I run across ideas and am convinced to try them. New tools, gifts, strategies, techstack apps – some work. This one didn’t and serves as a reminder to do more research and not believe the photos you see. My team, my kids, saw them and were skeptical, “How can those work? It’s too detailed.” I assured them they work based on the site and reviews. I followed the instructions sent with the rollers EXACTLY, including to bake at 200 degrees. It seemed odd, but why would they get that wrong?

Where did I go wrong?
Was it the step to rub olive oil on the roller to keep it from sticking to the dough?
Was it the 200 degrees?
Did I not flour it enough?

Somewhere there is a disconnect between their instructions, their picture and my result.

I think with fondant it would be lovely, but not cookies. I find the reviews on other boards and see I’m not alone. I should have done more research rather than purchasing from my phone while watching a movie. FOCUS, research and FOCUS.

Perhaps it’s my recipe. Some have success; the PintSizedBaker pulled it off with thicker shortbread cookies. Her recipe is similar, but her baking temp is 350. Perhaps I need to try gingerbread. Before I give up, I will see if I can use a different recipe and get a positive result.

Before you invest money, time and your reputation on a new tool, be sure to spend a bit more time searching for the reviews that are NOT posted on the company website. Ask colleagues and associates, ask friends. Even if you choose to still invest in something that can give others a headache, there may be enough redeeming qualities that validate the choice, or not, and you can just take a pass.

Gift-buying tips:

• Do not rely on your phone for the details if you don’t have your glasses handy.
• Don’t be in a rush.
• Read outside reviews.
• Think about the recipient and their skill level and needs – will this make them happy or angry because it doesn’t work as they expect?
• Put it in the cart and then go back in the morning to decide if you really want that to be the gift from you.
• Obviously, do not shop while drinking or partaking in any sort of recreational item. I know that takes the sport out of it, but you will thank me for this.