As a crafter, another option would be to make your own stamp positioner. You can use an old CD case for small stamps and it works great. OR, you can make a Misti sized positioner for less than $20 with three 1/8th inch 8 x 10 Sheets Lexan Plexiglass from Home Depot, three, 1 inch hinges and one inch Clear double-sided Gorilla Mounting Tape. The third Lexan sheet is to cut one inch strips for three sides. It works great and that is what I use. While I do feel the stamp positioner is a wonderful tool, they are on the expensive side. On occasion I still use my Stamp-a-ma-jig and block. Another great video. Thanks for sharing. xo
My first stamping platform was a plastic "Certificate Frame" with a flat front and a plexiglass "cover". I replaced the plexiglass with a piece of chip board & a cushy, semi-firm, place mat to just-about-fill-the-void, and mounted the plexiglass on the BACK side of the frame with duct tape. Dollar Tree place mat = $1.00; Certificate frame, w/ 40% Disc from Michael's = $9.00; already owned the duct tape and chip board. Even though I have a Stamperatus, which I'd never give up, my little homemade JEWEL comes with me when I travel, as it is SOOO light weight -- AND accurate!
I researched for quite some time before deciding on which one would work best for me. I decided with the Stamparatus! I absolutely love it and having the 2 pressing plates is so handy for stamping multiple cards without having to change the stamps.
I made my own stamping platform for pennies. I went to The Dollar Tree and purchased a wooden clipboard and wide duct tape. Then I found a large clear, rectangular photo insert (10x12) and carefully broke it in 2 pieces so I could tape the front piece to the edge of the wooden clipboard. Now my homemade platform opens/closes like a book. Yes it is ugly. But it cost me about $5. It works great.
I think I described it badly. I went to the dollar tree and bought a clipboard. Then I bought one of those plastic clear photo frames that is an 8 x 10 . You basically can pull the two pieces of plastic apart and you insert your photo and then the photo can either be put on your refrigerator, or sometimes these clear plastic photo frames have these little stands, meaning the back piece has a little rectangular piece that allows the photo to sit upright. So I purchased that piece as well along with some duct tape. Then carefully I took the plastic photo frame, and I carefully sent back the bath piece that you open to insert your photo so it would break off. After it broke off you just had the front piece. I covered the jagged edge from the broken part with duct tape. Then I put the plastic photo frame side-by-side with the clipboard and I just taped them together. So now it opens like a book.
I made 2 stamp platforms like yours several years ago. I bought small clip boards at Walmart, used several layers of thick, stiff craft plastic that I already had, duct tape, and thin strips of wood molding that I glued inside all around the edge of the whole base. The plastic sheets are taped to the side of the wood molding on one side so they sit on top of the wood. They work great and an A2 card fits easily inside of them. I do like your idea of using the plastic from a photo frame though! It is a much sturdier plastic than what I used.
I have the Bira stamping platform. My son got it for me for Christmas. I am sad to say that yes, yours was broken. I absolutely love mine. I have decided to only use it and not the blocks, because I can stamp directly back over the image if there was a part that did not stamp out well. I find that I am making more cards now that I have it and not throwing as many away because of OOPS. Well worth the money he spent. I just showed him the Tim Holtz one and the MISTI and told home I wanted a stamping platform and that there were a lot more out there. I think he did good.
Oh that's such a great great thing to buy for a stamper; love it. I'm so glad it's helped with your cardmaking! I don't use blocks unless I'm doing backgrounds mostly.
I just got the bira positioner and love it. I have the other ones as well. I would love to let new card makers know about this tool. Instead of spending money on the others.
I hesitated jumping on the placement tool for a long time, but eventually bought the Stamparatus. I didn't see anything here that makes me regret that decision. Thanks for doing the leg work for us!
I use the Tim Holtz platform and consistently get great results. I was lucky to get it before sales were limited. I also happened upon one at a “yard sale” table at a scrapbooking event for a bargain price so I have two.
I bought the Tim Holtz stamping platform also. I love it. I won one in a contest and sent it to my sister. She is new to stamping and is having great luck with it.
I absolutely love Tim Holtz Stamp Platform! The quality is unsurpassed. I love how I can flip it for my red rubber stamps. I have WE R Memory keepers platform also. Love it too. Honestly was not overly impressed by the Misti by the price and functionality as I have a LOT of red rubber. I have to say that I was unwilling to purchase one either after the issues that arose. I agree there is room for more than one idea.
Leah I do agree with your last statement strongly. We are evolved to where we are today because of the improvements made on the "first" idea. Great point
I canNOT for the life of me see HOW, in good conscience, the powers that be at that hearing could have P O S S I B L Y decided in favor of the Misti manufacturers, against the Tonic product or the Stampin’Up product, or for that matter A N Y “maker” than has come up with design improvements on what was, in essence, nothing more than a picture frame with the plexi picture cover reattached on the outside of the frame!!! Ask me! I made one that functions quite accurately, thank you, and it did NOT cost $40 to $60 plus dollars. Now, the Stamperatus is MOST DEFINITELY head and shoulders above everything I’VE seen out there!! THEIR design truly deserves patent protection, as duplicating THAT jewel w o u l d take some engineer’g and not JUST a handy hubby to pull off!!
Agree! The stamparatus appears to be superior. It is a shame they can no longer sell it. Wish I would have purchased one before Stampin Up was forced to discontinue it.
I've got one of the Bira platforms. Yours definitely is broken. Mine came all in one piece and I'm super happy with it. A stamping platform was something I told myself I didn't need to spend the amount of money required for a "name brand" one, but the Bira made it accessible for me to get one.
@@marypolancodesigns the springs (when not broken) are nice and bouncy. I like that the top section comes all the way off but pops back on easily and aligns perfectly in place.
Agree on all points! I've got a Bira, although mine is called Sunlit. I like that it's open on three sides for mass producing. I often stamp on a letter-sized paper and just turn and shift it so I get four impressions of the same stamp. OTOH I had some problems with getting good impressions in the middle of the platform. That was easily solved by putting a piece of foam on top. Seeing you use the WeRMemoryKeepers platform makes me want to try with a silicone sheet instead.
Hi. I'm in the UK and I use the Crafts Too Press To Impress stamping platform. It's a good price point, reliable, has a removable insert for rubber and clear stamps and replacements for these are available. There are also other useful inserts that you can buy in addition for it. I have been using it for a few years now and I'm really happy with it. Thank you for all your insights, I find them fun and informative. Thank you for sharing.
I bought the TH mini years ago for roughly 30.00 and have used it for years. I was glad to see this video for ideas of what to buy for a friend or family member as TH not easily found. It's still my fave though and happy to have it. Unfortunately not interested in any mysti products for reasons already addressed. Our community is big enough for everyone to do their own thing . Again another great video Mary tyfs it
Thanks so much, I really appreciate this add. I was so happy to be able to share some additional ideas for those on a budget or for the reasons mentioned.
I have the WE R MEMORIES KEEPER with extra plates and love it. When you are doing multiple layer cards you can put a stamp on each plate and just keep layering with each color. I did have the orginal We R memories one that was similar to Tim Holts and the MISTI and a friend knocked it off the table and broke a hinge and you could never could on it stamping twice in the same place. That's why I like the new one - no hinges. I had no idea about that last add-on one so thank you for sharing it. Also when using it you can put down a piece of typing paper under you card if you think you'll be inking off you card. This will avoid you stamping on the foam pad.
Thanks - you just saved me from inking all over the foam insert of my PPA (Precision Press Advanced)! Do you have any other tips/hacks for the PPA? I've been doing a search for "stamping platform hacks" every week or so, but all of the videos I've found have focused on the MISTI or other hinged platforms. (Maybe Mary will make the PPA her go-to stamping platform, and produce a "PPA hacks" video - ideally, one that includes an answer to whether the MISTI Creative Corners are worth getting if you have a Precision Press Advanced. Just a subtle hint, Mary!)
I think you missed the best feature of the precision press. You can do assembly line style by laying 4 card fronts, pointing up, right, down and left. Ink up 4 stamps, press, ink again, turn your press plate 1/4 turn. Repeat twice more.. You get 4 cards done in no time!
That IS the best part; honestly I didn t want to sway folks but the precision press seems like the best bang for the buck. I did quickly mention what you said but it would have been WAY better if I actually showed it. Maybe I do a more close up look. thank you!
I bought a regular MISTI shortly after it came out & even though it was an investment, it was well worth it. It made stamping so much easier for me. Recently I bought the Couture Creations stamp press & it’s really nice too. The 3 sides are open, which I love for larger stamps or paper. There’s no lip to put the paper in a corner, but there’s a ruler etched into the top so you can line up the paper there. I taped a sticky mat in it & that has been perfect. I just taped the outside 3 edges & then lay the cover sheet over it when I’m done using it. It’s definitely nice having 2 platforms because I can leave all of the layers for stamping in place until I’m done. Anyway, great video Mary. Very informative. Thank you.
