NEW Tool + Helpful Tips [and a Reminder!]

Please forgive the not-so-great-voice-over... but I am hoping these tips are helpful! And remember - these grip mats are not SUPER sticky to paper, but rather very sticky with things that are smooth like glass or stencils.
** SUPPLIES ARE LINKED TO STORES BELOW
** For more info: www.jennifermcguireink.com/?p...
----- SUPPLIES -----
Affiliate links may be used at no cost to you. Product disclosure below.
*** FOR A VISUAL SUPPLY LIST, GO TO ldli.co/e/kqxqqr9 ***
• Waffle Flower 6.5x8.5 Grip Mat - MY FAVORITE
--- ldli.co/e/3o0oopj [ WFF ]
--- ldli.co/e/m5d55md [ SSS ]
• Waffle Flower 4.25x5.5 Grip Mat
--- ldli.co/e/e2422kp [ WFF ]
--- ldli.co/e/qy7yy65 [ SSS ]
• Waffle Flower 8.5x8.5 Grip Mat
--- ldli.co/e/jqlqqep [ WFF ]
--- ldli.co/e/yeqeexk [ SSS ]
• Waffle Flower 4.75x6 Grip Mat
--- ldli.co/e/p3k33n6 [ WFF ]
--- ldli.co/e/rnqnny1 [ SSS ]
• Waffle Flower 5.5x8.5 Grip Mat
--- ldli.co/e/om9mme1 [ WFF ]
--- ldli.co/e/lm1mm0p [ SSS ]
• Waffle Flower 6x6 Grip Mat
--- ldli.co/e/xlqlled [ WFF ]
--- ldli.co/e/1p2ppn7 [ SSS ]
• Waffle Flower 6x6 Grip Mat Guides Trio 1
--- ldli.co/e/d747705 [ WFF ]
--- ldli.co/e/zrmrr1z [ SSS ]
Glass mat: JENNIFER20 for 20% off - www.glassboardstudio.com/page...
• Waffle Flower 7.25x7.25 Stencil Extender
--- ldli.co/e/9d0ddo4 [ WFF ]
--- ldli.co/e/kqxqqkm [ SSS ]
• Waffle Flower Postage Collage Die
--- ldli.co/e/76m66xq [ WFF ]
--- ldli.co/e/nqzqqqm [ SSS ]
• Waffle Flower Postage Collage Stamps
--- ldli.co/e/6l5llll [ WFF ]
--- ldli.co/e/gqpqqqj [ SSS ]
• Waffle Flower Postage Collage Christmas Stencil
--- ldli.co/e/0727774 [ WFF ]
--- ldli.co/e/430333r [ SSS ]
• Waffle Flower Postage Collage Everyday Stencil
--- ldli.co/e/260666z [ WFF ]
--- ldli.co/e/5yoyyyp [ SSS ]
• Waffle Flower Postage Collage Coloring Stencil
--- ldli.co/e/3o0oooj [ WFF ]
--- ldli.co/e/m5d555d [ SSS ]
• Waffle Flower Oversized Hugs Dies
--- ldli.co/e/e24222p [ WFF ]
• Waffle Flower Quilted Zigzag Texture Die
--- ldli.co/e/qy7yyy5 [ WFF ]
--- ldli.co/e/jqlqqqp [ SSS ]
• Waffle Flower Inky Friends Stamps
--- ldli.co/e/yeqeeek [ WFF ]
--- ldli.co/e/p3k3336 [ SSS ]
• Waffle Flower Elegant Christmas Combo
--- ldli.co/e/rnqnnn1 [ WFF ]
--- ldli.co/e/om9mmm1 [ SSS ]
• Waffle Flower Elegant Christmas Sentiments Stamps
--- ldli.co/e/lm1mmmp [ WFF ]
--- ldli.co/e/xlqllld [ SSS ]
• Waffle Flower Elegant Christmas Matching Die
--- ldli.co/e/1p2ppp7 [ WFF ]
--- ldli.co/e/d747775 [ SSS ]
• Waffle Flower Inside Sentiments Christmas Stamps
--- ldli.co/e/zrmrrrz [ WFF ]
--- ldli.co/e/9d0ddd4 [ SSS ]
• Waffle Flower Star Snowflake Stamps
--- ldli.co/e/kqxqqqm [ WFF ]
--- ldli.co/e/76m666q [ SSS ]
• Waffle Flower Mini Stencil Mat
--- ldli.co/e/nqzqq0m [ WFF ]
--- ldli.co/e/6l5llpl [ SSS ]
• MISTI Stamping Tool 2.0
--- ldli.co/e/gqpqqjj [ SSS ]
• The Ink Stand
--- ldli.co/e/07277n4 [ SSS ]
• Altenew Fresh Dye Inks
--- ldli.co/e/43033pr [ SSS ]
• Hero Arts Core Inks
--- ldli.co/e/26066pz [ SSS ]
• Honey Bee Metallic Gold Pigment Ink
--- ldli.co/e/5yoyymp [ SSS ]
• Simon Says Stamp Blending Brushes
--- ldli.co/e/3o0oorj [ SSS ]
• Altenew Mini Blending Brushes
--- ldli.co/e/m5d554d [ ALTN ]
--- ldli.co/e/e2422op [ SSS ]
• Altenew Large Ink Blending Tool
--- ldli.co/e/qy7yyr5 [ ALTN ]
--- ldli.co/e/jqlqq0p [ SSS ]
• Cloths
--- amzn.to/3djH62Z [ AMZUS ]
• Arteza White Gel Pens
--- ldli.co/e/yeqeerk [ SSS ]
• Altenew Cloud White Pigment Ink
--- ldli.co/e/p3k33q6 [ ALTN ]
• Gina K Connect Large Bottle Glue
--- ldli.co/e/rnqnnr1 [ SSS ]
• Gina K Fine Tip Bottles
--- ldli.co/e/om9mmg1 [ SSS ]
----- DISCLOSURE -----
Compensated affiliate links may be used at no cost to you. Thank you for your support of my videos! I work diligently to bring you the best information I can. All products were personally purchased... except the Waffle Flower products which were provided/sponsored by the company with no expectation. (Head here for more details: www.jennifermcguireink.com/?p...) This video was not paid and I did it only because I liked the product. The information provided in this video is based on my own personal experience. I am not an expert nor do I work for these companies. I just am sharing what I like. :)
Please follow safety when using any products. See manufacturers website, etc.
For affiliate and product disclosure, visit www.jennifermcguireink.com/about

