Hi crafty friends! I’ve been getting my hands all inky and artsy with the Spellbinders Betterpress Letterpress System. If you're into crafting, printing, or if you're just curious about this world, buckle up because I've got some interesting stuff to share in the video above

So, what's the scoop on the Betterpress? It's this super cool machine that lets you create gorgeous letterpress impressions right in your home. I mean, who doesn't love the idea of DIY high-quality stationery, invitations, and decorations? Let's talk about the plates. They come in all sorts of cute designs - bird, flower, butterfly-- and Spellbinders is coming out with more all the time. They've even started a Betterpress plate of the month kit, the first one of which is out now (it's Christmas themed.)

I experimented with three different press plates – a bird one, a flower design, and a "thank you" image with a butterfly. I wish I could say the bird would have turned out perfectly! But I did three trials, and they all came out a bit fuzzy. I tried flipping the paper, using different colors of it, applying the ink differently, but the little birdie just kept feathering. The flower and thank you butterfly images, on the other hand, came out absolutely fantastic! So, I suspect the bird press plate may have a teeny defect causing the feathering.

But here's the real question -- You're probably thinking, "should I get one of these?" It's not cheap, after all -- especially when you consider everything else you need to buy in addition to the machine. Here's my two cents: I really like the Betterpress, it's a fun, fancy addition to my craft room, but it's not a must-have for everyone.

Why? First off, this bad boy works best with a special type of cotton paper that's pretty costly. And the press plates are not exactly pocket change either. So, it's a bit of an investment. But let me tell you, the results can be absolutely stunning!

In the end, I’m glad I sprang for it. I'm having a blast trying out new designs and techniques, and I’m eager to explore it further. If you want to see what I’ve been able to create so far, check out my other post where I showcase a bunch of beautiful cards I made using these impressions.

But remember, crafting is all about enjoyment and creativity. While the Betterpress is a neat luxury, it's not a prerequisite to make beautiful art. If you're on a budget, there are many other ways to get creative! So, will you be diving into the world of the Betterpress? Regardless of your choice, just remember - keep crafting, keep experimenting, and most importantly, keep having fun!

Catch you in the next post, friends. Happy crafting!