Haven’t purchased it. Wouldn’t mind winning it 🤣. Seriously tho, glad it can be used with the glimmer (at own risk) but the paper, that’s a bit on the steep to nuts side.
Justine, it’s more like something I picked up a second one of because I use my first so much is the Make Art Station by Wendy Vicchi. It’s a great portable surface to do most anything in paper crafting on. The purchase that I feel like I could definitely do without is the Stampwheel. The actual work surface is smaller than I expected and it’s odd shape makes it awkward to store.
Haven't purchased it yet but I am leaning that way. My concern is how much will I use it and I am one of those people who wants it all. Could be more than I want to spend. Hope I win one.
Justine, thank you so much for providing this honest review. I completely agree with you, as you hit on my biggest concern the affordability on the long run and how much use I will get out of this investment versus the embossing folders, the 3-D embossing folders, or just overall pressing a stencil into Cardstock. Plus, I honestly don’t think that any of my card recipients will even care to notice. Watching your video convinced me that this is not a tool I need at all, because as you stated it’s going to require more supplies in order to make more use of it. I have my hot foil machine and plenty of 3-D embossing folders to play and create gorgeous cards that make me happy to mail out.
I just like using my embossing folders. When I ink the folders up they make beautiful backgrounds. I can’t see the added expense of this machine and the dies it requires.
I add a ditto! I have discovered that just shy of age 60 I probably have ADHD and I am an IMPULSIVE buyer. I started buying card making supplies and had an "ah-ha" moment the other day when I saw how much money I'd spent as a hobby demonstrator for Stampin Up. If I add what I've spent on Spellbinders and other manufacturers I was overwhelmed (mostly with sadness). All that to say - I was proud of myself when I had a moment of clarity and decided during the celebratory hype to PAUSE. . .and really ask myself the questions raised here in the video. I am NOT going to buy this gadget. It is hard but I have to stop buying and do massive creating😂
I have a BetterPress and agree that the inks and paper are quite expensive. I tried using watercolour paper with terrific results. I also experimented with Catherine Pooler inks and again, the final product was beautiful. I've always loved the look of letter press so that is what prompted me to buy the machine in the first place. Looking forward to seeing what plate designs they develop in the future.
Thanks for commenting on using Catherine Pooler inks. I haven’t seen comments about these inks yet with the Betterpress. How would you rank them compared to the specific ink for the Betterpress? Really close? Bleeding/lack of crispness?
@@erinwood4968 I have also experimented with the Catherine Pooler and Concord & 9th inks. My results were mixed. With the BetterPress inks I get crisp, consistent results every time -- no bleeding or splotchy results. For plates with larger surface areas, i.e. A Note from Me to You or Thank You, I've found that re-inking and running the plate through twice gave perfect coverage. I keep my CP and C&9 pads very well inked, which as it turns out may not be the greatest for the BetterPress. Too much dye ink on the plates created pooling, which gave me splotchy lines with lighter and darker areas, as well as some bleeding and spidering. I admit I am a perfectionist. Close is just that in my book. Given the cost of the paper, I'm not all that willing to experiment when I am unlikely to use the close but not as good imprint. If I were willing to experiment more, I am sure I could improve my results. But what bothers me may not bother you and you might have great results. Others do! I saw that Jennifer McGuire suggested using firm (not foam) dye ink pads, like Altenew, Gina K or Simon Says Stamp for example, but I haven't given those a go yet.
@@erinwood4968 I used my Catherine Pooler inks with a very light hand and the image came out crisp on watercolour paper. The Betterpress ink is better but in my opinion, I find the difference rather small.
I REALLY REALLY appreciate your honesty in providing a review of this system. Your STAMP approach is inspired….gives the crafter an unbiased yet holistic view of the scope and the machine. Well done and many thanks Justine 👏🏻👏🏻
I went down this road with the Fiskers Fuse letter press machine, eventually it was discontinued. It was an expensive well made machine with really simple plastic letter press images, it looked promising but never really took off. I’m sticking to dies, stamps and embossing folders. I don’t hot foil either.
Dollar signs are my issue. I think this machine gives a sophisticated effect but like foiling not in my budget. Maybe in time if there are a lot of dies that work on both the letterpress and foil machines it will seem more affordable for both letterpress and foiling. But not yet! P.S. I’m enjoying your sunflower set. My mother is 97 with macular degeneration but still wants to create cards. I made up a bunch of sunflowers and leaves for her and she was really pleased. They are nice and big and it doesn’t matter if the are put on a card crooked🙂. I spend a lot of time trying to figure out things that are easier for her but still make one of the beautiful cards she is known for.
I have the Betterpress and I love it. I was never into water coloring before but I find the images very easy to watercolor and they look awesome. I think the fact that you can hot foil with the dies as well makes the cost a bit easier to take. Also Spellbinder is starting a monthly subscription for the Betterpress which is a great deal and I will be signing up for that.
WPlus9 just posted a video on this product. She does go through the other inks that are compatible, and being able do use the plates for hot foiling. Personally, I would like to see more plates come out before deciding if it's for me.
Hello Justine - a lot to think about - and I love your honesty when it comes to reviewing new crafting tools - you actually spent your own money and they didn’t send you the better press. I have a lot to think about before going out to purchase it. Plus it’s expensive, not yet available here in Canada. Love your videos and learning so much from them ♥️♥️
I purchased the Betterpress and am very satisfied with it and the potential. I’m thrilled that the plates work with the glimmer machine and they do an excellent job
I bought one with the same reservations you’ve outlined. I got lots off heavy cotton paper on Amazon and also watercolor paper too. Happy as a clam with the results. I do agree that the image impressions are subtle. Most of my images have ended up inside my cards or on the envelopes so far. Really hoping for an alphabet in new releases. Catherine Pooler inks have been great too. Also Ranger archival. Thanks for your thoughtful review for all kinds of crafters on a variety of budgets.
Justine, I truly appreciate your reviews. I have been vacillating on purchasing the Betterpress. And your review has provided additional points to consider!
Thank you, Justine! Your STAMP analysis is perfect; it answers all the questions. I’ve enjoyed all your videos, and like your newish non-influencer approach. It’s exactly what we all Ned.
I haven’t purchased one as I too saw bigger $$ signs coming. Having said that. This is a great machine for a group of people who are not able to buy individually. Great video!
