Crafters Companion Gemini "101" How To Emboss and Die Cut

[@lovesweetgifts]

Suzanne I have had my Gemini for 3 years and never used it. I did not realize you had a KZbin channel until your Tuesday night presentation. Thank you very much I pulled my Gemini out and no I can use it please keep doing those Tuesday night presentation because it has helped me a lot.

[@anniekempton9193]

Thanks for showing me how to work my gemini, I just got it & want to try it out!!! U Have a FANTASTIC day

[@leannahansen3510]

I love my Gemini machine. I think i was within the first 200 people that ordered this the first time it aired. My cats are helping me type, so please disregard typos! Thank you for this great demo, it makes it so easy for newbies. A friend was afraid because her new machine was making cracking noises, I let her know this is normal. I use all brands of embossing folders and dies with my Gemini and have never had an issue.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

So nice of your cats to "help" lol!! Thanks for commenting and please stay in touch! If you get a chance to share this on Facebook and Pinterest I love it!

[@josephinefarkashazi2019]

Suzanne, you are good!!. I have seen many tutorials on die cutting and embossing and you beat them all hands down. You articulate you knowledge very well. I understood everything perfectly. God bless

[@SuzanneRunyan]

thanks so much I'm so glad it was helpful!!

[@cherylj21]

Thank you., I’ve searched and searched fir someone to explain how to make a sand which for dummies . Your presentation was soooo easily understood.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Thanks so much I'm glad it was helpful!!!

[@samantharichards5808]

i find watching a video is much easier than reading the manual, so thank you for this video.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

You are so welcome!!!

[@mariaisdeanda8673]

Yeah Suzanne, I had not seen your video! Thanks so much for your info. I love seeing you in HSN, ESPECIALLY on craft day! My bank account sometimes doesn't like me! Thanks God my husband doesn't see the bank statement. Thanks again, you are so much fun to watch! Keep up the great work,. You're awesome and God bless!

[@brendajones4683]

I just got my Gemini machine less than a half hour ago. I'm going to try it out in a few. My arthritis was taking a beating on my hands, so this will be a relief to use. I'll store my Cuttlebug. Thanks for the videos to help me/us out.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Yeah! I hope you like it!!! please let me know if you. have any questions and your thoughts on it!! Have fun!

[@brendajones8568]

Suzanne Runyan I opened my box and I don't have a base plate. I called HSN but they said they don't have parts. So I just emailed the company and also called and left them a message about it. HSN said I could send it back, but it was already a back order ,so I said no way. I hope and pray I can get the plate. Thanks

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Brenda Jones Crafters Companion is terrific and should get back to you...if not let me know.

[@brendajones8568]

Suzanne Runyan thank you. I will let you know.

[@mamarose5]

Thanks for doing this video. I've watched it many times on HSN but until recently have not considered buying it. So now I'm watching and trying to learn as much as possible before I make a purchase.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Sandy Christman I'll tell ya it's worth it!! Do you usually use a crank machine?

[@nmccleary3889]

I just subbd. Absolutely love you on craft day. I love seeing you, cause I relax when I see you cause you ask so many questions I would ask and you have the same kinda fun look at anything crafty!! Big smile.

[@glenyshanlon5112]

Thank goodness someone who explains everything to understand easily 😃

[@traceybradshaw6558]

I want to start by saying thank you for the wonderful video. I received my gemini as a birthday gift and I was excited to try it. However when I opened the box only the machine was inside, there were no plates, shims, dies, instructions or embossing folders. I contacted Crafters Companion Customer Service, they were absolutely wonderful ! They shipped me the missing items the same day and sent them out priority. I received them today. I can not wait to try it out and your video has made me feel very comfortable in doing so.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

That's awesome! I really love the company. Sara really sets the tone for all the folks that work for her so you're comments above didn't surprise me!! Enjoy let me know what you created!! Also if you like my videos please share the on Facebook!! thanks Suzanne

[@pamelaheck8105]

Love my Gemini. Haven't had it long but love that I don't have to ever crank again. Of coarse I ruid my metal plate and magnetic plate right away. The company was GREAT sent me new ones. I was really nervous about buying this machine I already have a Big Shot but I really needed something that I didn't need to crank (because of medical reasons) I really love this machine. I haven't touch my Big Shot since I got my Gemini. Your video really helped me Thanks for all of your help.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Hey Pamela, I'm glad the video could help!! I think the Gemini is so worth the money because now I"m using my die and embossing folders so much more than ever before because it's so much easier!!! Thanks so much for watching and please share my video on Facebook if you can!!!!

