Gemini Junior tips

Tips for cutting & embossing with the Gemini Jr machine

[@patricianikkila4424]

You just make your videos as long as it takes to share all your wonderful information. I'm so glad you do take the time. I see I wasn't the only one who got frustrated and put their machines up. I'm getting mine back out tomorrow and trying again while I watch your video. My memory I swear, is about as long as my eyelashes. Thank you very much for helping me with my issues using this machine. It means a lot so thank you to the nth!

[@sharonconway927]

I am very new to die and embossing. I have bought a second hand Gemini which is perfectly fine. I did buy a set of new plates to ensure I was not dealing with any issues from the ones it came with. Your video is great and has helped with some of the newbie panics. Every thing is now much clearer. Hopefully I will now be able to move forward and achieve the cards I want make. 😃

[@pamelaahmed1381]

Thanks loved all the different items you put through the machine. The video was really helpful. I bought the Gemini Jr 2 years ago and haven’t used it yet. I couldn’t even remember what it does. Thanks to your video all my questions were answered.

[@jostrauss9999]

Great video, Nancy. Thanks so much for the wonderful explanation and demonstrations. I hope you're still enjoying your Gemini Jr. I didn't think I wanted a Gemini Jr. (I really don't have space for it), but, after watching your video, YES. I really do want one!!! You've convinced me that it will be a good addition to my stash and I can put it in the living room. Why not???!!!

[@ThrawnIsAlive]

just watched ;your video. It was so helpful! I had given up on my Gemini after cracking two plates! Totally frustrated! Will try again after watching your video. Thank you!

[@geraldinebecher7702]

I like that you are not pushing the product but explaining how it works. Bravo. I love craft videos. I bought one of those brushes. Someone was thinking when they made those. Really helps. Someone has mentioned using the self healing mats. Cut to size. I got my Gemini Jr today. Very excited. But the embossing folder won't go through. Yes I have read and reread and read again. Grrrrrr! The dies. They included really cut through the plastic plate. For now I would be happy to get the embossing plate to work.

[@misscrete1]

So glad I found your video! I just got the Gemini Jr and love not cranking the Big Shot! Your tip on flipping the order of plates for SU folders is perfect!!! Can't wait to try it!!

[@catherineregan6397]

You are a really good instructor-everything in clear, complete, and concise!! NO EXTRA WORDS, which I LOVE!!! Thanks for all the information-you helped me make the decision to purchase this machine!!!

[@NancyStamps]

You won't regret it.

[@sharladivarmo2883]

just got mine in the mail today,can't wait to get started. your video is a great help.

[@marigoldStudio]

TFS! And many thanks for encouraging everyone to not give up on this- I will certainly keep that in mind going forward... I have a regular Gemini machine but haven't been using it much due to the different sandwiches that one needs to learn with it. I gravitate towards my sizzix machine because I'm familiar with it! But could use an automatic one now... seeing your video definitely encourages me to make the switch! Thanks again 👍💕💕

[@suddenlyitsmagic]

Mahalo from Hawaii! Your video really helped me adjust to this with tips i would not have guessed- I appreciate the time you take just for this first review/tip video here, and am about to go watch all your other ones! I bought myself this on the same 10 year bundle, in purple, and this inspires me a LOT! Happy Holidays-

[@nhcharmedone]

I especially appreciate that you went through these steps, I've been so afraid to mess something up, so my poor machine sits there lonely lol thank you so much for sharing!

[@elizlom]

I appreciate you going through all this. I have the Gemini and this helped me understand the sandwiches better. It does work much differently than the Big Shot which I have had a long time and am used to, but I like the electric instead of the cranking so want to use the new one more.

[@kirag.5722]

Thank you for helping me learn to use my new Gemini Jr. I received it as a Christmas present as I missed card making and scrap-booking. I am new to die cutting and stamping and am a bit intimidated by the machine but your comprehensive videos and ideas really help. You make lovely cards and I plan on copying you to impress my friends. Thanks again.

