I QUIT. No Longer Buying THESE Craft Supplies

These craft supplies/craft tools are the items I am NO LONGER BUYING. Come see why! This is my personal choice, and I explain why.
All Lolly Tops videos: tinyurl.com/muwze7ez
{{SUPPLIES}}:
Links with * are affiliate links. More info below.
*Gyro-Cut: tinyurl.com/23ty3n9c Click on "accessories"
*Olfa mat: amzn.to/3BIjeCx
*Paper piercing tool: amzn.to/3pOfVXK
*Paper pad under my work: shrsl.com/3yhlk
- - -
*Product Recommendations: www.amazon.com/shop/lollypalooza
- - -
My Shop: www.lollypaloozacrafts.com/
My ebook: tinyurl.com/2knxxv79
My Etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/lollypalooz...
Blog: www.LollyPalooza.net
Facebook: / lollypalooza
Instagram: / lolly.palooza
My other YT Channel: / @thelollylife
My creativity group: / lollypeeps
*Canva PRO: partner.canva.com/c/2647833/6...
Have a crafty day!
- - -
disclaimer: some of the links on some of my videos are "affiliate links", meaning that if you purchase using those links, I receive a small commission that helps fund my channel's craft supplies and giveaways. There is no added cost to you when you use those links.
Please consider using these links when you visit these sites. I earn a small commission at no added cost to you:
AMAZON: www.amazon.com/shop/lollypalooza
Canva PRO: partner.canva.com/c/2647833/6...
Catherine Pooler: shop.catherinepooler.com?aff=37
Cricut: tinyurl.com/y3emkjqh
Derwent Art, US: shrsl.com/35myd
Dick Blick: shrsl.com/35mye
Elizabeth Craft Designs: tinyurl.com/y3gc746w
Expressions Vinyl: shrsl.com/34kc7
Scrapbook.com: tinyurl.com/y2um5f69
SimonSaysStamp: tinyurl.com/y3ruku38
Sizzix: shrsl.com/34kc2
Spellbinders: shrsl.com/2z0rv
Stationery Pal: stationerypal.com/?ref=gn4egn...
Stencil Ease: www.stencilease.com?ref=lollypalooza (they sell Gyro-Cut tool)
SwingDesign: tinyurl.com/y2evqovp
Taperlogy: tinyurl.com/2esw8ehr
Tonic Studios USA: shrsl.com/2iyvw
Tonic Studios UK: shrsl.com/2j8qq
Xyron: shrsl.com/35myf
#LollyPalooza
#Favoritecrafttools #cheaperalternative

[@foofur6647]

My dad always said you’ll buy a cheap brand several times, but you’ll buy a high quality item one time. I find that that is mostly true. Thanks for your opinions and information.

[@LollyPalooza]

Yes. With craft tools, there's a lot of technology that goes behind the invention. Cutting corners doesn't always work!

[@julieb737]

I find cheap dies and stencils are nearly always great but don’t buy cheap inks or cardstock .

[@cherylamen5290]

So true

[@averyroseshow1015]

Great advice!!! You get what you pay for with some exceptions

[@LollyPalooza]

Keep in mind: I am not implying that all non-U.S. countries produce toxic, poor quality materials. Most of the time, European nations surpass the U.S. in their toxicity standards; the U.S. seems to lag behind. I am making the point that in these instances in my video, one non-European country did not comply with our toxicity standards. Many US companies manufacture in China. The difference is quality control; the product has to meet the standards for the country where it is to be shipped.

[@stempelwerkbysandra8058]

Thank you for clearify that. I wonder why some american thinks that europe companies are equal to bad quality. We have often way more toxicity standards that US companies have… there are materials which are common in the us, but are not allowed in Germany due to their toxicity or carcinogen…

[@LollyPalooza]

@@stempelwerkbysandra8058 Same thing with food. I think the European food standards are better.

[@tanisjeter2875]

❤you saved me an unnecessary trip to the dollar store, I also started following just because of the integrity in this video as well as the sincere teaching about toxic materials in the cheaper items.

[@LollyPalooza]

Many thanks. Welcome to my channel; check out the tutorials I have for you to binge watch :)

[@LedgerAndLace]

The best brushes at The Dollar Tree are in the make-up aisle! They are more compact, better made, and don't lose their bristles like the ones in the craft section. LOVE this series, Lolly!

[@LollyPalooza]

Interesting! I guess that's true -- who wants brush hairs all over their faces and eyes?

[@4BarbaraJ]

My first thought before watching was negative. However you were exactly right about tools we use every day. Scissors, brushes and many more. I do not think it is possible to by all made in USA product. Many if not most of craft companies items are made elsewhere. I own and use a lot of major craft company items and tools and I appreciate the quality. However, many items being sold by those same companies are so overpriced that I don’t think they are affordable. The ink blending brushes, silicone mats, small trendy items. I either skip them or try the less expensive substitutes. Quality is very important but budget is important too. Love this conversation and sharing of information. Thanks for the video.

[@LollyPalooza]

And don't forget I'm sharing new points to think about -- that does not, however, mean that all countries make terrible products or all original products are wonderfully made, etc. Thank you for joining the conversation!