[@brendajones4683]

Thanks Suzanne for this video. You show how to Actually use the machine. I don't even miss my Cuttlebug. Now I've got to get more dies. I'll have to watch HSN more for Craft shows. You are so Special.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Yeah I'm glad you like it!!! I was just using mine to finish a few cards that I'll be posting later with a video!! By the way our next crafting event on HSN is Aug 16th and Crafters Companion will be the Today Special at midnight!!!!

[@brendajones8568]

Suzanne Runyan I'll be watching all day. I'm looking for Christmas items. I've already been making my Christmas cards. Boy the relief not to be cranking has made a world of difference to me. Thanks for being such a sweet person. Love ya. Brenda

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Oh thanks Brenda!! I appreciate the nice thoughts!!!

[@linm.8677]

This is a great overview of the Gemini! Now I want one even more! :)

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Lin Murray thx I totally understand that! it does make things a lot faster! I find I use my dies and embossing folders a bunch more because it's less work! please share this on Facebook and Pinterest if you get a minute!

[@mamaluvscrafts5443]

Thanks so much for the great video Suzanne. Got mine in August, but only used once until I could get the sandwiching down. Thanks for simplifying. I will be using more often now.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Honestly I use mine all the time. Don't be afraid!! You'll love it and use more of your stuff than every before!!! Thanks so much for watching and please share this on your Facebook page or Pinterest if you get a minute!

[@kenssewingcentersaginaw4308]

Very helpful! I have had mine about 6 months and have yet to take it out of the box! I was intimidated by it, but tonight I shall play!

[@juliemilliron849]

Enjoyed the basic video. Do wish you could have shown how you use that rubber mat you showed in the beginning. Thank you for sharing your videos.

[@tinamomoftwims]

I've had my Gemini for months, but have not used it. Today, I'm going to try it. Thank you for showing and saying that cut marks on the clear shims is normal! I'm pretty new to using dies and folders. I have a Cuttlebug and I keep thinking I'm doing something wrong, because I get the cut marks. Also thank you for pointing out that the die blade faces up.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

You're welcome!! Once you start using it you'll love it!!

[@lubear413]

Thanks Suzanne, loved your video! I have my Gemini from HSN, loved that whole package. Your video really helped because other than an occasional Darice folder from our local craft stores most of my dies and folders are the three that you demonstrated. Perfect choices. Thanks again, you make it look so easy. :)

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Thanks so much I'm glad it was helpful!

[@jlm2266]

I can't believe that I found you on KZbin! I love it when you are on HSN during the craft sales! You are awesome!

[@SuzanneRunyan]

thanks!!

[@janiscreatesjohnson6630]

Ty ,Susanne , great instruction video . Now just WAITING for my Gemini !

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Janice Johnson thx so much! You'll love it! Janice if you get a chance to post to your Facebook page and Pin it on pinterest I'd truly appreciate it!!

[@janiscreatesjohnson6630]

Whoooo Hooooo it came today

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Yeah!!! Let me know what you think???

[@sheliagivens7426]

Luv this mine was missing instructions

[@patriotmem2645]

Thanks for Un confusing me!! When you don't use your machine for a while , you do forget some of the minor how to's.. This vid was very helpful.

[@cheryl7476]

Thanks. I just received mine today! Can’t wait to play with it and donate my cranking machine. My Is Shot is still in excellent shapes, however, my wrists aren’t.

[@janetstevenson6299]

Exactly what I wanted to see before using my new Gemini; can't wait....here I go!