[@helenemarshall7207]

you are hilarious! I love the little bits on the floor! I only recently gave myself permission to allow bits to drop on my craft room floor. Not going back!

[@kykategray]

I appreciate you showing all of the new things. This video gave me an idea to try another product I have, but had long forgotten. It’s unfortunate that people feel that it is okay to post negative comments, saying things I’m sure they would never to a person’s face (although some would, I’m sure). Sadly, the amount of negativity is something I have noticed more and more lately. You handle that sort of thing with kindness and grace and it’s a beautiful thing.

[@dianajones1334]

WOWl Jennifer I have not seen these before, Thank you for the video. I can hardly wait to order a set.

[@michellesteacy1177]

Jennifer, I not only watch your videos because you’re so talented and explain things so well, but you are so extremely kind! Thank you for another great video!

[@Pebblesmas]

So true too 😢

[@jennifermcguireink]

If you are curious how this compares to a gel press, it is different. Here is info: waffleflower.com/blogs/news/waffle-flower-grip-mats-vs-gel-plates Just a quick afterthought: So the grip mat may not hold pieces 100% when you stamp on them. it isnt a 100% stick on paper. But what you can do if you have a small die cut, is just place a traditional sticky mat on top of the grip mat in the MISTI and that will hold tight. :)

[@JenniferKellogg4700]

Is it the same material as a gelli plate?

[@jennifermcguireink]

waffleflower.com/blogs/news/waffle-flower-grip-mats-vs-gel-plates

[@mkmousej6745]

I can relate to this emotion about the new tool pain - but we want companies to keep trying to find us better ways to craft so we can be more efficient and get great results. Sometimes it takes baby steps to get to a better place and we are along for the ride. When money is tight I focus on tools that will enhance the way I personally craft and not worry about having a new tool that will get very little use. What I do resent though is when an already existing item comes out marketed as a "stamping tool" and then the price is increased when it is marketed to crafters - for example make up brushes. I did not find brushes labeled for stamping to be better than generic make up brushes but the pricing was considerably higher when they were first introduced.

[@jennifermcguireink]

i get that that is frustrating. i just know it costs more for these companies to source and sell the products then it does other industries. they order lower quantities,... so the cost is higher... so they have to charge more. but you can use the make up ones instead!

[@mkmousej6745]

@@jennifermcguireink that makes sense

[@tracylee4442]

Companies coming out with new products or tweaking old products is also important for innovation. Otherwise there would be no improvements. I love the analogy you make with cars and the grocery store. And we may not want to buy a particular product today, but maybe down the road we will buy the next version. Or a hybrid version.

[@ruthgauss8883]

I agree! I tend to be very much a watch and wait kind of shopper about many things. There is nothing wrong with watching and passing on or deciding to purchase a product later. We all have to do what is best for us. I think these mats check all of the boxes for a tool that will make crafting more fun for me and solve some issues I'm having so I will probably be purchasing one. And I appreciate how thorough and honest Jennifer is when she is sharing products!!! I appreciate that she is enthusiastic about supporting these very small businesses and it's obvious that the businesses appreciate her as well.

