Troubleshooting Guide

Comprehensive Craft Troubleshooting Guides for Common Customer Questions

These are the problems you'll encounter in your crafting journey - here are the troubleshooting solutions, and you can get all the materials and tools you need at https://www.craftywafty.co.uk

 My Working Process and Reasoning

When I started thinking about this task, I realised that as Craftywafty's solo customer support operation, I was getting the same questions repeatedly. Looking at our product range - from basic adhesives to complex mixed media supplies across 20+ major brands - customers likely feel overwhelmed about compatibility and proper usage.

I focused on the core areas that represent the foundation of most paper crafting projects. Every card-making or scrapbooking project involves choosing the right paper, securing it with appropriate adhesives, and using tools correctly. Get any of these wrong, and the whole project could potentially fail.

The reality is that every crafter faces these frustrating problems - it's not their fault, it's about having the right tools and knowledge.

We are here to help, to give troubleshooting advise and to make sure we are giving. You every possible advantage and solution by stocking high quality products, every specialized paper product, application tool, adhesive type, mixed media that you will need to solve these problems permanently.

Contents

• Adhesive Selection and Application Guide - The problems with wrong adhesive choices and how to fix them

• Paper Types and Compatibility Reference - Common paper disasters and their solutions

• Tool Usage and Maintenance Tips - Why your tools fail and how to prevent it

• Mixed Media Troubleshooting - When techniques go wrong and how to save your projects

• Quick Reference Problem-Solution Matrix - Fast fixes for urgent crafting emergencies

 

Adhesive Selection and Application Guide

PROBLEM: "My adhesive keeps failing halfway through projects!"

THE SOLUTION: Selecting the right adhesive for the purpose is imperative. Here's how to choose correctly:

Double-Sided Tape Problems & Solutions

PROBLEM: Standard tape not holding dimensional elements

SOLUTION: Use our 12mm double-sided tape rolls for permanent bonding of heavier elements

PROBLEM: Need to cover large areas efficiently

SOLUTION: Our transparent 4" wide tape covers large surfaces quickly and invisibly

PROBLEM: Need to reposition elements during design

SOLUTION: low tack tape allows repositioning without damage

PROBLEM: Difficult to remove tape backing

SOLUTION: finger lift tape has easy-remove tabs for frustration-free crafting

PROBLEM: Wrong tape thickness for your project scale

SOLUTION: Choose from our 3mm, 6mm, 9mm, and 12mm strong double-sided redline tape - select the appropriate size and type for your task scale

PROBLEM: Need to remove red line tape

SOLUTION: Gently heat with a heat gun and slowly prise off the tape

PROBLEM: Need temporary positioning before permanent adhesion

SOLUTION: Use repositionable tape to test layouts before committing to permanent placement

Glue Selection Problems & Solutions

PROBLEM: Paper goes wavy when gluing

SOLUTION: Use a quality low water content adhesive

PROBLEM: Using wrong glue type ruins projects

SOLUTION: We stock the complete range you need:

• 3D decoupage glue - for dimensional layering projects
• Photo glue - acid-free for archival scrapbooking
• General all-purpose glue - everyday paper-to-paper bonding
• Clear drying glue - invisible bonds for delicate work
• Bookbinding glue - strong spine adhesion for albums
• Textile glue - fabric elements and mixed media
• Mod Podge - to seal and finish projects professionally

Foam Pad Problems & Solutions

PROBLEM: Wrong foam thickness creates uneven layering

SOLUTION: Stock a selection of foam pads in various sizes - they come in different thicknesses for perfect dimensional effects

PROBLEM: Foam pads won't stick to textured surfaces

SOLUTION: Clean surface first, press firmly for 10 seconds, avoid repositioning

Paper Types and Compatibility Reference

PROBLEM: "Why do my techniques keep failing on different papers?"

