This was my first attempt at using the new Paper Doily Die from Stampin' Up! I won't lie to you, I was a little frustrated with it at first because it didn't cut all the way through the first time out. I know that each Big Shot is different, and some may need shims to get the die to cut as was the case with mine. I have played around with different shims and "sandwiches", and have finally figured out what works best with my Big Shot.
Here is what I have learned.
1. Each Big Shot is calibrated differently. Depending on your Big Shot, you may need to use a shim as part of your cutting "sandwich". First, try running it through your Big Shot using the regular "sandwich": cutting platform on tab 1, lower clear cutting plate, die face up, paper, upper clear cutting plate. If it does not cut all the way through, add a shim layer of a plain piece of copy paper under the lower cutting plate. If it still doesn't cut all the way through, keep adding thicker shims; a piece of card stock or piece of cardboard. Remember, do not force anything through your Big Shot. If the sandwich is too thick, remove a layer.
2. Again, depending on your Big Shot, not all of the little pieces in the die pattern will pop out immediately. To remove pieces, roll the die cut piece over a pencil. Roll it several directions to remove as many as possible. For any remaining stragglers, use something like a stylus, paper piercer, or end of a paper clip to pop the pieces out. I actually think it is good that not all the pieces pop out immediately. This way, you can decide how intricate you want the finished piece to be.
3. Other suggestions have been:
-slowly run the die through the Big Shot
-slowly run the die forward through the Big Shot, then run it through the machine again backwards, then forward again. Be careful, as the paper may slip on the die and you may get a shadow or double cut.
-place the die upside down on the paper-I found that this did not work for me at all.
-use newer cutting plates. I think this is the best tip yet! I have been using the original cutting plates that came with the Big Shot many years ago. I had ordered a new set a few months back, and decided it was time to use them. My old ones were pretty warped. Once I started using the new cutting plates, the die immediately made a cleaner cut. Be sure to rotate the plates around after each use to prevent the warping.
5. Little pieces of card stock may get caught into the design on the die itself. You can pick these out using something like a paper piercing tool or paper clip. Stampin' Up! recommends that these pieces be picked out before using the die again.
6. To avoid the smaller pices sticking in the die, you may add a piece of packing tape over the front of the die. Once you do this, you may have to add more shim to the sandwich to make the cut. Also, once you have packing tape over the front of the die, you will not be able to remove it without taking the felt off the front of the die with it.
I have learned from experience: I had trouble with card stock sticking into my die and added the packing tape. But, then had to add a another shim so it would cut. At first, I was unhappy with myself for adding the packing tape, but now that I have figured out the best "sandwich" for my Big Shot, I am pleased that I don't have to pick out little pieces of paper from the die. I guess what I am saying is, experiment with the shims and platforms before adding the packing tape. Again, once it is on the die, it won't come off without damaging the front of the die.
I think this die is beautiful. Take your time and figure out what works best for your Big Shot. It will be well worth the effort!
Supplies Used:
Stamp Sets: Delicate Doilies, Teeny Tiny Wishes
Ink: Baja Breeze, Calypso Coral
Paper: Baja Breeze, So Saffron, Very Vanilla, Calypso Coral
Accessories: Big Shot, Paper Doily die, Adorning Accents Textured Embossing Folder, 1 3/8" circle punch, Word Window and Modern Label punches, paper piercing tool and mat, Circle Fire Rhinestone Brad