What a great idea of using it in a group format! It looks portable so can come along to various small group crafting events and the cost of material can be shared!! ❤
The better press plates give a beautiful result when used with the hot foil system.... and I also used an intricate cutting die on the better press, with quite nice results using versafine clair inks already in my stash...
As soon as this came out I thought it would be too expensive to use for something that might look nice but not really necessary. I appreciate your review and it was what i thought when I saw it. I am glad you are telling the honest truth and not just trying to get people to buy it. If someone likes it great, but this is not for me. I need to use the supplies I already have more ... rather than get something else.
Thanks for your honest review. I will likely be waiting until Christmas to purchase this machine. I tend to create more “elegant” style cards and this will fit right in, but I’m not in a huge rush because I’m still having a great time with my foil machine. I may start purchasing the plates for the Better Press sooner since they are compatible with both. For those who complain about foiling, not everyone has the same budget or is in the same place in their creative journey. What else can you learn from the video? In most cases a heat embossed image would work in place of the foiling. I personally don’t care for critter stamps. I don’t complain when my favorite content creators use them. I just enjoy the video and if I learn something new or am inspired by something else, fantastic. If not, I still got to see my favorite creators. Forgot to mention that Dawn W of WPlus9 just did a video showing additional things that can be done and other products that can be used if you are interested.
Justine I love the way you are honest about how the machine has pros and cons without trying to persuade us either way! The review gave me quite a few things to consider including budget! I will continue to weigh the pros and cons of the machine! Thank you! ❤
Hi Justine. Great job on the review! When I first saw the video introducing this tool, I really liked it. After initial thoughts of purchasing it, I decided against it because of the expense aspect. I have so many crafting supplies that I don’t use enough & want to stop continually adding to my list of tools to use. I have listened to you saying that we need to use what we already have & I’m trying to follow that good advice 😃 Thanks for the honest review ❤️
Thanks for the frank, honest review with both pros and cons. Personally I would be using the machine for my own creative enjoyment as I have always simply loved the look of letterpress - and if the recipient notices that's great. If not no problem....I'll have had my creative fun.
Thank you, Justine, for an honest opinion of this product. The fact that you purchased the product for your review as opposed to being sent one by the company makes me trust your opinion even more. I have never been one to jump on the latest products immediately (I only purchased my Glimmer machine a few months ago) and I don't think this one has enough benefits for me to want one. I think Spellbinders is a great company but this product doesn't offer me enough to make me want one. Thanks again for your review.
I also am an owner of a previous Letterpress machine. We R Memory Keepers had one. Because I am not much of a purger, (sadly, not enough) I still own the machine and ALL of the plastic letterpress plates they designed to be used with it. I actually stopped using mine because I hated the ink system. But I’m thinking of trying the Spellbinders ink on my old system. Much more efficient. The other system used tube ink and a roller. Very messy. I’m glad Spellbinders came out with this new system because it has motivated me to blow the dust off of my old one. I probably have more than 30 sets of dies for it! Thank you for this video Justine. We have all come to trust the impartiality of your reviews. I may still consider the purchase. I’ll see how the other machine works coming out of Retirement. They also sold the same paper (which I still have ) as well as matching envelopes.
I think this is by far the best and most thorough review on the Betterpress! I still want to purchase it, and I'm super excited that you mentioned that the Press Plates can be used in the hot foil machines! And finally, of all the reviews on Betterpress that I've seen, your close ups at 1:33 are AMAZING!!! I can totally see the texture. Thanks for the generous giveaway!!!!!!!!!!!
My art group reached the same conclusion, and we spend hundreds if not thousands on craft supplies. I think the Better Press machine is wonderfully engineered. A lot of thought went into it, more so than the glimmer machine, and the resulting images are exquisite. But there are limited avenues for creativity, and that is the line in the sand for me. I am not a card copier, I work in multiple medias including fine art, and there have only been a few BP plates so far that have intrigued me. I did but Spellbinders November 2023 BP Moroccan tile, but will use it on my glimmer machine. There is a lot that can be done with that one.
Justine, thank you for this honest review. I feel better listening to a review from someone that has purchased the product then all the reviewers that have been given product. It’s hard for me to listen to them fawn over everything.
It is a strange phenomenon in our industry that only the pros are discussed. But I’ve done videos on things I won’t be buying and have been completely blacklisted from companies so that would be the reason for the “fawning”. Don’t get me wrong, the results are nice, but is this the best thing ever invented? Not really 😂 will I be buying more plates and using it? Probably. Especially for the hot foiling.
@@justinehovey thank you for setting a standard I prefer. I have a ver small channel and make all my purchases, one lady told me I was being harsh in one of my reviews. I said sorry but it’s my money and if a product doesn’t meet my standards I have to be honest. Keep it up I love watching your all your videos.
Thanks for your honesty. I am sick to death of all of the influencers dedicating their content to foiling & letterpress. I have neither $ or interest in doing either of those techniques.
Thank you for your review. I am impressed that you purchased the item for the review and did not have it sent to you. I rarely believe reviews where the company sent the items to the reviewer. No matter how “honest” a reviewer purports to be, they are always swayed by wanting the company to continue sending freebies. Your review is very persuasive.
Thank you for your honest, comprehensive review! I think it would add an elevated quality to my cards, but the expense of all the required products would not be practical for me. I am disappointed-I would love it. 😢
I have been considering getting a BetterPress machine and I thank you for your honest Spellbinders BetterPress Review: Pros, Cons and for the chance to win your amazing giveaway. I want to wish everyone good luck for those of you who have entered.
Thank you for this honest and real review. I really didn't think I needed another "machine" and after watching your video I know I don't need this. I have a hard enough time keeping up and picking and choosing new stamp and die releases each month with all my favorite brands.
Good review Justine. The machine is definitely affordable, the add ons are the moneymakers. Just like most tools that require additional items to make things. The tools are inexpensive but the add ons are where the manufacturer makes the $$$$$ there will always be something new for us. Crafters are always looking for the next cool machine. We have that “ I’ve got to have that mentality”. It’s to bad this unit wasn’t introduced prior to the foiling machine then it would be a great option. I myself will not be purchasing it. I have a few friends that got it and I’ll go visit and play.
I was debating because I live the look.. am on a budget and won’t invest in foil plates either. Not worth it to me. Your review really helped out. Thank you.
Thank you for your honest opinion on the better press. When I saw your video review, I knew it would be an honest opinion, as opposed to other influencers that are trying to get us to purchase every new tool.