[@cricutologist32820]

Awesome video! Thank you! I’m getting mine on Saturday!

[@mollytigger]

I know this is an older video, but I had it in my playlist. I purchased the Gemini Jr and I am already replacing my clear cutting plate. It warped so bad. I am going to try the different ways you are showing in this video and see how it goes. I have a Cuttlebug and my plates have lasted for years. I also wanted to let you know how much I appreciate your videos as you are so very clear and precise in your tutorials or explaining things.

[@NancyStamps]

Flip the plates over each time and try to feed them with the dies cutting upside down.

[@Kimberlynoble]

Thank you. I was looking for this information and you provided it nicely.

[@judysander2684]

Great machine and very good demo on testing and experimenting with the sandwiches and product(s). Thank you.

[@libbyzg6611]

Wow your demonstration was very informative I love all how you gave many examples 👏🏼👏🏼thank you

[@sherrydelman1861]

Best teacher ever!!!!! Thank you! :)

[@deborahbuonomo296]

Very helpful, Nancy, Thank you! 💜

[@savagetwin52]

The purple die might be Cheery Lynn, made in America! So glad you spoke about the dies from China as being inferior. They are substandard. TU for the informative video. I have watched it two other times and is in my playlist. I am expecting my Jr to arrive soon and really appreciate your instruction!

[@lilchippewa1272]

Nancy, I have been considering getting one of these and your video helped me alot!! Thank you so much for taking the time to do this!! Blessings... LilChippewa

[@NancyStamps]

lilchippewa I use this machine almost everyday. I love it!!

[@bridget22868]

I'm with you Nancy, I have both the Gemini and the Jr, as well and I love them both. I also have the Big Sister by Cherry Lynn Designs. And I love that one as well just because it has a dial for pressure. So if you need a little something in between that the Gemini can't provide, (which I've found rarely happens) I can use the Big Sister machine. I have a wonderful husband that wants to make mama happy and he knows that card making and scrapbooking is a love of mine so he makes sure I've got the newest and best. Anyway, I agree the Gemini machines are a must have and you won't go wrong by that purchase. The Big Shot is great but mine never did give me a perfect cut. I always had to keep running it through etc... then finally getting it cut or ended up using a craft knife to finish it. I also have the Big Shot Plus for my larger dies and it's the same as the regular size it's got spots that the rollers don't hit. I had the original CuttleBug and gave it to a friend and bought a newer version of the CB but it wouldn't cut even half the die.mim not sure if it was used and ruined and that's why it was so terrible or what the problem was, but I'm going to put it up on my Facebook group and sell it for almost nothing. (Unfortunately) I also have the scan n cut. I've not see it yet. But I've got a few days this week to play and that's what I intend to do. Watch your videos and craft. Thanks for sharing your creativity with us. Stay safe.

[@carolkeppel7923]

I got the Gemini Junior at the same time you did and I do like it. I also have the old big kick and I still enjoy using it. By the way, I live near Bethlehem as well.

[@robloxTV2]

Thank you very much . I learned a lot from you .

[@HouseScraper]

Thank you so much this is a great video

[@imaniife2275]

You're so good and I enjoy watching you. Paper cuts, HATE them! I'll have to find a way to protect my hands. Happy crafting! Peace

[@NancyStamps]

Imani Ife I never use the metal shim now. I put it away. Lol

[@4551mac]

sara's video also says not only flip the plates over each time, but also turn them end to end as well. I have done this with every cut, but I see one of my clear plates is already starting to bow. great video, thanks

[@NancyStamps]

4551mac it's ok. Won't hurt anything.:)

[@marjimiller3985]

Thank you very much. Hugs and blessings.

[@Pebblesmas]

Most of the AliExpress dies are brilliant bough tlike hundreths of them and so far only 3 bad ones, and when I haf the Gemini junior, even 2 of the bad ones suddenly cut beautifully, because of the extra strength of the AMAXING gemini.

[@dyane1869]

Wow thx for the vent tip!

