Using two Gemini 2 plate sandwiches for 30 days and sharing the results

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[@SarahArnoldTheAccidentalArtist]

The magnetic plate is an incredible bummer! I liked it at first but it warped so fast that small dies could not even stay on with all the bumps and valleys. Thank you for doing this though, Really informative but won't buy another magnetic plate. Magic Mats warp too but last longer.

[@patticallihan8515]

Thank you Cathy for all your tips on the New Gemini 2 sandwich plates. I don’t think I will be changing my machine. I have the new spellbinders along with sizzix plus. Also a Gemini like the one you have been using. At 66 I think they will last me out now hun. Thank you for all your fantastic work 🌺🌸🌺🌸

[@jamiem_glimmers]

Great test! I love your way of testing to really compare things, it teaches us a lot. Can't wait to see what you think about the Empress!

[@czdesign]

I need to set it up! Maybe this weekend!

[@dianewolfsbauer6444]

@@czdesign me either! love my empress machine it is a real work horse! but I also have a few different machines.

[@kilchagoos4054]

The paper hairs make me crazy, especially for mass producing. Thanks for making me want another new tool. 😂 I have a Gemini Jr now.

[@charlirobinson1548]

I wanted a Gemini so badly. Finally bought one a couple years ago ... so very disappointed in it. Cuts great but warped the plates so badly they wouldn't go through. This after just a couple uses. I bought new ones. I thought they were a bit expensive. So I made my own sandwich, used a Magic Mat, and it's much better. I like this idea of changing the surface (green plate) Thank you!

[@tanyac9428]

I also had the regular Gemini. I purchase the double sided die plates to use and they still warped pretty much right away. I started using the Gemini junior plates with the double sided die ones and it works great. I just think the larger plates are just going to warp

[@charlirobinson1548]

@tanyac9428 ... but I've never seen them warp when Sara uses them on HSN crafting programs. Wonder why? Oh well ... I love my Big Kick, and I use it all most exclusively.

[@brendajones7756]

I have a Gemini and I'm trying to decide if I want to spend that kind of money for more plares. Hope they're worth it.

[@cropnkathy]

Very helpful video! Thanks Cath! Your time to try this out is very appreciated. Happy Friday! ☺️

[@anne-marierobinson6833]

Mine warped like yours after the second time I used it. Followed instructions via a Gemini website demo, different instruction on how to use the plates; extremely disappointing….. Here in UK the plates are really expensive. :( I’ve spent £60.00 on replacing the magnetic plate, clear plate and two white plates. I enjoyed your video. Thanks for comparing the two sizes. I really regret buying the Gemini 2. Wish I went for something smaller. Totally wasted on me.

[@czdesign]

Yeah, the big ones just did not work for me at all. And the plates are expensive here too! I switched to the Anna Griffin Empress.

[@anne-marierobinson6833]

I think they changed the way the laser works with the white plates. I’m still learning ….

[@Integrity02]

those green plates are expensive to have to replace and that magnetic plate is crap. It gets so warped soooo fast! I cut out a few dies at a time and just a few times later those dies slide all over

[@pamelagoblish4384]

I was gifted the gemini ♊️ and have been using it for 2 weeks but i am not sure i like it. I have horrible cut lines in my plates and these cut lines leave the worst impressions on my cardstock on the things I am die cutting. I cannot give away my cards with these horrendous cut lines. I did not have this problem with my original Gemini. I thought the Gemini ♊️ was supposed to be an improvement. When I got it, I gave a friend my Gemini. What a huge mistake. 😢. I hate this machine. What am I doing wrong? The plates should last longer than 2 weeks. I have only made 30 cards. My gemini plates lasted much much much longer. 😢

[@czdesign]

If I were you, I would contact Gemini or whoever you purchased from and see what they say. One thing I have always done is keep one top plate clean (meaning, do not cut into one, so it always goes on top). I do that with every one of my die cutting machines and plates. You can keep flipping the bottom plate, but keep one plate clean!

[@PRReynaud]

Thanks for the test! I’ve been using the JM way in my Gemini Jr. ever since I saw it about a year ago. I was so frustrated with the regular plates warping even though I alternated like you did. Do you know if the new smaller white plates will work in the Jr.?

[@czdesign]

That i have not tried!

