Nice To Have: Stamping

The following list is the tools that are not essential, but sure do make stamping that much simpler.  Once again these are my personal opinions, and I agree that there are other ways or items you can use, but these are the ones that I found work best for me. (I do not get paid, or associated with any of the manufactures, or stores listed.)  

The M.I.S.T.I   (Most Incredible Stamping Tool Invented)

I debated putting this on my essential list because I use this whenever I am making cards.  I discovered this tool a few years ago and I will not go back to not having it.  Fare warning it is a little bit pricey, this is an investment tool, I know why people are hesitant but the time and mistakes it prevents are worth every penny.  It's perfect for sentiments (can we say straight), background stamps are a breeze (no more internal mantra "please work, please work, please work"), and multiple cards of the same or similar type are no longer a chore (what you want 50 no problem). Once you see this tool at work, and you use it to fix a stamping that was not complete you will say "they were so right".  For card makers I really do recommend the original.  There is a mini but unless you are never going to do anything except for 4 1/4 by 5 1/2 cards ... 

 My Sweet Petunia, Amazon, Your Local Stamp Store  

The great thing about this tool is that you can place a stamp once, and as long as you remember where the paper goes you will always stamp in the same position.

Now there are other stamp position tools out there, and I have tried many of them, but this is the one that I never have issues with.  I have even watched several videos on how to make your own.  The one thing that none of the others that I have seen have been able to manage is to put the metal in the base so you can use the magnets. Now I will admit I have made the DVD case one and I like that when I'm going someplace where I have to wait to get some stamping done, but it is not big enough for me to use over the MISTI.  

(Okay I will get off my soap box now. I can't help that I love it. I even have a padded case for it, use only the recommended cleaner, and have all the templates.) 

Stamp Inventory

I am planning to have a whole post on organizing, but one thing that I love is having an inventory binder of all my stamped images. This helps to eliminate buying duplicates, is great to page through when you need some inspiration, and helps when planning your cards.  Nothing like cutting a bunch of pieces and finding out that your sentiment does fit (not that I have done that more than a few times).  Some people like to have this on paper, some like this electronic, some just like lists, some like images. There are lots of videos discussing the different ways to make these.  It is all personal preference. I suggest watching and seeing what you think might work best for you. 

For me I like to have the images, electronically, and accessible via my computer and an app on my phone.  

Crafty Ramblings: The paper crafting community

Hello Everyone! 

So it’s been a few weeks since my last post; that was because I went to the local stamp/scrapbook show.  So of course I then had to play with all my new goodies, I think/hope most of you will understand.  That show is the inspiration for this post.

If you read my about me post you know that paper crafting was not my first crafting hobby.  I think the one reason why I got deeper into it, and have stuck with it so long is the community. When I first started I was pretty much on my own, and so my growth was limited, but then with the discovery of my local store, classes and the wealth of knowledge on the internet my love and knowledge grew.

The community is one I have not seen before, we are willing to share ideas, tips, knowledge, inspiration and our love.  It’s funny I walk into a show now and I am rarely in the front door when someone I know is flagging me down to say Hi, and give me a hug. This could be a vendor, one of the many teachers, a fellow classmate at some time, or just someone I have run into at the show time and time again and had conversations with at some stall.  This community is one that shares, I don’t know how many classes I have been in and shared my supplies or someone else has shared theirs.  There is even the concept of C.A.S.E’ng a card or project.  C.A.S.E stands for copy and steal everything, it’s where you see a card you just love of someone else’s and recreate it. It is quite an honor to have that done.  How many communities are willing to let you do that? 

Yes, there are copyright, patent’s and angel policy’s you need to follow. For any stamp or items, you acquire you should look up the policy the vendor has, and follow it.  For the most part it is simple, give them credit for the products that you use, don’t claim their art work or designs as your own, and don’t mass produce with machines and turn around and sell the products. Check out your vendors for their exact policy especially if you are thinking of selling your works.

I go the shows not only for the classes if available, and the products but for the tips and ideas I get from the people there.  The vendors typically have make and takes where you can try out some of their products, or are demoing a product of theirs. In addition, there is the knowledge of our fellow paper crafters. I don’t know how many times I have picked up a product and someone may lean over and provide an example of how else I can use it, or where else I can get it.   