[@anneowens1073]

Great tutorial thank you xx

[@susandickson9869]

I never emboss with my Gemini because it cuts the rubber mat almost 100% of the time. I use my trusty Cuttlebug to do the embossing. The rubber mat for it is indestructible! Replacing the Gemini plates is a pricy necessity for me due to arthritis. Here is a tip: you can buy a set of full size plates and cut them in half! They now fit the Jr and you get 2 for the price of one. When my full size plates became warped I cut them in half and ran them through my big Gemini sideways. I got more use out of them because the huge dip that had formed in the center was now on the edge and less of a problem.

[@normajohnson1772]

Great lesson.......

[@mariaisdeanda8673]

Thanks for the tips!

[@EnchantedwithPoodles]

Thank you, Nancy. Your response helps a lot. It sounds like the Gemini Junior will be enough machine for me. I don’t have a big demand for embossing and die cutting but I want a machine and have been trying to decide which one would be best for me. I ‘m not getting any younger so the electric feed seems like it would be nice rather than having to crank. Thanks again and I can’t wait to see more of your videos.

[@NancyStamps]

Dori HSN has them with a bundle. I don't regret it at all! If you have any questions or ideas for me, please feel free to comment. I love to help people be crafty!

[@terrilynn1771]

Thanks for all your tips for when I do get it...I hope 😥

[@mollytigger]

Thank you so much for doing this. I purchased the Gemini Junior also. May I ask how come you are not using the embossing mat with the folders? I live in Pennsylvania also.

[@dianepeter5041]

Just to let you know to emboss the rubber mat needs to be on top of the die with the cutting blade up so it goes into the die, you may get a blade impression but it usually doesn't bite into the mat.

[@herbertkleiman5239]

Diane Peter memes but

[@juliecarlisle2587]

I fed my beautiful new crafter's companion embossing folder through in the sandwich stack recommended in the user's guide and it snapped and broke the folder at the hinge connection. Moral of the story...be very careful with the thicker folders and try a thinner sandwich than recommended.

[@NancyStamps]

Oh I'm sorry to hear that Julie. Yes, with the thicker folders I just use one cutting plate and the milky plate.

[@Bindersandcash19]

thank you so much for taking the time to do this video. l have a big shot and finding it hard now to use and l hardly ever die cut now. had a bad experience with another make of electric die cutting machine. so makes me more wary of buying one. but l do love this. can you please tell me is there a right or wrong side to use on the rubber and thinner mat. many thanks Elaine - UK x

[@NancyStamps]

Elaine Brickwood nope I am still using the original magnetic rubber mat just fine. I love this machine!

[@friedapartlow]

Thank you

[@libbyz.g.8411]

Hi 👋🏼, I'm really interested in buy this little machine, because of arthritis , I was thinking of the Vagabond but I know it will be to heavy of a machine! So thank you for giving a good review of this cute die cutting machine

[@judysander2684]

I love my Vagabond and I really got something stuck in it when I was first learning, but I slowly inched it backwards until I could get it out. Thought for sure the machine was broken, but was pleasantly surprised...it works perfectly. HOWEVER, I want the Gemini Jr. also. It's a neat little electronic machine. Will wait and look around for a good sale price. It sounds a lot more complex with the sandwiches than the Vagabond, but agree all papers and mats are different thicknesses and experimenting is the key. Not worried about busting the Vagabond anymore. It's a work horse and yes it is very heavy. It has it's own living spot in my craftroom and I don't move it!!!~

[@NancyStamps]

HSN has Gemini Junior on sale

[@summer5851]

I have very severe RA with deformity artificial shoulders, elbows, knuckles all which are worn out and or dislocated. Need to be redone but recovering time is very long. Plus I take care of my mom with severe dementia. So with RA i decided to buy the vagabond too and love it. You're right its heavy, but right again, it's a work horse! I did buy the larger Gemini, because of the large area of plate space, and I love it. Because my craft area is downstairs in family room and at night I have to be upstairs with my mom when she wakes up around 10pm and empties her closet then puts everything back in, then empties it again..this goes on for hrs...so I need to be where I can keep an eye on her. So I purchased the Gemini junior...at a very excellent price 99.00 at joann's for upstairs in my bedroom. Because I have to be awake that's when I do a lot of my die prep cutting and embossing for card projects. And can keep an eye on mom. I love the jr as well. Not sorry, I bought them both. Most don't need two but I couldn't haul vagabond up and down the stairs. Hope you have bought yours and love it!