[@jerralynrose]

I have inoperable carpal tunnel syndrome that flares up and down in both wrists and tendonitis/bursitis in both shoulders. I have had to change my card making style because of this, and have moved to a heavy die cut one instead of colouring. My old Cuttlebug and Big Shot have seen better days, and I had been looking to getting an electric Gemini Jr. so no cranking! This video really helps the decision making process on which direction to go. Thanks for sharing, Cathy!

[@mpbailey18]

Be sure to check out the newest Sizzix electric machine too...called the Switch. I too have a Big Shot, and when it gets retired, I'm thinking I'll stay with Sizzix...less of a learning curve, plus all my big dies will still work, along with the Glimmer Foil system!

[@jerralynrose]

@@mpbailey18 Thanks so much for the info! I never thought of that, it working with our Glimmers too. Excellent point.

[@Cards4Cancer]

Thanks for testing these out for us Cathy. I trust you so know it's true. I have the larger original Gemini, do they have green plates for those?

[@czdesign]

Yes they do! I found that just using the larger plates that came with, there was too much warping, so I went with the smaller ones, but i did not try that sandwich with the larger plates.

[@angelasprouse4992]

I wonder why they decided to make the plates white instead of clear. I prefer the clear as I can make sure my dies don’t shift before cutting (I’m lazy and don’t like to tape lol). Thanks for this informative video!!

[@czdesign]

I don't know! good point though

[@kmjobrien62]

I have both and Gemini 2 and my clear plate is warped very bad I can’t even use it trying to reach the company I’ve emailed them no response I’ve called and it rings then a answer customer service 3 and then a recording this mail box is full I’m not happy with service

[@czdesign]

That is a bummer to hear. Sigh. Keep trying.

[@avrawilliams8675]

When I tried the green plates sandwich with my Gemini Jr, I didn't have a problem with warping but I did have a problem with the green plates chipping, a lot! and I don't die cut nearly as much as you or Jennifer. I figured out how to make the magic mat work for me pretty well, so that will have to do until my Gemini dies someday and I replace it with an Empress or other machine. Thank you for your comparison video!

[@czdesign]

I did not have that issue until I started using them on the Gemini II, which I think has more pressure and I noticed pieces were chipping.

[@amyt6254]

This is such a great idea for a video! I can’t wait to see the results in a month! Thank you for sharing!

[@cathymosier3283]

Hi Cathy, I’m just wondering why after doing this test you’re now using a different system. Is it better or just different?

[@czdesign]

Well, I wanted to try the Empress because I figured I should know all of the various machines that people use. Only because this is part of my job to be able to answer questions and so I wanted to try out another machine.!

[@jo-annstoneham1813]

Thanks Cathy for sharing this with us. I appreciate it. 🇨🇦

[@GRACIENOEL]

HELP! My machine is not only cutting but is "embossing" where there are open spaces. My paper is wrinkled!!!!

[@czdesign]

What kind is your machine? You may have too much pressure. : )

[@GRACIENOEL]

@@czdesign it is a Gemini II after watching your video I watched another video from Crafters Companion. I believe I was using too many plates. I washed following the book that came with the machine and apparently I misunderstood or something. I’m going to try it again today and see what happens. You’re so kind to respond to my attempt at getting help. I appreciate that. Have a blessed day.

[@gigigirl6898]

I don’t have a Gemini. Enjoyed the video anyway

[@dianewolfsbauer6444]

I am a little confused, about the plates you are using with the green plate, do you have a link to that full sandwich from Jenniffer? I have the original Gemini medium machine .. are the green plates you are using called Gemini II Accessories - Cutting Plates for Double-Sided Dies??? do they work in the old gemeni?

[@czdesign]

Yes, the link to Jennifer's video, where i learned about the green plates is in my description. The white plates are new Gemini 2 cutting plates. I do not know if they work in the old machine. And yes, they are Cutting Plates for Double Sided dies.

[@dianewolfsbauer6444]

Thank you so much, and love your cards!@@czdesign

[@debbystewart4554]

Thanks for sharing your test results. I have a Gemini Jr and have been using Jennifers method, but find I like using my OLD electric Big Shot Express better, but my die cuts on it are very “hairy”. I’m VERY interested in reading your findings on the Empress. I have been considering purchasing the smaller one.

[@mjngltn]

Have you tried the Gemini II plates with the Gemini Jr.?

[@czdesign]

No, not yet! I don't have enough outlets in my craft room to have all the machines plugged in at once!

