Hi,
I realize you are all on pins and needles waiting for the final installment of buying appliances. Soon, very soon. I would like to announce that I am ever so slowly transitioning to the cabinet department and learning kitchen design. What little bit I've had time to do it has been fun!
I will be the first to admit that I am a craft supply junkie. Though I have intentions of getting to all of them someday, I have many that haven't left the package. So many ideas, so little time! I am a sucker for those 40% off coupons at Jo-Ann's, Michaels and Hobby Lobby. However, for me, Dick Blick seems to have the best regular prices and I get a 10% "frequent flier" discount. You can too. Just sign up.
The few folks I have actually let see my basement and master closet are amazed at my stash, but more amazed that I don't use it:) I have markers and ink pads that dry up never used. (But now I know how to fix that!) I think I hoard the supplies afraid that there won't be any more or since most of my life I have been self or temporarily employed, I might not have money later. I remember always loving getting new school supplies (especially the BIG box of crayons!)
Anyway, here is a list of essentials for any crafter. This list doesn't take in to account anyone's "specialty," just a toolbox of supplies even if it's for kid's school projects. The key to saving time and money is to keep it all together. I was constantly buying what I'd forgotten I had and it takes the fun out of making something if you are always having to hunt things down.
Scissors: Large ones, small ones, special ones for fabric and paper. Never use one pair for both. (also goes for hair shears-- NEVER use on paper!) This is an item that's worth investing in good ones.
Exacto-knife
Clear ruler: 24" is a good size.
Various Papers: Cardstock (not the same as construction paper!), scrapbook paper, novelty paper, handmade paper, printer paper -you can never have too much paper.
Paper Trimmer: The larger the better, but anything is better than nothing.
Adhesives: A zillion choices, but at least glue sticks, fabric glue, double-sided tape, hot glue/gun nice to have, masking tape, clear tape
Black Permanent Ink Pad: Staz-On is a good brand. Clean any stamp IMMEDIATELY or it will never come off.
Basic Greetings Rubber Stamps: Good for tags and quick cards. I now buy the cling kind and use with acrylic blocks to save storage space and ability to see placement better.
Markers: For basic, everyday use-- any kind will do. Water-based ones clean up better, alcohol based ones are generally permanent. Store flat so they last longer.
Acrylic Paints: The best for most basic crafts. They're cheap and washable. Try to get a smidge higher quality than bottom of the barrel. The few cents more are worth it.
Brushes: Like scissors, you are only as good as your brush. Keep good ones for yourself and give the kids the cheap ones. Never get paint in the ferrule and always clean them immediately, if not sooner.
Glitter: I just like having it around...
Stencils: The ones with numbers and letters can come in handy.
Hole Punch: Basic office supply one is fine.
Craft Mat: Makes clean up a breeze.
Paper Towels: Essential and I almost never have them handy!
Well, I think that does it! I could go on and on...but I won't!
Happy Crafting!
Gale
I realize you are all on pins and needles waiting for the final installment of buying appliances. Soon, very soon. I would like to announce that I am ever so slowly transitioning to the cabinet department and learning kitchen design. What little bit I've had time to do it has been fun!
I will be the first to admit that I am a craft supply junkie. Though I have intentions of getting to all of them someday, I have many that haven't left the package. So many ideas, so little time! I am a sucker for those 40% off coupons at Jo-Ann's, Michaels and Hobby Lobby. However, for me, Dick Blick seems to have the best regular prices and I get a 10% "frequent flier" discount. You can too. Just sign up.
The few folks I have actually let see my basement and master closet are amazed at my stash, but more amazed that I don't use it:) I have markers and ink pads that dry up never used. (But now I know how to fix that!) I think I hoard the supplies afraid that there won't be any more or since most of my life I have been self or temporarily employed, I might not have money later. I remember always loving getting new school supplies (especially the BIG box of crayons!)
Anyway, here is a list of essentials for any crafter. This list doesn't take in to account anyone's "specialty," just a toolbox of supplies even if it's for kid's school projects. The key to saving time and money is to keep it all together. I was constantly buying what I'd forgotten I had and it takes the fun out of making something if you are always having to hunt things down.
Scissors: Large ones, small ones, special ones for fabric and paper. Never use one pair for both. (also goes for hair shears-- NEVER use on paper!) This is an item that's worth investing in good ones.
Exacto-knife
Clear ruler: 24" is a good size.
Various Papers: Cardstock (not the same as construction paper!), scrapbook paper, novelty paper, handmade paper, printer paper -you can never have too much paper.
Paper Trimmer: The larger the better, but anything is better than nothing.
Adhesives: A zillion choices, but at least glue sticks, fabric glue, double-sided tape, hot glue/gun nice to have, masking tape, clear tape
Black Permanent Ink Pad: Staz-On is a good brand. Clean any stamp IMMEDIATELY or it will never come off.
Basic Greetings Rubber Stamps: Good for tags and quick cards. I now buy the cling kind and use with acrylic blocks to save storage space and ability to see placement better.
Markers: For basic, everyday use-- any kind will do. Water-based ones clean up better, alcohol based ones are generally permanent. Store flat so they last longer.
Acrylic Paints: The best for most basic crafts. They're cheap and washable. Try to get a smidge higher quality than bottom of the barrel. The few cents more are worth it.
Brushes: Like scissors, you are only as good as your brush. Keep good ones for yourself and give the kids the cheap ones. Never get paint in the ferrule and always clean them immediately, if not sooner.
Glitter: I just like having it around...
Stencils: The ones with numbers and letters can come in handy.
Hole Punch: Basic office supply one is fine.
Craft Mat: Makes clean up a breeze.
Paper Towels: Essential and I almost never have them handy!
Well, I think that does it! I could go on and on...but I won't!
Happy Crafting!
Gale
Seems I never find the time anymore to just sit down and do things so give you credit for accomplishing that with your work schedule.
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Goldenray Yorkies