You can clean ink off the platform with alcohol. Use a Q-Tip so you don’t remove the blue lines from the pad. I take Sharpie ink off of anything with alcohol or Acetone nail polish remover. Love this video. 💕
I love your comparison videos, please keep them coming. I have at least three platforms and usually reach for my Mist or stamparatus (?) from Stampin Up. I really have never gotten a good stamp from Tim Holtz and I think it’s the absence of a foam pad.
Hello!. I have the Tim Holtz full size and mini and really like them. However, I ran into Burlington for an unrelated item and found the Memory Keepers for $7.99 so needless to say it came home with me. Absolutely love it, very no-nonsense design and find it quicker to use. As always, thanks for the great video 🤗
I have the wrmk and like it very much. It does silicon stamps well if you don't apply too much pressure. I have the bar accessory too as well as a spare lid. It's a pretty versitile setup. You can use the lids as stamping blocks too without the platform. You can use the posts for making bows and pom poms.
I have the TH platform after recommendations and I couldn’t justify the MISTI as in Australia for the standard one it was $120 ish for memory. However the TH platform was nothing but a pain in the butt from the beginning. It was what I best describe, an uneven surface. I googled and found I was not alone with the issue and the solution was to flip it over and stamp upside down. So taking the base (bottom) to the lid to get a clear stamped image - sometimes. It was so hit and miss I purchased a misti to save my sanity, which is a great tool. I will say the extras and add ons are annoying that they are add ons lol and hard to source - always sold out. I have heard good things about the couture creations precision stamp press as well. Thanks for sharing your thinking pattern around products too. PS was loving that stamp you were using. Cute
YIKES on that price. I had someone in Canada tell me the same thing. I did a giveaway and she won it and was so happy I could give her the MISTI for no cost to her. That is way overpriced
Thank you. I was so excited to get the Tim Holtz platform years ago and have rarely used it for the very reasons you stated. It's nice to know that I'm not alone and that it's not me!
I have the WRMK with about 5 (at least) stamping top blocks/plates. Great for mass stamping projects! I also have the WRMK border accessory and the mini stamping press. I love the regular (Advanced) WRMK ... for me, it seems to be a bit more precise (I also own a Misti and several other “odd” platforms (cheap!)) by stamping straight down rather than “rolling” the stamp over the paper by closing the door. I also like the idea that with multiple plates, I don’t have to keep exchanging stamps ... plus, I can keep one always set up (for example) with my Created by Sandie stamp.
Thank you for the reviews. I have four (2 in each size) of the Tim Holtz platforms. I made sure to get them before they disappeared from the market. I love them, they've worked well for me. I also have two of the Stampin' Up! Stamparatus, and I like it as well. I like the double plates and the step stamping that is possible. My Tim Holtz travel platforms are used for most of my needs, followed by the Stamparatus. I have each out, and really, whichever is in reach gets used. For my own reasons (and cost), I will not buy the misti. Now, one advantage to having two different brands, I had a stamp set that just would not stamp in the center of the main image. I tried moving the position on the platform, tried foam inserts, tried using different ink, even. Then, I switched over and tried it on the other platform. The results were the same. I got out a magnifier and examined the stamp itself (photopolymer) and I could see under magnification where the stamp had not formed properly in manufacture. Fortunately, the company that made it accepted my plea, and the sent me a new stamp for free. I tested on both the TH and the Stamparatus, and the new stamp worked just fine. Non branded stamps (i.e., cheap acrylic and those made in China) are not reliable stamps and do not come from trusted companies, and are often defective, as well as being counterfeit in their designs (total ripoff designs from other companies). So, I buy direct from the stamp companies themselves (or their approved outlets), sacrificing super cheap prices for super good quality and a product that will last for years, vs tearing or poor manufacture and not good stamping.
Mary - I really enjoy y our videos, and your approach to crafting. I sometimes see independent card makers using stamps and dies from companies I've never heard of. Have you ever done a review on excellent small companies many of us haven't heard of? I'd so appreciate it!
Thank you so much for the kind encouragement. I'm not sure I can fulfill that request with out buying a bunch of supplies from various stores. Also I'm not sure who has heard of which companies. I would love to help so if you have any ideas let me know.
@@marypolancodesigns Maybe sending out the question to die-hard crafters asking what they have found would turn up some info. Some companies may be located in other countries and sell only to that area, but I know there probably are small ones in the US trying their best to provide quality supplies. Some also provide single or limited numbers of items per envelope, so we don;t have to keep buying whole suites. Just a thought.
My first stamping platform was the Stamparatus by Stampin’ Up, which has the removable hinges for the actual platform, but wasn’t always consistent with pressure. I wanted something to stamp on a larger area, so I upgraded to the 12x12 Misti which is better. But my favorite which is not mentioned here is the Crafter Companion Stamping Platform which comes in 4x4, 6x6, and the most loved 8x8 size. The 8x8 has a magnetic base, and springs in the corner, so it ALWAYS aligns if you need to re-apply ink. I do use a paper weight as a pressure tool when doing a lot of stamping.
I have each of the Crafers Companion platforms & enjoy them ! 8x8 is my fav as well :) I enjoy Tim Holtz's Travel size which Mary P calls "mini..." Just bought another moments ago on Ebay.... Great tip with using the paper weight as pressure tool...!! Thanks !
Thank you Mary! 🥰 I did not have good luck with the Tim Holtz and clear stamps but it worked better with rubber stamps. I got it on sale for $25 for the larger one at a craft show a few years ago and have used it about 5 times. I have two sizes of the Misti and love them! If I could go back I would have just gotten the larger one (not 12x12) as I reach for that more. I am interested in the WRMK platform for the moving placement piece. I will probably end up selling the Holtz platform (sorry Tim) and purchasing the WRMK one! Great, honest, video.😍
Thanks so much Lorraine! So many of you have the same sentiment as well. I will likely be destashing the TH too, soon. I wanted to do this review first.
You did really good showing and demonstrating those platforms! Having stamped for many many years I would definitely recommend a stamping platform for new stampers. I had invested in many different acrylic blocks for the clear stamps, and it would have saved me money to have gotten a platform because then I wouldn't have needed so many blocks. So for anew stamper, a platform is worth every penny and would save money when starting out. I know Tim Hotz new stamping/stencil platform wasn't out when you did this video, but his new platform does double duty and looks interesting too.
I have a Stampin Up platform and LOVE it ... it has plates on the top and side that are moveable so you can move both across and down the page ... it is also good for multiple layering.
I've only used the WRMK stamping platform, so can't compare it with other options, but I like it a lot. I just wish some of the popular cardmakers on RUclips were using it - there are plenty of videos showing tips and tricks for using a MISTI, but nothing similar for the Precision Press Advanced. (When WRMK made changes to their original stamping platform, they added the word Advanced to distinguish between the old Precision Press and the updated version. The one shown in this video is the Precision Press Advanced.)
For the Bira/Creative Craft platform, I added their sticky mat to the base, which holds cardstock well. And if you just put a piece of tape right across the bottom of the sticky mat, you have your lip. Or you can use any company’s sticky mat that has grid lines on it, add the tape and have both lines and a lip. One and done.
This was quite informative. I was fortunate to get the Tim Holtz platform when it first came out for about $24. I also own the mini MISTI which I love since I am mainly a card maker and it sits on my small desk. I am glad you got them all to work.
I AM a Stampin' Up Demonstrator. I've used the MISTI, a Crafter's Companion stamping platform and a Stamparatus. The Stamparatus is my favorite. It comes with two hinged covers so stamping multiple layers is easy. And you can unhinge the cover to make stamping in various areas of the card. Noting wrong with the MISTI but it doesn't do everything the Stamparatus does.
I have both sizes of the Tim holtz platform. I got some fun foam and cut it to fit, so there’s some ‘give’. I also cut one of those craft silicone mats to fit them as well. Also got a circuit sticky mat and trimmed to fit. So whatever the situation calls for, I am ready lol. Sometimes I use my acrylic blocks on the platform with the foam, without actually using the platform itself, if the stamps are small or uncomplicated. I also have the we r memory keepers platform so I can do mass stamps with multiple layers,such as for Christmas
Hi Mary. Great comparison. after a great deal of research into pros and cons, I purchased the Stamparatus a few years ago and have nothing but happy stories to tell. Thanks so much. 😊
For most of my stamping, I used a regular MISTI. For large stamps, larger paper (i.e. slimline card base opened up), or multiple stamping, I use a WRMK platform. Both work great but the MISTI is more handy for a quick stamping as long as the paper can fit. I would like to get additional plates for my WRMK 'cause I really like the peg design for repeat images. I have a Tim Holtz travel platform and rarely use it. There is no built in way to line up the paper if it moves when you stamp. I've also found that the hinge is a little too low making the stamping uneven with the side closer to the hinge darker going to lighter further from the hinge no matter the pressure applied (and for both rubber and photopolymer stamps with the door flipped applicable). The bigger the stamp the more obvious the uneven stamping. Additionally, it has a definite "sweet spot" for stamping. With the stamp closer to the hinge, the more 'smeary' the image is. At the far edge from the hinge it is possible to get a crisp stamping, but only once and no way to easily line up an additional paper to stamp in the same spot. It might be just the travel version that has these issues (or even just mine), but I am not a fan. It is, however, the one I will take 'traveling' if I think there might be pressure or even warping of my bag since it is built a lot re ruggedly.