Excellent revue. The most important part of what a teacher needs to do. Is to impart the WHY!. Why we do what we do. Why is the most important step of teaching/creating, IMO. You do it very well. Thank you
Thanks so much for the pros & cons info, Justine! Very honest and helpful. You mentioned perhaps other companies would be offering product. Well, I just got something from ALTENEW regarding their new "press plates" from their "brand new Better Press Collection" i.e. Dainty Flower Garden with sentiments!
Thanks for sharing your honest opinion. Very helpful! For now I'm going to pass on the Betterpress. If I were to invest in a new tool, it would be an electric die cutting machine. That would save me time and my wrists would love it!
A good, well thought out and balanced critique. The only way I'd buy the Betterpress or the hot foil machine is if they were from someone who is destashing. My reasoning is that it's too easy to go down the rabbit hole when you're an early adopter of new tools. Just too much stuff to buy.
Great review!! It also helped to get over my thinking that I needed it. If you own the Glimmer machine, and I do, it is advertised as Hot Foiling-Letterpress right on the box and in the instructions. There are some videos on how to use it that way. I might invest in some letterpress plates for foiling if I like the design. I already have used dies to foil and stamp as well. Make the most of what you own. You saved me some $$ and also having to hide it from my husband in the craft room!😉
I wasn't able to jump initially. BUT... your last point or closing debate is what has created my stall. We now have 3D and Multi level, (Tim Holtz) in order to create interest and WOW factor for the recipient. I've only really noticed the impression in 1 video out of the Many I've viewed to help with my decision. So am I going to mention it so someone can appreciate My investment? Nope. So, although I'm excited to see it in my studio... I'm still on the fence. Especially since I just paused your video to search out how many accessories have already been introduced. Amazed!! I could see a few hundred dollars just to catch up not having been able to purchase at introduction. EXCELLENT REVIEW JUSTINE.
Thank you, I’m always looking for an unbiased opinion on products. Card making can get really expensive if you’re not careful, which to me defeats the purpose. Thanks again.
Hello from Illinois, I haven't jumped on this wagon as of yet, I am on the fence about the better press system. I do like that you can hot foil the plates, but as you said, I can't seem to get a good view of the pressed image via TH-cam tutorials, and thanks for sharing that this is not as detailed as a regular embossing folders look. I would love to see a card.
Wonderful and honest review. Thank you. I’m quite happy with my hot foil machine, when I haul the thing out (at least I bought it on sale). I certainly don’t need another not used often machine. I’d rather spend my few craft dollars on lovely stamps such as Altenew and Penny Black. 💖🇨🇦
As so many others have said, I totally appreciate your honest reviews. I particularly appreciate you considering things like storge and cost overall. Happy belated Canada Day!!❤🇨🇦
Love love your breakdown with STAMP. A rating system for comparison is useful. Very logical process informing of positives and negatives and allow people to assess what is best for them personally. Also super appreciate that you purchased yourself. I am wondering about future inspiration type videos myself. I purchased it because I love the letterpress look and I also like the look and feel of the more expensive cotton papers however it is one of those things I probably would not have purchased if I had seen it in person first or had correct expectations of it. Since I have it I will use it. It does produce beautiful detail. Interesting to see if other companies come out with different style plates. The biggest con really is the cost. Like you fairly assessed the machine itself is not a bad price it’s the other stuff.
Thank you for your review. While I havent found that this machine is a must-have for me, i have purchased some of the paper and the plates. These plates foil beautifully! I wanted to compare the better press paper to watercolor paper. I love to use background dies for subtle texture on some of my cards by impressing them with my embossing mat. Watercolor paper works well for this. Then i can spray them or use water colors to make a colored design if i wish. Thanks again.
Thanks for doing this review. I haven’t looked into this machine at all so I wasn’t aware that it couldn’t be used with the Gemini or Cuttlebug. Buying another die cutting machine puts it totally out of my budget and limited storage space as well.
I have it, tried it with regular archival ink pads and watercolor paper and it gives the same impression. I need the archival ink remover I really like the way it comes out great the first time you try it. The little ink pad I received with my better press was almost dry so had to use my re-inker immediately. I doubt I would have purchased if I had thought about for any period of time. I could have found a better use for my money
Thank you so much for what I feel is a very honest opinion. I was waffling on this decision. Your video convinced me to hold off at least for a while to see what other plates become available over time. I appreciate that you didn’t just jump on the “must have new tool” bandwagon without giving us very thoughtful feedback to help us make up our minds.
So much of what you’ve said makes perfect sense. I was all set to jump at getting it, then put the brakes on and just wishlisted it. It sounds great, looks great and has a WOW factor…but once the novelty wears off, then what. I already have a bunch of ‘must haves’ that haven’t even made it out of the packaging. So …I’m just going to wait and see. If it really takes off and multiple brands produce the plates…then it’s still something to invest in at a later time.
❤ Being a frugal crafter myself you helped solve my queries. Thank you for covering everything with your honest, non biased, well explained video. I love your STAMP theory. I love that you thought of everytjing for every type of cradter. ❤
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!! I appreciate your comprehensive evaluation!! The cost of special ink, paper, and dies is a big negative for my budget, even though the products produced in other evaluations have looked wonderful. i'm afraid it will have to go on my future wishlist instead of a current purchase. Again, thank you, Justine.
Your review is the most honest. I waited a long time to buy the glimmer machine and I don't regret it. It's adds just the right touch to my card. So, I will probably wait on this too. Thanks so much for your great review!
I was so jazzed to get the Betterpress system, I asked for gift certificates for my birthday, which I received. I really appreciate your review, and will consider your points before purchasing. I am not one to jump on every new item that comes out, simply because I can't store all the stuff, but this new tool was very attractive to me and I've told everyone to expect cards made with it.
Thank you so much for the honest opinion, I was ready to buy the Betterpress and Spellbinder die cutting machine but now I'm going to think about it a little more.
I have not purchased a BetterPress. The videos I have watched show excellent results. However, the price point requires a bit more thought before I make a decision. Thanks for your video & this opportunity.
Thank you so much Justine for your totally honest review and opinions. Listening to you discuss this new crafty machine reminded me once again of why you are one if not my favorite crafter on TH-cam. I love the elegance and beauty of letter press look but I unfortunately am one of those in a certain tight crafty budget and this is such an ongoing investment. Once again let me thank you for your total honesty, it is so welcoming and appreciated. God bless you
I'll add my thanks for this thorough and thoughtful review. I love the STAMP review rubric. I had already decided this wasn't for me after I went hard on foiling and rarely pull it out, but I really enjoyed hearing your perspective.