[@lauravance8261]

I like that most of there products are made in the U.S.A. I feel it’s very very important to purchase all items made in our country. If we want to keep our stores open and our country going buy American.

[@Wendyrocler]

I feel quite brilliant because after watching a few videos from the Waffle Flower channel, I ordered the 8.5”x6.5” sticky mat plus the Christmas stencils and postage stamp dies. Now I know I made the right choice after devouring this very informative video. Thanks so much for all the testing you do, behind the scenes, with new products before you demo them for us.🥰

[@khcrowley]

You provided a clear description of the grip mats. You helped clear up some questions. The cards are adorable. Thank you for testing new tools for. us. I appreciate your honest opinions.

[@ppatel399]

Hey Jennifer! Love your videos! I agree about supporting small businesses. If people aren't sure if they prefer this type of stenciling over tape/magnets, I would encourage them to try this method with their gel plates and then buy the mat. I got the same results with the gel plate and have been doing it since the stamp wheel mat and gives me a reason to use the leftover ink for smooshing. Hope it's ok to share this on your comments.

[@Waffleflowercrafts]

These are just our take on a solution. So glad you've found things working for you already!

[@craftynikki6570]

Nothing that can’t be done for cents and using existing tools - use printable acetate and a gel plate (multi purpose tool!). As for supporting craft companies - I’m afraid the answer is a big, FAT - NO! We are sick of craft companies scouring the cosmetics and other industries to look for products that cost cents, or a dollar to two, then repackaging them and marketing them as the “latest and greatest must have all new craft tool” while adding $$$ to a product that in reality costs less than a dollar. Crafters are NOT cash cows. What I would support is if the craft companies actually spent time and money on research and development of genuine new tools, instead of pinching ideas from other sectors in order to make many fast bucks out of crafters. So…if they actually were prepared ro develop their OWN ideas and their OWN products, then I would have no problem at all supporting them. All the while they

[@jennifermcguireink]

these are small businesses who simply don't have the means or funds to go through the expensive process of developing new tools. I truly believe they are trying their best. most are just getting by month to month. i will say i am VERY thankful for the original stamp designs they put lots of effort into! as for a gel plate - yes! give it a try for the things i showed. use what you have! it makes creating fun. But for others, this tool may be just what they needed, as it was for me. :) happy crafting.

[@jennifermcguireink]

yes! i am glad you shared! yay for finding something that works for you!

[@kykategray]

Why do you feel the need to post just to say something derogatory? If you don’t like something that’s fine, not every product is for every person. Craft companies are businesses. The owners are normal people with families to support just like everyone else. I genuinely feel bad for you. Whatever you have going on, Jesus can help. He is the answer to every problem.

[@charlenekroells5326]

You explain everything so clearly. Thank you.

[@MayholicDesign]

I really enjoyed watching your video during my lunch break. Yay for another amazing tool! I'm seeing lots of uses for Grip Mats for my MISTIs! Kudos to Nina!!! I'm a big fan of Postage Collage from Waffle Flower Crafts, and your ways of using it were brilliant! I really appreciate your supporting small businesses, especially those who keep trying to bring out innovative products for crafters. We are so lucky to have you in this papercrafting industry. Love you!

[@debbiep4007]

I don't have a grip mat like this...i do have other sticky mats but i find them a bit too sticky (and my cards end up all bendy) so I really like the look of this and these gorgeous stencils etc. Sadly, such is the power of Jennifer, that they've all sold out before I even saw the video!!! I hope they'll come back soon! Thank you for all the useful info and guidance.😊

[@taniab2018]

This video is very informative & I appreciate the kind way you addressed the issue of folks being overwhelmed by all the 'new' stuff. I also got the 8.5x6.5 mat. One thing you didn't mention is that even with the same type of product category, some work better for people than others. I've got a disability (wheelchair user, with a bit of dexterity issues in my hands) There are some blending brushes I find really difficult to hold. I can't manage the Tim Holtz glass mat; it's too big & too heavy. And as much as I want a glimmer machine, I am not going to get one until I can try it out & see if I can manage the plate & not put myself at risk of burning myself. Just some examples! Not every tool is for everyone.

[@jennifermcguireink]

such a good point and i am sorry i didn't mention it! hugs!

[@taniab2018]

@@jennifermcguireink You're so sweet. I almost deleted my comment as I was afraid it sounded rude, which wasn't my intent. It is just a topic that often gets missed.

[@lindalanges7058]

Totally agree and thought you spoke very well Jennifer with relation to the new products that companies are always coming out with. It amazes me that it frustrates people so much. That's life. No one forces you to buy them all. Pick and choose - that's the joy of it and it's just one of the things I love about paper crafting😍

[@ashwrong6144]

I had all but given up on paper crafting after being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (in my hands and wrist mostly) in 2016 but thanks to all of the tools that make things easier for us crafters with limitations, I am back to crafting all the time! I own many Waffle Flower tools and they are top notch, along with all of their products. Something as simple as grip, which I no longer have, can keep me crafting for hours. Thank you!