A friend of mine calls card making her therapy. She is so true. I know that I am happier and feel more in balance if I am able to be creative. My vacations for shows or classes are not a nice to have anymore, but mandatory for me to recharge my batteries.  There are studies that show people that do some sort of creative hobby are better workers. The study looked at work performance results of people that have a creative hobby and those that do not.  There is up to 30% better work performance for the people that have a creative hobby.

So to my fellow paper crafters out there Thank you and Hugs!  Please keep sharing and so will I. 

The Essentials: Stamping

Hello Everyone.  I’m back with another essentials article.  Today we will focus on the tools or items that I think you cannot stamp without.  Again these are just my personal opinion.  If you read my Essentials: Card Making post you know I included some inks and stamp blocks there, but this will go more in depth and focus on just stamping.

First lets’ set the scene for you to stamp…

Good Table

A good sturdy table makes all the difference when your stamping, especially if using larger stamps like background stamps.  You want one that does not give when you press down on it.  Now if that is all you have available to you (yes this does happen) try to always do your stamping over the table legs. This is where the table is the strongest. 

Foam Pad

Yes, I know I just said you want a table with no give. However, stamps do need a little bit of cushion sometimes, but not much.  If I am having trouble stamping an image, I pull out a piece of 2mm fun foam to do my stamping on.  This usually does the trick. The foam is dense enough that it doesn’t squish unevenly, but gives just that little bit of give to allow the stamp to squish into paper. Check your local kids craft supply area for the sheets. 

 

Car Chamois

Before you decide to quite reading hear me out.  A chamois is the best stamp cleaning cloth out there.  It does not leave fibers behind on your stamp and holds just the right amount of water to not make a pooled mess.  I discovered this on Jennifer McGuire’s blog (a great resource by the way).  After I saw her use it on one of her video’s I went to my local discount store and bought one designed for cars, and cut it up into about 14 pieces. I use a little seal able plastic container to keep 2 or 3 moist at once, and when it is all black (as that is what I tend to stamp in most) I take it to the sink and wash it out.  It does stain, but once washed I have had no transfer to stamps. So get with your friends and share. In this case a little goes a long way.

 

Micro Fiber Cloths

To dry my stamps or just clean up my work space I love microfiber cloths.  They pick up ink, sprays, glitter, and pretty much anything else I through at them.  When it’s laundry day I just throw them in the washer with my other towels, and I good for my next adventure. These can be bought at a grocery store or your local discount store.  

  I

Now on to the fun…

Scrap Paper

Use paper from your computer that you only printed on one side of, go to your favorite store and buy a ream of cheap copy paper. Practice first, especially if it is a new stamp. You need to see if there is spot that doesn’t stamp well without more pressure, you might find that there is still some of the manufacturing residue on the stamp, it might be mounted crooked. You might have mounted it on your stamp block upside down (not that I have not done that 1, 2, 100 times before). 

Post it Notes or Post it tape

Ever see those images where it looks like one object is behind or in front of another (think an animal in front of a tree)? You do this by masking off the image you want to have in front.  Post it Notes or Post it tape are great for this, as they are very thin, so you will not impact the stamps, and that removable glue allows you not to ruin your project.   You can also use this technique to put that party hat on your favorite animal.

Stamps of your choice

Every card maker has their own favorite stamps.  Some only use wood mounted, some the Red or Gray rubber, others only the clear acrylic. Some card makers like to stick with one or two brands.  The bottom line is it depends on what you like.  Many stamp companies attract based on the images, others based on quality, and sometimes it’s just so cute you have to have it.

Colored Inks

Here again it’s a personal preference. I will not say there is any you must have.  I admit unless I am stamping flowers or trees, I use black for most of my stamping.  There are occasions where I use colors for my sentiment only about 2% of the time, but 95% of the time it’s black, and 3% white ink as I am putting it on dark color paper. I also like to color images in.  So you really have to understand what type of images you plan to use.  If I am going to stamp with a colored ink I tend to use pigment ink pads. 