Thank you for this video. I have seen several videos about this product and have decided to save my money. In the long run, I'd rather use embossing folders. I appreciate the balanced review
Ahhaaa! Justine, you have discovered the wonder and the joy that is CardNouveau 🤩. They are such a great resource - and such nice people, too. - Thank you for this video it is very interesting and useful to hear about these expensive tools BEFORE making the decision to buy or not to buy. Kind regards from Bodensee, Nicola
Oh yes I adore them! They actually came to me before they opened for advice on brands to stock. Such nice people and I love that I can get supplies without the crazy customs fees
I absolutely love the look of real letterpress cards produced by local print shop businesses. It has a special something about it. But they are images created from scratch by artists, not plates that anyone can buy, and right now a very limited array of plates so everyone doing better press is using the same plates. I feel like this machine gives less room for creativity (partial die cutting, masking, paper piecing, etc that we do to alter images) and also has a very professional finish that many people might not even realize was handmade. So I’m on the fence and waiting for now. I did see a sentiment strip plate that looked very appealing, but so far the images are not my style. Thanks for the honest review.
I really appreciate your honest remarks… this better press look reminds me of cards from generations ago. I still have my mom’s Mother’s Day cards to her mom(grandma saved many beautiful cards from her.) thank you again
What's definitely in the budget for most are embossing folders or investing in a rubber mat for the die cutting machine so you can make an impresseion with your dies rather than cutting them out - those are great alternatives!
Thanks for emphasizing that, Justine, and for providing such an evenhanded, comprehensive assessment of the BetterPress. (I've run across several other videos that came across more like advertisements than objective reviews.) I have no doubt that the BetterPress plates create beautifully detailed impressions, but like many other amateur cardmakers, I can't justify the expense. Unless the cost comes way down, I'll keep using dies and stencils to get a "faux letterpress" effect. So far, no one who's received a card I made using that technique has complained that the image in the card wasn't detailed r
thank you SO SO much. my budget is limited as a mother of 5 and student but love creating. nnew subbie I love your honesty it is refreshing to have an honest unbiased opinion.
Thank you so much. I haven’t gotten into foiling because I finally realized I just can’t get into everything. And I can always use Micah flakes or foil paper if I want that bling
Thanks for a candid review! I hope you enjoy using your machine. I'm sure you'll do wonderful things with it. I'm committed to passing on hot foiling for all the reasons you suggested and my personal choice not to make cards that look commercial. Same would apply to using a machine for letterpress. So I'm not going to be tempted. I have, however, done a version of the technique stacking die cuts and also a negative frame for them. I apply waterproofing to my stacked work. Then I put them through the die cutting rollers with well-dampened watercolor paper -- emphasis on the "well" part of that -- to get raised images. Of course, the impressed paper that's going to be my product is still "well-dampened" so I store it flat and weighted on my stacked "molds" until they're completely dry. If you choose the right die cuts to work with -- simplicity is best here -- it can be very effective.
Hi justine, I have not purchased, nor do I intend to, mostly for the reasons you stated. I enjoy making cards, but I am not sure I would ever make enough cards that even if all I did was letter press it would be worth it to me personally. I think it is a wonderful idea, but I would prefer to spend my money on an item that is more multi-purpose. I am grateful for your review and honest thoughts.
Thank you for purchasing this on your own because ‘gifted’ reviews are ALWAYS suspect. Thanks too for addressing so many aspects of the purchase/machine. Personally, having been burned by many ‘latest and greatest’ industry claims, I’m just going to wait this one out to see where it goes long term.
Thank you Justine for the honest review! I have been on the fence about the Betterpress for exactly the reasons you brought up. I think I will hold off, for now at least
I’m so on the fence. I’d love to own one as letter pressing is one of my favorite styles. But the fact that, supposedly, it doesn’t work with Anna Griffin or DP or other companies impression dies further limits capabilities. I think they missed the mark on that feature and capability. I’m also surprised they didn’t come out with more plate options in their launch. While it will be a monthly kit option I think people will want a greater variety of image to select from now and not wait a year for a wide assortment to be available. The results I’ve seen so far look fantastic and it appears to be a quality product.
Thanks for your candor! I really haven’t seen the appeal of this for me. I’d rather have more embossing folders as I want a bolder effect. I did buy a few plates to use for hot foiling because I loved the designs.
Have you purchased a BetterPress? What are your thoughts? If not, what's a recent tool you purchased that you love?😍
Haven’t purchased it. Wouldn’t mind winning it 🤣.
Seriously tho, glad it can be used with the glimmer (at own risk) but the paper, that’s a bit on the steep to nuts side.
Justine, it’s more like something I picked up a second one of because I use my first so much is the Make Art Station by Wendy Vicchi. It’s a great portable surface to do most anything in paper crafting on. The purchase that I feel like I could definitely do without is the Stampwheel. The actual work surface is smaller than I expected and it’s odd shape makes it awkward to store.
Haven't purchased it yet but I am leaning that way. My concern is how much will I use it and I am one of those people who wants it all. Could be more than I want to spend. Hope I win one.
I did purchase one and love it.
Justine, did I win?
Justine, thank you so much for providing this honest review. I completely agree with you, as you hit on my biggest concern the affordability on the long run and how much use I will get out of this investment versus the embossing folders, the 3-D embossing folders, or just overall pressing a stencil into Cardstock. Plus, I honestly don’t think that any of my card recipients will even care to notice. Watching your video convinced me that this is not a tool I need at all, because as you stated it’s going to require more supplies in order to make more use of it. I have my hot foil machine and plenty of 3-D embossing folders to play and create gorgeous cards that make me happy to mail out.
Took the words right out of my mouth!
Ditto. Imo they have priced themselves out of reach for many crafters. Just not worth it. Much more wow factor from 3D embossing folders
I too, think that my card recipients would not notice the imprint
I just like using my embossing folders. When I ink the folders up they make beautiful backgrounds. I can’t see the added expense of this machine and the dies it requires.
