Alas, after actually spending time with your "baby", you realize that most of the shiny new toys you bought are actually not necessary and some are downright money wasters. Really...who actually used that stupid changing table top electric bottle warmer after they realized that the microwave did the job just as well in less time?
Tried & true, here is our list of items that we have found to be well worth the money in making your paper crafts really special:
#1 - Corner Rounder - cheap, easy, but packs a big punch (no pun intended). They come in small or large meaning the degree of rounding is much greater on the large one. I got my Paper Company small corner rounder from Hobby Lobby. Note: I don't know why the reviews are so low - I LOVE mine!
#2 - Small Ink Pads - Also referred to as "cat's eye ink" you use these to ink the edges of any layered embellishment you put on a card. I'm embarrassed to say I just started doing this - I never thought it was necessary until I did it once & saw what a huge difference it makes! It's kind of like taking an hour to do your makeup then leaving the house without lipstick. You can definitely get by with two - brown & black - but I ended up getting a multi pack with a 40% off coupon & I find myself experimenting with some of the other colors. These also work well for smaller rubber stamps.
#3 - Adhesives- First, you need a good tape runner. This is the ONLY way to go on adhesives! Do not use liquid glue - you're regret it. I've been using MyStik for the past 3 years & find it to be the best quality & easiest to use. Next, you need some glue dots for small embellishments. I have regular 1/2" & mini & regularly use both. But if you only get one, get the mini - it's easier to add more than to have icky glue hanging off the sides of your embellishment. Lastly, you need some 3D adhesives to make your embellishments "pop." You can use foam squares or 3D glue dots - whatever strikes your fancy. In this case, if you don't get regular and mini, go for the regular - they can be trimmed with scissors.
#4 - 3D Medium - Oh my! This little bottle of "magic sauce" adds so, so much! You simply accent little areas of your cards (perhaps stripes or dots on your paper, flower centers, etc.), allow it to dry for a few minutes & you have a beautiful, shiny little 3D accent. Easy-peasy. There are lots of them out these, but I use Ranger. A little goes a long way.
#5 - Scoring Board - I admit I once thought this was one of those unnecessary money wasters, but I have come to embrace the versatility of my scoring board. You can make your own boxes for custom note cards, make your own envelopes, make score marks for your custom cards and even make your own rosettes. You can even score embossing marks on your cards for detail. Again, there are lots out there, I just happen to have Martha Stewart's. A note: other users said that the plastic boning tool included with this board will wear over time, become sharp & tear through your paper. They were right. As a matter of fact, it takes a light touch when scoring. I purchased s round ended stylus & it works much better.
#6 - Seam Roller - Nothing fancy here! Just $2 at your local hardware store will get you this tool that is absolutely vital to adhere your layers together. As a matter of fact - get two as they tend to get glue on them.
#7 - Baby Wipes - the cheapest ones you can get. They are versatile for wiping off your rubber stamps, hands & work area.
#8 - Rotary Paper Trimmer - Get the best on you can here. You get what you pay for. If you want straight cuts, spend more. Be sure the numbers are easily visible, the blades are changeable & it cuts up to 12". I have this one by Carl. It's sturdy, not too cumbersome & makes nice cuts.
Know of another tool or item that you use every day & can't live without? Leave a comment & tell us about it.