[@patriciabonovsky1913]

Looking for the glue gun, that holds the bottle of glue.😊

[@donnatownsend5599]

Thank you so very much for sharing your thoughts,techniques and ideas for these great products. I have been following you for a very long time and I appreciate your honesty and integrity. You are a fantastic teacher and l have learned so much from you. I agree with everything you said about reviewing products and giving love to small businesses Please continue to do what you do. I believe it is needed and I also believe you are one of the best to continue educating. A giant hug 🫂 to you Jennifer. Be well and take care.

[@cynthiapowell-cobb2742]

Jennifer, I love your videos and the cards you create. I love what you said about all the products that are coming to market. I really admire your integrity. I am one of those people who have sometimes complained about so many products, but always in private. I try not to publicly criticize anything. As you mentioned no one is obligated to buy every new item. It’s an individual decision. (I know it’s hard sometimes. 😊) Anyway, great cards and information.

[@jennifermcguireink]

you are a class act, my friend!

[@whoooami2090]

Also, new things help us see what we can use from our stash. If you have a sticky mat you can cut up pieces of acetate and use it as a mask. I wouldn’t never have thought of that. Also, if you have a gel press, it might be similar as the sticky mat to use on your glass mat. It would be too think for a Misty. Just some ideas to uses what you may already have. I also wait for a while to buy the latest and greatest because someone will come out with something better. Be patient.

[@jennifermcguireink]

waffleflower.com/blogs/news/waffle-flower-grip-mats-vs-gel-plates

[@kimcarlisle1510]

You are so good with words! You always give us the pros for getting a new product AND options we have on hand that might serve the same purpose until we want to try the new ones or have the option to splurge. You are an angel to the industry and us your students! Thank you so so much.

[@junestengel18]

You started this "sticky mat craze" and look what has happened! 🤣 Thank you for your thoughts regarding new products, in general and your honesty about these new tools, specifically-- I trust your recommendations!

[@lisafoster7949]

Oh I am LOVING these grip mats! What I love the most is that they aren't disposable... just use it over and over with just a quick clean in between! Thanks Jennifer! I always appreciate that you show us new products! Even if it's not a product I need or want, It's still fun to see what's out there and how it works! :)

[@lisasisneros8200]

It can be overwhelming all the new products that are coming out, especially the unique tools that are new to the market. For us long time crafters it can feel like they keep reinventing the wheel, but we have to remember there are new people coming into the craft and stamping world that have never seen these things and are needing tools and products to get started. I still use some of my older tools that have good use left in them and don’t purchase new stuff until i have a need. It’s hard though, because all these products are so compelling and it’s hard to choose! Thanks for helping us navigate the industry with helpful insight and your ingenious engineering mind!

[@sherir4462]

Hi Jennifer! I so love your wit, humor and good old fashioned common sense! People don't have to purchase if they don't want to, but this is exactly what I've been hoping for! I also LOVE that you can throw a sticky mat on top of the Grip Mat (in the coordinating correct size Misti) and it holds the sticky mat still! It drove me crazy that my sticky mat jumped around ever so slightly! I bought a couple sizes of these Waffle Flower Grip Mats because with my neuropathy, I need all the help I can get holding things still! Hugs to you from MN!

[@jennifermcguireink]

YES! thank you! email me via my website - i would love to send yo a card :)

[@juliemirous2714]

I, too, was so excited to see these for the Misti.

[@ChrissieNicely]

Thank you, Jennifer! Since these are polymer, they could possibly be ideal for reverse stamping for larger stamps. You had probably already thought of that, perhaps you could try it for us, please? 😘🤩

[@jennifermcguireink]

yes i will!

[@toniarcher8850]

You have always been my go to artist for all things card making. Thank you for all you do for all of us that enjoy your amazing talent and all the work you do to help us understand the use of so many items. So grateful for you.

[@charlotteanderson3727]

Thank you, Jennifer, for another inspirational and informative video. I appreciate your demonstrating new items, not only so I can see them in action, but also because I am not typically aware of what's new. Keep up the great work!

[@janemason9215]

I love the positivity of your videos. I have found your recommendations to be excellent. Thank you for taking the time to try these things first so we don’t have so many product fails. I totally appreciate your time and effort.❤

[@lindamaxfield8786]

Your Mac and cheese comment was so funny. I was at the store today looking for pasta and passed all the different Mac and cheese products!

[@zlatkakabaivanova2954]

I love and appreciate not only that you are a brilliant card maker but also an amazing human! Thank you for both!

[@cthurbz5146]

Thanks so much for this video and how informative you are . I mostly appreciate the reminder that if what I have works, I don’t need to buy every new item that comes in the market. And as always, I just love every card you make!