Coloring mediums

Once again this all depends on what you like and how you want your image to look.  It’s your choice! You can use markers, colored pencils, watercolor paints or powders, paint, ink pads with a blending stick. The only thing I will say is do your research before you buy. There are so many great artists and paper crafters out there that are willing to share tips, techniques, and in some cases teach. So check out YouTube, do an internet search, check out your local craft store or, if you are lucky, local convention.  The other thing I will say is take a class if you can. I have had the great opportunity over the years to take classes in several different mediums, without have to make a large investment in product. It paid off, let’s just say color pencils and most water coloring is not for me.

To fix the mistakes …

White gel pen

Sometimes that little dot of ink lands someplace you don’t want it to.  Other times, your more solid areas didn’t quite get every spot. A white gel pen comes to the rescue.  If it’s just a small dot of out of place ink a white gel pen can be used to cover (that is assuming your using white paper as your background) If there was that solid section of a stamp that didn’t quite stamp evenly use your white gel pen to draw a design and no one will ever know.

  JoAnn's, Amazon, Simon Says Stamp

Tombow MONO Sand Eraser

This is a special eraser that will actually sand off the fibers in your paper, eliminating the unwanted ink.  Unless your recipient is touching every spot of your card with super sensitive fingers, or looking at it with a magnifying glass they will never know.  Just remember use a light hand, you can always sand a bit more, but you can’t add back on. 

 JoAnn's, Amazon, Simon Says Stamp

Nice To Have: Card Making

The following list is the tools that are not essential, but sure do make card making that much simpler.  Once again these are my personal opinions, and I agree that there are other ways or items you can use, but these are the ones that I found work best for me. (I do not get paid, or associated with any of the manufactures, or stores listed.)

Score Board

The score board I really like (with one small modification) is the Martha Stewart Crafts Scoring Board. This is getting harder and harder to find, but I love the large size.

Now the one modification I made that makes all the difference is a took two different color sharpies, used one for the lines at every ½” marks and the other for the lines at the inch marks.  This is helpful when scoring anything that is on an angle; you can ensure your paper is lined up. 

 Hobby Lobby, Amazon

Bone Folder

Yes; the score board comes with one – but my personal opinion is throw it away. It is just a little too sharp.

Here I have two favorites

• For Scoring paper: Martha Stewart Crafts Bone Folder – 
• I love the two ends depending on what type of paper
• It just feels really good in your hand.

 JoAnn Fabrics, Amazon

For creasing, or burnishing: Simon Says Stamp Small Teflon Bone Folder Tool

• This leaves no marks
• Is so easy to clean when using it burnish where glue or something might get on it. 

   Simon Says Stamp

Tweezers

These are great tools for placement of items on cards, especially after adding liquid glue to that back of details die cuts.  

EK Tools® Craft Tweezers:  

• These tweezers are great because once you pick something up you do not have to keep squeezing to hold the item. 

 Michael's, Hobby Lobby, Amazon, Simon Says Stamp

Corner Rounder

To give your card just a little different style a Corner rounder comes in handy. Also great if you make your own envelopes.  This is on the more expensive side and you can get other corner round tools; but this is a buy once and never buy again type of tool.  I admit I use my tools, and try to not abuse them, but this one has fallen out of my bag, fallen off the wall where I keep it, been dropped on the table, and it just keeps going.

We R Memory Keepers Crop-A-Dile Corner Chomper Tool

• Has two sizes of rounding ¼” and ½”
• Goes through multiple layers of a card easily
• Can be used on other textiles – Chipboard, felt, plastic, magnet sheets.
• Easily able to Clean, but does not leave the little bits of paper everywhere.

 JoAnn,  Hobby Lobby, Amazon,  Simon Says Stamp

Envelope Punch Board

Sometimes you need to make your envelope. You may want to have an exact match to your card cause the paper is just perfect, you might have made a nonstandard size card

We R Memory Keepers Envelope Punch Board

• Gives you the paper size and score measurements for most sizes of envelopes
• No template to trace, or math to figure out
• Has a built in corner rounder for that professional look
• Can also be used to make boxes

  JoAnn,  Michael's,  Amazon, Simon Says Stamp

Ink Blending Tools

A great way to color a background, add dimension to the edge of a die cut, or add ink through a stencil is to use an ink blending tool.  These tools use the ink pads you have for stamping, and is not limited to just use with the Tim Holtz Distress ink.   I would recommend getting 2 packs of the tools, and a pack of replacement foams. Having four tools typically allows you to not have to change foams in between colors on one card. Sometimes changing the foams can be messy depending on how much ink you add to the foam; think blue finger print in the yellow area.