[@SuzanneRunyan]

I'm so glad it helped! You'll love the Gemini!!

[@jcory622]

wow! you made this so simple to understand. I will use this over and over until I get used to my machine. Thanks.

[@carlablair4983]

Just want to say this was a great video and this help a great deal. I just received my Gemini this week so this was a big help

[@SuzanneRunyan]

CARLA BLAIR that's great! enjoy it!!

[@nhrivera]

Just rec'd my Gemini recently. Your video was great! Can't wait to play with it.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Have fun!! It's such a time saver and I'm using more of my "stuff" than ever before! Please let me know what you plan on making first!! Also if you like my video I'd love it if you can share it on Facebook!!

[@tamrapearce237]

Thank you. Got one for Mother’s Day!

[@carolroyer5475]

Great easy to follow video love my Gemini!!

[@opal777]

Santa brought the Gem JR and I was elated. I didn't want the big one because of space and dexterity problems. When I followed the book, the machine was so powerful that it ate through my sandwich....but Crafter's Companion is such a great company that they are sending me replacements for the damaged ones. What I have learned is that less is better...with test cuts just like any other project. The one thing that I am trying to figure out is why my machine does the following: I used the clear plate, embossing folder with paper in it (not thick) and the other clear plate. I put it through.....it spits out the embossing folder! LOL. I couldn't believe my eyes. The other clear plates keep feeding through leaving the embossing folder behind...and it is the one that came with the machine. I watched your video just to see if you did it any different.....but you didn't. I don't get it. So I have been using the shim with one clear and the embossing folder. So odd.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Yes very odd...

[@Mom2create]

OMGG I LOVE YOU I HAVE MANY MANY YEARS WATCHING YOU IN THE TV AND FINALY FIND YOU HERE THANKS FOR THIS AWESOME VIDEO IS MOREONE ON ONE THANKS STAY BLESS

[@stelselv]

Thank you Suzanne.. I have decided to buy the Gemini..

[@SuzanneRunyan]

I think you'll love it!

[@katywuste9054]

Great demo but does it cut fabric too please

[@pattigarcia5528]

Thank you for this Video. I wanted to try my new Gemini with my MANY Anna Griffin dies. I was sorta afraid as I already cut into my embossing mat. Just a bit! Of course I have many Anna HSN dies and folders. I am now also getting Crafters Companion too. By the Way I love seeing you on HSN with the Crafting days.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Sorry for the really late reply but thanks!

[@juliathompson1545]

You make it look so easy to use. I got a Gemini for my birthday just after Christmas but it won't accept the embossing folders inside the two clear plates. Have you any idea why this is happening?

[@myrnahartley8710]

thank you it took me a while to figure it out. thanks for sharing

[@crystallockinour2588]

Great video! Super detailed. Thanks Suzanne!

[@viviansinnett]

Hi there,great video. The Gemini looks to be the machine.Maybe someday I will have to try it!. Thanks so much Hugs Vivian

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Vivian Sinnett thanks for watching it! makes projects go a lot faster! please share this on Facebook and Pinterest if you can!

[@deirdretinsley605]

Thank you so much! this is awesome. I didn't know where to start and this was perfect. Suzanne, you rock!!!

[@SuzanneRunyan]

thanks so much I"m glad it helped!!!

[@AngelaWestland1]

I have trouble using stampin up 3d embossing folders through my Gemini it literally bent my plastic shim in half going by the sandwiches in the manual.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Hey Angela, You probably need to take out a part of the sandwich - sometimes with different type of folders you need to mess around with the amount of shims you use. I've even had to fold cardstock in half to use as an "extra" shim to get the result I wanted but you've got to experiment with it a bit.

[@AngelaWestland1]

@@SuzanneRunyan Thank you

[@krwoods125]

Thanks for mentioning the cracking noises. I just used it for the first time and the noise was freaking me out :-)

[@SuzanneRunyan]

I KNOW you think you've broken it.....it surprises everyone if they don't know.....Do you have any dies from HSN that you really like to use?

