FAQs
Why are there two stencils for each Mini ShapeBoss Stencil pattern?
Why does it seem like my stylus won't travel across some papers or metal very easily?
What materials can I emboss on using the ShapeBoss?
Why isn't my ShapeCutter cutting correctly?
How do I change the blade in my rotary paper trimmer?
Why are there two stencils for each Mini ShapeBoss Stencil pattern?
There are two stencils with each pattern because, unlike brass stencils with a lightbox, you do not need to be able to see through the material you are embossing onto with the ShapeBoss. Simply place the material you wish to emboss between the two stencils and emboss! The purpose of the top stencil is to give you a pattern to follow with your stylus. The purpose of the bottom stencil is to allow the stylus to push the material down into the patterns, which stretches the material permanently, creating the raised embossed image.
Why does it seem like my stylus won't travel across some papers or metal very easily?
Sometimes a stylus will get small scratches or scuffs on it from embossing certain materials, which can make it drag across the material to be embossed. Should this happen, grab a piece of waxed paper and place it between the top stencil and your material to emboss. Emboss right through the waxed paper. This will make your embossing go much more smoothly! For good measure, use waxed paper every time you emboss to avoid extra wear on your stylus.
What materials can I emboss on using the ShapeBoss?
You can emboss on virtually any material that you can make a dent in with a stylus. Some examples of materials which work very nicely for embossing are cardstock paper, vellum paper and crafting metal. Remember - you do not have to be able to see through what you are embossing on, thanks to our two-stencil set system.
Why isn't my ShapeCutter cutting correctly?
There are a few of reasons a ShapeCutter might not be cutting correctly. You may need to adjust your blade - If your shapes are not getting cut out cleanly, you will need to adjust the blade down by turning it slightly clockwise. If your shapes are not getting cut out cleanly because the blade seems to be getting stuck too deep in the cutting mat, you will need to adjust the blade up by turning it slightly counter clockwise. If you are certain that your ShapeCutter is adjusted correctly and it still won't cut cleanly, try a new blade. Most issues with a ShapeCutter can be resolved by adjusting or replacing the blade.
How do I change the blade in my rotary paper trimmer?
- Pivot the silver guide rail up until it clicks into the upright position.
- Turn the knurled nut counterclockwise to remove.
- Gently twist the orange blade cover counterclockwise (approximately 1/4 of a turn), remove and set aside.
- Carefully remove the blade by grasping on the flat surface. Do not touch the blade edge or injury may result . Carefully install the new blade while taking special care not to touch or nick the blade edge.
- Replace the orange blade cover and gently rotate the cover clockwise until it "snaps" into place. Caution: make sure the blade cover locks into place.
- Replace the knurled nut by turning clockwise until hand-tight. Do not overtighten the nut.
- Swing the silver guide rail down onto the board to resume cutting. Note: Do not overtighten the knurled nut. This may cause the blade to lock into its current position. After tightening the nut, test the trimmer on scrap paper to make sure the blade moves freely. The nut may need to be readjusted when using assorted blades and paper.

Orange handled scissors are a