Sometimes a new crafting tool hits the market and it dazzles us with it’s smart design. The new Envelope Punch Board from We R Memory Keepers is one such tool. Even before it’s official debut at CHA Winter 2013, it was generating quite a buzz!
While at the trade show, I taped this quick demo. within 24 hours, it had been viewed over 1500 times! So yeah, you could say that folks were a wee bit interested! It also demonstrates how to use the Envelope punch board.
I managed to get one of these babies in my hot little hands so that I could get the review done even before it hits the store shelves (which should be any day now.) So let’s take a closer look, shall we?
The whole tool measures 7.5″ by 10.5 inches and features an on-board (and included) bone folder.
The punch itself is two-sided: in addition to creating the notches, it also acts as a corner rounder. Take note: there is no “catcher” under the punches, so the paper waste will end up on your table.
Here’s how it’s described on the website:
Now it’s even easier to create custom envelopes in over 60 different sizes with any size paper. By eliminating the need to trim and measure the paper multiple times, the Envelope Punch Board is the easiest-to-use envelope maker in the industry. To use, simply select the envelope size, trim the paper once, and follow the grid printed on the board to punch the envelope notches. Finally, score and fold the envelope using the included bone folder, which is conveniently stored on the Envelope Punch Board itself. For an extra touch, round each corner of the envelope using the punch located on the opposite side of the tool. The Envelope Punch Board is available in January.
Note that all 60 sizes are conveniently marked on the front of the tool.
So… time to take a look at the papers it will work with! I tried it out with the following papers with great success:
- text weight (like copier paper)
- cardstock
- textured cardstock
- scrapbooking paper
- vellup
- flocked/fabric paper
Keep in mind that there is a low threshhold in the punching mechanism, so it’s really not meant for super-thick papers.
I did find that I had to adjust my pressure on some of the papers- which is common sense, really- so that you don’t press too hard on the scoring line and go through the paper. Also be careful of the angle at which you hold the bone folder- it works best at a 45-degree angle. Any more and you might pierce your paper instead of scoring it.
Now, with the smaller size of envelopes (up to A2 card size or the square of paper about 8 inches or so) it worked super easy for me. I did notice whilst making the largest card size, that the paper extends beyond the perimeter of the Envelope Punch Board itself. That makes it impossible to score all the way to the edge…which can lead to some serious errors.
Now, I know that while the tool is supposed to be goof-proof, I managed to goof things up a number of times. Mostly, this was when I was using the larger size papers.
Just like it quilting, if you are even a teeny bit off in your measurements, by the time you get to the end of a quilt it can end up to be inches off. Similarly, if you are not careful in aligning either the first measurement spot-on OR subsequently lining up the score lines, you can easily be off by 1/2 an inch- which can make all the difference.
To rectify this, I strongly recommend that you actually do the measuring part TWICE- once on opposite sides of your square of paper- to ensure accuracy. I made you a video to demonstrate.
Now… as I mentioned in the video… I found a possible mis-marking on the board. Since I’m a fan of 3X3 cards, I set off to make some envelopes. I found that if I used the marking provided on the tool- measuring to the 2 3/4 line (with a 5 3/8 piece of paper) , I actually ended up with a rectangular envelope. However, if I used the 2 5/8 inch marking with the same size paper, it would indeed come out square.
See what I mean? I let the good folks at We R Memory Keepers know and I trust that they will either re-print the boards or issue some sticker to put over the top.
So. Overall, I think it’s an amazing tool. You do have to be mindful of your markings, but the flexibility to make all kinds of envelopes with any kind of scrapbooking paper is pretty darn cool. Just the thought of lovely coordinated envelopes and recycling papers to make new envelopes makes me tingle.
The MSRP is $19.99 USD, and I’m sure there will be some deals and/or coupons available.
What do you think? I’d love to hear your opinion!
Disclaimer: Sample provided for review purposes.
UPDATE: Please see this post: Update on the We R Memory Keepers Envelope Punch Board for the latest information about changes made to the We R Memory Keepers Envelope Punch Board that fix the measurement issues.