[@summer5851]

Judy read my comment I have severe RA you can't go wrong if you buy this great little jr. You may have gotten it by now. If so hope you love as much as I love you mine. Hugs

[@RJones-ut3wc]

Thanks. I just saw I was reading from bottom of sandwich up. It seems like it should be much easier than I am making it out to be. I've never done anything like this, crochet has always been my thing, but now that I am not able to do it anymore I thought I'd try this. So nervous.

[@NancyStamps]

Jump right in. Once you figure it out, it's really easy!

[@RJones-ut3wc]

Thank you again 😃

[@RJones-ut3wc]

The manual says to put the milky plastic shim & magnetic shim between die & clear cutting plate. I'm guessing that protects the clear plate from getting cut up?

[@NancyStamps]

The milky plate is a shim. It's not meant to be cut up, neither is the magnetic shim. It's ok if the cutting plates get cut up, they will last a really long time. You will play and find the best sandwiches for you and what you're using.

[@stevenisgay13637]

When embossing dies,You can put another piece of cardstock between your die and embossing mat and then it won't cut through the mat. I have the large Gemini and the sandwich is the same

[@NancyStamps]

Lynn Gwilt awesome, thanks. I'll try that!

[@martharussell7417]

I also put a paper between the dies and the embossing mat. I tore up my first embossing mat, but ordered another one from Amazon. I have the big Gemini and am really enjoying it.

[@EnchantedwithPoodles]

Thanks for your informative videos. I wanted to ask your opinion, please. If you didn’t have a die cut machine at all, and you know what you know now, would you buy the Gemini over the Big Kick/Shot? Thanks, that’s where I am. I have limited space with room for only one machine. I have been waiting for the Big Shot Foldaway to become available in the US but now I’m thinking of going with the Gemini instead. You also mentioned that you like the Gemini Junior so well you almost wish you had purchased the larger unit. What are the advantages of the larger machine? I know you are busy but I would sure appreciate any information you might provide. I’m new to your channel but I have subscribed and I look forward to more of your videos. Thanks a million.

[@NancyStamps]

Dori it depends what you're doing. I only use my Gemini Jr now, but I kept my BigKick for my older thick sizzix steel rule dies. Love the junior. The bigger gemini would be good for large embossing folders for scrapbooking or larger cards. I also have a ToDo machine and I NEVER use it.

[@LindaCrowder10021950]

There is a “C” plate that works good with Embossing. It’s optional and I found mine on Amazon.

[@NancyStamps]

Linda C. Crowder thanks! I'll have to get it.

[@leahrelyea7754]

Do you think the plates from the cuttle Bug could be Used? Thank you for your time to teach us all the ways to use the machine. I JUST ORDERED IT AND CAN HARDLY WAIT FOR IT TO COME.

[@NancyStamps]

Leah Relyea I'm not sure. I have used the sizzix plates, but they make an awful clunk noise at the end of the cut.

[@deborahanne9793]

Do geltoes go on (with water?) and stay put once they are applied or do they smear? Your snowflake folder is pretty with the Gelatos on them.

[@NancyStamps]

Deborah Anne yes gelatos act like water crayons. They go one like crayons or soft pastels, and then turn into watercolors and when it dries is permanent. I've only just started playing with them and like them.

[@deborahanne9793]

Thank you, so did you wet the geltao when you colored the embossing folder with it?