[@abigailg.]

Brilliant idea to use the clear carrier to test the stamp placement! Wow!! Agree with the new products, thank heaven the craft businesses do the hard work and research to come up with helpful things. Of course, we can’t buy everything. Have to be selective. Thank you for your videos!!!

[@mzp6620]

This is the coolest thing I've seen in quite awhile. So nice to have something new to play with! Love it

[@leescraps1]

I love your review videos. I watch them and then I know whether I need it for my type of crafting or not. I can easily see if I’ll use the item or not. No you don’t need everything…and we don’t have time to craft with everything. I love new products and options.

[@patnorris3045]

Jennifer, you did a fantastic job explaining the new tools and the value each might present depending on the kind of stamper you are Thanks much!

[@kathleenflano8769]

Thank you Jennifer for your inspiration & thoughts. I have seen lots of videos on hot foiling, the stamp wheel, the letterpress, I see the beautiful cards made but I can see they are not for me. The price of bigger items here in Australia also a consideration. I have a few sticky mats & my Waffle flower silicone stencil mat with the corner which cover my current needs. I do have to say the aud$170 for the Tim holtz rotary cutter after much thought is a definite winner, no regrets at all. This new grip mat will go into my memory bank as a maybe in the future.

[@christeepascale4483]

My thanks for taking the time to test and review all the new tools and products! I am always curious whether or not the item in question suits my crafting style, needs, or budget. I find your videos inspirational. I learn something new or a new way to consider things in my stash each time I watch. For that I am grateful. Please keep up the good work.

[@lisataylor326]

I appreciate your honesty and taking the time to explain the reason behind new tools rolling out. You are absolutely correct too. As I am still navigating the different brands and tools, I need to find the ones that are going to work best for me and what I need. I appreciate all the different businesses for their ideas and their hard work. Thank you!

[@AnnetteGreen]

Thank you for this very thorough walk-through of this new product line. I appreciate you using the word grip rather than sticky and being very clear that there are times when you may need additional tape or a magnet to use this.

[@conniesanginesi4676]

I like this product. Just the mat, no need for confusing wheel type product. Most of us will appreciate having the sticky surface to hold our card stock. Also it’s affordable to boot.

[@CharleneDann]

Thank you for showing us what products can do, and for always being kind and positive.

[@sugarhillcrafter1044]

Jennifer, you’re a wonderful teacher and you always inspire me! Of course I had to preorder several of these new products from Waffle Flower because they are so well thought out. I also love that you never share products you don’t care for. I’m impressed that you could say “grip” and “grid” so frequently and always got it right! TFS, Joan Kappers

[@kiminalaska9363]

I was thinking the same thing about all the times Jennifer said grip and grid.

[@jirikir]

Nice.😂 leave a trail. You made me laugh😅

[@christinelatham5973]

Thanks, Jennifer, for showing us many of the uses for these sticky mats. I watched Nina’s video regarding these a day or two ago and became quite excited about this mat. I ordered several today and can’t wait for them to arrive. I have much respect for your opinion and appreciate the time you take to examine and play with the various new releases as they come out. I agree that we don’t necessarily don’t need every item that is introduced, but some are must haves. Have a blessed day and thank you for all you do!

[@barbaraharrold5361]

Jennifer, no one would expect you ever to promote anything for crafting without knowing that you gave it 110% test first. You are so well known in the crafting world that you say oh Jennifer Maguire, and everybody knows who you are, and we all know what you stand, for you are honest and sincere and a. Joy to watch and learn from. I agree I think people are very overwhelmed with so many tools coming out, and with the cost of everything in our world going up that sometimes I think people are overwhelmed. I’ll watch and see what the new tools are but I am one that says do I need it is it really going to make my life that much easier??? I think sticky mats are a great thing :-) but again, I think the cost of stamps going up dyes are getting outrageously, priced and bigger and better tools. It’s easy to get caught up in that I have to have or I need to have. I appreciate you always showing us the new tools and the new tricks, but most of all just watching you create beautiful cards is awesome. Tfs and God bless:)

[@cursivesmiles]

Thanks for sharing about this new tool, Jennifer! I haven’t gotten one of the photopolymer mats yet, but can see how they would come in very handy. I really appreciate how thoroughly you test new things and all the ideas you share for how crafters can use them! It’s like “stretching your supplies.”

[@user-mx6sh4rp8l]

very nice presentation. you said it well .i pass on anything that doesn't speak to me. i do want this product, i have been waiting for this. Jennifer, you have probably already thought of this, but I can see how wonderful this mat will help with reverse stamping too. Thanks for all that you do.

[@marykersch952]

This video was amazing. You answered so many questions that were so informational and I learned so much. Please don’t stop your live videos,you are so well informed and such a sweet person. We all love you.