Hi Rijacki, you are not the only one to share this issue on this thread with the TH platform; thanks so much for this. It's really helpful! I hope others read this comment.
Thank you, Mary, for all your research videos. They're my fave! I have a Misti and a Stamparatus (stampin up). I love the SU because it has 2 removable plates which give you 4 stamping sides. It had issues with pressure so I don’t use the magnets anymore, just Sticky sheets and it is a dream. I also like that it has2 open ends for longer cards and stamping the sentiment after I had made the front of the card (🙄). My 2 cents.
I have the Bira and the mini Misti. I gravitate towards the Bira more because it’s larger but I do really like it. Thanks so much for the layered tape idea to create a “lip” I’ve definitely had issues with movement. I like the WRMC platform; I may need to upgrade ;) Great video ❤️
I have had the Tim Holtz/tonic stamp platform for years and it works well with a slight modification. I put a piece of fun foam down on the bed off the platform and think that has improved my stamping with it. (But, that might just be me.) I like the idea of the versatility of the WRMK platform, especially when using multiple stamps on a project. That and the SU versions appeal to me for that reason. But, I don't think I will invest in another. Thank you for your reviews, Mary. You have taught me so much. And, I really enjoy your videos! 🥰
I have the bira platform (I didn't want to go all in with a misti until I was sure I'd like cardmaking)--I think yours did come broken as mine was all set out of the box. BUT--it irked me too that it didn't have a lip so I just used some foam tape and made sure I stuck it down super straight and it works fabulously now to keep everything aligned.
Great video! I love my Stampin’ Up Stamparatus. Others have already explained the wonderful features. I laminated a sheet of the grid paper, so that solved that issue. The only issue I have is that the grid (on the plastic that holds the stamps) doesn’t start at the edge; you have to move the paper away from the edge to use the grid as a ruler.
Your Bira is definitely broken! I have a few platforms and I never use the others, only the Bira. I slapped on a sticky grid so I don't even have to bother with magnets and it works amazingly!
I use the Sizzix Sticky paper (Like you had in the Misti and put it the Craft Press Platform (which is very similar to the Bira but it has hinges, with spring action and the clear top does not come off). I also have the Stamparatus. These are my two favorites.
Great video as always. I have the TH regular & the "older" Misti. I get good results with both as long as my paper doesn't move. Side note...I love the sticky grids & never thought to put them in the platform!!
Great summary. I have a Hampton art misti type platform and the precision press. I like both depending on the project or my mood but I was so upset about inking my rubber that I wrapped it in press and seal. Craaazy right!🤣
I have one of each of the three sizes of Misti and love them all. I would only recommend the regular or memory Misti though because of the versatility, the mini is very limiting. Two of the three were bought on sale during Black Friday. However, if I were just starting out and on a budget, I think I would go with the WRMK. It appears to be a better value.
I too am not impressed so much with the Misti. Maybe it's because it was hyped up so much and the expectation was big. I have both the large one and small one. Very pricey as well. Things I wish I knew before investing my hard earned money. I wish I would have seen this video and your comment. 😔
First time seeing one of your videos ! Loved it & subscribed ! I have 1 reg. size MISTI, 2 Stamparatuses, 3 or 4 WRMK, 3 or 4 Lg. Tim Holtz & 5 or 6 reg size Tim Holtz ! ( Don't judge me ! LOL ) I use & love them ALL ! I make a lot of cards, & this way I can leave my stamps in place in them for weeks or months at a time, in case I need to make more of the same card ! FYI If you use some of your sticky grid paper under some reg. grid paper ( or plain paper ) on your WRMK, then you won't stain the rubber piece !
This is awesome thank you so much for sharing! :) I love how many you have; you should have done this review! lol love it Thanks so much for joining me here!
I have I know 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8 stamping platforms Misti(6th),Stampwheel(8th)CraftStash (7th)Tin Holtz (3rd) We R (4th) Fiskars(2nd purchase)- I had one from Crafters Companion (1st purchase )that I got like in 2002 but can’t remember the name - Stamperatus -(5th)but actually use them for different reasons - Man back down crafters purchasing lane- LOL
Great video! My first ever stamping press was the mini misty but after some time I outgrew it I needed something for larger stamps. Watched many review videos and wasn’t sure what I wanted, I really like the looks of the Tim Holtz one but then there was the availability obstacle. This winter I found the We R stamping press at Michael’s on clearance for $11!!!! I was super excited and I love it!!
I have the Tim Holtz - couldn't get it to work well despite chest compressions. I have two MISTI'S - love them! I also just bought the reasonable one from Creative of CraftStash because it has open sides. It does have springs where you close the lid, then press down.
I got one of the last TH platforms before they stopped selling them. I thought it was great for small stamps but once I started using larger stamps it would not do a complete impression. My craft store was unable to take it back or exchange it due to the banning but they did recommend contacting Tonic directly. Tonic had no problems replacing it but because the pandemic had started to affect everything and they were out of stock, I was told it would take about 6 weeks. Well, almost a year later, I received my replacement. It's a great tool!!! Now that I have one that isn't warped, I just love it!
I’m surprised that you did not show the stamparatus. I’m disappointed. It is double hinged and so versatile. You can really speed up card stamping and have perfect position every time. It’s made by stamping up.
Until I bought a stamping platform, I hadn't stamped in years. Just too much waste from mistakes. I have a Hunkydory stamping platform, which I love. The Bira looks almost exactly like it. I wish it had a corner for placing the paper, but that would definitely limit the size of paper that I could use in it. The magnets hold the paper really well. I would definitely recommend it.
I def wish stamping platforms were around when I started stamping, and if starting out would really make life easier and stamping results more consistent, so helping to build confidence. I have quite a few platforms and my least favourite is the Tim Holtz.
I have the Tim Holtz and I like it, I would like the to get the Stamparatus (Stampin UP) because you "were" able to get extra plates but you can also move the topper down the base. Kind of like the WRMK. NOW, that I see that I can get extra toppers w/that one I may go that way.
I know your review is a year old however Others may be seeing your review for the first time as I am. You did a great job on the review Mary. Thank you. I have the Tim Holtz platform, not much of a fan. I also have two Misty’s, Stamparatus and just bought the Stampwheel from Altenew and I am in love with the Stampwheel, I have perfect results everytime and is so well worth the money. Had it been out when I first started card making, that is the one I would have gone with, it is fantastic and I HIGHLY recommend the Stampwheel.
I really liked the Misti but bought the Stamparatus from SU was because the door was designed to pop off, move down for multi row stamping, and can flip the door around and use the opposite side to stamp as well. I also liked that it came with two doors so there is 4 surfaces to stamp with. This is awesome for layered stamping and scenes.
I have a mini misti, which was a Christmas gift when that was all that was available, and I found it incredibly expensive for what it is. Also I do not appreciate being evangelized with my crafting and will not ever get a full-sized one. So I got the Tim Holtz before it was banned from the U.S. I have just ordered the Bira because it looks perfect for me.
@@deballen7031 Yes when the MISTI came out, and then the TH Platform, it was found that the design was a violation of the MISTI patent; as far as I know. Anyone, please correct me if I"m wrong.
@@marypolancodesigns Misti threatened to sue. I don't believe it ever went to court. Tim decided it wasn't worth the trouble to fight her. His platform isn't just like hers. I think it's better. She is very aggressive about suing anyone and everyone over stamping platforms and many of them on the market are very, very similar. For a supposed Christian, her dialog is very off putting which is I won't buy her overpriced products. We should be supporting each other. Amazon will ship the regular size platform to the US now and I got the travel one just in the nick of time before the last were sold out. I have the both and love them. BTW - Thanks for the honest comparison.
I have the TH platform but didn't like having to flip over between rubber and clear stamps. So...I purchased the Creative Craft Platform (I think it was previously the Couture Creations version from the same site-or it looks exactly the same). It looks just like the Bira. I think this can only be purchased in the UK. I bought it on Craft Stash US. I did place a sticky mat inside and a strip of cardstock on the bottom so I could line up my cardstock. Despite the lack of the bottom lip, I love the spring action and the hinge that keeps the platform together. Very even stamping on all types of stamps. They now sell also as a bundle with a media mat included-kind of like a gel plate that fits in the platform.
