My Favorite Supplies-The Basics

I know your anxiously awaiting for a project tutorial to give you inspiration. However, for those of you new or revisiting paper crafting, I thought it would be a good idea to share with you my favorite  basic supplies and where to buy them. For those who are seasoned paper crafters, you may already use these supplies or have your own favorites. Let’s go shopping! Yah!

Paper: We can not move forward with any paper craft without the paper, right? This favorite item of mine is broken down into two categories; card stock and patterned paper.

• Bazzill Fourz: It has a grass cloth texture (linen) and a solid core card stock, so when you cut it, the inside still shows its color (non-solid core you will see white in the core of the sheet). I use this paper for all my paper structures. It is durable and strong and the color palette it endless. I buy my sheets of this paper at www.acherryontop.com. The more you purchase, the price reduces per each sheet.
• The Stamps of Life: I will be mentioning this company quite often. I use this paper for all my greeting cards. Their paper is thick, sturdy and comes in a variety of colors. Their website is www.thestampsoflife.com
• Pattern paper: This one is difficult because there are so many companies who create such beautiful artwork on paper. But, I seem to gravitate to Graphic 45, Authentique and Prima Marketing. I love the vintage feel, bright colors and foil accents. This makes the projects I create pop even more. I usually order these online at www.acherryontop.com or www.scrapbook.com

Stamps and matching dies: This is pretty obvious. The stamps of life...I am a Gold club member, which means I belong to their Die Hard Club and their Card Kit Club. Two times a month I get goodies from them, on the first and the 15th of each month. I love Stephanie Bernard’s designs and enjoy using her stamps and dies for creating greeting cards. You can purchase online at www.thestampsoflife.com

SVG Files: To make cute 3D projects using your die cutting machines (Cricut, etc) is SVG Cuts. Mary Bonk’s designs are super cute and fun. All the projects I have created using her designs are a big hit. You can buy her files at www.svgcuts.com

Stamping ink: Color Box archival ink pads are what I use most with stamping along with an embossing powder and Tim Holts distressed ink for all structures. You can purchase any of these from A Cherry on Top (see website above) or your local Michael’s store (online at www.Michaels.com)

Adhesive: Scotch tacky glue for structures. This is the only glue I have tried that doesn’t warp the structures. Tombow permanent tape runner for greeting cards. You can buy any of these at your local Hobby Lobby store (online at www.hobbylobby.com) or A Cherry on Top (see website above).

Miscellaneous: Copic markers, ribbon, a sturdy glue gun and embellishments are good to have on hand at all times. Each one of the websites above have some or all of these items.

I know this a lot of information, but my next blog will be a project that will use some of these supplies. Also, if you have some favorites, write them in the comments, I will give them a try.

Enjoy shopping, Talk to you soon.

Christie (aka Bubbalina)