Ranger Mini Ink Blending Tool

• Good size for your hand
• The round disc does not leave sharp edge
• The foams can fit in the bottom of the mini ink cubes

 Michael's, Hobby Lobby, Amazon, Simon Says Stamp

Mini Ink Blending Foam Replacements

Hobby Lobby, Amazon, Simon Says Stamp

Note: As I said above I am not associated with any of the company’s that I list either for the products or the sellers.  I provide the links to some of the more common local stores and online dealers. But do your own research, use your coupons, or find your locally owned paper crafting store.  

The Essentials: Card Making

The Essentials: Card Making

One of my favorite quotes is “Start at the beginning and when you get to the end stop” from Lewis Carroll.   As such I thought I would start at the beginning of stamping; or at least what I think of as the beginning of stamping and that is what tools you need to start.

Disclaimer:  This list is my personal recommendations for what I found works best for me.  I am not getting paid for my support of these products or the shops that I list.  As for the shops listed I tried to start with some basic shops that most everyone has access to. At a later date I’ll do a post on what online shops I just love.

This craft is all about bringing you enjoyment while making things, and others on receiving.  If you don’t like it don’t use the product. These are recommendations but get what you think works best for you and your budget.

Paper cutter:

After all we are in the paper crafting world.  Over the years I have tried several paper cutters, and all had their benefits, and downsides.  However recently the people at Fiskars have had a breakthrough. It’s like they heard what I loved about the different paper cutters and put them all in one. 

Fiskar’s Reinforced 12” Personal Trimmer

• The 6.25” base board is perfect for most paper cutting a card maker does
• The metal guide bar for the blade – this insures you get a precise straight cut every time
• The blade doesn’t fall out every time you open the guide
•  It can cut the 12” by 12” papers
• It is light weight enough that you can take it with you to class, crops, or girls night out.

   Michael's, Joann's

Scissors:

If you are like me your probably have several pairs of scissors all over your house. But I devoted two pairs just to my paper crafting.  Once again this was a matter of trial, and trial and error to see what I think can do 97.5% of the cutting that card makers do that doesn’t you the paper cutter.

Tim Holtz Non Stick Serrated Snip Scissors-Ergonomic Large Loop Handles

• The serrated blade allows you to cut through almost anything – Wire, metal backings, plastic, chipboard, felt, ribbon, foam, and yes even paper
•  The handles are large and soft so using them for long periods of time is not an issue
• They can be used either right or left handed.
• The blades are not so long that they cant be used for detail work, but not so small that you can’t cut a big shape and have it not looked chewed around the edge. 

 Jo Ann's, Michael's, Hobby Lobby, Amazon 

Fiskars 5 Inch Titanium Micro-Tip Easy Action Scissors

• Small sharp point for use with detail cutting (cutting around those stamped images can be tough there are all sorts of little places)
• The handle doesn’t leave scissor marks around you fingers
• They can be used in either your right or left hand

   Amazon

Craft Mat:

I consider myself a neat person and this mat helps me stay that way.

3 X Sealer Supply 15" x 18" PTFE Teflon Craft Sheet 5 Mils thick MADE IN USA Shipped in mailing tube

• Protects your work surface from stamping off the page
• There are several techniques that use the “ink” pooling capabilities of this mat to create backgrounds
• Easily cleans!!! (Glue, ink, tape, sprays all come off with a snap)
• Protects your work surface from heat (Heat guns, fusing tools, hot glue guns etc.)
• The price point.

Yes, there are several of the mats on the market – I like this little thicker one especially when going up against heat. 

   Amazon

Ruler

Okay I will admit for years I used the old wooden ruler with the tiny metal strip that I got when just in Elementary school.  I was in a class and saw someone using a clear T-Ruler and I really do think a light bulb went off above my head.  I stopped at the office supply store on my way home and picked one up.  This has made a 100% improvement in my card making when there are lines involved.  I never realized how much time I was taking drawing a simple line, until it took no time at all.