Hi Mary. Thank you for your video. I’ve enjoyed using the Misti the most. I did purchase the Tim Holtz platform second hand but I rarely use it. I also purchased the WRMK platform bundle but have never used it yet. 🥰
Thank you for doing this Mary, it really helps. I'm leaning towards the Memory keepers, but have you tried the Sizzix stamping and stencil platform, or the all in one Sizzix tool and platform? I would love to hear your thoughts. Thanks again, it's great info.❤
Tuesday morning had the WRMK regular one for $20 a few years ago..I picked up several for gifts. I have an earlier WRMK one that is hinged like the misti. And a Tim holltz mini...love them all...they make a big difference in my stamping.
Thanks for the comparison. My first stamping platform was the misty 12 x 12 (go big or go home lol) the hinges weren’t on there very good so I returned it and got the original size because the big one took up way too much space when the door was open. I do really like it. I pre-ordered the large Tim Holtz platform and after some delays I got that. I prefer to use the Misti for clear stamps because the platform door is more flexible so you get a good stamp. I much prefer my Tim Holtz platform for red rubber stamps. I haven’t tried any others
I use my medium size Misti! However I think I might pick up the We r Memory Keeper’s. I think I’d like it for my laying stamps. I also think that I would get/or make a measurement grid in acetate or something similar…I hate getting ink everywhere. I know…I’m a little picky about it. So suffering for my issues….🤪
I have a Tim Holtz ,We R Memory Keepers Precision Press and Couture Creations Precision Stamp Press. My favorite is Couture Creations Precision Stamp Press. But the others work good also. Thanks so much for sharing!! I am sure it will be helpful to those who are looking for one.
Thank you for this; you know I searched the Couture one and couldn't find it. I hadn't heard of it but thank you for the testimony; will definitely help others.
I live in Australia and managed to buy Tim Holtz one here about 12 months ago for about $30 from a craft store. Absolutely love it. I did look at all different ones as most use MISTI but way out of my budget here in Australia approx $120 for the regular but I wouldn't part with the Tim Holtz as I can do larger cardstock.
I got a Tim Holtz and then a Misty. I didn’t like the Tim Holtz, you can justify in only 1 corner. I found that in areas on the platform had some ghost spots that wouldn’t stamp a good image. Maybe with a sticky mat I could find a solution! Maybe not! I love the MISTY. It is sturdy, and a work horse!
I have the Bira and added a sticky grid to keep the paper in place. I have also glued on a piece of a tape measure to create a corner to place the card into. I found without a corner to push the card into, or sticky sticky surface to hold the card in place, the card could too easily move by just a bit when using just the magnet, and then restamping would not be accurate. After my modifications and some practice, restamping works pretty good for me with the Bira, but not perfect every time. There is just a little play in the lid and it won't always press in exactly the same position. Using it more has made me more consistent in how I press down, and I am getting better results that when I first started using it. I think I would prefer the platform similar to this one - can't recall the name - that has springs like this one but a hinge rather than the removable top. I am guessing a hinge would eliminate that little bit of inconsistency.
I started out with the Tim Holtz one and only gave it up when it seemed to be bowing in the center and not stamping properly. I then went with the Stamperatus from Stampin Up and love it a lot. Like the one from WRMK, you can reposition the plates to move your stamp into a different position, AND, it comes with an additional plate so you can use multiple stamps without moving your paper. Hope this helps. The price is, I believe, comparable to the Misti.
Such a great testimony; thanks so much for sharing. I'm hearing that a lot about the TH platform; mine has not been used much so I suppose that could be why I have no issues
This is a great review. My Misti has come apart. Bought a Memory keepers like it but liked the Misti a bit better. Not enough difference for the price.
I have the Tim Holtz regular and mini, well I gave my mini to a friend, so... I also have one I made before I got the TH ones, and it works pretty much the same (I watched a great tutorial). I love that it can be washed (the TH) as I use it for a multitude of things. A while back, I thought it was messed up because no matter how many times I reinked a particular stamp, or how hard I pressed, I couldn't get a good image. Found out later the stamp was uneven all across the top! I was so glad, lol.
I have the Hampton Arts mini and regular size (same function/look as the Misti), the TH platform, the Misti regular and memory size, and the Stampin’ Up Stamperatus. All work well. The Stamperatus and the TH platform are very similar in how they are used/work. I do prefer the Misti/Hampton Arts ones for most regular stamping but prefer the TH or the Stampin’ Up ones for multi-stamp / production stamping as I have multiple plates for those.
As a crafter, another option would be to make your own stamp positioner. You can use an old CD case for small stamps and it works great. OR, you can make a Misti sized positioner for less than $20 with three 1/8th inch 8 x 10 Sheets Lexan Plexiglass from Home Depot, three, 1 inch hinges and one inch Clear double-sided Gorilla Mounting Tape. The third Lexan sheet is to cut one inch strips for three sides. It works great and that is what I use. While I do feel the stamp positioner is a wonderful tool, they are on the expensive side. On occasion I still use my Stamp-a-ma-jig and block. Another great video. Thanks for sharing. xo
So super helpful thank you! YAY
My first stamping platform was a plastic "Certificate Frame" with a flat front and a plexiglass "cover". I replaced the plexiglass with a piece of chip board & a cushy, semi-firm, place mat to just-about-fill-the-void, and mounted the plexiglass on the BACK side of the frame with duct tape. Dollar Tree place mat = $1.00; Certificate frame, w/ 40% Disc from Michael's = $9.00; already owned the duct tape and chip board. Even though I have a Stamperatus, which I'd never give up, my little homemade JEWEL comes with me when I travel, as it is SOOO light weight -- AND accurate!
@@amkarei Awesome!
@@donnaokoniewski3761 (( Aren't we ALL so ingenious !?! I L O V E hearing about others' crafty hacks! ))
How do you cut the plexiglass?
Stampin Up platform is called the Stamparatus and I have one and love it! It has two removable hinged plates and two sides open for larger paper.
Awesome thank you so much for sharing!
I bought extra plates so I can have several projects or layering stamps on the different plates at one time.
@@MoonEyesDesign I think maybe you can’t buy extra plates now. 😕
I love the fact it’s got two plates but I found the Stamparatus rather heavy and clunky to use. 😕
I researched for quite some time before deciding on which one would work best for me. I decided with the Stamparatus! I absolutely love it and having the 2 pressing plates is so handy for stamping multiple cards without having to change the stamps.
I made my own stamping platform for pennies. I went to The Dollar Tree and purchased a wooden clipboard and wide duct tape. Then I found a large clear, rectangular photo insert (10x12) and carefully broke it in 2 pieces so I could tape the front piece to the edge of the wooden clipboard. Now my homemade platform opens/closes like a book. Yes it is ugly. But it cost me about $5. It works great.
I LOVE this! These hacks are so amazing to hear about !
I’d love to see how it looks! I’m not sure what you mean by “photo insert”
I think I described it badly. I went to the dollar tree and bought a clipboard. Then I bought one of those plastic clear photo frames that is an 8 x 10 . You basically can pull the two pieces of plastic apart and you insert your photo and then the photo can either be put on your refrigerator, or sometimes these clear plastic photo frames have these little stands, meaning the back piece has a little rectangular piece that allows the photo to sit upright. So I purchased that piece as well along with some duct tape. Then carefully I took the plastic photo frame, and I carefully sent back the bath piece that you open to insert your photo so it would break off. After it broke off you just had the front piece. I covered the jagged edge from the broken part with duct tape. Then I put the plastic photo frame side-by-side with the clipboard and I just taped them together. So now it opens like a book.
PICS or it didn't happen
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
I made 2 stamp platforms like yours several years ago. I bought small clip boards at Walmart, used several layers of thick, stiff craft plastic that I already had, duct tape, and thin strips of wood molding that I glued inside all around the edge of the whole base. The plastic sheets are taped to the side of the wood molding on one side so they sit on top of the wood. They work great and an A2 card fits easily inside of them. I do like your idea of using the plastic from a photo frame though! It is a much sturdier plastic than what I used.
I have the Bira stamping platform. My son got it for me for Christmas. I am sad to say that yes, yours was broken. I absolutely love mine. I have decided to only use it and not the blocks, because I can stamp directly back over the image if there was a part that did not stamp out well. I find that I am making more cards now that I have it and not throwing as many away because of OOPS. Well worth the money he spent. I just showed him the Tim Holtz one and the MISTI and told home I wanted a stamping platform and that there were a lot more out there. I think he did good.
Oh that's such a great great thing to buy for a stamper; love it. I'm so glad it's helped with your cardmaking! I don't use blocks unless I'm doing backgrounds mostly.
I just got the bira positioner and love it. I have the other ones as well. I would love to let new card makers know about this tool. Instead of spending money on the others.
I hesitated jumping on the placement tool for a long time, but eventually bought the Stamparatus. I didn't see anything here that makes me regret that decision. Thanks for doing the leg work for us!
YAY! So glad you're giving testimonial for it; I didn't have one to try!
Yes, love my Stamparatus as well
I use the Tim Holtz platform and consistently get great results. I was lucky to get it before sales were limited. I also happened upon one at a “yard sale” table at a scrapbooking event for a bargain price so I have two.
Oh those sales....the thrift store too; bound to find some goodies!