[@krwoods125]

Suzanne Runyan so far just the ones that came with the machine but I have the Glamour Bundle collection in my favorites. I'll be buying that one soon.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Isn't the machine a gem!!! It's so much faster than the tradtional cranking method! Enjoy and please share my video if you get a minute!!

[@debbiewatson1506]

What are the rubber plates and metal plates used for?

[@latanyaforest50]

What a great “How-To” video. I finally treated myself to a Gemini and I am going to use this tutorial to learn how to use it. Thank you....

[@SuzanneRunyan]

I hope it helps!!!!!!

[@juliebergacker5680]

Awesome. I really need this as I don’t use mine much. I lost instructions 😱😩

[@osmonfrances2407]

Can you use the Accuquilt dies in the gemini machines?

[@joyceyager9940]

Helpful video if you are thinking of purchasing a Gemini!

[@darlenebutler4023]

Thank you, mine came today!

[@carolherman3413]

Can you use the plastic stamps to emboss?

[@janetcozens4623]

Hi there Suzanne I have just got My new Gemini I cant wait too use it thank you for all of your information I have subscribed so as Arrnie says i'll be back lol lol

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Oh I hope you love it as much as I do!!!

[@dyane1869]

Hi Suzanne, thank you so much for your awesome vids! Could you please please please explain how you cut AND emboss Anna Griffin dies in the Gemini and the Gemini Jr? I love Sara and Anna (and you)! There are many of us who purchase their products and have this same concern. Thanks so much and have a great day!

[@SA-up5qy]

Can you emboss and demboss using wood metal, vinyl etc

[@veraroethler198]

You sure do a great video, thank you very much.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Vera Roethler thanks so much Vera! If you can please share it on Facebook!

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Thanks so much for watching!!!

[@mariebowman2906]

I wish I watched this before I tried out my Gemini for the first time. I totally cut through the rubber embossing mat. LOL!!

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Opps... that does happen

[@allsaintsmilfordstmaryseve9024]

Hi Suzanne when do you use the metal plate? Why has my magnetic plate got a measuring side which you cannot use if you want to use the magnetic black side to hold the dies.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

The metal plate is used sometimes for more intricate dies - you kinda got to play around with the sandwich layers a bit according to which brand of dies you are using. Here's a link to a great guide by Crafters Companion! Happy crafting! www.crafterscompanion.com/page/2019/10/03/the-sandwich-menu-a-guide-to-die-cutting-and-embossing-sandwiches/

[@carolyncormier8402]

Thanks for the video. Very helpful.

[@annerandolph6000]

I wish the instructions had been as clear as this tutorial! I have only had my Gemini for a month, but my shims are really warped.

[@parumahtani]

Mine too..warped immediately.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

It's ok they will do that...to extend their life be sure to turn them around/upside down it will help to even them out a bit! Hope that helps!

[@SuzanneRunyan]

@@parumahtani It's ok they will do that...to extend their life be sure to turn them around/upside down it will help to even them out a bit! Hope that helps!

[@Jkk55]

Thank you Suzanne.

[@BlackCatNoni]

Great video, thanks for sharing. Have you done any Spellbinder dies in that machine? I find my AG CB doesn't cut those very well.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

BlackCatNoni I have not tried them but I think they will work fine. I just looked at them on line and they should work well with the Gemini! Thanks for watching it and please share the video on you Facebook page if you can!

[@dorothycalthorpe4007]

I have to get one of these, I use a cuttlebug at the moment its o slow ad not happy with it.but the Gemini looks so easy

[@SuzanneRunyan]

OMG it is easy! I love my Cuttlebug too but not having to crank anymore is a bit faster! Also I find I'm using my die/embossing "stuff" much more because it so much easier!!! Thanks for watching and please share it on Facebook/pinterest if you can!!

[@brendajones4683]

I have a cuttlebug too, but the last time (July) I tried to get the Gemini, it sold out, BUT when they came back in stock, HSN sent me mine. You won"t regret getting it. I love mine.

[@scrapstress]

Great tutorial

[@agent9928]

Thank you for the video, it was informative. For what do I use the rubber mat?

