I debated about purchasing a die cutting machine that did not require me to manually move the dies for a couple of years. It was only after a bout of arthritis after a small batch of die cutting that I decided to get serious and take the plunge. I did a lot of research - there are quite a few machines after all.

When I looked at the Gemini, I took the time to check reviews and user guides over on YouTube. I strongly urge anyone who is contemplating this machine to go over to Jennifer McGuire Ink and search out the two videos she has done on the cutting plates. Check out Crafter's Companion's videos on the machine as well. You won't be sorry.

The machine is sturdy - and heavy. It is easy to use and cuts like a dream. I've owned several very intricate dies that never really worked well in my manual machines. They cut like butter in the Gemini. Yes, the plates make noise and they bow. They are supposed to. When you consider the immense amount of pressure the machines generate, it would be silly to think that there would be no impact to the plates. My current solution is to put the plates under the machine once I've completed my cutting. It flattens them for the next session. And, yes, I know I will be purchasing more plates.

So far I've been pleased at the results and am looking forward to being able to use my dies to make cards. I think if you are looking for a solid tool that should last a long time, this machine is the one to check out.

I got this for my large journal dies that are over 6" wide and about 11" long as well as my slim line dies. I just got my machine today and cut a large journal cover. I had NO problems with warping. Prior to purchase I read reviews and watched you tube videos. Jennifer McGuire had a great video on how to prevent warping. Others use a self healing cutting mat which I will try. I am so happy with my purchase. And I was surprised at how quiet the machine was. I will not use it for small dies. it has been 12 days using this machine and I love it more. By plate sandwich is bottom plate, thin shim and magnet followed by die cut side up and paper and clear plate. As long as you flip and rotate top plate the warping is minimal. I put washi tape on one side of plate to mark the surface. I do not use the metal shim. It is not needed. To add after having this machine 8 months I must add that I love this machine. I have a vagabond and spend so much money on plates. I am disappointed is sizzix plates. I have never replaced a gemini plate although I have a spare and magnet. Jennifer McGuire has the best video on how to get the most out of your plates. I use her method. I don't understand why people complain about the noise. You are running plastic, metal, paper etc through. Noise is expected. I am thrilled with the machine. I do unplug and turn it off after each use.

Because this machine has the same pressure over the whole plate put your die all over the plate, not just in the center. I just tried it, that was plus flipping the plate and after 15 run through for cuts it is in really good shape. My only wish is that the magnet plate was thicker, if you used the magnet plate as the bottom plate, then the plastic shim (self healing), then your card stock, then the die cut and finally the plastic plate. That would solve the problem of putting the die in the right place if you are cutting out preprinted saying. I think I will enjoy using this, I seem to do a lot of die cutting lately.

It takes a bit to learn how to use (only because I have other machines) and it is a little different in how you layer the dies. But it is a little work horse right out of box. I used it for an 8 hour crop at my favorite store.

Love love love !!