[@kcinca5410]

Thanks for posting this, Lolly. You get what you pay for. I have had a set of stainless steel waterless cookware since 1974. Two knobs on two lids have broken BUT I am still using the same set. It was expensive. I had to pay for it in installments but I have absolutely no regrets. I cannot believe how that cutting mat came apart. I have never had to buy another self-healing cutting mat except when I wanted a smaller one so I could fit it in my new smaller space. And I do think we should be concerned about toxicity in products. It's important. I loved that you gave very specific examples.

[@LollyPalooza]

Thanks so much! Yes, good quality products should last if they are well cared for. Your pots are a treasure!

[@margueritepeaden3445]

I agree with much of what you said, but have found that there are exceptions. I have bought some cheap Chinese die’s that cut like a dream. I quit buying Crafters Companion dies several years ago because several did not cut correctly no matter the paper, the sandwich or the machine I used. I have several machines, one of which you can basically dial in the degree of pressure. I know the die wasn’t a knock off because I bought it from HSN during a Crafters Companion show. If it had been one die, I would have just said this was an odd defective one. But it was more than one. They definitely fall into the higher priced, higher end dies. I have the Tim Holtz pokey tool and love it. I still bought the cheap Dollar Tree tool to use on things I don’t want to take a chance of messing up my wonderful tool on. There are definitely countries that don’t have the same standards on toxicity and such, and there are countries that have more stringent regulations than we do. Just because it comes from elsewhere doesn’t mean it’s bad, it means one needs to do their research.

[@LollyPalooza]

Right. Please also read the comment pinned to the top. I have not had much success with Crafter's Companion, either, for some reason.

[@jennygiallanza4524]

Chinese dies are stolen designs from reputable designers and shouldn’t be purchased

[@msims5016]

I also have had a LOT of trouble with Crafter's Companion dies cutting and I have a Gemini, Empress and several other machines! I too bought the dies from HSN. They were not cheap, but saw the exact same die on Amazon from a knockoff company. By then it was too late to return my CC die and I had no reason to buy the knockoff! Their simple dies are ok...but the really fancy ones just will not cut completely on any of my machines!

[@LollyPalooza]

@@msims5016 The fancier (intricate) the die, the harder to cut. I have success with Sizzix Switch electronic machine.

[@stempelwerkbysandra8058]

I don‘t think that the japanese Holbein pencils have a worse toxicity than the ones you can buy in the U.S. market. They are cheaper, because there is no retailer in between who wants to participate in the profit as well. Usually the most expensive is the S&H and the taxes you have to pay. I love my little set of Holbeins, but I prefer Faber Castell, which is the best german company when it comes to pencils and pens. Love the „Polychromos“ (waxed based pencils) as well as the Albrecht Dürer (aquarell pencils). And I am happy that it is a national company. So no need to buy at the other side of the globe and get it shipped around the world.

[@odettagonzalez4355]

Lolly, that is why.. I appreciate you so very much all these years.. You’re always a spot on giving us the best advice when it comes to crafting products and materials.Most of all.. I enjoy your crafting skills and tutorials ❤❤❤ TFS! You’re the BEST👌👌👌

[@LollyPalooza]

Many thanks to you. :)

[@connielynn195]

Thanks for the heads up and the reminder that not every one has the same standards. I have heard several Crafters say that there are people out there who copy designs they have found on Etsy and sell them as their own. It would not hurt us all to do a little research of our own and find out where the best products come from and who are the most reputable sellers.

[@LollyPalooza]

There are many who profit off the creativity of others, and it's so sad.

[@paulettepalmer4860]

Lolly, I totally agree with your reasoning and stopped using cheap knock-off's a long time ago! Also, in some instances cheap tools can cause injuries! Thank you for sharing this so people can make informed decisions!😊

[@LollyPalooza]

Ooh. Yes, I hadn't even thought about that.

[@trishgreene6225]

Wonderful, useful and informative video once again Lolly! I agree fully with you and thank you for all your pertinent and wise advice. I am with you! 👍❤

[@LollyPalooza]

Many thanks!

[@bonnietyler4764]

Bravo Lolly! Not only are the products toxic but they are stealing jobs from hard-working artists and manufacturing companies who are the making quality products. It ticks me off when I see so many wonderful brands knocked off and people that are dumb enough to buy them on Amazon or Temu. Bravo, loved this video!!

[@LollyPalooza]

Many thanks for watching. It can be a touchy subject. Just by stating my own choice, I open myself up for criticism.

[@lynnetennant7885]

I couldn't agree more with your thoughts. Never thought about toxic ingredients either. Yuck. My main reason to buy good stuff is to protect our craft companies from their designs being stolen. Competition is great but stealing designs is something else. Thanks for the video.

[@LollyPalooza]

Thank you for watching :)

[@bobbyspapercraft]

This video is on point. A great message. As the old adage says, you get what you pay for. And I know a lot of these cheaper websites from other countries are really popular, but you really do not know what is in the product. Thanks lolly

[@LollyPalooza]

Many thanks, Bobby.

[@robyncorben8299]

A very informative video Lolly, thank you for sharing. I have been gifted a couple of the items you mentioned and I have experienced exactly what you have said...cheap knock offs are a waste.

[@LollyPalooza]

Thanks a bunch!

[@RuthieAubs]

Always trust your reviews!! I bought the Gyro cutter that you suggested and am using it more and more, gets easier once you figure out how to hold it and it cuts beautifully!!! Keep your videos coming, I'll be watching!!

