Cards-

Crafting 101

Getting Started, Part II

As you hopefully saw in my Getting Started post, you can make really beautiful cards with basic tools. However, if you have decided you like making cards and are interested in some additional tools, these are some of the tools I would invest in:

  1. Misti Stamping Tool (I had a different stamping platform when I started. I have been using the Misti for the last year but the difference in my stamped images, and the workout on my bad hands, is amazing)
  2. Stamps for coloring (i.e., animals, flowers)
  3. Copic markers (use a craft store coupon to buy one of the 6 marker sets to see if you like them; I tried colored pencils and knock off Copic markers but real Copic markers have worked out best for my limited coloring skillset)
  4. Sizzix Big Shot
  5. Basic shape dies (rectangles, circles, stars, hearts, etc.)
  6. Word dies (happy birthday, thank you – sentiments you will most often use for your cards)
  7. Corner punch
  8. Foam squares
  9. Low tack tape (washi tape works well if you tap it on your shirt or pants first) to hold dies in place when cutting

Here are some card examples using some of these listed tools:

Brown woodgrain birthday card with circle cut out and blue happy birthday words on top of popped up woodgrain circle
Simple Birthday Card using Stitched Circle Dies and Happy Birthday Word Dies
Blue and gray birthday card with a light gray otter on its back with a birthday present resting on its belly and a multicolored balloon floating above it and a rectangle with the words "have an otterly great birthday" below the scene
Lawn Fawn Year Five Birthday Card made with Stitched Rectangle Die Layers, Polka Dot Embossing Folder, and Copic Sketch Markers
Thinking of you card with a large cream colored butterfly cutout on top of layers of cream, floral, and light purple paper with a small rectangle on lower right that says "here to support you"
Thinking of You Card using Large Butterfly Die (stacked several die cuts), Lawn Fawn Fancy Scalloped Rectangle Dies, and Simon Says Clear Stamps Tiny Words Support Sentiment stamped on a Stitched Rectangle

I love making cards because it is a wonderful creative outlet that I can complete fairly quickly. I love sending them out and sharing them with friends and family, knowing that I hopefully put a smile on their face ? Happy crafting!