THE SOLUTION: Understanding paper compatibility prevents disasters:

Acetate Problems & Solutions

PROBLEM: Inks won't stick to acetate surface

SOLUTION: Use alcohol-based inks only, avoid water-based inks (won't adhere)

PROBLEM: Adhesives won't bond to acetate

SOLUTION: Roughen surface lightly with fine sandpaper for better ink adhesion, or use repositionable tape first, or a red line tape

Compatible with: Alcohol-based inks, permanent markers, heat embossing Avoid: Water-based inks, regular adhesives Pro tip: Test adhesion on scraps first

Vellum Problems & Solutions

PROBLEM: Vellum warping from wet adhesives

SOLUTION: Use eyelets, brads, or dry adhesives instead of liquid glues

PROBLEM: Heat techniques melting vellum

SOLUTION: Use lower heat settings and test on scraps first - avoid excessive heat (melts)

Compatible with: Light adhesives, heat embossing, dry embossing
Avoid: Wet adhesives (cause warping), excessive heat Pro tip: Use eyelets or brads instead of adhesive for professional look

Cardstock Problems & Solutions

PROBLEM: Cardstock cracking when folded

SOLUTION: Score before folding using a scoring tool for precise lines or a scoring board for consistent measurements, then use a bone folder for crisp creases. The scoring creates a controlled weakness in the paper fibers, preventing random cracking and ensuring clean, professional folds every time. Ensure you are using a suitable quality of paper. Check the gsm weight of the paper or card is suitable for the chosen purpose.

Compatible with: All adhesives, most inks, embossing techniques Reasoning: Your customers work with Carta Bella, Echo Park, and Graphic 45 papers, which each have different weights and finishes. This guide helps them understand why certain techniques work better with specific paper types.

Mounting Board Problems & Solutions

PROBLEM: Projects lacking stability

SOLUTION: Use mounting board as backing for dimensional projects and album pages to provide proper structural support

Tool Usage and Maintenance Tips

PROBLEM: "My tools aren't working properly anymore!"

THE SOLUTION: Proper maintenance and technique prevent tool failures:

Die Cutting Problems & Solutions

PROBLEM: Dies not cutting cleanly through cardstock

SOLUTION: Clean dies with our die brush and cleaning tool after each use to remove paper buildup from die crevices

PROBLEM: Inconsistent cuts and torn edges

SOLUTION: Ensure your machine or press is debris-free - check cutting plates and rollers regularly, replace cutting pads when worn

PROBLEM: Dies getting clogged with paper fibers

SOLUTION: Use specialized die cleaning tools to remove buildup from intricate areas, store dies flat to prevent warping

PROBLEM: Uneven pressure causing incomplete cuts

SOLUTION: Work on stable, flat, clean surfaces to avoid mistakes and unwanted marking, ensure proper pressure settings

PROBLEM: Die is not cutting through the paper

SOLUTION: Consider using a shim to evenly distribute the and increase the paper cutting pressure.

Maintenance: Clean dies with soft brush after each use, store mounted dies face-down

Stamping Problems & Solutions

PROBLEM: Uneven or faded stamp impressions

SOLUTION: Apply even force using a stamping tool or block - don't rely on hand pressure alone

PROBLEM: Patchy ink coverage

SOLUTION: Ensure stamp is evenly inked before each impression, check ink pad moisture

PROBLEM: Stamps getting dirty between colors

SOLUTION: Clean stamps thoroughly with stamp cleaner (not water) between uses, especially for detailed stamps

Storage Solutions Problems & Solutions:

PROBLEM: Tools getting damaged or lost

SOLUTION: Implement proper storage systems - categorize by project type, not just product type. Make your own bespoke storage solutions, get inspiration from the Craftywafty download projects

Mixed Media Troubleshooting

PROBLEM: "My mixed media techniques aren't giving expected results!"

