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Some of my punches are very slow to release, get locked up, and I have to use force (banging them on a table) to release. Any suggestions on how to keep them sharp to produce a clean punch-out?
I punched a very fine grit sand paper right through my paper piecing punch and it helped clear the "fuzzy" look. I also read that someone used an emory board on their punch. I assume (hate that word) that she just rubbed it on the edges of the punch from underneath. I think the sand paper did a better job for me than the foil or wax paper. The wax paper may work better for you if you are having a sticking issue. Regardless of what you use, I recommend that you use junk cardstock a few times after you condition your punch as not to waste your good stuff if the punch holds some sand paper residue.
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Jackie G. (aka Jacquita) SCSmember #656
Write your sorrows in sand and your blessings in stone.
Mine says Extra Fine 80 grit but I would say used what you have. If the 100 grit is even finer that the 80 (not sure how the numbers go) I think that it would work just fine. Good luck to you.
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Jackie G. (aka Jacquita) SCSmember #656
Write your sorrows in sand and your blessings in stone.
with sandpaper the higher the number the finer the grit. So if you need to sharpen I'd use a smaller number first and then a finer grit. I believe they go as high as 320. (At least that was the highest number in hubbies stockpile, he he he).
Thanks for the suggestions. I didn't think that you could sharpen punches, I have just put up with mine sticking, or not punching all the way through. My any where hole punch for the eyeles also seams a little dull. Do you think sandpaper or a nail file would help it too?
I had an extra large flower punch sticking on me this past weekend. I punched it twice with wax paper and it's fine now. No more sticking. I recently purchased another punch and the packaging says to punch with foil to sharpen.
After struggling for years with punches, I finally discovered a great way to sharpen them. The next time you drink a Pepsi, wash out the can and let dry. Then VERY CAREFULLY (wear heave work gloves) cut the top and bottom off of the can, and cut it down one side. This leaves you with a flat piece of very thin aluminum. Make sure it is dry, then punch it with your punches. The aluminum really does the trick!
WOW, thanks for all the great suggestions. I can't wait to have hassle free punches again. This site is the greatest!! Soon as I learn how to up load, I'll be sharing my card creations with you. I'm not a demo, but I am a VERY good cutsomer!!
A pop can??? You've got to be kidding me - that's the best idea ever! I have frequently used foil on my punches but it's difficult because the foil bends inside the punch. You're constantly fighting it and I feel like I give up out of frustration before it's truly sharpened. I will definitely try the can idea next time!
sharpening punches
