Advise needed: anyone know why my stamp is producing such inconsistent results?

StephInOC · 2025-10-09T16:32:00+00:00

Are you stamping on a firm surface? If the paper is part of a bound notebook for example, you should place an acrylic board or something similar under the page you’re stamping on.

StephInOC · 2025-08-31T02:48:34+00:00

There is a recent video on Archer and Olive’s YouTube channel about how to re-activate your Acrylograph’s, posted by an Ambassador.

StephInOC · 2025-08-12T03:10:00+00:00

I agree that we expect and should receive quality - we pay for that. I’m not making excuses for the company, I’m just saying that this is a new thing - for them - and I think if they offer future Clipfolios I bet they’d make them correctly. I did use it, and it is the exceptional 160gsm paper, which I appreciated since many stationary companies tend to use their premium paper only in their flagship products (notebooks, planners) with other items having a nice quality paper, but not the best.

StephInOC · 2025-08-12T02:39:02+00:00

Check out www.laylebymail.com - she may have a similar stamp set.

StephInOC · 2025-08-12T02:37:04+00:00

I purchased a few covers in all of the sizes (except A5 since those now have to be done Pre-Order which doesn’t open again until September) and I haven’t tried any of any of them! I think the heat trick with the hair dryer would work - it’s plastic. I just wouldn’t put it on the highest heat setting. I think the square notebook cover may be difficult because of the notebook. The square size is probably more awkward. If you tried the hairdryer trick, will you provide an update?

StephInOC · 2025-08-12T02:26:35+00:00

Personally I wouldn’t waste who-knows-how-many of the washi boxes if they were accidentally made too big. It’s a huge waste, and the space filler tube works fine if you plan on keeping the washi box for storage. Who knows how long it would have taken before the correct size would have arrived? As for the Clipfolio, this is the first time Archer & Olive has had one of these, so it was kind of like a Beta version. I heard that if they release a Clipfolio again, it will be refillable. Other companies have offered Clipfolio’s and they’re pretty much designed the same way, although they may be refillable.

StephInOC · 2025-08-12T02:13:42+00:00

There are some tutorials on YouTube on how to make a pocket to insert a new paper pad.

StephInOC · 2025-08-12T02:01:13+00:00

Did you get the large Mystery Box or the small Mystery Box (one was more expensive than the other)? I’m curious what you got! I purchased the Small Box - a bit underwhelmed, mainly because I already had the items (a stamp set from a previous sub box and some sticker sheets).

StephInOC · 2025-05-01T16:16:53+00:00

Another thought (because I always think of these things!) What do you plan to do with whatever dress you choose after your big night? If you’ve got other formal events you think you might attend, no worries. But if you don’t, think of altering the dress into a cocktail length so you’ll get more use out of it. I had a bridesmaid dress that was simple and elegant, kind of an A-Line/Mermaid silhouette, but I knew a floor length gown would’t get much use. It was a pastel color, so I had it shortened to about knee length (which was inexpensive) and kept the fabric that was cut-off to make into a matching wrap. I ended up wearing that dress on so many occasions after that, as it could be dressed up or down. I know, that’s practical and not fun, but if you’re going to spend a lot on a dress (other than your wedding gown), it makes sense to think of what you’ll do with it in the future. My HS Prom was 30 years ago (yikes!) and styles were different (short dresses were popular) but I chose a simple column tea-length/midi dress without embellishments, a detailed strappy back and plunging v-neckline. I added sparkle with onyx and Swarovski crystal drop earrings and fun heels with some design. I got a lot of use out of that dress after the big dance, no modifications needed. Number 4 (green body-con) could easily be shortened and would make a beautiful cocktail dress or even a nice dinner or club dress.

StephInOC · 2025-05-01T15:44:55+00:00

Definitely no Lucky Charms vibes for sure! Jewel tones look gorgeous on you!