THE SOLUTION: Master these common mixed media fixes:

Embossing Powder Problems & Solutions

PROBLEM: Powder won't stick to stamped images

SOLUTION: Ensure ink is still tacky when applying powder, check ink tackiness first

PROBLEM: Uneven melting and texture

SOLUTION: Use anti-static bag before stamping, heat evenly with embossing gun (not hair dryer), use sufficient heat

Brand note: Cosmic Shimmer powders work best with their coordinating inks

Glitter Problems & Solutions

PROBLEM: Glitter application creating mess everywhere

SOLUTION: Use our specialized glitter application tools for precise placement and mess-free application

PROBLEM: Glitter not adhering properly

SOLUTION: Apply adhesive in thin, even layers and work in sections, use appropriate adhesive for glitter weight or a double sided tape.

Ink Blending Problems & Solutions

PROBLEM: Patchy or streaky color application

SOLUTION: Use circular motions, build color gradually, clean blending tools between colors

Spectrum Noir specific: Their alcohol markers require special blending techniques - blend while ink is still wet

Paint and Paste Application Problems & Solutions

PROBLEM: Cracking or poor coverage

SOLUTION: Apply thin layers, allow proper drying time between coats, use appropriate brushes for desired texture

Quick Reference Problem-Solution Matrix

Problem	Likely Cause	Quick Fix	Get the Right Tool	Prevention
Adhesive won't stick	Wrong tape size/type	Use appropriate mm width tape	3mm-12mm redline tape range	Match adhesive to project scale
Paper warping	Too much moisture	Use dry adhesives/eyelets	Low tack or finger lift tape	Test moisture levels on scraps
Uneven die cuts	Dirty dies/machine	Clean with die brush	Die brush and cleaning tools	Clean after each use
Smudged stamps	Uneven pressure	Use stamping block	Stamping tools and blocks	Check ink drying time
Glitter everywhere	Wrong application method	Use precision tools	Glitter application tools	Work in contained area
Project lacks stability	No backing support	Add mounting board	Mounting board selection	Plan structure from start
Embossing not melting	Insufficient/uneven heat	Use proper embossing gun	Heat tools and anti-static bag	Check ink tackiness first
Cardstock cracking	No scoring	Score before folding	Scoring knife/board + bone folder	Score all fold lines

 

Why These Problems Happen & How We Solve Them

The Reality: Every crafter faces these frustrating problems - it's not your fault, it's about having the right tools and knowledge.

Our Solution: We stock every specialised tool, adhesive type, and supply you need to solve these problems permanently. No more guessing, no more project failures.

From basic adhesives to complex mixed media supplies across 20+ major brands including Craft Consortium, Crafters Companion, Creative Expressions, Elizabeth Craft Designs, Graphic 45, Stamperia, Sizzix, Tim Holtz, Simple Stories, Spectrum Noir, and more - we have the exact solutions for every crafting challenge.

Get Everything You Need: Visit https://www.craftywafty.co.uk for our complete range of problem-solving supplies. From precision tapes in every size to specialized cleaning tools, we have the exact solutions for every crafting challenge.

Expert Support: Still stuck? Our team understands these problems because we're crafters too. Contact us at craftywaftyshop@gmail.com or 01268 732518 between. The hours of 9am to 5pm Mon-Fri. We provide customer support with <1 working day response time.

 

Implementation Guide

Phase 1: Start with adhesive selection - get the right tapes and glues for your project types Phase 2: Invest in proper tool maintenance supplies - die brushes, cleaning tools, stamping blocks
Phase 3: Add specialized application tools for glitter, embossing, and mixed media techniques

Remember: The right tool for the right job eliminates 90% of crafting problems. Stop fighting with inadequate supplies - get the professional tools that make crafting enjoyable again.

These troubleshooting guides address the most common technical issues our Craftywafty customers face across your major product categories.

Shop the complete troubleshooting toolkit at https://www.craftywafty.co.uk

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This comprehensive guide combines expert troubleshooting knowledge with your complete product inventory to solve every common crafting problem. No more project failures - just beautiful creations every time and you can get all the materials and tools you need at https://www.craftywafty.co.uk