I bought the Tim Holtz stamping platform also. I love it. I won one in a contest and sent it to my sister. She is new to stamping and is having great luck with it.
I absolutely love Tim Holtz Stamp Platform! The quality is unsurpassed. I love how I can flip it for my red rubber stamps. I have WE R Memory keepers platform also. Love it too. Honestly was not overly impressed by the Misti by the price and functionality as I have a LOT of red rubber. I have to say that I was unwilling to purchase one either after the issues that arose. I agree there is room for more than one idea.
Leah I do agree with your last statement strongly. We are evolved to where we are today because of the improvements made on the "first" idea. Great point
I canNOT for the life of me see HOW, in good conscience, the powers that be at that hearing could have P O S S I B L Y decided in favor of the Misti manufacturers, against the Tonic product or the Stampin’Up product, or for that matter A N Y “maker” than has come up with design improvements on what was, in essence, nothing more than a picture frame with the plexi picture cover reattached on the outside of the frame!!! Ask me! I made one that functions quite accurately, thank you, and it did NOT cost $40 to $60 plus dollars. Now, the Stamperatus is MOST DEFINITELY head and shoulders above everything I’VE seen out there!! THEIR design truly deserves patent protection, as duplicating THAT jewel w o u l d take some engineer’g and not JUST a handy hubby to pull off!!
Agree! The stamparatus appears to be superior. It is a shame they can no longer sell it. Wish I would have purchased one before Stampin Up was forced to discontinue it.
I've got one of the Bira platforms. Yours definitely is broken. Mine came all in one piece and I'm super happy with it. A stamping platform was something I told myself I didn't need to spend the amount of money required for a "name brand" one, but the Bira made it accessible for me to get one.
Uggg....I was actually hoping it was broken because I can imagine if it came in one piece it's a really great little gadget!
@@marypolancodesigns the springs (when not broken) are nice and bouncy. I like that the top section comes all the way off but pops back on easily and aligns perfectly in place.
Agree on all points! I've got a Bira, although mine is called Sunlit. I like that it's open on three sides for mass producing. I often stamp on a letter-sized paper and just turn and shift it so I get four impressions of the same stamp. OTOH I had some problems with getting good impressions in the middle of the platform. That was easily solved by putting a piece of foam on top. Seeing you use the WeRMemoryKeepers platform makes me want to try with a silicone sheet instead.
I've used most of these and my favorite is the one from Stampin Up - it's been the most versatile
Thanks so much for weighing in. I'm so glad I at least mentioned it in the video; sad I didn't have one to try.
Stamperatus by Stampin'Up is amazing I love that it has 2 doors you can use together and flip around and platforms for red rubber or photopolymer
Awesome, thank you so much for sharing this; I am glad to see others weighing in on the Stamperatus.
I have three of those and I always reach for my WRM. The quality is fantastic!
Thank you so much for sharing!
Hi. I'm in the UK and I use the Crafts Too Press To Impress stamping platform. It's a good price point, reliable, has a removable insert for rubber and clear stamps and replacements for these are available. There are also other useful inserts that you can buy in addition for it. I have been using it for a few years now and I'm really happy with it. Thank you for all your insights, I find them fun and informative. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you so much Deb. I really appreciate this share! YAY
I bought the TH mini years ago for roughly 30.00 and have used it for years. I was glad to see this video for ideas of what to buy for a friend or family member as TH not easily found. It's still my fave though and happy to have it. Unfortunately not interested in any mysti products for reasons already addressed. Our community is big enough for everyone to do their own thing . Again another great video Mary tyfs it
Thanks so much, I really appreciate this add. I was so happy to be able to share some additional ideas for those on a budget or for the reasons mentioned.
I have the WE R MEMORIES KEEPER with extra plates and love it. When you are doing multiple layer cards you can put a stamp on each plate and just keep layering with each color. I did have the orginal We R memories one that was similar to Tim Holts and the MISTI and a friend knocked it off the table and broke a hinge and you could never could on it stamping twice in the same place. That's why I like the new one - no hinges. I had no idea about that last add-on one so thank you for sharing it. Also when using it you can put down a piece of typing paper under you card if you think you'll be inking off you card. This will avoid you stamping on the foam pad.
This is so great, thank you so much for taking the time to share all of this goodness!
Thanks - you just saved me from inking all over the foam insert of my PPA (Precision Press Advanced)! Do you have any other tips/hacks for the PPA? I've been doing a search for "stamping platform hacks" every week or so, but all of the videos I've found have focused on the MISTI or other hinged platforms. (Maybe Mary will make the PPA her go-to stamping platform, and produce a "PPA hacks" video - ideally, one that includes an answer to whether the MISTI Creative Corners are worth getting if you have a Precision Press Advanced. Just a subtle hint, Mary!)
I think you missed the best feature of the precision press. You can do assembly line style by laying 4 card fronts, pointing up, right, down and left. Ink up 4 stamps, press, ink again, turn your press plate 1/4 turn. Repeat twice more.. You get 4 cards done in no time!
My friend has the tonic but its either warped or I'm not using it right. The middle never stamps.
That IS the best part; honestly I didn t want to sway folks but the precision press seems like the best bang for the buck. I did quickly mention what you said but it would have been WAY better if I actually showed it. Maybe I do a more close up look. thank you!
I'm seeing this a lot in the thread!
I have the Precision Press Advanced, and I'd definitely watch if you made such a video, especially if you have any tips or hacks to share.
you can do this with a MISTI as well, or stamp out two layering stamps at once
I bought a regular MISTI shortly after it came out & even though it was an investment, it was well worth it. It made stamping so much easier for me. Recently I bought the Couture Creations stamp press & it’s really nice too. The 3 sides are open, which I love for larger stamps or paper. There’s no lip to put the paper in a corner, but there’s a ruler etched into the top so you can line up the paper there. I taped a sticky mat in it & that has been perfect. I just taped the outside 3 edges & then lay the cover sheet over it when I’m done using it. It’s definitely nice having 2 platforms because I can leave all of the layers for stamping in place until I’m done.
Anyway, great video Mary. Very informative. Thank you.
Thank you so much for sharing all of this: it's super helpful!
You can clean ink off the platform with alcohol. Use a Q-Tip so you don’t remove the blue lines from the pad. I take Sharpie ink off of anything with alcohol or Acetone nail polish remover. Love this video. 💕
Oh Jane....YAY! Thank you so much i will for sure give that a try
I love your comparison videos, please keep them coming. I have at least three platforms and usually reach for my Mist or stamparatus (?) from Stampin Up. I really have never gotten a good stamp from Tim Holtz and I think it’s the absence of a foam pad.
I think you might be right the foam pad really does make a huge difference
Hello!. I have the Tim Holtz full size and mini and really like them. However, I ran into Burlington for an unrelated item and found the Memory Keepers for $7.99 so needless to say it came home with me. Absolutely love it, very no-nonsense design and find it quicker to use. As always, thanks for the great video 🤗
Yes I do love it; didn't want to sway anyone because it's early in my ownership but it is a huge bang for your buck.
I have the wrmk and like it very much. It does silicon stamps well if you don't apply too much pressure. I have the bar accessory too as well as a spare lid. It's a pretty versitile setup. You can use the lids as stamping blocks too without the platform. You can use the posts for making bows and pom poms.
Ooooh posts for bows and pom poms....YES that is brilliant. THank you so much
I have the TH platform after recommendations and I couldn’t justify the MISTI as in Australia for the standard one it was $120 ish for memory. However the TH platform was nothing but a pain in the butt from the beginning. It was what I best describe, an uneven surface. I googled and found I was not alone with the issue and the solution was to flip it over and stamp upside down. So taking the base (bottom) to the lid to get a clear stamped image - sometimes. It was so hit and miss I purchased a misti to save my sanity, which is a great tool. I will say the extras and add ons are annoying that they are add ons lol and hard to source - always sold out. I have heard good things about the couture creations precision stamp press as well. Thanks for sharing your thinking pattern around products too. PS was loving that stamp you were using. Cute
YIKES on that price. I had someone in Canada tell me the same thing. I did a giveaway and she won it and was so happy I could give her the MISTI for no cost to her. That is way overpriced
Thank you. I was so excited to get the Tim Holtz platform years ago and have rarely used it for the very reasons you stated. It's nice to know that I'm not alone and that it's not me!
I have the 12x12 Misti and LOVE it. It is great for doing so many different stamps at one time !
Awesome thank you for sharing this
I never got the hang of the Tim Holtz platform. I tried a friend's and decided it wasn't going to work for me. Got the Stampin' Up one & love it!
So glad you love the SU one; it reminds me of the WRMK, great versatility.
I have the WRMK with about 5 (at least) stamping top blocks/plates. Great for mass stamping projects! I also have the WRMK border accessory and the mini stamping press. I love the regular (Advanced) WRMK ... for me, it seems to be a bit more precise (I also own a Misti and several other “odd” platforms (cheap!)) by stamping straight down rather than “rolling” the stamp over the paper by closing the door. I also like the idea that with multiple plates, I don’t have to keep exchanging stamps ... plus, I can keep one always set up (for example) with my Created by Sandie stamp.
