If you’re into crafting and DIY or are interested in starting, here is a great list by Apartment Therapy of the things you need to have on hand to create just about anything. I have most of these in my craft room and would say this list is pretty accurate. In a pinch I can whip up something personal and creative from birthday cards to gift boxes to random class costumes I don’t want to spend a fortune on.
apartmenttherapy.com
TRIMMING TOOLS:
1. Pinking Shears from IKEA, $7.99
2. Basic Scissors are a must, and come in a wide price range. This pair is fromStaples for $7.99.
3. X-acto knife #2 from Dick Blick, $4.31
4. Paper Trimmers are available in either a rotary or guillotine style. I prefer the rotary style, like this 18″ Carl model from Staples for $198.99. There is a wide price range on paper trimmers, but I have found that the super cheap trimmers don’t last as long or always get the job done.
5. Rounded corner punch from Paper Source, $12.95
6. A good ruler will last decades and should have a non-slip surface on the bottom in addition to a finger guard, like this Alumicutter from Dick Blick. $10.29 for an 18″ model.
7. A reversible self-healing cutting mat will save your dining table and counter tops from ruin. Dick Blick, $12.99 for an 8″ x 12″ mat.
8. A single hole punch from Martha Stewart at Paper Source, $18.99
9. A circle trimmer creates perfect circles, an impossible free-hand task, in a cinch. Fiskars from Paper Source, $24.95
10. A heart punch is a good basic shape to keep on hand. From Dick Blick, $12.70.
ADHESIVES:
1. Washi tape has created a whole new product for crafters to collect. 5 rolls for $16.95 from Paper Source
2. A grade school favorite that carries into adulthood. Glue Sticks from Dick Blick, from 90¢
3. A dual temperature glue gun like this Stanley model from Home Depot is nice when you don’t want to burn your fingers. $12.97
4. Gift wrap tape by Scotch 3M from Target, $2.64
5. Double Sided tape by Scotch 3M from Target, $2.99
6. The 1960’s decoupage phenomenon Mod Podge from Dick Blick, $2.99 for 4 oz.
7. Aleen’s tacky glue is the adult version of Elmer’s, with just a bit more stickiness to it. Dick Blick, $2.98 for 8 oz
8. Sponge brushes from your local hardware shop are essential for many of these adhesives and work for many painting projects too. Paper Source, set of 4 for $1.50
ODDS & ENDS:
1. Jute twine has a timeless quality and is a great neutral for any color. Paper Source, $4.95
2. A roll of baker’s twine will last forever, and always comes in handy for last minute packaging. With an array of colors at such a cheap price, you never feel like you are wasting any of it. $7.99 for 500 yards from Paper Source
3. Cavallini makes some great stamp sets with a basic black ink pad, including this alphabet set from Paper Source, $27.95
4. Manila shipping tags from Avery, $61.97 for 1000 (smaller quantities are available at your local office supply).
5. A sewing machine might seem like an odd choice, but it can create unique textures and stitch up bunting and garland in a snap. Joann Craft Store, $69.99
6. Primary color ink pad set from Yellow Owl Workshop, $10
7. If you are looking to take your stamping further, an heat embossing tool is crucial.Paper Source, $23.95
8. A roll of kraft paper works as gift wrap for any occasion, or even a last minute table runner. Target, $4.99 per roll.
Is there anything you think they’ve left out? Tell us in the comments below.
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