I add a ditto! I have discovered that just shy of age 60 I probably have ADHD and I am an IMPULSIVE buyer. I started buying card making supplies and had an "ah-ha" moment the other day when I saw how much money I'd spent as a hobby demonstrator for Stampin Up. If I add what I've spent on Spellbinders and other manufacturers I was overwhelmed (mostly with sadness). All that to say - I was proud of myself when I had a moment of clarity and decided during the celebratory hype to PAUSE. . .and really ask myself the questions raised here in the video. I am NOT going to buy this gadget. It is hard but I have to stop buying and do massive creating😂
I have a BetterPress and agree that the inks and paper are quite expensive. I tried using watercolour paper with terrific results. I also experimented with Catherine Pooler inks and again, the final product was beautiful. I've always loved the look of letter press so that is what prompted me to buy the machine in the first place. Looking forward to seeing what plate designs they develop in the future.
Thanks for commenting on using Catherine Pooler inks. I haven’t seen comments about these inks yet with the Betterpress. How would you rank them compared to the specific ink for the Betterpress? Really close? Bleeding/lack of crispness?
@@erinwood4968 I have also experimented with the Catherine Pooler and Concord & 9th inks. My results were mixed. With the BetterPress inks I get crisp, consistent results every time -- no bleeding or splotchy results. For plates with larger surface areas, i.e. A Note from Me to You or Thank You, I've found that re-inking and running the plate through twice gave perfect coverage. I keep my CP and C&9 pads very well inked, which as it turns out may not be the greatest for the BetterPress. Too much dye ink on the plates created pooling, which gave me splotchy lines with lighter and darker areas, as well as some bleeding and spidering. I admit I am a perfectionist. Close is just that in my book. Given the cost of the paper, I'm not all that willing to experiment when I am unlikely to use the close but not as good imprint. If I were willing to experiment more, I am sure I could improve my results. But what bothers me may not bother you and you might have great results. Others do! I saw that Jennifer McGuire suggested using firm (not foam) dye ink pads, like Altenew, Gina K or Simon Says Stamp for example, but I haven't given those a go yet.
@@erinwood4968 I used my Catherine Pooler inks with a very light hand and the image came out crisp on watercolour paper. The Betterpress ink is better but in my opinion, I find the difference rather small.
Good to know that other inks and paper can work.
Can i use foilpress dies in this?
I REALLY REALLY appreciate your honesty in providing a review of this system. Your STAMP approach is inspired….gives the crafter an unbiased yet holistic view of the scope and the machine. Well done and many thanks Justine 👏🏻👏🏻
How refreshing to hear someone suggest that the newest shiny object MIGHT not be a practical purchase for anyone on a limited budget! THANK YOU!
I went down this road with the Fiskers Fuse letter press machine, eventually it was discontinued. It was an expensive well made machine with really simple plastic letter press images, it looked promising but never really took off. I’m sticking to dies, stamps and embossing folders. I don’t hot foil either.
That’s exactly how I feel!!
Dollar signs are my issue. I think this machine gives a sophisticated effect but like foiling not in my budget. Maybe in time if there are a lot of dies that work on both the letterpress and foil machines it will seem more affordable for both letterpress and foiling. But not yet! P.S. I’m enjoying your sunflower set. My mother is 97 with macular degeneration but still wants to create cards. I made up a bunch of sunflowers and leaves for her and she was really pleased. They are nice and big and it doesn’t matter if the are put on a card crooked🙂. I spend a lot of time trying to figure out things that are easier for her but still make one of the beautiful cards she is known for.
Good for your mum. I also want to be crafting if I get to that age.
I have the Betterpress and I love it. I was never into water coloring before but I find the images very easy to watercolor and they look awesome. I think the fact that you can hot foil with the dies as well makes the cost a bit easier to take. Also Spellbinder is starting a monthly subscription for the Betterpress which is a great deal and I will be signing up for that.
I letter press with my hot foil machine and watercolor the images
WPlus9 just posted a video on this product. She does go through the other inks that are compatible, and being able do use the plates for hot foiling. Personally, I would like to see more plates come out before deciding if it's for me.
Hello Justine - a lot to think about - and I love your honesty when it comes to reviewing new crafting tools - you actually spent your own money and they didn’t send you the better press. I have a lot to think about before going out to purchase it. Plus it’s expensive, not yet available here in Canada.
Love your videos and learning so much from them ♥️♥️
I purchased the Betterpress and am very satisfied with it and the potential. I’m thrilled that the plates work with the glimmer machine and they do an excellent job
Glad you're enjoying it! It's a great little tool but a bit high maintenance in its needs 😀
Other paper and inks definitely work. I have had great success with the Versafine Clair inks and Oxide inks. Other heavy card stock works well tool.
I bought one with the same reservations you’ve outlined. I got lots off heavy cotton paper on Amazon and also watercolor paper too. Happy as a clam with the results. I do agree that the image impressions are subtle. Most of my images have ended up inside my cards or on the envelopes so far. Really hoping for an alphabet in new releases. Catherine Pooler inks have been great too. Also Ranger archival. Thanks for your thoughtful review for all kinds of crafters on a variety of budgets.
Justine, I truly appreciate your reviews. I have been vacillating on purchasing the Betterpress. And your review has provided additional points to consider!
Thank you, Justine! Your STAMP analysis is perfect; it answers all the questions. I’ve enjoyed all your videos, and like your newish non-influencer approach. It’s exactly what we all Ned.
Thanks!
Thank you!!!
I haven’t purchased one as I too saw bigger $$ signs coming. Having said that. This is a great machine for a group of people who are not able to buy individually. Great video!
What a great idea of using it in a group format! It looks portable so can come along to various small group crafting events and the cost of material can be shared!! ❤
The better press plates give a beautiful result when used with the hot foil system.... and I also used an intricate cutting die on the better press, with quite nice results using versafine clair inks already in my stash...
As soon as this came out I thought it would be too expensive to use for something that might look nice but not really necessary. I appreciate your review and it was what i thought when I saw it. I am glad you are telling the honest truth and not just trying to get people to buy it. If someone likes it great, but this is not for me. I need to use the supplies I already have more ... rather than get something else.
Thanks for your honest review. I will likely be waiting until Christmas to purchase this machine. I tend to create more “elegant” style cards and this will fit right in, but I’m not in a huge rush because I’m still having a great time with my foil machine. I may start purchasing the plates for the Better Press sooner since they are compatible with both.