[@LollyPalooza]

Thanks so much! :)

[@RoseD2016]

Great video Lolly! You always get what you pay for. 🤗💖🤗

[@LollyPalooza]

Indeed!

[@vickyconerty8822]

Excellent advice and information! Thank you so much for sharing, I really appreciate knowing about the toxicity issues. And I’m certainly not buying anymore cheap paint brushes 😊

[@LollyPalooza]

I don't know why I fought so long about the paint brushes, but my goodness I'm so happy to not have to dig loose hairs out of my Mod Podge now!

[@cherryransom1461]

Thanks so much for the video and the reminder!!! TFS!!! Stay blessed!!!!

[@LollyPalooza]

you too! Thank you

[@VickiTheCraftAttic]

This video is so timely! I’m in the middle of a storage organization for my stamps and dies right now. I am guilty (when I first began cardmaking) of going down the rabbit hole of making purchases on the cheap. I have collected a lot of things that I rarely use because the quality is awful. Ya really do get what you pay for! I am purging all of these “cheaper alternatives” as we speak.

[@LollyPalooza]

I bought "on the cheap" dies in the beginning as well, because I didn't know what I didn't know. I began to realize they didn't cut well, so I quit buying them, and then afterwards I realized that there was also an issue with copyright.

[@bonniedeibel1546]

One never thinks about what you’ve stated about knock offs. You definitely have made a lot of sense. Thanks for your advice!

[@LollyPalooza]

Thank you -- I'm just trying to stretch our thinking a little. It pays to research and consider our choices.

[@audreydixon5776]

Thank you, this is a very important subject that needed to be addressed and you did it. Thank you again.

[@LollyPalooza]

Thanks so much!

[@kayrejones3071]

Thanks for sharing. Lolly!

[@LollyPalooza]

You bet!

[@amyt6254]

Great video! Thank you very much for this information!

[@LollyPalooza]

Thanks a bunch

[@maryannemilak7438]

Kudos to you for speaking out on this subject. I wish more makers would address this problem. I am striving to buy only made in America products.

[@LollyPalooza]

I buy from other countries as well, if I know their standards.

[@amymullins1566]

First time viewer, now a lifetime subscriber! Thanks for this video. I used to sell Stampin’ Up & would demonstrate the shoddiness of the “same” stamp & die from a company who knocked them off & sold them on Amazon. People never complained about the price of SU’s items after that. Thanks again!

[@LollyPalooza]

Thank you. I have a friend who joined one of the secret groups on FB for "unbranded" dies. She saw that someone offered to pay for one of the members to join SU, if that member would mail the catalog to them, so they could take all the designs and manufacture products with them. So sad.

[@cherylemery8594]

Wow! I never thought about toxins. Thank you for opening my eyes! Very helpful information.

[@LollyPalooza]

thanks a bunch

[@pquack51]

What an informative video! Thank you so much!

[@LollyPalooza]

many thanks!

[@yvonnehardy8649]

Love this!! Thank you for your honest opinion. I totally agree with you.

[@LollyPalooza]

Thanks for watching

[@gerricue]

I agree completely!!! I do not mind paying more for quality!!! Thanks Lolly 😊

[@LollyPalooza]

thanks for watching!

[@Tiffany.Solorio]

Great video! It is so unfortunate when craft companies have their designs stolen, like stamps and dies. I have had some luck with some tools buying them cheaper, but some things for sure need to be artist grade.

[@LollyPalooza]

I've also seen that not only are designs stolen, but then they use our photos of our cards to advertise their knock-off stamps.

[@Tiffany.Solorio]

@@LollyPalooza Oh wow! That is horrible. I had someone use one of my reels to promote a class they were teaching..... lol. Some people have no moral compass. It's sad.

[@jenniferreece2218]

@@LollyPalooza i just saw that today and was absolutely gobsmacked! The item in particular was a stamp set collaboration from many companies, and the knock-off even had their names on it! I have an "original" and I am pretty sure it was made in the US, so that is theft, pure and simple. I got a bit worried about the toxicity of the products you talking about. I hadn't considered that for craft products, but you're right to be concerned.

[@cherylcain890]

Thank you for your advice! 🙏🏻

[@LollyPalooza]

You bet!

[@baybeegirl1965]

Thank you for bringing info

[@LollyPalooza]

thanks for watching :)

[@jeannieblender2590]

Great advice! Thank you.

[@LollyPalooza]

many thanks

[@delo1951]

I am really particular about buying from anyone but the original company that produces the product I want. Not only are the products not as well made, they are made from questionable materials and they are stealing from the artist’s who originally designed the product and we are promoting and encouraging that to happen. So when the artist stops designing we are all losing. I am on a fixed income and chose to shop sales or save up for the products I want.

[@LollyPalooza]

Well said. :)

[@stephaniekdavis3216]

Thank you for this video, I truly appreciate all you pointed out. I will share

[@LollyPalooza]

many thanks

[@cynthiaakacyndsmith6539]

Yes quality over quantity.. I get it, I share the things I don’t want with recycling if at all possible. Yes this is an awesome video , thank you for sharing. I do agree.

[@LollyPalooza]

You bet! :) I give away and donate a lot of supplies I no longer need, but if it's broken like that "cutting" mat, I can't think of any positive way to repurpose it.

[@CoolCakesandCraftswithAmalia1]

Great discussion!

[@LollyPalooza]

thanks!

[@imaquiltingfan]

Wonderful video and topic!