[@juliedet8121]

I love the Gemini Jr,, but I flipped my plates religiously and they still warped quickly and badly. I now use my old Cuttlebug plates and a self healing mat and have had a little better luck, although the acrylic plates still warp.I don't know that anything can not warp when it is under the amount of pressure that these plates need to go through to make cuts. I am however a huge fan of the machine, so will continue to experiment to find something that works better.

[@craftylittlerthings]

Nanato7 go watch biblescraps, the beginning is a bit long winded but she has worked out a new sandwich

[@celiaalvarez4248]

Hi I'm looking to invest in a machine. But don't know which one to buy???? I have seen many videos. 😆😂 but I have seen . they use the self healing mat. They say it works 👍😄. Idk???

[@NancyStamps]

The Gemini Jr is great. I don't know about a self healing mat. The cutting plates do last a long time

[@deborahanne9793]

Hi, Does it fit a 6x6 embossing folder? Thank you

[@NancyStamps]

Deborah Anne yes!

[@chrisrobertson5794]

Thanks for telling the reality!

[@junem4102]

I had the Sizzix Big Kick, too. But it broke. The sandwich with the platform, 2 cutting plates, an 80 lb. cardstock, and a die, got stuck really bad in it and the crank broke trying to force the sandwich out. The sandwich is still stuck. I contacted Sizzix, but they dont make it anymore. I had it since about 2004. So I am looking into another die cutting machine. I was so bummed because I have a die stuck inside my machine, though. :(

[@NancyStamps]

I love my Gemini Jr

[@creativediva52]

Hi - can you please tell me what "Stick It" tape is and where I might be able to purchase it? Thanks!

[@NancyStamps]

Sue M you can order it from Tupelo with free shipping in the U.S. it’s a thin adhesive, great for die cutting. Here is the link. i.refs.cc/PcqCzosh www.tupelodesignsllc.com/products/stick-it-adhesive-die-cut-adhesive-sheets-handy-5-sheets?variant=1212688411

[@creativediva52]

Great, thanks so much! Hi to PA for me, I have family there. :)

[@angelahartley3212]

I just watched Crafters Companion and she was showing about the machine and she stated that with die cutting, it was not about the dies so I'm more confused!! There are not good comments on her channel and they all go unanswered by the company!! Hm??

[@NancyStamps]

you can die cut any wafer thin die, It all depends on your sandwich if you want to die cut or emboss. Let me know what questions you have and I'll try to help you. You can also email me at : [e-mail]

[@matildamontgomery3229]

I don’t own a Gemini....but when card stock are so different weights ...I have used a add’l card stock to add alittle thickness. It should be place where it is protected from the rollers.

[@marytillman372]

how well does this machine cut fabric?

[@NancyStamps]

I only tried once and it took 2 passes.

[@deborahanne9793]

Hi , What is the difference in what the Gemini Junior does and the regular Gemini? Is the Gemini Junior heavy? Thank you

[@NancyStamps]

Deborah Anne the regular has a larger opening for full sheets of paper. This opening is smaller like a Big Shot. It’s a little heavier than my Sizzix Big Kick. I keep it stationary on the desk next to me. Thanks for watching!

[@deborahanne9793]

So how large is the opening for the Genimni Junior to take what size of paper? Also, is the Junior about 5 lbs in weight? Thank you.

[@lisadavis4807]

Do you know if you can die cut prestamped images with their matching dies on this machine?

[@NancyStamps]

yes it can

[@lisadavis4807]

Nancy Stamps thanks, I saw a review that said it didn’t work because it wouldn’t stay in place

[@NancyStamps]

@@lisadavis4807 yes, use a little purple tape on it.

[@Karen-uy1rg]

To embossed do the die need to be face up? Or down?

[@NancyStamps]

Put the cutting side down on a rubberized mat over your paper to emboss. The Gemini Jr didn't come with a rubber mat, so get one from the accessory pack or use a Green Anna Griffin one.

[@caroladams3949]

Would like to see you do a card with a card kit.

