Let's talk basic tools. I'll say favorites or most reached for because I can't say must haves since we crafters feel like we need them all or at least I do! I have many other tools that I use but these are definitely the ones that I would have to have if going to a crop. I find myself reaching for these the most.
1. Paper trimmer- There are MANY different trimmers on the market but I really like my Fiskars one. It has a wire cut-line indicator. I've read mixed reviews about the wire, but I have read great things about the company replacing the piece that holds the wire should it break! Customer service is really important in this day and I like companies that stand by their products.
2. Scissors- I've owned many pairs of scissors but the non-stick micro-tip scissors from CTMH are simply the BEST! These scissors never gets sticky stuff all over the arms and have issues sticking while trying to cut. They are perfect for fussy cutting (cutting out your stamped images). I've used them every single time I've crafted over the past year since getting them and they are just as sharp as the day I got them! Having little ones I really like that they have a cover to slide into in case someone decided to venture into the craft room. Even keeping my stuff put up at our old house, our youngest is very curious and would climb to get to things.
3. Ruler- I'm not sure if most people use one as often as I do. I like to measure twice and cut once. I think that this helps cut down on waste. I don't waste as much paper and can use up my scraps more efficiently.
4. Adhesive- I have multiple types of adhesive! Tape runners, glue dots, bonding memories glue, liquid glass, foam tape, and scor tape. I like them all and use them all for different projects. Tape runners are quick and easy when assembling cards or layouts. Glue dots are great for embellishments. Bonding memories glue comes in different size tips. When the glue is wet it's permanent and when it's dry it's temporary. This is great for assembling cuts from the Cricut. Liquid glass is AMAZING! A fellow consultant calls it "the woman's super glue." This adhesive can be used to decoupage projects. It can be used for embellishments too. Plus you can put it over top of images you stamp to give it an epoxy look. Foam tape can be cut to any size needed. You can use it to pop a stamped sentiment for cards or pop up an embellishment on a layout. Sometimes it's nice to give your projects dimension to break it up. Scor tape is an adhesive double sided tape.
5. Craft mat- CTMH has two different mats. I'm looking to purchase the all-purpose mat soon. I've had the chance to make projects on one while stamping at a unit meeting. You can just wipe the mess right off the mat! People mix water color paints on it, and use it for heat embossing. It's heat resistant up to 240 degrees Fahrenheit, and has a non-slip underside!
6. Corner rounder- Ever since I was little I loved the round corners of my Grandma's vintage photos. This is definitely a tool that I've used since I first started scrapbooking.
7. Blocks- I have found it helps to have a variety of sizes. CTMH has recommended sizes for blocks for each stamp set too! The sides have rounded grooves to hold the blocks easier and keep your fingers out of the ink. They also have a line across one edge on the stamp side to allow you to line up letters or a phrase.
8. Journaling pen- I think that at a minimum you need a black and white journaling pen. I used to use tons of other colors. I don't as much anymore. I find that I've found a favorite black and white pen. I use them the most often.
9. Sponge or Daubers- CTMH's round sponge can be cut into 8 sections to use for different colors. Daubers are great too. You can either use one per each color or you can wash them when your done and let them dry out too. Both of these can create different textures on your creations. They can be used to distress the edges or give a realistic look to plants.
10. My acrylix spritz cleaner and stamp scrubber- These are essential for cleaning your stamps when done using them or in between colors. I've tried using baby wipes but you have to make sure they are alcohol free, plus they can leave fibers on your stamp. Then when you go to stamp you'll have a fibers that is heavily colored and leaves a line across your image. The spray really does last and you can purchase refill bottles.
*Bonus- An organizer to carry those tools in!
What are your favorite or most reached for tools?
~Justine