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I currently use the Martha Stewart scoring board to make envelopes. Have you ever used it? How does it compare with this envelope punch board?
Breanda- it’s a different animal altogether. You have to use the square insert thingy and it’s much fussier to use. Plus you have to go back and cut out those notches. The Envelope Punch board is MUCH simpler.
Always look to you for great reviews and you have come through once again. In my head I had wondered about the larger sizes “fitting” on the board and you have given me the solution! Thanks for your continuing help!
Thank you so much for your review.
I thought I just couldn’t wait to get my hands on one, but now – maybe I can wait.
Like so many new and fantastic tools that come out, there is usually another new improved version of it fairly soon. Then you are tempted to buy another one. I am over that game!! So I am going to hold off for a while and see what they do next – hoping of course they make a swing arm or something to address the larger sizes (I hope quickly).
Thanks again for your fantastic review!
hi jenny – thanks for the review. i totally agree with you that the board should be longer, especially for longer paper! but i think the product is really neat, especially if you stamp cards. 🙂 i’ll be interested to see if We R makes a change, especially since you caught the measurement typo! Will you be at the scrapbook expo, too?
Great review! It strikes me as a great idea, but I think I will have to wait for the new and improved, LARGER board! (with the corrected measurements). Whenever one of these cool new innovations comes out, I always find that something needs tweaking and it takes a large user pool to inform the manufacturer of what’s needed in real-world applications. I always wait for version 2.0!
I already have one on pre-order. Now I can’t wait to get it. It looks like an awesome tool. Thanks for reviewing it.
I watched a CHA video and the WRMK demonstrator did provide instructions to fold along the partial score line – when the paper hangs over the edge – before lining up the next side of the paper. But it can’t hurt to measure twice – on opposite sides – using your method for larger envelopes. 😉
Thanks for showing your take on it. I will definitely get one of these at some point.
I think this tool looks amazing and I’m thankful for your review. I really want to buy one.
I have already ordered this. I can’t wait for it to get here!!!
Becca
Thanks for the demo and review. I think I’ll take a pass on this until they make some impovements.
I just got the envelope punch board and love it! I used to use the MS scoreboard for envelopes and it was fine for what it did. But the punch board offers ton more sizes for envelopes and you don’t have to waste time cutting out notches. Plus, since there is a round corner punch in this new board, you don’t have worry about buying a chomper to make rounded corners on sheets of paper.
As for that one little boo-boo printed on the board, it is of no great consequence. For me, it serves it’s purpose…making envelopes. I’m not waiting for a larger board…if one comes out at all because it may not be for a long time…and will probably be more expensive because of the size. More tools will be created by then anyway.
It is worth it to get this item now if you tend to make tons of cards…and like different sizes.
Debbie- I agree. I’m using mine quite a bit for mini envelopes for small albums, gift cards, etc. And know that I know how to get that 3X3 envelope size correctly, it doesn’t bother me. Still don’t like it for super-large envelopes, but I don’t make those routinely! I’m keeping it!
I just got this board and was disappointed to find the measurement for the A2 card as 4 1/2 x 5 1/2 when it should be 4 1/4 x 5 1/2. My question is how to make an envelope on this board for an A2 card.
Terry, actually that size envelope will still accommodate the A2 card. But I’ve been contacted by the company that there will be a new measurement guide coming! I’ll share it as soon as it arrives.
Thanks for the heads up I will wait also on the newer version, IF they make one instead of the overlay on top of old one…
I just bought this tool and sadly discovered that it is made for a right handed person. Since I am a lefty, it doesn’t work.
Why couldn’t you make the tool so it could be used by both righties and lefties?
jo
Thanks Jenny, great review! I might have to buy this tool now. 🙂
I am also having trouble with A2 envelopes…..if I use their measurements, the envelope is just short on the 5 1/2 side.