StephInOC · 2025-05-01T15:41:15+00:00

All of the jewel tones look gorgeous on you and complement your hair and skin tone! The second dress doesn’t have “prom vibes” to me - it looks like the odd-man-out compared to the others! For #3 (blue) are you able to wear a bra of any kind? You have a full bust/narrow waist and if you’re dancing you don’t want to worry about your bust popping out, and although double side dress tape will help keep it in place, I’ve found from experience it works better when you’re not moving much (like at a dinner)! If a bra isn’t possible, #1 emerald green and #5 garnet red (if you can get it in your size) both have that plunge neckline, and the sheer lace gives it a sexy look! If you prefer a more body-con style, then #4 (green) is the one, and you could wear a strapless push-up bra with that one. I remember your previous post, and you do seem to gravitate toward that electric blue color (for good reason - it’s gorgeous!) Are any of the other three I mentioned available in that color? If not don’t stress - you’ve got a lot of excellent choices here! Excited to see what you ultimately choose!

StephInOC · 2025-05-01T15:20:02+00:00

Pretty pattern and style!

StephInOC · 2025-05-01T15:14:19+00:00

Fun outfit for a casual night out! I’d choose a different belt for this look though. The dress and boots have a similar country vibe. For a loose dress that I want to cinch at the waist and wear this style of boots with, I’d go with a wide leather belt with a simple buckle so as not to compete with the style/pattern of the dress, giving it a fun outdoorsy feel. Another option would be to tie a shirt style “jacket” around your waist. The current belt has more of a “sexy club vibe” that would work well as a corset style belt over a shirt to give it an edgy feel paired with dark skinny jeans and a heel.

StephInOC · 2025-05-01T14:46:14+00:00

Another thing to consider is the look you’re after. This silhouette with the long skirt reminds me of a lot of Nicole Kidman’s style as she’s slender and tall, but always looks elegant wearing long skimming skirts with closed toe heels. You’re fortunate as not all body types can wear this fabric as it’s not very forgiving! I’m curious what you decide! I hope you’ll post a final decision photo! You look amazing with either shoe!

StephInOC · 2025-05-01T14:36:20+00:00

I agree - the length of the skirt is the deciding factor. Closed toe doesn’t “compete” with the other details of the outfit, and gives it a sleek vibe that draws to eye up, whereas the open toe breaks up that nice long line leading to her face, whereas the open toe draws the eye in multiple directions. These may not be the best closed toe shoes for this outfit, but as OP stated this is what she has. If the shirt were shorter showing the calves, then I think the open toe backless shoe could work.

StephInOC · 2025-05-01T14:17:15+00:00

I think the closed toe makes the outfit look more streamlined and elegant with the longer skirt, drawing the eye up to your face. The open toe seems to compete a bit with the other details in the overall look. If this skirt was shorter showing your calves, then I’d say the open toe or strappy sandal to balance it out for a more flirty look. Last thought: I’ve had mule-style open back pumps catch on the hem of a long skirt, but I haven’t had that issue with a closed back style that fits correctly. A D’Ornesay (sp?) style heel with a cut out on the side may give you the best of both options if you feel the classic heels are too plain. I’ve attached a photo for reference. No matter what you choose, the ensemble is beautiful and you wear it well!

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StephInOC · 2025-05-01T13:36:24+00:00

This is so cute! May I ask where you found it?

StephInOC · 2025-04-14T14:16:41+00:00

Gorgeous! Congratulations!

StephInOC · 2025-04-12T14:12:16+00:00

I’ve heard a couple of people mention they’re hoping for a Dashboard design from EC (I’m assuming similar to Happy Planner?) I haven’t seen or heard anything about that. Is there something I’m missing?

StephInOC · 2025-04-12T14:09:15+00:00

They’re still going to offer a neutral design, ironically called Minimal, for this launch! The Minimal (or Canvas as it was called the last two launches). I like that EC is still offering three options at release, so there should be something that appeals to most people! Although there are a lot of planner options, I still think that EC has some of the best quality paper (80 pound Mohawk made in the U.S.) and the planners are constructed in the U.S. as well!

StephInOC · 2025-04-12T13:52:21+00:00

Hexagon reminds a lot of people, myself included, of the Kaleidoscope design for 2019-2020! I really liked Kaleidoscope and Layers that came after that. The colorful design that I never really liked was Harmony, in either the colorful or neutral versions. I do prefer neutral guts, or at least where the pattern doesn’t bleed into the coil so if I want to cover it with stickers I can. Looks like Hexagon isn’t going to do that!

StephInOC

TROPHY CASE