[@cindyn3383]

You would think they would figure how to get less warping, but then they wouldn’t sell as many plates. I wish I had bought a different machine. My first plates and magic mats warped immediately using the sandwich crafters companion suggests.

[@czdesign]

I had issues with the magic mat too. Now? I use it for a mouse pad!

[@czdesign]

Also, check out the Empress from Anna Griffin. I switched to it five months ago. It's fantastic for not warping.

[@cindyn3383]

Yes I recommended that to my niece and she bought it and loves it. 😊

[@BiteSizedCrafter]

The “Okay I lied” pop up made me giggle. My sense of humor is broken. Anyway.. Glad to see that Jennifer’s sandwich worked better. Goes to show that sometimes companies don’t know their product as well as the customers who use it.

[@patricianicholls1093]

Do you think you could tell me where you got the lazy Susan? I didn’t see on Amazon?? Thank you

[@pebblesstleonards]

Not sure the green plate method is advantageous as you needed to replace it (having used both sides) after 30 days worth of die cutting... whereas the white plate in recommended sandwich is still as good as ever, even though it was bowed after the same amount of cutting. The magnetic mat is warped as it was in the wrong place but, as others have said, it does seem odd having it above the clear shim!

[@czdesign]

Yeah, i guess the reality is… plates do have to be replaced, you know?

[@pebblesstleonards]

@@czdesign Indeed, but what fun is had in the meantime! 🤗

[@LisaVornhagen]

That was really interesting. I was wondering what the results would be. Looks like your way (Jennifer's way) is the way to go.

[@deballen7031]

Hi. Interesting, something to bear in mind should I ever decide to get a Gemini. Thank you for sharing this and have a good weekend.😊

[@suzanherrington8316]

😊❤😂

[@patriciawilson4135]

What a great demo. Seems JM's sandwich works great. Thanks for sharing these findings.

[@kimberlywalker280]

Very helpful!😃

[@trudievick2359]

Thanks so much for sharing this info and showing how you did it. Really appreciate it.

[@krisvanallen]

Omg that new Gemini has flip down platforms! No more m!ing sure it is flat when it goes in and falling out the back!

[@krisvanallen]

I do like my Gemini Jr but there is no way I can get that sandwich Jennifer uses.

[@Via_Von]

Thank you, Cathy! I bought the Gemini Jr. and the swivel you had it on after watching your videos with it. I do like the size of the Gemini Jr., it's minimal noise (well I need hearing aids so that could be why it's not terribly noisy! 😂😂😂) and it cuts well, but those plates warping have been the bane of my die cutting joy! 😥 I tried the two plates taped system you showed because I saw it on Jennifer's video ... but my machine needed various shims, depending on the dies ... so once again, I was getting warping on those. I discovered, by accident that the Sizzix Chrome Precision Plate, and their Embossing plate from the duo set, sandwiched with the two Gemini green plates between, gives me perfect cutting results and no warping so far. I'm not sure if it's the metal precision plate that's giving it that stability, but I will take it! 🤷🏼‍♀️🤞🏻❣️

[@czdesign]

Oh love that discovery!

[@maryslominski7984]

Can you put the plates in sideways?😊

[@czdesign]

Yes!

[@robinlane9306]

This was excellent! So helpful. Thank you!

[@julieb737]

I have the original Demi I but I don’t have the green plates . What are they ?

[@czdesign]

They are used for Gemini Double Sided Dies. I have never used a double sided die in my life. But I learned about these from Jennifer McGuire.

[@julieb737]

@@czdesign I’ve got a couple of them but not the plates . Guess they’ll never get used .

[@kathypatterson4630]

I did enjoy this. I've been waiting to see the results. Thank you!

[@meredithgreene4817]

Hi Cathy! I have the big shot. How does the (4) plate system you use fit through the machine? Do the plates that typically come with the Gemini have that same thickness? I can’t fit the (4) plate method in my manual Big Shot. Am I doing something wrong or is it just the limitations of what the Big Shot can do? Thank you fir this experiment!

[@czdesign]

I do not know how to answer as I don't have a big shot! So sorry!

[@DrCynPizzulli]

Extremely informative thanks so much. I've been waiting to replace my decades old Cuttlebug but still can't seem to make up my mind. Hoping you'll test the Empress for us as well.

[@czdesign]

Yes, i plan to set up up next week!

[@dianewilley9024]

I don’t see the purpose of having a magnetic mat. Using the recommended sandwich it doesn’t seem that it helps in maintaining the position of the die on the paper.