[@LollyPalooza]

Thanks a bunch!

[@gamigirlHeatherB]

TYSM for this video! Couldn’t agree with you more! ❤

[@LollyPalooza]

many thanks

[@moniquevann9950]

Much needed information thanks so much 💐👍

[@LollyPalooza]

many thanks

[@thefrugalcrafter]

These are good points but there are also great (equivilent) quality products out there for less than the craft companies charge. Also to note that the craft companies rip each other off contantly but in s legal way. One companies has a hot selling design and a month later 5 other stamp companies come out with a similar stamp set or blending tool. Many of the tools are taken from other industries with no improvemenys made: the glitter duster and blending brushes are from cosmetics and The silicon and teflon mats are from electronics and cooking. Nothing is new. I dont agree with buying knock off stamps and dies but as for quality, if you buy store brand stamps and dies from a big box store, they are silicone and chinese made metel. I love the dollar store poky tools with the scoring end, but i would not use them as an awl, just like i wouldn't use a potters needle tool as an awl. If i am bookbinding, i use a heavy-duty awl from a hardware store. I feel like very few products come directly from craft companies these days. Red rubber and photo polymer is best in quality and photo polymer can be easily made to order in small batches without the pricy molds for red rubber (thats why compnies offering red rubber stamps don't discontinue their designs constantly like the clear stamp companies do, they have to be comitted to a design if they are makingbthe plate. The clear stamps are like fast fashion to me and the silicone knockoffs are an extention to that, the old slippery slope i guess.) So i think saying if you don't but from a name brand craft company you get poor quality is false. I think you are better off to go upstream and find where the tool origanally came from (but you might not be able to buy it in pink or teal) and buy there if you want quality rather than going downstream to the knock off sites. I rarely buy stamps these days because i prefer red rubber and everytging has been dine and I like the versions i have better. Plus the "fast-fashion" diection the craft industry has been going in for the past 5 years is a real turn off. I've noticed a decline in quality in many creative product's lately and that makes me want to use what I have. Just my opinion tho. Ive seen lots of oitrage about temu lately, but not Amazon, why? They all have knockoffs. Its a race to the bottom and i am tired of running. I think most of us already own the best the art and craft world has to offer. We just need to use it.

[@LollyPalooza]

Well said. I'm not as much promoting "name brand" as I am quality products. I was just telling a friend about how everyone is selling their own brand of blending brushes now (which was a makeup brush to begin with), but even in that regard, I'm not promoting a specific brand but quality. So, if I find there is a place selling blending brushes for 25 cents each, I know that the brushes have been made with inferior materials / workmanship. Also, we've had some pretty good interactions from comments here. Many point out that well-known craft companies also manufacture in China. There is still a difference in quality, because the manufacturer in China has to make the product according to the specifications for the country which ordered the manufacturing. For instance, a company in Europe could order manufacturing in China, and that product has to meet European standards. "Made in China" isn't necessarily equal to poor quality. It depends on which company is paying for it and what their quality controls are.

[@jonisorsen]

I absolutely agree.Thanks for sharing.

[@LollyPalooza]

Many thanks!

[@StudioTinidril]

I agree that Simply Simmons is a great mid-value brush. A better quality brush plus proper handling/cleaning will save you plenty of money both in how often you need to replace them and how much you're throwing into the landfill. It's a win-win choice.

[@LollyPalooza]

yes! Thank you for the reminder -- we need to properly care for our tools

[@sonshinesunflower]

Thank you, Lolly! I find this to be true as well!

[@LollyPalooza]

Glad it was helpful!

[@hopewilkes74]

This was good and nice to know. Thanks!!!!!!!

[@LollyPalooza]

You bet!

[@smileycindy]

Very educational. Thanks for takling about the toxicity levels.

[@LollyPalooza]

you bet!

[@lindarippstein4489]

Thank you this information

[@LollyPalooza]

You bet!

[@sherrydmyterko-tramp8654]

Thank you for this info. I never thought about chemicals being harmful to us and our country. I really wish more crafters talked about this. Thank you again.

[@LollyPalooza]

Many thanks!

[@ArleneAdkinsZell]

Thank you!

[@LollyPalooza]

thanks for watching

[@kathybost1879]

100% agree! you are right as rain. I think I need that Gyro cut? is it for fussy cutting. (which I hate) ?? thanks so much

[@LollyPalooza]

I had purchased the Gyro-Cut on my own as soon as I heard about it. I did this review: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eYPRpGh6qdtgsLs which I think will help you.

[@kathybost1879]

@@LollyPalooza thanks so much, lots of helpful information.

[@huginanenvelope]

The first clear stamps & ink I bought were cheap and the results were horrible! Thank goodness for teachers like you that tell the truth. I did see an Elizabeth Craft item on cheap site and thought well maybe they carry better products than I thought now I know beyond her ideas they stole her packaging.

[@LollyPalooza]

Stolen packaging is a possibility. Sometimes you can find legit products at good prices. I carry her dies in my shop but put them on clearance after a year or two of release, to make room for her new releases.

[@cindyburns7667]

Great tips thank you

[@LollyPalooza]

thanks!

[@sweetsarah9702]

Great video. Lots of good information. Could you please tell me where to find the comparison of toxicity standards for the various countries? (I have found recently that many other countries have much higher standards in their EMF regulations, so that has gotten me to reconsider generalizations of standards)

[@LollyPalooza]

I don't have a website. I hear about individual chemicals, food additives, etc. through the years.