[@barbborja1910]

Thank you for sharing your ideas and cards. I love seeing new products come to market in the paper crafting industry, especially new tools. Some I need immediately, some later on, and some just aren’t for me. Of course, some of those I end up needing after I see an awesome way to use them (paper pouncers with white pigment and embossing inks, for example). I don’t understand why people get upset about more options?! If you don’t want it, don’t buy it, but don’t hate on others who do like it.

[@kimk8255]

Another great video! Loved the products you demo’s and the cards you made with them!

[@melindahessel]

Great, thorough review! The new sticky mats look like they will work well for me and I’m excited to use them. I appreciate the effort these crafty companies put in to new products. When I watched the Waffle Flower video for these, I could tell a lot of thought was put into the design of this product. I also love the stencils and die you show in this video. Your cards are beautiful, as usual.

[@tonic2639]

So well said. I think these new things give us flexibility and choice in our crafting. And I think sometimes people forget that businesses do need to make money to survive, they aren't just trying to gouge us. Imagine a world without them... No thank you.

[@lisariva9432]

Hi Jennifer - this is such a helpful introduction. As someone relatively new to card making, your authenticity is incredibly helpful when it comes to figuring out what tools are right for me. Thanks for such a thoughtful review and your overall approach to this sort of thing!

[@ginaspears9168]

Loved this video for all the reasons you created it! Your words were so well said! Thank you for all you do for the crafting industry and us!

[@tereasashepherd5047]

I appreciate your comment about not buying every new item that comes out. I raised my family on an island with very little brand choice in anything. I just bought the same thing every time and life was easy. When I came to the US, I was so overwhelmed in the grocery that we just ate out most of the time. Until a kind man on a plane said he’d fix that for me. On a barf bag he wrote me a standard grocery list including the brand name of each item. I just bought the brands on his list for a very long time! Even now, I don’t look at all the possibilities. Even in crafting. Thank you for pointing out what should be obvious but really is hard.

[@anniesews]

Excellent video for using the Waffle Flower Grip Mat.

[@danitaoleary1013]

I love this video, thanks, Jennifer! I get what you're saying about not feeling like we have to have everything that is put out there in the crafting world. I know that I have to pick and choose what I really know I will use. For instance, I have decided not to get into foiling or letterpress. I have a ton of dies and several die-cutting machines. I don't feel like I can justify buying any more expensive products. If I want something foiled, I will use deco foil and my Minc machine, and I'm happy with that. I love that you show the new products and how to use them, and all of your wonderful ideas. I have been stamping for over 25 years, so you can imagine all of the things I have! At my age (68), I know I feel like I need to use what I have and limit myself to purchasing stamps and dies. Thanks for all you do!

[@MaryMoisan]

Thanks for this review, it helps when deciding if a new tool is right for me. I've actually had something like this for years, just never thought to use it to hold my stencils down. It's a 6x6 clear stamp mat from Purple Onion Designs meant for holding unmounted rubber stamps. Will definitely be testing it to see if it can do double duty 😉

[@pamelalanders2055]

You had me at photopolymer😂❤

[@deb52500]

My goodness you truly are the queen of details. I love that about you and all your reasoning behind why and how you do something. That is my personality too! It is as if you know how I process so I don’t have to ask the question!! You must be exhausted after you do a video after that much talking and details. Thank you for sharing, being you and keep being the queen of videos.

[@cpd7967]

This is why I watch your videos! I had not seen any of these items yet. You showed me several ways to overcome some of the problems I have been having in alignment, stamping tool, and stencils. Stamping since 1999 and over 75 I need to spend only on items I know will help me in more ways than one. THANK YOU.

[@missyleftrick5525]

I appreciate you taking the time to go in so much detail and give so many tips and examples!

[@elizabethmoore4358]

Thanks for all the helpful tips. I find using a white glass mat works better for me as I can see ink colours and use it for smooshing too! 😀

[@margaretalbrecht4429]

Such a useful and helpful tutorial for the grip mats! Many thanks!!! (Beautiful card inspiration as well!)

[@Cards4Cancer]

Very informative video. I appreciate that we can count on you for an honest review and you show us the short cuts.

[@katecresse881]

Love your humor. ❤️

[@denisecotter4669]

Thank you! I began my card making journey while researching stamping my own paper for scrapbooking. I stumbled across two amazing teachers right away: you and Tim Holtz. Years later, you are still my inspiration. Thank you for the quiet time spent creating along with your videos. ❤

[@kathleensmullen4767]

Thanks again Jennifer-I think this is the tool I have been waiting for I have not bought a sticky mat yet so will be looking into these. Wondering if you could use these mats like a gel plate for various techniques

[@Waffleflowercrafts]

Guess why they are completely smooth? ;) Let's give the creators more time to test the mats and share their creative ideas!

[@lutgart126]

Yes ! A gel plate, that's what I thought when I first saw this mat ! This mat looks very useful for stencilling en stamping. Maybe for printing too ?