[@SuzanneRunyan]

To give it more thickness. Especially with does that have intricate details.

[@fionanelson614]

I loved your video. I have just got mine and a bit confused about when to add the embossing mat? When I put my sandwich in, it keeps veering to one side and sticking.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Sorry for the delay on getting back to you. The two clear plastic sheets should always be the to most outer layers and everything else get's stacked in between. Hope that helps!

[@lisaorourke903]

How are you supposed to use the rubber embossing mat? Mine was shredded the first time I used it. Bought a new one and now scared to use it!

[@juliebergacker5680]

I just got mine ! Love it! Thank’s for sharing😀👍

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Glad you like it!!

[@karenbeauregard3175]

Can you use dies from spellbinder

[@kathleenmills7452]

Just got one, my mom grabbed it on the last HSN anna griffin day and totally surprised me. My only issue. When I tried to emboss my anna griffin cut and emboss dies it cut right through the thin black embossing mat. Ideas??

[@craftydebbie5]

So beautiful!

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Thanks so much Debbie!

[@luv2craftcards]

I need new plates and a new magnetic sheet can you see if HSN can make that available to the customers? thanks and great video.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

I will ask for sure!!! Do you have a favorite die set that you use most often?

[@luv2craftcards]

Suzanne Runyan love them all but edge dies are great. I love them because I can use them for mini albums.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Yes, oh sooo cute! What a great idea! do you find you are using a lot more of your dies/embossing folders because it's so easy now? I know I sure am!

[@luv2craftcards]

Suzanne Runyan yes, everything Sara creates is great and beautiful. tell her to create a series of edge dies for mini albums, ranging in 6inches and a bit bigger. doliy dies are nice too of she was to create some.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Awesome idea!!!! I'll be sure to share it with her and her team!

[@elainepulliam1976]

Please help me! Bought new Gemini. Watched yours & prob 4 more videos BEFORE using it. First time thru, with plates & shims & die cuts & blades EXACTLY as instructed - it did nothing, even with just cutting dies onto plain piece of bond paper. Ran thru again adding metal shim, still nothing. Then, paused & reversed - still nothing on piece of bond, but with severe damage to all shims. So, I decided to flip dies over thinking maybe I misunderstood which was "blade side up", even tho I had used side shown in videos. It then cut dies in bond paper, all but one, but with large holes in shims! All of them! Thank goodness Amazon is always there for you & asked if I wanted to try another Gemini machine. It came in today (in one day). I am afraid to even TAKE IT OUT OF THE BOX! NEED HELP! ~ EP

[@deborahanne9793]

Do you find that the side of the embossed image is not embossed as well as the rest of the panel? How to avoid this? Thank you.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

You might have to experiment with the thickness of your "sandwich". Try adding another shim and see if it's more even. Sorry for the delayed response.

[@traceyelston6776]

I just got mine here in the UK. Didn't get some of the dies you did.

[@manishagahlot9601]

Hi ! Suzanne. I do not have an authorised seller for Gemini in my country. Can you tell me where it is manufactured for me to try and get an authentic product from there. Some videos are showing minor changes in the shim. Thank you

[@SuzanneRunyan]

We sell it at HSN!!

[@manishagahlot9601]

@@SuzanneRunyan could you elaborate please

[@JohannesJunkJournalLife]

I’m using the rose 3D , the 2 plastic plates and it won’t grab the 3d folder. It spits it out without embossing

[@irfaancaunhye]

What are the precautions and safety measures to be taken when carrying out the die cutting process and the embossing process?

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Don't put your fingers in it.....other than that it's pretty darn easy!

[@irfaancaunhye]

Thanks for quick response! It is for a school test that I was asking that ! :)

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Ok disclaimer...I'm not the manufacture just an advice user of it...so there might be more safety stuff they recommend...if you need a really technical answer I would go to the Crafter's Companion website. Hope that helps and good luck on your test!

[@irfaancaunhye]

Ok thank you

[@2legit2quit4u]

Love this machine!

[@madusonkeeper]

Do 3d embossing folders work the same as regular? Just got my rose gold gemini!!!