I then tried using a square size 8 2/8 and the 5incn size is fine but the
four inch side is about 1/2 too big……
Any suggestions…..thanks
Jo- why not just flip it over so the scoring line is on the left and the notching tool along the bottom. The measurements would be upside-down, but you could also rewrote them along the edge. It’s an easy fix.
jenny
Thanks for the suggestion. I already tried using it upside down but rewriting the ruler on the other side is not as simple as it sounds.
jo
Yup, I’ve got the same problem. The A2 envelope size is off. That’s the size I make the most of and I’m disappointed.
I just found out about your website. GOOD JOB!!! Thanks a lot.
Gail
Thanks for the great review. I just purchased this punch board, and they have corrected the error in the 3×3 size–it now says 2 5/8. Off to make envelopes!
I just got mine this afternoon, and I agree – the A2 size is off. It’s too tall and not quite wide enough. I tried cutting the paper to 7-7/8″ square and scored it at 3-1/2″ for the first score, and that helped, but it is still about 1/8″ narrower than it should be on the 4-1/2″ side. I fiddled around with different measurements and got frustrated, so I guess I’ll settle for that. I’m not happy about it, though.
I too love this too for what it can do – but disappointed that the A2 size is off!! Frankly, I am not good at measuring things and this was going to be the answer to my prayers – but now this! I wonder if they will correct this at all with a replacement sticker!??!!??
Hi Kari,
Thanks for your question. We have an updated post here: Update on the We R Memory Keepers Envelope Punch Board
I hope that answers all of your questions! Be sure to let us know if you have more questions.
Vicki
I made a perfect envelope for a A2 size. I cut the paper at 8 x 8 and score at 3 5/8. Turn out perfect. I’m working on making my own list of sizes and measurement for envelopes.
I have just ordered one of these & am glad I found your site. I would have been tearing my hair out wondering why things weren’t turning out right otherwise! Will be watching for updates from you!
Many thanks, you are a big help:-)
Sunshine, New Zealand
ihearttostamp.blogspot.com
The new corrected measurements are on their website: http://weronthenet.com/tool-directions under downloads.
Great tool!!
Very helpful video.
To make the perfect A2 envelop try:
8 1/2 inch square paper
Align the paper for the first punch at 3 5/8 inch position. When you line up the paper make sure to extend the paper fully across the 3 5/8 inch indentation.
Correction for A2 envelop – paper ishould be 8 1/8 inches square. Sorry.
Thanks for the tutorial and video. Going to go and try it again. Great tips.
I use 8 x 8 size paper and measure at 3.5 inches for an A2 envelope and it fits perfectly.
I am trying to get the standard A2 envelope to come out and it is too tall compared with a store bought envelope that is called a A2. Also, the card I am making goes in with too much left over at the top. I watched the video and did it at least 6 times and I was SOOOOO disappointed. Please e-mail me personally if you have a solution. I can’t see what I am doing wrong. rom@e-z.net
OK–I used for the A2 the 8 inch by 8 inch paper and the 3 1/2 for the measurement and the envelope came out nicely. Thank you Anne. However, this makes me wonder if the others are correct and what is the solution to getting a new chart for this thing! Or…do I take it back to the store.
Donna- did you read the Update post that gives you the accurate measurements?? The link is at the end of the post, but here it is again. http://www.crafttestdummies.com/craft-news/update-on-the-we-r-memory-keepers-envelope-punch-board/
If you want accurate measurements, READ IT!!! : ) Best, J
hi guys i am looking for the measurements for the bog standard card sizes:
for example:
A4
A5
A6
And DL
can anyone tell me the guidlines to use for these on the envelope score board thanks
Hi!
I have a question…how thick the paper could be?
Thanks in advance for your response!
You can certainly use cardstock or watercolor paper. It just has to be able to punch through and take a score. You could try cereal-box cardboard, too- I bet it would be thin enough to work!
Hey Jenny (nice name :D), will you be making any new tutorials with newer sizes? Love your articles 🙂 Best wishes from Croatia!
As a matter of fact, the 3-in-1 is sitting on my desk right now! 🙂