[@meganvanderlinden6755]

@@Waffleflowercrafts Also mirror image stamping!

[@jennifermcguireink]

waffleflower.com/blogs/news/waffle-flower-grip-mats-vs-gel-plates

[@rtd1791]

I don’t believe crafters have a problem with truly innovative tools. Rather I believe we have a problem with products that only have slight variations being blitz marketed. The idea of a crafting mat even a grippy one isn’t new by any stretch of the imagination. They have literally been around for decades. So has graph paper, or even grids of various kinds on a transparency. How old is the Gelli Plate? 10+ years? And before that people were making gelatin printing plates way back in the 1800s. Photo polymers are slightly newer but still older than me. See? A grippy squishy mat is over a century old. Has Waffle Flower made enough of a change? That’s for the individual crafter to decide for themselves. You can try the idea out by just using the backside of a largish polymer background stamp. I have no doubt these mats will be all over social media. And from a consumer perspective that really feels no different than a hard sell from a car salesperson to use JM’s analogy. The problem really is the intensity of the marketing and the relentless pace of “new” releases. It’s no surprise that crafters feel overwhelmed. It’s really tough to get away from because we want to watch and be inspired by our favorite creators. We like, respect, and admire them and their talent far more than the products they use. I totally understand the appeal of these mats. They are very attractive but I have the experience and a pile of cool “new” tools that tells me that these mats aren’t different enough for me to spend money on. It takes awhile to learn who you are as a creator. I think too many creators buy tools to combat our fears about not having enough talent. I have that problem too. Hence the pile of tools I no longer use. But I have also learned that really what I need is to have patience with myself so that I can develop my artistic skills. An example of this is learning how to color shadows and highlights. I no longer have to buy layering sets & now I am no longer paying a premium on every layering set, and also I can now highlight and shade however I want. But that took time and patience and a willingness to accept not doing it well. The beautiful aspect of giving myself the grace to permit growth is that it has enhanced my creative freedom. We really have to have patience with ourselves. We may not be where a maker we admire is, but that doesn’t mean that we cannot get there. JM isn’t where she is today because of all the nifty products she has used, but rather because she has spent decades developing her skills and honing her creative courage.

[@jennifermcguireink]

i get it. i will say it isn't easy for a small business to develop, source, and make a completely new product. it is painfully expensive and somethign many of them can't do. but the funds are too much. so they do the best they can! and yes - use what you have if you are happy with it. As for the marketing, yes, the way these companies get the word out is on social media, videos, etc. They don't do commercials, most don't do magazine ads, etc. This is their way to marketing. happy crafting! :)

[@brooklynmidnightcrafter]

Thank you Jennifer for all your updates on new products & techniques. Have a safe day!

[@XenobiaF]

Oh, my goodness! You comment about brushing the tiny pieces onto the floor made me laugh so much! Thanks, I needed that.

[@susanbollinger2844]

Thanks for your input.

[@tammyvalley5909]

Thank you for your video. I appreciate you taking the time to think outside the box to show us more ways to use our products! You answered the questions I had about the grip mat and plan to preorder one for my mom and I. Have a wonderful weekend!😊

[@Anne28456]

Jennifer, you are the master crafter!!! Thank you for this detailed video. The stamps are absolutely beautiful!!

[@lindam8528]

Thanks for this information! I like this WF sticky mat much better than my old super sticky mat, and the 6x6” mat fits perfectly in my We R Memory Keepers Precision Press!

[@gingerphillips765]

You put a lot of work into your videos. THANK YOU

[@kristinevencel2898]

Thanks for your vote of confidence on this tool. I watched Nina’s video explaining why she wanted this tool. It made a lot of sense to me. I didnt find the Stamp Wheel a benefit me as i dont make wreaths, but this tool i was excited about. I even had my local store hold one for me. Your video just cemented my reasons. Thank you Jennifer

[@stefaniestaniak4329]

I love how you share the products that you love to use. And, you are so right about a product that doesn’t work for you-it doesn’t mean it a terrible product, it just means that for how you do things it doesn’t work. I have a group of ladies that I retreat with every year. During that retreat we experiment with each others “stuff”. It’s amazing how similar and yet how different we do things. It’s a lot of fun. I love the postage cards. Thanks for showing the techniques with the Waffle Flower products. I’m pretty sure they are going on my wish list!😊

[@canthony1900]

I absolutely LOVE watching you try new crafting things. It really helps me to decide if I want it/need or not. I also don't purchase them right away. I wait to make sure it's something that I could really use it.