[@brigitsmile]

Perfect explanation!!!!!

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Thanks so much! I hope it helps!!!!

[@dcooperify]

I can't get the 3D embossing folders to go through the Gemini using the two clear plates. What sandwich configuration works for these embossing folders?

[@AmazinGraceXOXO1]

If I remember correctly for 3D embossing folders I use to use a cutting plate, the embossing folder and the frosted plastic shim. I never used both cutting plates because it wouldn't fit. I hope this helps.

[@irfaancaunhye]

Very good explanations! Thanks

[@aliciabell4850]

Can you use this machine with stampin-up dies? TY

[@joemoore8207]

Hi Suzanne. No one has addressed the problem with embossing Anna Griffin die cutting the embossing mat. This has been a problem long enough that I think CC should address the issue with a solution

[@SuzanneRunyan]

joe moore that's a good question! I'll have to ask.

[@dyane1869]

Yes, I agree. I was waiting Impatiently for the Anna Griffin die segment and Suzanne only showed how to cut her dies and not emboss? HSN is a huge seller for Anna and Sara:)

[@kathleenmills7452]

Still a problem with the AG dies. I’m going to try to figure it out and will post a quick video if I do

[@janknecht6914]

Suzanne, thanks for the video. I have the Gemini Jr. Is the "Sandwich" the same layering process as the big machine? I have been watching you since you were on another show before you went to HSN. I think you are super on the Craft shows. Thanks for the detailed information of each product that you always describe.

[@charlottebruce4387]

Great job

[@beckpender]

Just got my Gemini Junior and tried it with a group of card makers in the room. We could not get the thicker (3 D?) embossing folder to go through no matter what sandwich we tried. What is the answer please?

[@jilllangford3995]

I love my Gemini but I am getting a build up of static. Can you advise please. Thank you

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Hummm... I've not had that problem. I'd call Crafters Companion and ask!

[@audreymiller2333]

What is I feel like I'm forcing the plates into the Gemini?

[@SuzanneRunyan]

it shouldn't feel a too pushy the machine should be grabbing them.... ...if the plates are too thick the machine will stop on it's own. if you're still concerned please call Crafters Companion..they have great customer service!

[@booth2710]

I sliced my finger on the side of the metal shim. Bled for ages. Use caution when handling the metal shim.

[@JanspurwayLucas]

Can you use glitter card in the machine.

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Yes sorry for the delay getting back

[@shellymendoza6298]

can you put the cutting die face down over a stamped image

[@kathleenmills7452]

I just watched a Sara Davies video and she said to flip and rotate (180)both plates every single time!

[@jk834]

I love my Gemini but I wish there was a " sandwhich" that let you place the paper down and then the die, cutting side down. This would make it much easier to place the dies that go with stamps on top of the stamped image.

[@lubear413]

just reverse the sandwich(flip over from the top) we often see them do this in demo's) that's why watching always looks different so you may see what they are doing!

[@lubear413]

ps, you just cannot use the magnetic one with this to "see" it, you use washi tape to keep in place if need be. Or you can cut out your pieces then stamp but if they are complicated, that may not work.

[@Karen-uy1rg]

Hi Suzanne how are you? My question is that, the instructions you showed is different from what sara does on your shows.. I am always have my die moved.. need help

[@rebeccamiller7953]

Does the Gemini require the internet?

[@SuzanneRunyan]

Nope!

[@janicejohnson8770]

I don’t have one but I would like to have one.

[@debbiefinch7445]

Does anyone know if ths machine cuts Sizzix dies - in particular the Bigz dies?

[@SuzanneRunyan]

You know I'm not sure. I'd call Crafters Companion and ask!

[@malasari7736]

How much this ??

[@BellaRocky]

I'm new to the Gemini. Thank you for the very clear sandwich tutorial, however, I did not see you use the embossing mat. When you embossed, you only used the two clear plates. When would he embossing mat be used? Thank you.

[@juliamaake8048]

Where can i get it and how much is it ?

[@dolapss1]

Hobby craft about 200