Gemini or Empress?

imenja
01.28.20 6:28 AM

I’m wondering whether to get the Gemini or the Empress. Which do you think is better?

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- SHENJ99
- 01.30.20 10:02 PM
I have Gemini and Empress. Both are the big original full size. Multiple sizes are not necessary for my crafty goals.
My go to is the Empress as the plate system is simple. Works first time every time. I have to fiddle with the Gemini plates every time I use it. And the embossing mat shredded after first use.
- imenja
  
  01.31.20 1:18 AM
  
  If that happens to me, I will return it. I’ll try using a self-healing cutting mat as the top plate in hopes that it will protect the materials underneath.
- imenja
- 01.29.20 5:12 AM
I ended up getting the Gemini TSV. I was going to get the Empress, had already ordered it actually, but then I found out the plates that come with it wouldn’t accommodate Anna’s gatefold dies. That’s the whole reason I wanted an electric machine–to have the capacity for bigger dies. Otherwise I could just stick with my Big Shot. It was going to be another $60 for the larger plates, and I figured I might as well get all the dies and embossing folders that come with the TSV. My main concern with the Gemini is the plates. I can use a self healing cutting mat for the cut in plate though. The magnetic shim is probably a lost cause.
- craftmanic1
  
  01.29.20 6:11 PM
  
  I hope you give us your honest opinion of Gemini alter you use it. I have Gemini in all of its types. I have also the Empress and the mini Empress with all of its plates. But I would never stop using the Big Shot. It accommodates all dies and folders. But it has more platforms and plates than I care to think about. I like Bigz dies from Tim Holtz so the Big Shot is a necessity.
  
  I have relegated Gemini to cutting fabric. It shreds its embossing mat. I don’t trust it with large frame dies. Just too much pressure. Gemini Jr I just use for foiling with the Gemini foiling plate. Again too much pressure with the foiling plate, depending on material, happens with the Gemini Jr. But I love the foiling system. Hands down the best. I do think it was pathetic that Empress is not sold with its large plates. What’s the point. But Empress performs like butter. With the exception of some thick embossing folders, which will not go through, Empress embosses dies and folders beautifully. But its magnetic mat is soft and has a short life. Keep your Big Shot.
- imenja
  
  01.29.20 8:18 PM
  
  craftmanic1,
  I wish I’d read your post before I ordered the Gemini. I may see if I can cancel the order, but I doubt it’s possible at this point. I will let you know what I think after I receive it. I have no plans to get rid of my Big Shot. BTW, Sizzix debuted an electric cutting machine at Creativation, but it won’t be on the market until May. I saw a YouTube video about it. It looks fantastic. You don’t need to fiddle with sandwich thickness since the machine senses the thickness of your die or embossing folder and adjusts automatically. Sizzix products tend to be very good. I just couldn’t wait until May.
- credd51
- 01.29.20 5:06 AM
I have the Gemini, Gemini Mini and the Gemini Go and I love them
- scrappertwin
- 01.29.20 3:33 AM
I have the Empress and it is fantastic.