[@stephaniekdavis3216]

I agree 100% thank you for this video!

[@LollyPalooza]

thanks so very much

[@KurlyGirlKraftz]

Great info! Tfs

[@LollyPalooza]

thanks for coming along!

[@jenniferfahnestock9703]

Love those clamps. My favorite

[@LollyPalooza]

Aren't they great?

[@debhouckscraftycottage9288]

Thank you, Thank you! I see so many people promoting certain companies for "cheap" knock-offs. First of all, they are flat out Stealing designs from companies that put the money in for doing the designs. Even Dollar Tree now has some stamp sets that are clearly certain brand name knock offs! It's getting worse and worse and I truly understand the appeal, as someone on a fixed income now. But, I can't get behind any company that steals another's designs.

[@LollyPalooza]

And sooo cheaply made. :( I saw an investigational video about what's really in dollar store products. It was scary. They tested the makeup and personal care products and found loads of known carcinogens.

[@debhouckscraftycottage9288]

@@LollyPalooza Wow! That really IS scary!

[@ritamariacastillo8812]

Excellent video! Branded companies invest in research, design, packaging, marketing, and staff to sell and deliver high-quality products, and it´s not fair to steal somebody else´s hard work for profit with rubbish products; neither is buying them and contributing to crime. Well said, Lolly!

[@LollyPalooza]

One of my concerns now is that I've heard about the extreme low salaries in some of the factories for knock-offs. Sure, many reputable companies use manufacturing in other countries, but they also oversee that the standards are higher & workers paid better than a dollar a day.

[@omommo73]

Fellow artist. Always try to purchase the best your budget allows. You will never regret it. Lolly this video is so helpful. Good points about where the unusable tools end up. But the scored "cutting" pad cracked me up. 😂. Do you have a scissor video? Off to check your list. Thanks for the helpful information ❤

[@LollyPalooza]

Yes, I did the scissor video recently in the playlist (check out the section under this video title). Well said: Purchase the best your budget allows. I would still add, however, that if you buy junk, you're not helping your budget.

[@cherylpavao1546]

I agree 100% Thanks for sharing for all

[@LollyPalooza]

Thank you

[@JournalJourneyArts]

You made very good points I agree with you 100% BUT most makers are going to buy what they can afford 🤷🏼‍♀️🫶🏼

[@LollyPalooza]

Yes, I understand financial limitations, which is really one reason why I shared this. The fake Gyro-Cut tool, for example, is only about $4-5 less than the real one. I am so sad for people who have wasted their money on the fake, knowing that their finances are already tight.

[@JournalJourneyArts]

@@LollyPalooza 🥺 I know…

[@Lucyverre]

Very good of you to pay attention to this. Copying stuff is a big problem. However, I think that most of the stuff is produced in China whether it be the original products or the counterfeit. The original products, for a company, will have to be made according to the standard of the country to which it is delivered. And you hope that this actually happens, which is also a real problem with clothing (working conditions), for example. Incidentally, I also buy from Chinese platforms, not everything is counterfeit and not bad either. For example, dies or stamps are not necessarily worse than branded products. Buying what you need and not buying just to buy is still the best advice. (I live in the Netherlands btw)

[@LollyPalooza]

Well said. You are so right about the quality needing to match the standard of the country for which it's developed. It is highly possible that a US or EU company manufactures in China, but their products have to meet their standards.

[@lafrancemeyers7728]

Good information ❤❤

[@LollyPalooza]

thanks for watching

[@maryjackson9816]

Thank you for explaining about the toxicity standards. I wondered what the problem would be by buying the cheaper stamps, dies etc.

[@LollyPalooza]

Of course not ALL cheaply manufactured dies and stamps fail quality controls, but it's more likely

[@shirleywhite8907]

Good to know. Thank You

[@LollyPalooza]

Thanks for watching

[@kathynichols5878]

Thank you

[@LollyPalooza]

you bet!

[@antoinettelempicki9775]

I like to buy directly from the company - even if the postage is high. This way I support small businesses and am confident that I am receiving the “true” product.

[@LollyPalooza]

Thank you. And of course, just because it's the true product doesn't mean it's a great tool. Some of our craft companies do put out "losers" now and then -- craft tools that don't accomplish much. But then again, those aren't the tools that get copied.

[@Mari-cre8s]

You have made some very good, and interesting points. However, the prices that some companies charge for things that say right on them ‘made in China’ give me pause. Not everything one buys from small American companies is made in America! One must do their research! One rather expensive tool that I held out on for a long time was a name brand laminator for foiling. I thought the less expensive Amazon one, recommended by people ’in the know’ was just fine, despite numerous fails. When I bought the name brand on a good sale, I was so impressed with the consistent results… and lack of wasted foils! Buyer be aware is a good motto to live by!! TY for your insights! 🙏🏼🧑🏼‍🎨😀

[@LollyPalooza]

Yes. MANY, many US and EU companies manufacture in China. The difference is quality control. The product has to meet the standard for the company it's manufactured for.

[@99zanne]

I did find the small glass bottles and their plastic cutting mats from Dollar Tree to be well made and I was happy with them. I found nothing else that was worth $1 or a $1.25 for crafting.

[@LollyPalooza]

oh, yes! I forgot those tiny glass bottles with the screw-on lids! Those are great, too!

