help-stampin up punch won't punch

[charliemom]

I purchased a whale-tale scalloped oval punch from someone -received it in the mail today and it won't punch. I assume it has something to do with the springs. Anyone have any suggestions?

[MSBetsyZ]

Can you be more specific about how it won't punch? Will it close around the paper but not cut? Or do the levers not press together, like they're jammed? Does it just get stuck shut once you've punched? It will really help if you could give us a bit more info.

So frustrating this happened with your new-to-you toy! Sorry to hear it...

[calgramma]

I had that happen with mine, just yesterday as I was preparing swaps for convention. I punched several times through foil and wax paper thinking that it was just dull, but I do think it has something to do with the alignment of the blades. Finally got it to work for the last few punches I needed by banging it on the counter before each punch. (Don't recommend that, however...it worked for me!).

[charliemom]

when you tried to use the punch, it would leave a partial impression - not cut. my husband forced it to close and it then would punch - guess it was jammed somehow. it does make this strange noise in the springs. I think I have read somewhere that people use some kind of a lubricant on punches - would anyone recommend a lubricant.

[calgramma]

You can try sewing machine oil...or maybe just some WD 40.