For those who complain about foiling, not everyone has the same budget or is in the same place in their creative journey. What else can you learn from the video? In most cases a heat embossed image would work in place of the foiling. I personally don’t care for critter stamps. I don’t complain when my favorite content creators use them. I just enjoy the video and if I learn something new or am inspired by something else, fantastic. If not, I still got to see my favorite creators.
Forgot to mention that Dawn W of WPlus9 just did a video showing additional things that can be done and other products that can be used if you are interested.
I agree 100% with your review!!! Thank you for taking the time to share it with us. I got mine and it is exactly what I think of it !
Justine I love the way you are honest about how the machine has pros and cons without trying to persuade us either way! The review gave me quite a few things to consider including budget! I will continue to weigh the pros and cons of the machine! Thank you! ❤
Hi Justine. Great job on the review! When I first saw the video introducing this tool, I really liked it. After initial thoughts of purchasing it, I decided against it because of the expense aspect. I have so many crafting supplies that I don’t use enough & want to stop continually adding to my list of tools to use. I have listened to you saying that we need to use what we already have & I’m trying to follow that good advice 😃 Thanks for the honest review ❤️
I love your honest opinions using the STAMP method. Thanks.
Thanks for the frank, honest review with both pros and cons. Personally I would be using the machine for my own creative enjoyment as I have always simply loved the look of letterpress - and if the recipient notices that's great. If not no problem....I'll have had my creative fun.
Thank you, Justine, for an honest opinion of this product. The fact that you purchased the product for your review as opposed to being sent one by the company makes me trust your opinion even more. I have never been one to jump on the latest products immediately (I only purchased my Glimmer machine a few months ago) and I don't think this one has enough benefits for me to want one. I think Spellbinders is a great company but this product doesn't offer me enough to make me want one. Thanks again for your review.
It's nice having the hot foil machine. You have the benefit now that you can buy Betterpress or Hot Foil plates for your Glimmer machine and foil.
I also am an owner of a previous Letterpress machine. We R Memory Keepers had one. Because I am not much of a purger, (sadly, not enough) I still own the machine and ALL of the plastic letterpress plates they designed to be used with it. I actually stopped using mine because I hated the ink system. But I’m thinking of trying the Spellbinders ink on my old system. Much more efficient. The other system used tube ink and a roller. Very messy. I’m glad Spellbinders came out with this new system because it has motivated me to blow the dust off of my old one. I probably have more than 30 sets of dies for it! Thank you for this video Justine. We have all come to trust the impartiality of your reviews. I may still consider the purchase. I’ll see how the other machine works coming out of Retirement. They also sold the same paper (which I still have ) as well as matching envelopes.
I think this is by far the best and most thorough review on the Betterpress! I still want to purchase it, and I'm super excited that you mentioned that the Press Plates can be used in the hot foil machines! And finally, of all the reviews on Betterpress that I've seen, your close ups at 1:33 are AMAZING!!! I can totally see the texture. Thanks for the generous giveaway!!!!!!!!!!!
My art group reached the same conclusion, and we spend hundreds if not thousands on craft supplies. I think the Better Press machine is wonderfully engineered. A lot of thought went into it, more so than the glimmer machine, and the resulting images are exquisite. But there are limited avenues for creativity, and that is the line in the sand for me. I am not a card copier, I work in multiple medias including fine art, and there have only been a few BP plates so far that have intrigued me. I did but Spellbinders November 2023 BP Moroccan tile, but will use it on my glimmer machine. There is a lot that can be done with that one.
Justine, thank you for this honest review. I feel better listening to a review from someone that has purchased the product then all the reviewers that have been given product. It’s hard for me to listen to them fawn over everything.
It is a strange phenomenon in our industry that only the pros are discussed. But I’ve done videos on things I won’t be buying and have been completely blacklisted from companies so that would be the reason for the “fawning”. Don’t get me wrong, the results are nice, but is this the best thing ever invented? Not really 😂 will I be buying more plates and using it? Probably. Especially for the hot foiling.
@@justinehovey thank you for setting a standard I prefer. I have a ver small channel and make all my purchases, one lady told me I was being harsh in one of my reviews. I said sorry but it’s my money and if a product doesn’t meet my standards I have to be honest. Keep it up I love watching your all your videos.
Thanks for your honesty. I am sick to death of all of the influencers dedicating their content to foiling & letterpress. I have neither $ or interest in doing either of those techniques.
Thank you for your review. I am impressed that you purchased the item for the review and did not have it sent to you. I rarely believe reviews where the company sent the items to the reviewer. No matter how “honest” a reviewer purports to be, they are always swayed by wanting the company to continue sending freebies. Your review is very persuasive.
Thank you for your honest, comprehensive review! I think it would add an elevated quality to my cards, but the expense of all the required products would not be practical for me. I am disappointed-I would love it. 😢
Hi. Thanks for your honesty. I won't be getting this machine. I have a hot foil machine and use it for letterpressing more than hot foiling
I have been considering getting a BetterPress machine and I thank you for your honest Spellbinders BetterPress Review: Pros, Cons and for the chance to win your amazing giveaway.
I want to wish everyone good luck for those of you who have entered.
Altenew just released (July 2023) products for use with BetterPress. I also like to use my embossing folders as backdrop for some BetterPress stamps.
This is a great review Justine. That was one of my concerns that I would need so many more different products to us it. Like inks, plates and paper.
Really Appreciate your honest review.
Thank you for this honest and real review. I really didn't think I needed another "machine" and after watching your video I know I don't need this. I have a hard enough time keeping up and picking and choosing new stamp and die releases each month with all my favorite brands.
Really appreciate your honest review Justine & all the other people for their comments
I have not purchased it. I feel like i have so many tools that I don’t use often enough as it is. My last tool was a glass mat and I love it so much!
Good review Justine. The machine is definitely affordable, the add ons are the moneymakers. Just like most tools that require additional items to make things. The tools are inexpensive but the add ons are where the manufacturer makes the $$$$$ there will always be something new for us. Crafters are always looking for the next cool machine. We have that “ I’ve got to have that mentality”. It’s to bad this unit wasn’t introduced prior to the foiling machine then it would be a great option. I myself will not be purchasing it. I have a few friends that got it and I’ll go visit and play.
This was a great review, probably the most honest I have seen. I am on the fence and you have given me a lot to consider. Thank you for sharing!
I definitely do like it, I hope that came across :) It's just not a "must" I find, more of a nice to have tool :)
I was debating because I live the look.. am on a budget and won’t invest in foil plates either. Not worth it to me. Your review really helped out. Thank you.