[@roseanndeighan5872]

So true. ❤

[@LollyPalooza]

thanks for watching

[@leisacarnahan7647]

Thank you for this video. I pray that a lot of crafters see this and realize that cheaper isn't always better. Does the original GiroCut really work or not? I have arthritis and a trigger finger and I thought that might be better for me for fussy cutting.

[@LollyPalooza]

yes, I have the original and the Pro. The Pro is for cutting thicker material.

[@leisacarnahan7647]

@@LollyPalooza thank you. I will probably purchase both.

[@michellechristopher6468]

This is a tool I would like to get a good one where you got it ? I want the time holts one saving for better tools. Wow Thank you so much I was buying knock offs .

[@LollyPalooza]

Which tool are you wanting to know about in your first question?

[@brendachambers8456]

I totally agree!

[@LollyPalooza]

thank you for watching

[@MyCraftBasketStudio]

From my experience some of the cheaper items do work good for things that you don't care if the cheap item gets damaged. For example a cheap paint brush used to glue things, I can throw it away. I do use that pink pick tool for when I glue things down with glue stick. I can use the pick tool to pick it up when it's covered with glue to lay it down on the item I'm wanting to put it on. If you're wanting to create a Van Gogh of course don't use Dollar tree stuff but you're doing a junk journal, some of that stuff works just fine.

[@LollyPalooza]

But then we're adding to the landfill, too.

[@kathrynbates4274]

All that glitters ain't gold! . Thanks for putting this out there Lolly.

[@LollyPalooza]

Truth! Thanks for watching

[@kerriegood1046]

Thanks for making this video. I think many of us are on the fence with the idea of saving money. Found your toxicity point to be well made. Had not given that point a moment of thought. I does bother me that these companies are stealing designs etc..... Better to buy good materials even if we buy less.

[@LollyPalooza]

Thank you :)

[@maryfiona7641]

Thanks you for covering this topic. So true. I have been given so many toxic dog toys at Christmas time. Full of bad dyes and hazardous fibers. Same with crafting tools and papers. I have totally stopped going to the dollar store. It may look good but most of it is just low grade.

[@LollyPalooza]

Thanks for sharing your story.

[@customercustomer3634]

Thank you for explaining about the cheaper tools, you are so right , I see so many creators bragging about getting the cheaper things.

[@LollyPalooza]

Thanks! :)

[@VeeWillsPaperDesigns]

I could not agree with you more, Lolly. I watch haul videos in a large variety of crafts where creators never seem to research products and do not care where they are purchasing products...business and/or what country. I agree with FooFur here in the description, too...always my main rule.

[@LollyPalooza]

Thank you for watching!

[@yukoneal7152]

This was helpful & interesting. Tyou for sharing. I’m a huge ECD fan and hv many many many of their dues & stamps. Mks me angry that there r those who sell products with her packing & name on it…what?!?😮 Was extremely surprised about the pencils sold in US & Japan markets. U alluded to the toxicity being much higher for the Japanese market? I shop in Tokyo annually for art supplies. They r an environment conscience culture. Everything costs 3x more than the US. And they r typically accolades for their top quality, perfection, over achieving, detail oriented, honorable, etc nature in general. So this was a HUGE surprise to me. Thanks again.

[@LollyPalooza]

Yes, the co-owner of Holbein was telling me about it. It's not that I'm insulting Japan -- it's just that there are two different markets, and he can't market the Japanese version in the U.S. due to the different standards. I just wanted to explain the difference in pricing is due to the extra caution exercised on this particular product in the U.S.

[@michiganlighthouse]

I still have my craft knife that I purchased 50 years ago. We called them X-acto knives back then after the brand name. Same with some of my paint brushes. I've replaced most of them by now, but with the best I could afford at the time. Every time I try to shortcut a tool or material, I usually have to replace it. Then I hear my husband's voice in my head saying, "The right tool for the right result".

[@LollyPalooza]

Nice. Yes, X-acto was a brand back in the day. I guess the company is still around, too!

[@lalagamma4452]

Great advice. Namesta 🐞🥰

[@LollyPalooza]

thank you

[@michelleb4697]

I've found that most "cheap" art supplies I buy, I eventually spend the money to get the brand name version anyway, so it's a false value. However, I'm also mindful that card and scrapbooking companies market many items intensely that aren't any better, they're just branded.

[@LollyPalooza]

Yes, just because it's a known brand doesn't mean every product they make is a successful launch. There are some real less-than-successful products out there. I've done reviews of them. :)

[@aerialflyer5557]

This video you made today has left me sad. You see I recently (January 2023) I lost my only child at the age of 21. My life has been turned upside down and inside out! Most days I don’t want to be alive! My therapist suggested I tried a simple craft. Collage making to help me distract my Mommy heart that is broken. So I watched KZbin just to get ideas and came across junk journaling..what a great way to honor my son and grieve while creating something meaningful! My husband is retired and I have not been able to go back to work so excess craft supplies were simply not an option. I did get many of the name brands you’ve mentioned and they are great! However I wanted some of the other cool stuff I see you all using. I don’t have the extra money for everything and Temu and Amazon basically sell the same stuff for a fraction of the cost and I am able to have some of the fun stickers and papers. I have purchased some awesome things and it has helped me so much to be able to get all the great stuff that I would not normally be able to afford. Sometimes I am disappointed but I’ve been disappointed paying full price sometimes too! I think their are many people that would not be able to craft if not for the great value they offer. It was disappointing to hear you put down all of their products and possibly influence someone who maybe needs to craft to just feel alive again..Because they can’t afford all of the many things you need or want to create. I also think we as consumers know when something should be a familiar brand that is more expensive and when not to..so to anyone out their on a budget please give Temu a try they offer variety at a price that’s affordable. I am not an influencer or have anything to do with Temu. Just a Mom that’s grieving and gets joy out of getting things I can afford to make the best journal I can..just thought it was not a fair video on your end. You have something to lose if people shop at Temu, as I am sure you are compensated for your endorsement of their products and that great too! But today’s video was disappointing.

