You may recall that earlier I reviewed the Artisan X-Plorer by Spellbinders. While I like the compact size and metal gears, I was somewhat disappointed by it’s ability to cut thicker materials such as denim and plastics. Well, the Spellbinders folks heard my cry (or maybe they were just lightyears ahead of me!) and debuted a METAL SHIM at CHA summer this year.
This little baby makes ALL the difference!
Really, it’s just a metal plate that creates a firmer surface for your thin-rule dies.
I made you a video to explain more:
Bottom line- if you want to cut thicker items in the Artisan X-Plorer, the Metal Shim is a MUST HAVE- and for an addition $12 bucks, it’s well worth it!
Disclosure: Product provided for review, but opinions are honest and my own. Links below are affiliates and I may receive a tiny commission with your purchase.
- Spooky Spider Halloween Bookmark Craft - October 24, 2018
- Review and Demo of LDRS Hybrid Ink Pads - October 15, 2018
- Review and Demo of Nuvo Hybrid Inks - October 1, 2018
- Craft Studio Tour and Organization Ideas - September 20, 2018
- Wax Paper Resist Background Technique - March 20, 2018
- Comparison of Liquid Watercolor Markers/Pens - March 16, 2018
- SAI Japanese Traditional Watercolor Brush Markers- Review & Demo - February 23, 2018
- Rinea Metallic Foil Paper & Ghost Ink Review - February 21, 2018
- Jane Davenport debuts at Creativation 2018 & Watercolor Card - February 13, 2018
- Creativation 2018: New Product Showcase - January 20, 2018
I don’t have an embosser yet, and am really undecided about which one to buy. Some are better for larger size papers, etc. Some have way more plates to choose from. I don’t want to spend a fortune, but I’d like a good machine. Any suggestions?
I’m pretty sure you aren’t supposed to cut against your shim. I thought so too but I can’t cut against mine so be careful. It will probably dull or damage your dies. But so glad it works for you.
Rebecca- remember that it’s pressure that causes the die to work- not a “blade” or “sharpness.” Also, as illustrated in this video from Spellbinders, you *are* supposed to cut against the shim. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GtJBktD3oG0
Happy crafting!
Debbie- are you doing mostly paper crafts? As a rule, I don’t like a one-trick pony. Best to get a machine that both cuts and embosses. The Cuttlebug is a great choice for entry-level crafters (under $80) and the Ebosser is great for advanced crafters (motorized for production work) and it’s under $200. Read lots of reviews and watch videos to get an idea of how they work! Best of luck, J
Thanks for the info Jenny, and yes I will be doing mostly paper crafts. I bought the Cricut Expression2 special edition (and a bunch of cartridges), and I have been checking out all the different embossers, but haven’t made up my mind yet.
Gotcha! Good luck in the decision making process!
I was wondering if you knew what gauge of metal will the Artisan x-plorer cut? I want to buy the machine to make jewellery but was not sure what gauge it would take. Thank you for any help.
Roberta- I would check in with the manufacturer for that kind of information. We only use craft metals and foils here.