Quick Answer

Use silicone finger grips whenever you handle hot dies or the foil platform, and always rest used dies on a silicone cooling mat to protect your work surface.

Why Silicone Accessories Matter

Foiling generates significant heat, and the dies and platform stay hot long after the foilpress cycle ends. Touching them bare-handed can cause burns, and placing hot dies directly on your desk or craft mat can leave scorch marks or melt surfaces.

Silicone finger grips and a cooling mat are inexpensive safety tools that address both risks. They are specifically designed for the Gemini FOILPRESS system, so they fit comfortably and work as intended.

Trade-Offs to Consider

Silicone finger grips are not heat-proof gloves. They provide a protective barrier for quick handling, but they do not insulate for prolonged exposure. Always move hot items quickly and let them cool on the mat before further handling.

The cooling mat is not a heat sink. It protects your work surface but does not speed up cooling. Allow the dies to cool naturally to avoid warping or damage.

Step-by-Step Safety Workflow

  1. Prepare Your Work Area: Place the silicone cooling mat on your work surface next to the foilpress. Keep the finger grips within easy reach. Make sure the mat is on a flat, stable surface before you start.
  2. Put on the Finger Grips: Before starting a foiling session, slip on the silicone finger grips. They should fit snugly but comfortably on your fingers. Check that the grips are not loose; a secure fit prevents slips.
  3. Run Your Foiling Cycle: Use the foilpress as you normally would, following your project instructions. Keep the finger grips on throughout the process. Do not remove the grips until all hot items have been moved to the cooling mat.
  4. Remove the Hot Die: After the cycle finishes, use the finger grips to carefully lift the hot die from the platform. Move it immediately to the silicone cooling mat. Never place a hot die directly on your work surface, even for a moment.
  5. Let the Die Cool: Leave the die on the cooling mat until it is completely cool to the touch. Do not attempt to speed up cooling with water or other methods. Rushing the cooling process can damage the die or your project.
  6. Clean Up Safely: Once everything is cool, remove the finger grips and store them with the cooling mat. Clean the mat if needed with a soft, dry cloth. Store the accessories together so they are ready for your next foiling session.

  • Gemini FOILPRESS - Silicone Finger Grips (2pcs): Silicone Finger Grips are to be used at all times when handling hot dies or the hot Foiling Platform. They protect your fingers from potential burns during foilpress work.

    Gemini FOILPRESS - Silicone Finger Grips (2pcs)

    Gemini FOILPRESS - Silicone Finger Grips (2pcs)

  • Gemini FOILPRESS - Silicone Cooling Mat (1pc): The Silicone Cooling Mat is designed to place dies on once they’ve been used. It protects your work surfaces from the heat of the dies.

    Gemini FOILPRESS - Silicone Cooling Mat (1pc)

    Gemini FOILPRESS - Silicone Cooling Mat (1pc)