Thank you so much for sharing your testimony on this! I appreciate you taking the time.
Thank you for the reviews. I have four (2 in each size) of the Tim Holtz platforms. I made sure to get them before they disappeared from the market. I love them, they've worked well for me. I also have two of the Stampin' Up! Stamparatus, and I like it as well. I like the double plates and the step stamping that is possible. My Tim Holtz travel platforms are used for most of my needs, followed by the Stamparatus. I have each out, and really, whichever is in reach gets used. For my own reasons (and cost), I will not buy the misti. Now, one advantage to having two different brands, I had a stamp set that just would not stamp in the center of the main image. I tried moving the position on the platform, tried foam inserts, tried using different ink, even. Then, I switched over and tried it on the other platform. The results were the same. I got out a magnifier and examined the stamp itself (photopolymer) and I could see under magnification where the stamp had not formed properly in manufacture. Fortunately, the company that made it accepted my plea, and the sent me a new stamp for free. I tested on both the TH and the Stamparatus, and the new stamp worked just fine. Non branded stamps (i.e., cheap acrylic and those made in China) are not reliable stamps and do not come from trusted companies, and are often defective, as well as being counterfeit in their designs (total ripoff designs from other companies). So, I buy direct from the stamp companies themselves (or their approved outlets), sacrificing super cheap prices for super good quality and a product that will last for years, vs tearing or poor manufacture and not good stamping.
All SUCH great information and insight! thank you so much for taking the time to share all of this.
Mary - I really enjoy y our videos, and your approach to crafting. I sometimes see independent card makers using stamps and dies from companies I've never heard of. Have you ever done a review on excellent small companies many of us haven't heard of? I'd so appreciate it!
Thank you so much for the kind encouragement. I'm not sure I can fulfill that request with out buying a bunch of supplies from various stores. Also I'm not sure who has heard of which companies. I would love to help so if you have any ideas let me know.
@@marypolancodesigns Maybe sending out the question to die-hard crafters asking what they have found would turn up some info. Some companies may be located in other countries and sell only to that area, but I know there probably are small ones in the US trying their best to provide quality supplies. Some also provide single or limited numbers of items per envelope, so we don;t have to keep buying whole suites. Just a thought.
My first stamping platform was the Stamparatus by Stampin’ Up, which has the removable hinges for the actual platform, but wasn’t always consistent with pressure. I wanted something to stamp on a larger area, so I upgraded to the 12x12 Misti which is better. But my favorite which is not mentioned here is the Crafter Companion Stamping Platform which comes in 4x4, 6x6, and the most loved 8x8 size. The 8x8 has a magnetic base, and springs in the corner, so it ALWAYS aligns if you need to re-apply ink. I do use a paper weight as a pressure tool when doing a lot of stamping.
Thank you so much for weighing in...so helpful!
I have each of the Crafers Companion platforms & enjoy them ! 8x8 is my fav as well :) I enjoy Tim Holtz's Travel size which Mary P calls "mini..." Just bought another
moments ago on Ebay.... Great tip with using the paper weight as pressure tool...!! Thanks !
I think the choice of stamping platform seems to be a very personal choice. I’ve tried several and can’t see past my Misti. ☺️
Totally agree! It's such a personal preference thing
Thank you Mary! 🥰 I did not have good luck with the Tim Holtz and clear stamps but it worked better with rubber stamps. I got it on sale for $25 for the larger one at a craft show a few years ago and have used it about 5 times. I have two sizes of the Misti and love them! If I could go back I would have just gotten the larger one (not 12x12) as I reach for that more. I am interested in the WRMK platform for the moving placement piece. I will probably end up selling the Holtz platform (sorry Tim) and purchasing the WRMK one! Great, honest, video.😍
Thanks so much Lorraine! So many of you have the same sentiment as well. I will likely be destashing the TH too, soon. I wanted to do this review first.
I’ve gotten nothing but poor results with Tim Holtz.
You did really good showing and demonstrating those platforms! Having stamped for many many years I would definitely recommend a stamping platform for new stampers. I had invested in many different acrylic blocks for the clear stamps, and it would have saved me money to have gotten a platform because then I wouldn't have needed so many blocks. So for anew stamper, a platform is worth every penny and would save money when starting out. I know Tim Hotz new stamping/stencil platform wasn't out when you did this video, but his new platform does double duty and looks interesting too.
Thank you so much! I agree, the platforms are moving into the necessary category in my opinion.
I have a Stampin Up platform and LOVE it ... it has plates on the top and side that are moveable so you can move both across and down the page ... it is also good for multiple layering.
Yes I hear it is an amazing tool! I'm sad I didn't have one to demo
I've only used the WRMK stamping platform, so can't compare it with other options, but I like it a lot. I just wish some of the popular cardmakers on RUclips were using it - there are plenty of videos showing tips and tricks for using a MISTI, but nothing similar for the Precision Press Advanced. (When WRMK made changes to their original stamping platform, they added the word Advanced to distinguish between the old Precision Press and the updated version. The one shown in this video is the Precision Press Advanced.)
Great to know thank you for that! I do think it is super versatile!
I wish you had included the Stampin Up “stamparatus” it is incredible. I own both.
I wish I had it too! :( I mentioned it but couldn't show it
For the Bira/Creative Craft platform, I added their sticky mat to the base, which holds cardstock well. And if you just put a piece of tape right across the bottom of the sticky mat, you have your lip. Or you can use any company’s sticky mat that has grid lines on it, add the tape and have both lines and a lip. One and done.
Amazing tips! YEAH! Thank you so much
This was quite informative. I was fortunate to get the Tim Holtz platform when it first came out for about $24. I also own the mini MISTI which I love since I am mainly a card maker and it sits on my small desk. I am glad you got them all to work.
Thank you so much Marilyn! I appreciate the share and testimony. Love my mini too
I was too!
I AM a Stampin' Up Demonstrator. I've used the MISTI, a Crafter's Companion stamping platform and a Stamparatus. The Stamparatus is my favorite. It comes with two hinged covers so stamping multiple layers is easy. And you can unhinge the cover to make stamping in various areas of the card. Noting wrong with the MISTI but it doesn't do everything the Stamparatus does.
This seems to be a popular consensus about that particular product. I'm so glad that folks are finding stuff that works for them
I have both sizes of the Tim holtz platform. I got some fun foam and cut it to fit, so there’s some ‘give’. I also cut one of those craft silicone mats to fit them as well. Also got a circuit sticky mat and trimmed to fit. So whatever the situation calls for, I am ready lol. Sometimes I use my acrylic blocks on the platform with the foam, without actually using the platform itself, if the stamps are small or uncomplicated. I also have the we r memory keepers platform so I can do mass stamps with multiple layers,such as for Christmas
YAY Thanks for sharing all of this! I love hearing the different ways you use them! Super helpful
Hi Mary. Great comparison. after a great deal of research into pros and cons, I purchased the Stamparatus a few years ago and have nothing but happy stories to tell. Thanks so much. 😊
Wonderful! I love this testimony!
For most of my stamping, I used a regular MISTI. For large stamps, larger paper (i.e. slimline card base opened up), or multiple stamping, I use a WRMK platform. Both work great but the MISTI is more handy for a quick stamping as long as the paper can fit. I would like to get additional plates for my WRMK 'cause I really like the peg design for repeat images.
I have a Tim Holtz travel platform and rarely use it. There is no built in way to line up the paper if it moves when you stamp. I've also found that the hinge is a little too low making the stamping uneven with the side closer to the hinge darker going to lighter further from the hinge no matter the pressure applied (and for both rubber and photopolymer stamps with the door flipped applicable). The bigger the stamp the more obvious the uneven stamping. Additionally, it has a definite "sweet spot" for stamping. With the stamp closer to the hinge, the more 'smeary' the image is. At the far edge from the hinge it is possible to get a crisp stamping, but only once and no way to easily line up an additional paper to stamp in the same spot. It might be just the travel version that has these issues (or even just mine), but I am not a fan. It is, however, the one I will take 'traveling' if I think there might be pressure or even warping of my bag since it is built a lot re ruggedly.
Hi Rijacki, you are not the only one to share this issue on this thread with the TH platform; thanks so much for this. It's really helpful! I hope others read this comment.
I just read it and thank you for this as I was considering getting one.
Thank you, Mary, for all your research videos. They're my fave! I have a Misti and a Stamparatus (stampin up). I love the SU because it has 2 removable plates which give you 4 stamping sides. It had issues with pressure so I don’t use the magnets anymore, just Sticky sheets and it is a dream. I also like that it has2 open ends for longer cards and stamping the sentiment after I had made the front of the card (🙄). My 2 cents.
Thank you so much for sharing this! It's super helpful!
I really like my Stampin Up one
Awesome, thanks for weighing in; I didn't have one to show!
