see the pinned comment says that I know that the music is too loud. Check out some of my more recent videos. I took care of that issue quite a while back... but think that the info in the video is still useful so I've left the video up. I plan on making a new one... I still use a magic mat almost daily and do so much more die cutting than I did before. I hope the video was at least helpful for you.
Thank you for the video. Just wish you did not have the music playing at the same time you are talking! Very distracting and rather annoying too.
mine didn't last. It got warped and bent :(
Thanks Kat! Mine did too... and it's supposed to. The magic mat is gonna warp because it's taking all the pressure to prevent your hard clear plates from warping. But that's ok, because it's super easy to flatten back out in about 5 minutes! I have another real-time video here: ruclips.net/video/9Iro5Ras3eo/видео.html
I hope this helps. I've been using a magic mat for all my die cutting for 3 years now, and it has been a game changer.
THANK YOU! I'm off to watch your other video now :)
@@DebbieJsCraftingCorner
I would love to watch your videos but the background music is too distracting. Could you make videos without the music? Thank you.
Thanks Joy. This video was recorded quite a while ago (I'm actually planning on doing an update video because I still LOVE my magic mats) and I was struggling with breathing issues. Up to then, I was using music to try to help cover my poor voice sound. I'm sure you will find all of my recent (as in 6 - 12 months worth, and there are a lot of them) are much better in that area.
I'd love for you to give them a listen to see what you think. I have new videos up several times a week.
If you have any questions about using the magic mat, please let me know. I'm happy to help.
A bit more editing- leaving out or speeding up portions not related to if mat works well or not would be helpful.
Thanks for the feedback. This video was recorded shortly after I received my first Magic Mat... 3 years ago. I've been using it ever since and have not had to even open the extra ones that I bought (you can see it in action in most of my videos... thanks to this mat, I die cut a LOT more than before. I plan on doing another video on the Magic Mat. Unfortunately I just haven't had the time with all of the other projects I've been working on. I hope the video was helpful. I Love my Magic Mat.
Turn off the background music
Hi Linda.. thanks for the feedback. Please take a look at the pinned message.
I know the music is too loud . This video was recorded 2 years ago when I was having breathing issues, and music was my way of eliminating dead air. I've worked hard to improve the audio and the more recent videos reflect this.
Even with the audio issues, I hope the video was helpful.
Just got my gem junior yesterday. Great video Debbie! Shame about the very annoying background tinkling music!
Please remove the background music after your intro. It’s very distracting and makes it so I cannot watch it.
Great video, but goodness, that background music is very annoying and takes away from what you are doing! Xoxo
Thanks for the feedback. I've struggled with breathing issues and have used background music to help mask all the dead space over the last several years. So, two years ago, when I shared this video, I was still using a lot of background music. (I just re-listened to this one... yes the music is a bit loud. And I can tell that I'm having trouble catching my breath during the video) These days, I don't use much and it's really quiet. Great thing, though, is that youtube has added closed captions so you can see what I'm saying even with the audio muted! I hope you find some of my more recent videos easier to listen to. ~Big Hugs! Debbie J
I can't stand the noise, hope you do this again so I can actually hear you.
Thanks for the feedback. I hope that watching without sound and with closed captions turned out helps.
@@DebbieJsCraftingCorner Thank you, I never even thought of closed caption! Now I can finish watching, so sorry but that "music" was very irritating and repetitive.
Your video is nice but I was hoping you would show how to use the Magic Mat with the Gemini Jr using just the Gemini's plates not using a sizzix plate for some of us who don't own a Big Shot. Your title is a little deceiving and I'm sorry to agree with other comments but the music is annoying.
@@DebbieJsCraftingCorner Thank you for the links to your other videos. I didn't see them before as this is the first time I have watched any of your videos. I purchased the Magic Mat but have not received it yet. I'll let you know how it works with my Gemini Jr. I've heard so many good things about this Mat. I have subscribed to your channel.
Love this video but please no music as those with hearing aids makes it VERY difficult to hear what you are saying. Thanks!
Honey I know. This was recorded 3 years ago and I've changed the way I use background music since then. (I pinned a comment a year ago about this) I can't change what was already uploaded... But I am planning making a new Magic Mat video as soon as I get a chance. I've been using it for the last 3.5 years and it has been a game changer for me. ~Big Hugs! Debbie J
300 lb paper.:::
LOL. yep... I said it wrong. 300GSM
Hard to hear what you say over the background music - PLEASE turn it off!!!!
Thanks for the feedback. since this is a recording, I cannot remove the background music. also, I uploaded it about a year and a half ago. I'm still using my magic mat and you can see it in most of my more recent videos... this fun tool has been a game changer and I use more die cuts than ever before. As to the music, I've struggled with breathing issues and have used music to help make my videos tolerable. These days, my music is much less audible, so reducing the volume of the video can pretty much eliminate it all together. I've tried so hard to make my videos as easy to watch and listen to for everyone. And I continue to do so. I hope that my more recent ones are more appealing to you. And I hope that the information was helpful. If the music is really a problem, closed captions may be an option. ~Big Hugs! Debbie J
@@DebbieJsCraftingCorner Thank you Debbie - I was able to watch the rest of the video and just ordered a pair of Magic Mats. I bought the Gemini Jr. last week and don't like having to cut into the plates and I was told that the Gemini plates warp badly. Sorry to have complained but the music was as loud as your voice - maybe it is my computer. I appreciate your answer and your recommendation about closed caption. Look forward to watching more.
Love your idea of using the magic mat . Please ditch the music in the future , it’s very distracting. To the point I probably won’t watch another one of your videos And that would be sad.
Background music is to loud.. enjoy just hearing your voice
Thanks Betty. This is an old video, and the pinned comment address this issue. I hope the video was helpful, and I do have a new short video on the Magic Mat in the works. ~Big Hugs! Debbie J
The background music is annoying
I know. I'm not able to remove it after posting the video 3 years ago. I've already left a pinned comment on the video to address this. I hope the information was helpful though. Turning down the volume or muting it and turning on captions may help.