[@bertas-cards]

The company you mentioned is selling stolen intellectual property & copyrighted products from small craft businesses. A number of small craft shops have had to close due to this by another foreign store stealing their designs. I am sorry for your loss. Try Goodwill & Salvation Army & other thrift stores for craft items. I have seen a number of crafters find big ticket craft items there. No amount of money is worth promoting stolen intellectual & copyrighted products. Lolly has been very fair in her stance in her video.

[@LollyPalooza]

I am so sorry for your heartbreaking loss. My point is that it is disheartening to see people waste their hard-earned money on items that don't function and have to be thrown away. Someone on a tight budget has no money to waste. Please also note that I never "endorse" any product I don't believe in. I get daily requests from companies to receive free products for review, and I have skipped most of them. I haven't accepted an offer for months. The Gyro-Cut tool I showed, for instance, I bought on my own, did a video review, and then later the company contacted me. I've also left bad reviews on products from reputable companies, because those products failed to meet my standards. You can see that in those instances, I am NOT sending business their way.

[@cindym1070]

I am so sorry for your loss. I don't normally comment on things like this, but I totally see your point. I think many of the youtubers really don't realize what it's like to not have the money to spend on all the expensive craft items. I do also understand that it's a shame for creators to have their designs stolen when they do the hard work. I guess I don't understand why they are $15 - $20 for a stamp or die set. For some of us, we may not have $15 - $20 a month total to spend on items. That makes it impossible to craft at all. So, we can either choose less expensive products and be able to craft or we can't afford to craft at all. I often feel like the people making videos on here and the companies assume we are all made out of money. They go on and on about having this and buying that. Don't they realized that people without the 100's and 1000's of dollars to spend on these items still want to craft? I watch some of these people and they have everything under the sun. Where do they get the money to buy all this stuff? Good for them that they can do that, but what about the rest of us. I myself tend to pick and choose. I have a few carefully chosen things that are name brand and most of the rest are cheaper items. They work fine for what I do which is card making. If I had the money I might think about buying the brand name more often, but then again as has been stated over and over, most of them are not made in the USA either. I feel like people try to lay the guilt trip on us who can't afford expensive products. Well, we like to craft just as much or more as anyone else. I think people who have money don't realize what's it like for those of us who have to watch every dollar. We deserve to craft too.

[@LollyPalooza]

@@cindym1070 There are many unnecessary tools that may look cool, but we won't really need -- Expensive, $100 tools that sit on the shelf. My point that I'm making is that I don't like to see people LOSE money by purchasing junk and then it doesn't work. That is a waste of good money.

[@cindym1070]

@@LollyPalooza I understand your point and it was a good video. I just think Aerial Flyer had an excellent point and I support that. Thank you. 😀

[@weeyin64]

Cheap paintbrushes are good for spreading glue like modge podge, at least if they are ruined then it can be binned. Only reason I purchase them.

[@LollyPalooza]

It sure didn't work for me. Spreading Mod Podge was the reason I switched; the hairs kept falling out into my project. Glad you've had a different experience.

[@weeyin64]

@@LollyPalooza I rub the life out of the bristles to get rid of the loose ones, it helps. I know what you mean though 🙂

[@doodahgurlie]

I agree that name brand products typically perform or hold up better (not always, though). However, regarding toxicity and such, pretty sure the US has lower standards than other countries in Europe in regards to things that are put in our food such as dyes and strange ingredients. And pretty much everything is made overseas, even the stuff sold by big companies like Apple.

[@LollyPalooza]

Yes, another good point. Not ALL countries have worse standards than the U.S. As a matter of fact, much of Europe has such great standards that it takes the U.S. awhile to catch up. I am mainly referring to one particular country which made the toxic stamps and the dies which didn't perform well.

[@doodahgurlie]

@@LollyPalooza ...and you were putting something that wasn't made for consuming in your mouth. Just wanted to point that out. If it was a food product, then that's a different story. Also, as far as products that don't perform, I've ranted before about WRMK where half their products are terrible (I believe it was you who mentioned how you felt they were using us to test the water for various products). And another point I wanted add, I believe you did the recent video on the new TH trimmer. It didn't perform as you (and others) wanted even though Jennifer McGuire sang its praises to all and sundry. There's a reason we all keep searching for that perfect trimmer (I've a very expensive graveyard of them)...they don't perform as well as expected even though they were designed and purchased at legitimate retailers in the US.

[@LollyPalooza]

@@doodahgurlie Yes, I did say it's a bad habit to put those things in my mouth :) I didn't actually give a review of the TH trimmer, but I did mention in a recent video that I don't like trimmers in which the fold out arms are not level with the paper platform. Because of that, I won't buy the TH trimmer. I've seen another review of that trimmer that wasn't favorable, either. Usually it's only the successful products that get duplicated as knock-offs.