Have the Tim Holtz platform, love it!
Awesome thank you so much!
I have the Bira and the mini Misti. I gravitate towards the Bira more because it’s larger but I do really like it. Thanks so much for the layered tape idea to create a “lip” I’ve definitely had issues with movement. I like the WRMC platform; I may need to upgrade ;) Great video ❤️
Thanks so much for this testimony! We really appreciate the share!
I have had a Tim Holtz stamp platform since starting card making and love it!
Awesome! Lots of lovers of the TH
Stampin Up has a great stamping platform with two plates to use all 4 sides.
LOVE That, I mentioned it but didn't have one to show! :( thank you
My favorite is the Stamparatus by Stampin’ Up.
YAY! I am hearing that a lot.
I have had the Tim Holtz/tonic stamp platform for years and it works well with a slight modification. I put a piece of fun foam down on the bed off the platform and think that has improved my stamping with it. (But, that might just be me.) I like the idea of the versatility of the WRMK platform, especially when using multiple stamps on a project. That and the SU versions appeal to me for that reason. But, I don't think I will invest in another. Thank you for your reviews, Mary. You have taught me so much. And, I really enjoy your videos! 🥰
I did the same with fun foam and now it works like a charm lol nice to know not alone
Thank you so much Robin! I appreciate you telling me it was helpful YAY! The foam idea is brilliant
YAY! Love that
Me toooo
Stampin Up stamping platform is called a Stamparatus and and has two open edges and 2 Reversible plates giving you four stamping plates.
It seems like a really practical product; love that!
I have the bira platform (I didn't want to go all in with a misti until I was sure I'd like cardmaking)--I think yours did come broken as mine was all set out of the box. BUT--it irked me too that it didn't have a lip so I just used some foam tape and made sure I stuck it down super straight and it works fabulously now to keep everything aligned.
Right, the no lip; I knew there was SOMETHING we could do so I'm glad you figured it out; great fix with the foam tape.
Great video!
I love my Stampin’ Up Stamparatus. Others have already explained the wonderful features.
I laminated a sheet of the grid paper, so that solved that issue.
The only issue I have is that the grid (on the plastic that holds the stamps) doesn’t start at the edge; you have to move the paper away from the edge to use the grid as a ruler.
Great share, thank you so much for this
Your Bira is definitely broken! I have a few platforms and I never use the others, only the Bira. I slapped on a sticky grid so I don't even have to bother with magnets and it works amazingly!
Brilliant! YAY! Thank you for letting me know and the hack
The crafters companion stamping platform is awesome. You can turn a 1/4 turn to creat a frame as well.
Awesome share thank you so much!
I appreciate your showing all of these so we can better choose what we prefer. Thank you, Mary!
You are so welcome! Thank you for this!
I use the Sizzix Sticky paper (Like you had in the Misti and put it the Craft Press Platform (which is very similar to the Bira but it has hinges, with spring action and the clear top does not come off). I also have the Stamparatus. These are my two favorites.
Yes the sticky grid paper is a perfect solution; thank you!
Great video as always. I have the TH regular & the "older" Misti. I get good results with both as long as my paper doesn't move. Side note...I love the sticky grids & never thought to put them in the platform!!
Awesome thanks for sharing! Yes the sticky grid paper is awesome for that!
Great summary. I have a Hampton art misti type platform and the precision press. I like both depending on the project or my mood but I was so upset about inking my rubber that I wrapped it in press and seal. Craaazy right!🤣
Good ol press and seal. 😏
NO, not crazy....genius! Love it thank you!
I have one of each of the three sizes of Misti and love them all. I would only recommend the regular or memory Misti though because of the versatility, the mini is very limiting. Two of the three were bought on sale during Black Friday. However, if I were just starting out and on a budget, I think I would go with the WRMK. It appears to be a better value.
I would agree with all of this, thanks so much for sharing!
I too am not impressed so much with the Misti. Maybe it's because it was hyped up so much and the expectation was big. I have both the large one and small one. Very pricey as well. Things I wish I knew before investing my hard earned money. I wish I would have seen this video and your comment. 😔
I love the stamp Aratus I love the fact that it has two doors, and you can stamp your whole card at once
YES so many love it!
First time seeing one of your videos ! Loved it & subscribed ! I have 1 reg. size MISTI, 2 Stamparatuses, 3 or 4 WRMK, 3 or 4 Lg. Tim Holtz & 5 or 6 reg size Tim Holtz ! ( Don't judge me ! LOL ) I use & love them ALL ! I make a lot of cards, & this way I can leave my stamps in place in them for weeks or months at a time, in case I need to make more of the same card ! FYI If you use some of your sticky grid paper under some reg. grid paper ( or plain paper ) on your WRMK, then you won't stain the rubber piece !
This is awesome thank you so much for sharing! :) I love how many you have; you should have done this review! lol love it Thanks so much for joining me here!
@@marypolancodesigns LOL That's OK You did a great & honest job ! I'll stick to card making !
I have I know 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8 stamping platforms
Misti(6th),Stampwheel(8th)CraftStash (7th)Tin Holtz (3rd) We R (4th) Fiskars(2nd purchase)- I had one from Crafters Companion (1st purchase )that I got like in 2002 but can’t remember the name - Stamperatus -(5th)but actually use them for different reasons - Man back down crafters purchasing lane- LOL
I have a TH platform, 3 mini, 3 regular and 1 memory MISTIs, she has a great sale once a year. I store them in a rack made for pan lids.
Ooooh with the added storage solution.....THANK YOU! You're the best
Wow! That's a lot of MISTI's! May I ask when she has this sale? 😊
@@dianerizak2894 Me too, thanks for asking.
@@dianerizak2894 she usually has a 20% off sale in late November
@@Denise11Schultz she usually has a 20% off sale in late November
Great video! My first ever stamping press was the mini misty but after some time I outgrew it I needed something for larger stamps. Watched many review videos and wasn’t sure what I wanted, I really like the looks of the Tim Holtz one but then there was the availability obstacle. This winter I found the We R stamping press at Michael’s on clearance for $11!!!! I was super excited and I love it!!
HECK yeah, I love a good deal, you know me! lol That's awesome!
I have the Tim Holtz - couldn't get it to work well despite chest compressions. I have two MISTI'S - love them! I also just bought the reasonable one from Creative of CraftStash because it has open sides. It does have springs where you close the lid, then press down.
Awesome shares, thank you so much!
I got one of the last TH platforms before they stopped selling them. I thought it was great for small stamps but once I started using larger stamps it would not do a complete impression. My craft store was unable to take it back or exchange it due to the banning but they did recommend contacting Tonic directly. Tonic had no problems replacing it but because the pandemic had started to affect everything and they were out of stock, I was told it would take about 6 weeks. Well, almost a year later, I received my replacement. It's a great tool!!! Now that I have one that isn't warped, I just love it!
The warping is coming up a lot in these comments; really great to know thank you!
This video was perfect timing for me. I have a ton of stamps and no platform and was getting ready to purchase one. Excellent on being informative.
YAY! So happy it was so serendipitous! WOOOHOOO
I love my Tim Holtz platform.
Great to hear; thank you so much for the share
I’m surprised that you did not show the stamparatus. I’m disappointed. It is double hinged and so versatile. You can really speed up card stamping and have perfect position every time. It’s made by stamping up.
So many in the comments section shared your sentiment about the stamparatus, which is great! It sounds like an amazing tool!
Today I saw the Walmart brand Hello Hobby has what looks like an exact WRMC clone, the “Precision Stamp Press Tool”, for $19.97.
Great to know, thank you for sharing this!
Until I bought a stamping platform, I hadn't stamped in years. Just too much waste from mistakes. I have a Hunkydory stamping platform, which I love. The Bira looks almost exactly like it. I wish it had a corner for placing the paper, but that would definitely limit the size of paper that I could use in it. The magnets hold the paper really well. I would definitely recommend it.
You are right about the waste, I too, had soo much waste without it.
I def wish stamping platforms were around when I started stamping, and if starting out would really make life easier and stamping results more consistent, so helping to build confidence. I have quite a few platforms and my least favourite is the Tim Holtz.
Thank you so much for sharing this info with all of us; love the testimonies
I just got a Misti like platform from Temu. It is similar to the second version. Saved me some $ to buy stamps and tools.
I have the Tim Holtz and I like it, I would like the to get the Stamparatus (Stampin UP) because you "were" able to get extra plates but you can also move the topper down the base. Kind of like the WRMK. NOW, that I see that I can get extra toppers w/that one I may go that way.
I love that feature and hadn't considered it before this.
I know your review is a year old however Others may be seeing your review for the first time as I am.
You did a great job on the review Mary. Thank you.
I have the Tim Holtz platform, not much of a fan. I also have two Misty’s, Stamparatus and just bought the Stampwheel from Altenew and I am in love with the Stampwheel, I have perfect results everytime and is so well worth the money. Had it been out when I first started card making, that is the one I would have gone with, it is fantastic and I HIGHLY recommend the Stampwheel.