[@NancyStamps]

Carol Adams here are some I made: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aGPPgKWYmqiggs0

[@deborahanne9793]

Hi, how much does the Gemini Junior weigh? I read that it was only 4 lbs.? Thank you

[@NancyStamps]

Yes I would guess about 5lbs. I wouldn't move it alot, just keep it on a table next to my desk.

[@wingrdr21]

That looks like Nellies Choice die..I have a few..they are from I think Holland or Germany my local store in Ontario sells them. I ended up cutting my rubber mat the other day not as thick as the other ones I have.

[@NancyStamps]

I got an extra mat and have been careful with it.

[@Carmela007]

How do you cut out a stamped image using a die? If I place the die face down it book cut the magnetic sheet.

[@NancyStamps]

Hello Carmela. I use the base cutting plate. Then put down my stamped image. Then the die, use some washi or post it tape to hold the die in place. Over that the magnetic shim, milky plastic shim, and then top cutting plate.

[@Carmela007]

Thank you.

[@pattiepan]

Nancy.........this is fantastic.....the embossing folder of the Nativity Scene is so beautiful...who sells that embossing folder. I would like to get it. thanks Nancy pat

[@NancyStamps]

It was a 4 pack I got from HSN for Crafter's Companion last Christmas. I don't know if it is still available or not.

[@pattiepan]

@@NancyStamps thanks Nancy....it is a handsome stamp and your cards of him are spectacular...really

[@terrilynn1771]

Omg I've drive myself crazy...hsn.com is sold out of Gemini jr bundle. Uggggg I called hsn.com I was told that they won't get it back in until maybe end of March if they get it back...uggggg

[@jackieprice6666]

I cut mine too.

[@gracecoon9100]

What kind of tape did you use on the intricate dies to make them stick instead of glue?

[@NancyStamps]

Elizabeth craft designs double sided tape, stick it, or be creative ,(sook wang) tape

[@gracecoon9100]

Thank You!

[@caroladams3949]

I was talking about a card that comes with a frame to make the card. Like card kits from sizzix or Sephanie Barnard Stamps of life.

[@NancyStamps]

Like a flip it’s frame? I think I have one I can do. I’ll keep you posted. Thanks for the suggestion.

[@craftylittlerthings]

I’m glad you had the instructions, when you were imbossing I was shouting look at your instructions lol why do we think you can hear us lol we all do it though!!!

[@NancyStamps]

Hahaha, so many years ago. I get annoyed at myself when I watch this.

[@scrapingmom1221]

you can buy it cheaper on line and not from over seas

[@deborahanne9793]

It seems that embossing with this machine is very complicated?

[@NancyStamps]

It's actually not now that I know the correct sandwiches to use. I use this machine everyday. My Big shot is collecting dust.

[@deborahanne9793]

I just unboxed mine and it die cut wonderfully, embossing is another story. It is shallow embossing and uneven? Crafter's Companion said that it should not be like that and they are taking it back and sending a new one.

[@NancyStamps]

I'll have to do some more embossing and I'll post a video next week for you Deborah.

[@deborahanne9793]

Thank you

[@deborahanne9793]

Hi Nancy, I am trying to emboss with the Junior and it is cutting through in a few areas on the paper? I am wondering if my paper is not heavy enough? Do you have some more videos on embossing. With the Junior? Thank you

[@noralogan7287]

That wasn't a paper cut. my guess is that it was a sheet metal cut, I got one right quick too! Great cards!

[@NancyStamps]

Nora Logan yeah it was. I never use the metal plate.

[@pattsyorsburn2471]

My brush, fell apart.

[@nikkihoffman2891]

I’m contemplating purchasing a die cutting and embossing machine. After this video, I’m just not sure I want to spend the money. Even with all your experience, there were just too many misses and errors (not your fault at all). A machine like this should be a pleasure to use, not a frustration. Not for me.

[@NancyStamps]

Nikki that was when I first got the machine. I will 100% say I love this machine and wish I had bought it sooner. I use it daily with no issues at all.