Thank you for your honest opinion on the better press. When I saw your video review, I knew it would be an honest opinion, as opposed to other influencers that are trying to get us to purchase every new tool.
Excellent revue.
The most important part of what a teacher needs to do. Is to impart the WHY!.
Why we do what we do. Why is the most important step of teaching/creating, IMO.
You do it very well.
Thank you
Thanks so much for the pros & cons info, Justine! Very honest and helpful. You mentioned perhaps other companies would be offering product. Well, I just got something from ALTENEW regarding their new "press plates" from their "brand new Better Press Collection" i.e. Dainty Flower Garden with sentiments!
Thank you so very much for your time. I appreciate the introduction of a new tool. The pros and cons. Really appreciate it 😊
Thanks for sharing your honest opinion. Very helpful! For now I'm going to pass on the Betterpress. If I were to invest in a new tool, it would be an electric die cutting machine. That would save me time and my wrists would love it!
Thank you for being honest in your reviews. I like how the Better Press presses the image as it is beautiful.
A good, well thought out and balanced critique. The only way I'd buy the Betterpress or the hot foil machine is if they were from someone who is destashing. My reasoning is that it's too easy to go down the rabbit hole when you're an early adopter of new tools. Just too much stuff to buy.
Thank you Justine for your honest opinion. You've given me food for thought. I must admit I am very tempted by the betterpress machine.
Great review!! It also helped to get over my thinking that I needed it. If you own the Glimmer machine, and I do, it is advertised as Hot Foiling-Letterpress right on the box and in the instructions. There are some videos on how to use it that way. I might invest in some letterpress plates for foiling if I like the design. I already have used dies to foil and stamp as well. Make the most of what you own. You saved me some $$ and also having to hide it from my husband in the craft room!😉
I have the We R Memory makers letterpress plate and accessories. I was lucky to find lots of LP paper, inks & LP plates for under $100 at Tuesdays ☺🤩
I wasn't able to jump initially. BUT... your last point or closing debate is what has created my stall. We now have 3D and Multi level, (Tim Holtz) in order to create interest and WOW factor for the recipient. I've only really noticed the impression in 1 video out of the Many I've viewed to help with my decision. So am I going to mention it so someone can appreciate My investment? Nope. So, although I'm excited to see it in my studio... I'm still on the fence. Especially since I just paused your video to search out how many accessories have already been introduced. Amazed!! I could see a few hundred dollars just to catch up not having been able to purchase at introduction. EXCELLENT REVIEW JUSTINE.
Thank you, I’m always looking for an unbiased opinion on products. Card making can get really expensive if you’re not careful, which to me defeats the purpose. Thanks again.
Hello from Illinois, I haven't jumped on this wagon as of yet, I am on the fence about the better press system. I do like that you can hot foil the plates, but as you said, I can't seem to get a good view of the pressed image via TH-cam tutorials, and thanks for sharing that this is not as detailed as a regular embossing folders look. I would love to see a card.
Wonderful and honest review. Thank you. I’m quite happy with my hot foil machine, when I haul the thing out (at least I bought it on sale). I certainly don’t need another not used often machine. I’d rather spend my few craft dollars on lovely stamps such as Altenew and Penny Black. 💖🇨🇦
As so many others have said, I totally appreciate your honest reviews. I particularly appreciate you considering things like storge and cost overall. Happy belated Canada Day!!❤🇨🇦
Love love your breakdown with STAMP. A rating system for comparison is useful. Very logical process informing of positives and negatives and allow people to assess what is best for them personally. Also super appreciate that you purchased yourself. I am wondering about future inspiration type videos myself. I purchased it because I love the letterpress look and I also like the look and feel of the more expensive cotton papers however it is one of those things I probably would not have purchased if I had seen it in person first or had correct expectations of it. Since I have it I will use it. It does produce beautiful detail. Interesting to see if other companies come out with different style plates. The biggest con really is the cost. Like you fairly assessed the machine itself is not a bad price it’s the other stuff.
Thank you for your review. While I havent found that this machine is a must-have for me, i have purchased some of the paper and the plates. These plates foil beautifully! I wanted to compare the better press paper to watercolor paper. I love to use background dies for subtle texture on some of my cards by impressing them with my embossing mat. Watercolor paper works well for this. Then i can spray them or use water colors to make a colored design if i wish.
Thanks again.
Thanks for doing this review. I haven’t looked into this machine at all so I wasn’t aware that it couldn’t be used with the Gemini or Cuttlebug. Buying another die cutting machine puts it totally out of my budget and limited storage space as well.
Love your STAMP system for review!
I have it, tried it with regular archival ink pads and watercolor paper and it gives the same impression. I need the archival ink remover I really like the way it comes out great the first time you try it. The little ink pad I received with my better press was almost dry so had to use my re-inker immediately. I doubt I would have purchased if I had thought about for any period of time. I could have found a better use for my money
Thank you so much for what I feel is a very honest opinion. I was waffling on this decision. Your video convinced me to hold off at least for a while to see what other plates become available over time. I appreciate that you didn’t just jump on the “must have new tool” bandwagon without giving us very thoughtful feedback to help us make up our minds.
So much of what you’ve said makes perfect sense. I was all set to jump at getting it, then put the brakes on and just wishlisted it. It sounds great, looks great and has a WOW factor…but once the novelty wears off, then what. I already have a bunch of ‘must haves’ that haven’t even made it out of the packaging. So …I’m just going to wait and see. If it really takes off and multiple brands produce the plates…then it’s still something to invest in at a later time.
Thanks for your honest review of the Betterpress. FYI, u can also use 110lb cardstock as an alternative to the Spellbinders paper
❤ Being a frugal crafter myself you helped solve my queries. Thank you for covering everything with your honest, non biased, well explained video. I love your STAMP theory. I love that you thought of everytjing for every type of cradter. ❤
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!! I appreciate your comprehensive evaluation!! The cost of special ink, paper, and dies is a big negative for my budget, even though the products produced in other evaluations have looked wonderful. i'm afraid it will have to go on my future wishlist instead of a current purchase. Again, thank you, Justine.
Your review is the most honest. I waited a long time to buy the glimmer machine and I don't regret it. It's adds just the right touch to my card. So, I will probably wait on this too. Thanks so much for your great review!