The stamparatus is a popular one; so many commenters on it. Thanks for sharing this!
I really liked the Misti but bought the Stamparatus from SU was because the door was designed to pop off, move down for multi row stamping, and can flip the door around and use the opposite side to stamp as well. I also liked that it came with two doors so there is 4 surfaces to stamp with. This is awesome for layered stamping and scenes.
So many love that one! Sounds incredible
I have a mini misti, which was a Christmas gift when that was all that was available, and I found it incredibly expensive for what it is. Also I do not appreciate being evangelized with my crafting and will not ever get a full-sized one. So I got the Tim Holtz before it was banned from the U.S. I have just ordered the Bira because it looks perfect for me.
Hi Charlotte, thanks so much for sharing. I do think it's a bit too pricey as well.
Same here exactly.
Hi. Do you know why it banned in the U.S? I hadn't heard anything about this.
@@deballen7031 Yes when the MISTI came out, and then the TH Platform, it was found that the design was a violation of the MISTI patent; as far as I know. Anyone, please correct me if I"m wrong.
@@marypolancodesigns Misti threatened to sue. I don't believe it ever went to court. Tim decided it wasn't worth the trouble to fight her. His platform isn't just like hers. I think it's better. She is very aggressive about suing anyone and everyone over stamping platforms and many of them on the market are very, very similar. For a supposed Christian, her dialog is very off putting which is I won't buy her overpriced products. We should be supporting each other. Amazon will ship the regular size platform to the US now and I got the travel one just in the nick of time before the last were sold out. I have the both and love them. BTW - Thanks for the honest comparison.
I have the TH platform but didn't like having to flip over between rubber and clear stamps. So...I purchased the Creative Craft Platform (I think it was previously the Couture Creations version from the same site-or it looks exactly the same). It looks just like the Bira. I think this can only be purchased in the UK. I bought it on Craft Stash US. I did place a sticky mat inside and a strip of cardstock on the bottom so I could line up my cardstock. Despite the lack of the bottom lip, I love the spring action and the hinge that keeps the platform together. Very even stamping on all types of stamps. They now sell also as a bundle with a media mat included-kind of like a gel plate that fits in the platform.
Thank you so much for sharing all of this; super helpful to know
Hi Mary. Thank you for your video. I’ve enjoyed using the Misti the most. I did purchase the Tim Holtz platform second hand but I rarely use it. I also purchased the WRMK platform bundle but have never used it yet. 🥰
I love my MISTI too; thanks so much for sharing this.
I love the mini WRMK
Same, it's so great!
I really loved this comparison for stamping platforms. I currently have the Tim holtz and the large Misti.
Oh thank you so much for this! I appreciate you taking the time to share it with me.
Thank you for doing this Mary, it really helps. I'm leaning towards the Memory keepers, but have you tried the Sizzix stamping and stencil platform, or the all in one Sizzix tool and platform? I would love to hear your thoughts.
Thanks again, it's great info.❤
If you made me choose the sizzix has a bigger platform and open sides so that's a bonus and you get the stencil portion with it
I really like the stamping pro, it has a floating hinge that I find is perfect. It's about 32.00 so the price is good.
Awesome thank you for that share!
Tuesday morning had the WRMK regular one for $20 a few years ago..I picked up several for gifts. I have an earlier WRMK one that is hinged like the misti. And a Tim holltz mini...love them all...they make a big difference in my stamping.
Oh Tuesday morning is good for stuff like that. I have to make another trip there soon
Thanks for the comparison. My first stamping platform was the misty 12 x 12 (go big or go home lol) the hinges weren’t on there very good so I returned it and got the original size because the big one took up way too much space when the door was open. I do really like it. I pre-ordered the large Tim Holtz platform and after some delays I got that. I prefer to use the Misti for clear stamps because the platform door is more flexible so you get a good stamp. I much prefer my Tim Holtz platform for red rubber stamps. I haven’t tried any others
Great points on which is better for which purpose. I too would rather the TH for rubber over the MISTI. Thanks so much for sharing
I use my medium size Misti! However I think I might pick up the We r Memory Keeper’s. I think I’d like it for my laying stamps. I also think that I would get/or make a measurement grid in acetate or something similar…I hate getting ink everywhere. I know…I’m a little picky about it. So suffering for my issues….🤪
You're not picky, you know what works for you! You gotta be happy doing what you love. :)
I just bought the Tim Holtz Tonic platform, and I love it. I am in USA.
YAY so glad you do
Thanks Mary. These reviews are very helpful. I am in Australia and was able to get the Tim Holtz mini and I am very happy with it. 💕💕
Awesome and thank you for this!
I love my Tim Holtz platform, I've had it now like 4 years I think and it still looks brand new because I bought the case for it also 🥰💕
Oh that's awesome! Yes the case is a good option
I have a Tim Holtz ,We R Memory Keepers Precision Press and Couture Creations Precision Stamp Press. My favorite is Couture Creations Precision Stamp Press. But the others work good also. Thanks so much for sharing!! I am sure it will be helpful to those who are looking for one.
Thank you for this; you know I searched the Couture one and couldn't find it. I hadn't heard of it but thank you for the testimony; will definitely help others.
I live in Australia and managed to buy Tim Holtz one here about 12 months ago for about $30 from a craft store. Absolutely love it. I did look at all different ones as most use MISTI but way out of my budget here in Australia approx $120 for the regular but I wouldn't part with the Tim Holtz as I can do larger cardstock.
THank you so much for sharing this, Tanya!
I got a Tim Holtz and then a Misty. I didn’t like the Tim Holtz, you can justify in only 1 corner. I found that in areas on the platform had some ghost spots that wouldn’t stamp a good image. Maybe with a sticky mat I could find a solution! Maybe not! I love the MISTY. It is sturdy, and a work horse!
YES a few people mentioned the ghost spots on the TH; thank you for that!
I was just thinking of bying one and came across this! Thank you for sharing this pros and cons list. Very helpful!!👍
Glad it was helpful! Thanks so much for letting me know
I have the regular size Tim Holtz Stamping Platform and the Mini Misti. Love them both!
YAY! Thank you
I have the Bira and added a sticky grid to keep the paper in place. I have also glued on a piece of a tape measure to create a corner to place the card into. I found without a corner to push the card into, or sticky sticky surface to hold the card in place, the card could too easily move by just a bit when using just the magnet, and then restamping would not be accurate. After my modifications and some practice, restamping works pretty good for me with the Bira, but not perfect every time. There is just a little play in the lid and it won't always press in exactly the same position. Using it more has made me more consistent in how I press down, and I am getting better results that when I first started using it. I think I would prefer the platform similar to this one - can't recall the name - that has springs like this one but a hinge rather than the removable top. I am guessing a hinge would eliminate that little bit of inconsistency.
YES a sticky grid paper on the center. I have NO idea why I didn't share that in the video because I have one on my MISTI. My brain....lol
You did a great job of explaining each one! I have a mini misti, but wish I had bought the regular
Thank you so much! I'm so glad this was helpful!
Your Birra platform was broken. I have had mine for a few years. I love it!
So sad, but great to know that normally they are just perfect
I started out with the Tim Holtz one and only gave it up when it seemed to be bowing in the center and not stamping properly. I then went with the Stamperatus from Stampin Up and love it a lot. Like the one from WRMK, you can reposition the plates to move your stamp into a different position, AND, it comes with an additional plate so you can use multiple stamps without moving your paper. Hope this helps. The price is, I believe, comparable to the Misti.
Such a great testimony; thanks so much for sharing. I'm hearing that a lot about the TH platform; mine has not been used much so I suppose that could be why I have no issues
This is a great review. My Misti has come apart. Bought a Memory keepers like it but liked the Misti a bit better. Not enough difference for the price.
Thanks for sharing your perspective here. :)
I also depend upon the bottom lip for lining up!
Yeah that was a miss for me.
I have the Tim Holtz regular and mini, well I gave my mini to a friend, so... I also have one I made before I got the TH ones, and it works pretty much the same (I watched a great tutorial). I love that it can be washed (the TH) as I use it for a multitude of things. A while back, I thought it was messed up because no matter how many times I reinked a particular stamp, or how hard I pressed, I couldn't get a good image. Found out later the stamp was uneven all across the top! I was so glad, lol.
Oh that's really good to know! Thank you for sharing this in case others run in to the same problem.
Wordcrafter, hello I would love to see the one you made or the name of tutorial you watched. Brilliant idea!
I have the Hampton Arts mini and regular size (same function/look as the Misti), the TH platform, the Misti regular and memory size, and the Stampin’ Up Stamperatus. All work well. The Stamperatus and the TH platform are very similar in how they are used/work. I do prefer the Misti/Hampton Arts ones for most regular stamping but prefer the TH or the Stampin’ Up ones for multi-stamp / production stamping as I have multiple plates for those.
Thanks for sharing! I love this testimonial!