[@doodahgurlie]

@@LollyPalooza I guess "Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery" doesn't apply where copyright lawyers and such are concerned. LOL

[@cherylwells1266]

Thanks for this review - I have always believed in "Quality" over quantity - I make mini-albums for sale, and I ALWAYS use quality from start to finish. Do not waste my time with cheap products!!!

[@LollyPalooza]

Ooh, yes, you'd have to be careful, especially with adhesives and paper quality.

[@Card_Crazed]

Great video! I sell my cards, and having bought some "I've never seen this before" dies cheaply from China many years ago, I have since found out that they were mostly rip offs of European designs that I didn't know about. I made a decision about 4 years ago to NOT buy any stamps or dies for cheap, as they most likely are toxic, rip offs from a company I am not aware of, and are of poorer quality. The only stuff I get from the dollar store is the occasional paper, ephemera, and pearls/gems... that kind of stuff, when I can get to a dollar store, and it's in stock. I buy NOTHING that can possibly be copyrighted from the dollar store, or stores like Temu, Ali Express etc.

[@LollyPalooza]

Thank you for watching and joining in the discussion.

[@loke-art7383]

I totally agree with you, I bought some items because they were cheap and I didn't have that much money, unfortunately I had to realize that many products are of poor quality and I ended up spending more, I'd rather save so that I can have good ones in the future buy quality 🥰😀

[@LollyPalooza]

Thank you. It's like my husband -- he quit buying tools unless he can trust the brand.

[@donnatriffitt4463]

To be honest Lolly, you get what you pay for as my hubby says.. I agree with you on the whole video.. I have found that the cheaper something is then it will not last or even work..

[@LollyPalooza]

Exactly

[@debbieb4837]

I’m right there with you. Totally agree and have also stopped.

[@LollyPalooza]

Thanks for watching :)

[@nicolalederer9517]

There are many knock off dies on sale on Ebay, Amazon, Temu etc. - I think it is worth taking a screen shoot and copying the URL and sending this on to the company who originally designed the crafting items. They can then choose to reach out to the website selling these to have them taken down. This is, when all is said and done, theft of intellectual property! In the short term, we think we are getting bargains (setting aside the very valid issues you raised of quality and toxicity) but in the long term, we are driving these creative companies who spend time and money on developing innovative goods (and provide jobs here in the EU or in the US!) out of business! Maybe we should all (myself very much included!) think about buying less but the genuine, high quality, job providing, well designed and safe stuff?! Kind regards from Germany, Nicola

[@LollyPalooza]

Thank you. Yes, the EU has great quality control as well. Another reason for the higher price of quality tool prices might also be factory wage differences in different areas.

[@suzannehicks5856]

Thank you. I’m so tired of seeing crafters review their “cheap” hauls from Chinese rip off companies and completely overlooking the fraud they are bankrolling. Sad

[@LollyPalooza]

Thank you for watching :)

[@funsizecrafter]

TFS

[@LollyPalooza]

thank you

[@02stovie20]

This is just one of the reasons I will never buy from Wish or Temu…. I believe in using great quality products (quality does not necessarily mean most expensive). Thank you for sharing this.

[@LollyPalooza]

I have never bought from Wish. I didn't know anything about the company; I just never saw anything I wanted. I purchased once from Temu, when it was newly advertised. I've decided to no longer buy from them and rejected their offer to send me a box of goodies to reveal on my channel.

[@msims5016]

Now if I could STOP Temu from showing up in my email, EVERY OTHER ad on KZbin...I cannot block even though I must have put in OVER 25 times Block this ad!

[@LollyPalooza]

@@msims5016 I just submitted to "block ad" on FB, too

[@candacec60]

I have never bought cheap supplies. Well when I started scrapbooking 20 years ago I did try cheap paper but didn’t like it so never bought cheap supplies since. I also don’t like the fact that so many companies are stealing reputable companies ideas. It would stop if people quit buying them.

[@LollyPalooza]

And craft companies copy each other's ideas as well.

[@UARELOVE1010]

Thank you for bringing the toxicity information. The disintegration of the stamp pad is quite disturbing. Have you tried buying from Daiso?

[@LollyPalooza]

I have bought some random items from Daiso such as bowls, trays, & paper clips, but I have not purchased any craft supplies

[@317stitches2]

The pink pokey tool or Awl bent instantly. Do not buy this cheaper version. I bought an Awl at a yard sale that was vintage, made very well, high quality steel that you can't bend with you hands.

[@LollyPalooza]

What a great find!

[@oricle81]

I don't buy knock-off stamps but that is kinda scary about that one lady whose stamps were causing the ink pad to disintegrate!!! Just goes to show that quality is better with stamps! These things are an investment so you don't want them to be wrecked! Thanks for sharing- lots of food for thought!

[@LollyPalooza]

Yes, it's scary!

[@msims5016]

My spouse bought a two piece black PJ set. It turned my skin, nails and ANYTHING it touched, even after washing, black...began to make me breakout! Looked up could fabric dies do that...YES they can!!! We through them out in garbage bag. He was so sorry and embarrassed he would not tell me WHERE he ordered from! It took me weeks to get my skin and nails back to normal! Talk about toxic!!😢😢