I was so jazzed to get the Betterpress system, I asked for gift certificates for my birthday, which I received. I really appreciate your review, and will consider your points before purchasing. I am not one to jump on every new item that comes out, simply because I can't store all the stuff, but this new tool was very attractive to me and I've told everyone to expect cards made with it.
Thanks for the very straightforward review. I appreciate that you add in budget thoughts. Many reviewers don’t take the time to do that.
This is a fantastic review and totally different to all the other clones of better press reviews out there. Thank you so much.
Thank you so much for the honest opinion, I was ready to buy the Betterpress and Spellbinder die cutting machine but now I'm going to think about it a little more.
I have not purchased a BetterPress. The videos I have watched show excellent results. However, the price point requires a bit more thought before I make a decision. Thanks for your video & this opportunity.
Super, honest, thought provoking review.
Thank you Justine
Thank you so much Justine for your totally honest review and opinions. Listening to you discuss this new crafty machine reminded me once again of why you are one if not my favorite crafter on TH-cam. I love the elegance and beauty of letter press look but I unfortunately am one of those in a certain tight crafty budget and this is such an ongoing investment. Once again let me thank you for your total honesty, it is so welcoming and appreciated. God bless you
what a great review for making a decision. thank you.
I'll add my thanks for this thorough and thoughtful review. I love the STAMP review rubric. I had already decided this wasn't for me after I went hard on foiling and rarely pull it out, but I really enjoyed hearing your perspective.
Thank you for this video. I have seen several videos about this product and have decided to save my money. In the long run, I'd rather use embossing folders. I appreciate the balanced review
Ahhaaa! Justine, you have discovered the wonder and the joy that is CardNouveau 🤩. They are such a great resource - and such nice people, too. - Thank you for this video it is very interesting and useful to hear about these expensive tools BEFORE making the decision to buy or not to buy. Kind regards from Bodensee, Nicola
Oh yes I adore them! They actually came to me before they opened for advice on brands to stock. Such nice people and I love that I can get supplies without the crazy customs fees
The objectivity you offer was exceptionally helpful!
I absolutely love the look of real letterpress cards produced by local print shop businesses. It has a special something about it. But they are images created from scratch by artists, not plates that anyone can buy, and right now a very limited array of plates so everyone doing better press is using the same plates. I feel like this machine gives less room for creativity (partial die cutting, masking, paper piecing, etc that we do to alter images) and also has a very professional finish that many people might not even realize was handmade. So I’m on the fence and waiting for now. I did see a sentiment strip plate that looked very appealing, but so far the images are not my style. Thanks for the honest review.
I really appreciate your honest remarks… this better press look reminds me of cards from generations ago. I still have my mom’s Mother’s Day cards to her mom(grandma saved many beautiful cards from her.) thank you again
This has been very helpful. I really couldn't decide but you told me what I needed to know. Thanks! I will pass and work harder on my stamping.
Thank you for your honest and frank consideration of this product line. I suspected I cannot afford it. Now I have some peace of mind.
What's definitely in the budget for most are embossing folders or investing in a rubber mat for the die cutting machine so you can make an impresseion with your dies rather than cutting them out - those are great alternatives!
Thanks for emphasizing that, Justine, and for providing such an evenhanded, comprehensive assessment of the BetterPress. (I've run across several other videos that came across more like advertisements than objective reviews.) I have no doubt that the BetterPress plates create beautifully detailed impressions, but like many other amateur cardmakers, I can't justify the expense. Unless the cost comes way down, I'll keep using dies and stencils to get a "faux letterpress" effect. So far, no one who's received a card I made using that technique has complained that the image in the card wasn't detailed r
thank you SO SO much. my budget is limited as a mother of 5 and student but love creating. nnew subbie I love your honesty it is refreshing to have an honest unbiased opinion.
Thank you so much. I haven’t gotten into foiling because I finally realized I just can’t get into everything. And I can always use Micah flakes or foil paper if I want that bling
Thanks Justine, very good overall review of the BetterPress.
I look forward to seeing more of your Stamp review/recommandations.
Thanks for a candid review! I hope you enjoy using your machine. I'm sure you'll do wonderful things with it.
I'm committed to passing on hot foiling for all the reasons you suggested and my personal choice not to make cards that look commercial. Same would apply to using a machine for letterpress. So I'm not going to be tempted.
I have, however, done a version of the technique stacking die cuts and also a negative frame for them. I apply waterproofing to my stacked work. Then I put them through the die cutting rollers with well-dampened watercolor paper -- emphasis on the "well" part of that -- to get raised images. Of course, the impressed paper that's going to be my product is still "well-dampened" so I store it flat and weighted on my stacked "molds" until they're completely dry. If you choose the right die cuts to work with -- simplicity is best here -- it can be very effective.
Hi justine, I have not purchased, nor do I intend to, mostly for the reasons you stated. I enjoy making cards, but I am not sure I would ever make enough cards that even if all I did was letter press it would be worth it to me personally. I think it is a wonderful idea, but I would prefer to spend my money on an item that is more multi-purpose.
I am grateful for your review and honest thoughts.
Thank you for purchasing this on your own because ‘gifted’ reviews are ALWAYS suspect. Thanks too for addressing so many aspects of the purchase/machine. Personally, having been burned by many ‘latest and greatest’ industry claims, I’m just going to wait this one out to see where it goes long term.
I noticed that Pinkfresh has a category added for press plates, so a future source to be considered
Thank you Justine for the honest review! I have been on the fence about the Betterpress for exactly the reasons you brought up. I think I will hold off, for now at least
Thank you for this review, Justine! Very informative. Love that you give both the pros and cons!
This is the first review that actually gave the cons. Thank you. I will check it out more closely.
I’m so on the fence. I’d love to own one as letter pressing is one of my favorite styles. But the fact that, supposedly, it doesn’t work with Anna Griffin or DP or other companies impression dies further limits capabilities. I think they missed the mark on that feature and capability. I’m also surprised they didn’t come out with more plate options in their launch. While it will be a monthly kit option I think people will want a greater variety of image to select from now and not wait a year for a wide assortment to be available. The results I’ve seen so far look fantastic and it appears to be a quality product.
Thank you for your review. I am considering purchasing the Better Press and your honest review is helping me make the decision.
Thanks for your candor! I really haven’t seen the appeal of this for me. I’d rather have more embossing folders as I want a bolder effect.
I did buy a few plates to use for hot foiling because I loved the designs.