[@czdesign]

I'm not 100% sure. But i followed the sandwich from the manual. : )

[@elizabethnovak4951]

I think you are to place your dies right on the magnetic plate so they’ll stay arranged (no tape needed), with cutting edges up, and then put the mag mat die side down to your cutting plate.

[@marihanson605]

I thought the same thing!

[@craftycs8917]

Hi thanks for sharing your findings . Happy Crafting x

[@lisagardner1644]

Loved seeing the results. Thank you for this follow up comparison. Have you used your AG machine yet?

[@czdesign]

Not yet! Still in the box and I'm hoping to open it soon. I just have some other deadlines first!

[@dianebowen5373]

So which sandwich will now be your go to? I am assuming it is the one with the green plates aka JM recommended. I also got the Gemini II because I am leaning towards 5x7 sized cards, and there are some things that don't fit on a regular sized machine, but also don't need the full size plate for most diecuts.

[@czdesign]

Well, it's a good question. Mostly the green plate one. But… the one Gemini recommends does make fabulous cuts. You just have more warping of the bottom plate you cut into!

[@tinadaniels3965]

Thank you..really appreciate the information.

[@kath9713]

I'm really glad i found your video. I love my Gemini ll but using all those plates is a huge pain in the tush! I am definitely going to tape green plates together like you have shown. Seems so much easier! Thank's so much

[@czdesign]

It really does make a difference.

[@melissaklepser1166]

I use the same size plates that you use with my Gemini II but I use the magic mat. The only difference is I put my plates through landscape (or whatever they’re other direction is called sideways not long ways). I wonder if that would change your results. I did this with my old Gemini I do have to flatten magic mat occasionally. But I’m sure you use yours more than I do so I thought you might like to give it a try. Just curious.

[@czdesign]

I tried a magic, Matt a few times, and I had to reheat it almost every time the warping was so dramatic. I may have been using it wrong.lol

[@judyhosch672]

Can these Gemini 2 plates work in the Gemini Jr. ?

[@czdesign]

I will have to try it out! I don't know! I would guess, but… not sure!

[@judyhosch672]

Thank you Kathy :)

[@Taitcreates639]

Very interesting, Where can I get the white cutting plates from, I have the Gemini jr, and the green double sided plates already.

[@czdesign]

In the description there is a link to the crafter's companion website. I believe Simon Says Stamp will be carrying them too, but I could not foind a link for the small ones.

[@BiteSizedCrafter]

Off topic comment: I love that you all shout out and help each other. The card making community is so wholesome. :)

[@czdesign]

It really is! A lot makers uplift and support one another. I love that, too!

[@KathyLuvsPaper]

I still use my cuddlebug after 12+ years with the original plates. I think it’s either the size of the plates or what they make them out of.

[@czdesign]

That is amazing!

[@marybaure8440]

Is the rotating design board by Totally Tiffany? Thank You for all your tips and tricks!

[@czdesign]

Yes, it is!

[@lucindaschubert9109]

Thanjs for the video. Very interesting.

[@bertas-cards]

Looks like they haven't improved their plates with this machine either. Your machine looks like it has a lot of pressure. I like that it is quieter and has the plate platform to prevent the plate from dropping to the floor. Great test & review Cathy.

[@czdesign]

It has a lot of pressure for sure. and is quieter. I think the other sandwich is just going to warp on the cut side no matter what.

[@ThankfulNanaDiane]

Thanks for the great info. When are you doing the ham sandwich test? 😂😉😝

[@czdesign]

Hahahah. Well, first i need different cheeses and breads. Then I'll get back to you!

[@jodiclausen4663]

Thanks so much for all of your very helpful info. I have reached a point where I am in desperate need of an electric die cutting machine and your videos are very informative. Been die cutting since that tiny 2x2 Quickutz was “the one”😂. Being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017 & having a bilateral mastectomy has sadly changed my die cutting forever…. I honestly can’t even use my beloved Platinum anymore due to complications & pain from surgeries. Never thought that would change my everyday creating but it has. I have been weighing options for a couple years, which is difficult on a very limited budget. My favorite designs are dimensional mixed media. I have a ton of dies & can pretty much create most anything with them (again, on a low budget you get used to using what you have & that’s fine with me😊). Since you have used multiple machines what do you recommend? I think I would need at least 6x9. Thank you so much ❤

[@czdesign]

As of today? I would 100% recomment the Anna Griffin Empress for an electronic machine. You can often find great deals at HSN if you keep an eye out!