[@jennifermcguireink]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@GirlGeekLovesStampin]

I agree with everything you said, it's just that (not just with crafts) America is a country that offers so many options that this presents a level of stress because we all must determine what the best options are for us - and we're never really sure if our decisions are the best ones (they are presented daily). This has shown itself to be a stress factor in US. I actually first noticed this when I moved back from France...the double row of potato chip choices at the US grocery store was a surprising example of the number of choices American's have in comparison to other places. All that said, you expressed wonderful tips to reduce that stress and to help us to NOT get overwhelmed. You're the very best of the best, and I will always choose watching your content - no matter how many other options there are on KZbin 😄!

[@annehedlund7333]

You are right up there with Laura on Garden Answer when it comes to integrity, high praise from me !

[@misscheesecake1952]

Thank you for giving your honest opinions. I have the Brutus monroe sticky grid, but I like to try new tools and this looks a good one. Thanks Jennifer love all your videos 😊

[@stephanieclapper6]

When I first saw this tool used,I was very excited. It seems I’ve shied away from stenciling,it felt cumbersome and I worried about proper placement. I feel lucky that I ordered the 6.5 x 8.5 because the other mats were out of stock. Lately I’ve been creating with colored cardstock and dies more than stamping for a variety. But ink blending and stamping are my other favorites. I’m grateful I haven’t used my new sticky mat before watching your awesome video! ( can’t wait to stencil now! 😊). Thank you Jennifer for a super helpful & fun video! 😊

[@usasstar]

I like the stencils they are all so colorful and u get many designs in one stencil. Love ❤️

[@paulienvandenbosch3857]

These sticky mat's have drawn my attention. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on them. I love tour cards. I think this bundle is so versatile and can be used in so many ways. I think this set make a great set to ask for my birthday. All the products are so well thought out. 👍

[@susanneville8910]

Thank you so much for all your help… can’t wait until the mats are available!

[@mummabearmarie1109]

LOVE THE STENCILS

[@charlenecundy1690]

❤ I appreciate what you’re saying Jennifer because for me I have been making cards since 2008. I love new tools I love things that make making cards easier , but honestly I feel like there’s so many people on design teams that just try and sell sell sell. everything that they say is “I just love love love this product it’s my favorite thing , I can’t live without it 😢 The feeling is they say those things to make you buy the product? and it gets to the point where you don’t really believe a lot of what they’re trying to sell you. I love how you said that you would not put something on your channel unless you truly believed in it. Thank you for all of your hard work and I know it’s hard work.😊

[@gtankersley]

I ordered this earlier, thank you for sharing your thoughts on it! Makes me even more excited to try it 😊

[@VickiStampedSmiles]

I just got my grip mat and didn't think about using the packaging for a mask! Love that helpful hint! Thanks for sharing!

[@c.smythe4806]

Thank you, Jennifer, for your detailed instructional videos! You are my “go to gal” for new product. 😀

[@sandrashaw8343]

Thank you for showing all the ways you can use these mats. X

[@tinaanglin1474]

Such a beautiful explanation about new products and tools, and a fabulous video as well. Thanks for all you share with this community of stamping enthusiasts!

[@WendyColeArt]

I really liked this demonstration. It's very helpful in deciding what to get or get you thinking what you can substitute that you already have. I like that they come out with new things, it's inspiring for me. Nothing to prevent us from finding cheaper alternatives like makeup brushes. I know they refine the process when making these tools so that they may work a little better or a lot better. Having dedicated tools is helpful though. I bought a large black grip gridded silicone mat and a smaller plain white one. Still I like these too and they are obviously very useful. Your demonstrations are so thorough and full of creative inspiration.

[@alisonneet3251]

Love this so much in my misti! I did put a plain piece of printer paper below the green grid so that the pink mat underneath doesn't confuse me. I cut the copy paper to match the size of the pad so that it doesn't interfere with the gripping around it.

[@kayfurnish8715]

I really like the idea of the grip mats for the Original Misti and the Mini Misti, which are the two I use the most. Even with a 'regular' sticky mat in my Misti I have to tape the mat and the pad so they don't shift, but with this system I won't have to do that anymore. Great job demonstrating these new products from Waffle Flower! Thanks, Jennifer!

[@dalesample8611]

Yea! I already ordered the size you recommended. I do a lot of stenciling and hope that it will be a great help for holding everything in place. That's for the tips!

[@julesl1436]

Great Video and Explantation. Thank you for that. Great Job. ❤❤❤

[@shellyrene5708]

I sincerely appreciate the detail you provide as new tools and products are introduced. I think for me this may be the answer to my layering stamp dilemma. As easy as layering stamps proclaim to be, 99% of the time they are a fail for me which is a shame - there are so many that are absolutely beautiful when the results as intended are achievable with minimal effort. If only said layering stamps were as simple as the many features added to stencils these days and multi-stamp and die cut products. Beautiful cards and of course I now want all the things.

[@terrimiller4978]

Thank you for showing us several ways to use this awesome new tool. It's so verstile!!!

[@alisonneet3251]

Really love your statements about options and the small businesses that work to help us play better!