[@jodiclausen4663]

@@czdesign Thank You!!

[@charlenedunne137]

Have you used the magic mat? My plates look fantastic.

[@czdesign]

I tried it and it warped really badly… like, i had to heat it every day to flatten it so i figured it wasn't meant to be. Do you use it with your Gemini?

[@elinstengrimssen9566]

Thank you for this Cathy but what do you use to rotate you Gemini machine I just love that idea

[@czdesign]

I have a Rotating Design Board: ldli.co/e/3op67ze

[@Vgudorf]

I have a full sized Gemini I machine, which I bought on clearance from the now defunct Tuesday Morning many years ago. It was packaged as a quilter’s edition with dies and plates meant for cutting fabric. I bought it for paper crafting, but it did not perform the way the Gemini machine was touted to perform. It failed to cut completely through ordinary paper (65lb), no matter which sandwich I used that came with the machine. Very dismaying and disappointing. So I went back to using my old Big Shot, and then later purchased a Big Shot Plus machine, which had crazy pressure, and cut through just about anything. After watching a couple of later videos for the Gemini, which featured more updated plates (clear plastic cutting plates, translucent plastic shim, metal shim, and magnetic shim), I purchased all those items, thinking I just didn’t have the right kinds of plates and accessories for paper cutting. But, I’ve yet to get satisfactory cuts from this machine, and I’m loosing patience. I just tried using the plate taping method Cathy demonstrated in this vid, and after watching pretty much the same thing from Jennifer McGuire, I STILL don’t get clean cuts from intricate dies using metallic card stock, unless I add the translucent plastic shim, It just won’t cut all the way through. It seems to lack pressure in the middle section of the cutting sandwich. I’m not spending another dime buying plates for this machine, so I give up. I’d like to try the new Gemini machine, but I’m not confident that I won’t run into the same issues. I want a new die cutting machine because my old plus machine isn’t nearly as tight as it once was, and I’m experiencing joint issues now that I’ve aged, so cranking a manual machine poses problems. Has anyone else had such issues?

[@audregaer3281]

There is a very thin metal shim for intricate dies that might help. From what you say, though, you might have actually purchased a ‘lemon’.

[@dianehunter3034]

I recently purchased the Anna Griffin Empress die cutting machine and I like it better than my Gemini Jr. the magnetic mat holds the dies in place quite well and the machine is much quieter. Jennifer has a video on die cutting machines that you could watch.

[@roselyman7138]

Very informative video as always Cathy! Did I miss the link to Jennifer “the goat” McGuire?

[@czdesign]

In the description!

[@roselyman7138]

@@czdesign thank you Cathy, sorry for the interruption…how did I miss that! Too anxious to see the supplies you used! LOL.

[@lisaspiers5723]

Great info! Thanks:)

[@suesmith2353]

Thank you for testing the products for us. I have tried the Jennifer/Cathy cutting plates and I love them. It amazes me how the green plates keep the white plates from wrapping. Love it ❤

[@czdesign]

They really do! It's kind of amazing. Of course, you have to replace those green plates but the lack of warp? Fabulous.

[@brendajones7756]

Are the double sided plates worth the cost? They are pricey.

[@marieroecker9590]

Thank you for sharing.

[@julieb737]

What did you use to stick your plates together ?

[@czdesign]

It helps with the warping. In my opinion.

[@patricianicholls1093]

Oh found it

[@feliciawold2363]

thanks for this video!! super informative!!!

[@czdesign]

Glad it was helpful!

[@743linda]

Thanks for the experiment! Lots of good info!!!

[@czdesign]

Thanks for watching!

[@janinebryan8703]

Where do you get the green ones and what are they called?

[@joycegifford8826]

Amazingly enough there is a link in the description. Cathy even flashed this fact on the screen for everyone to read.

[@czdesign]

Yes, in the description! there are links for you!

[@kayfurnish8715]

The first time I ran my plates thru my Gemini Jr I could not believe how it curved my top plate! Then I watched Jennifer's video and immediately ordered the green plates and followed her 'recipe' for the sandwich. What a difference!! I've had to replace a couple of green plates because I used them so much, but even after a couple of years my JM system is still barely warped a tiny bit. Thanks for sharing the results honestly!