T-Ruler

• The T part allows you to ensure your ruler is straight on the paper
• The clear part allows you to see through in order to make sure you are lined up with anything else on the paper
• You can get a consistent measurement as you can ensure your ruler is lined up against the paper in the same way.

    Amazon

Adhesives

On this topic every paper crafter has their own idea on what is best.  I would agree that it really is a personal preference. It is based on what you intend to stick to what.  If you want the large embellishments and chipboard and metal pieces you probably are going to lean more toward a liquid glue. If you are a paper to paper kind of person than you probably like a dry tape better.  If you like everything to have dimension then break out the jumbo size roll of foam tape. If you plan to stick pictures to or in your crafts you might like phot corners.  I tend to cross the lines on what I stick to what so I have several recommendations.

Tape:

For paper to paper I love a tape runner In particular the TomBow Tape Runner, but man oh man the price. That was until the day I happened upon the refills when ordering toner at my favorite paper supply store.  Let’s just say I am a happy camper.  

Tombow Mono Permanent  tape runner. 

Dispenser:   OfficeSupply.com

Refills:     OfficeSupply.com

Strong Tape:

For when you are taping down a little bit heaver of an object, a clear or slippery surface, or just want to make sure nothing is moving.

Score tape (also known as be creative tape).

•  Come in multiple thicknesses (1/8” to whole 8.5” x 11” sheets
• You can tear it with your fingers (no struggling to grab the scissors)
• The release paper is easy to pull off (Trick start to peal it from the side not the torn end)

    Amazon

Liquid Glue:

Sometimes tape just doesn’t make sense. Detail paper cut images with lots of swirls and openings, the center of flowers where you want to add glitter to, putting down sequins or gemstones.

Tombow Mono Liquid Glue – used for your light to medium weight glue needs. Paper to paper, ribbon, glitter, flocking, thread

• It is and dries clear
• Dries quickly
• Has two tips – detail and larger tip for larger items
• Price point

   OfficeSupply.com  or Joann's  

Ranger Multi Medium Matte – Adding heavier embellishments, metal, sequins, gemstones, pearls, chipboard

• Dries clear, and matte – no shiny spot showing where you accidentally squished the glue out
• Dries quickly
• Strong hold
• Can get a detail applicator for the small glue jobs
• Can be used on metal or Chipboard

Note:  I like to buy the little bottle, change the tip to the detail applicator.  I then buy the large jar and use it to refill.  It also is handy to have the small bottle when traveling.

Little Bottle:   Amazon

Refill Jar: Joann's, Amazon

Precision Tip:  Amazon   

Ink Pads:

This could be a whole post on it’s own.  But as this is the Essentials I’m limiting to those I can’t live without. 

Black:

Memento Tuxedo Black:

• This is used for most of your stamping\
• It’s water based
• Easy to clean off stamps, blocks, and hands
• Gives a crisp image. 

   JoAnn's Amazon, Michaels, Simon says Stamp

StazOn Jet Black:

• Used when stamping on slick or shiny surfaces
• A permanent black ink
• Does not come off with water

  JoAnn's, Amazon, Michaels, Simon Says Stamp, Hobby Lobby

Versafine Onyx Black:

• Use with sentiments or detail stamp images
• Use with embossing powders
• It’s water based
• Easy to Clean off
• Does take longer to dry …. Be careful of smudging

 Joann's, Michaels, Hobby Lobby, Amazon, Simon Says Stamp 

White:

• Stamping images on dark paper
• Used to bring out highlights in images
• Used to create shadows with offset stamping
• Can be used to change the color of an ink pad giving you more ink options
• Note: the white pads that I am recommending are pigment ink pads – they need to either have time to dry, or be heat set.

Hero Arts Unicorn

    Simon Says Stamp

Simon Says Stamp White

Simon Says Stamp

Watermark Ink pad

VersaMark: 

• Used to add a water mark to a piece of paper
• Used to do tone on tone stamping – especially good for backgrounds
• Stays wet longer so great to use with embossing powders (heat setting required)

   Joann's, Michaels, hobby Lobby, Amazon, Simon Says Stamp

Pens/Markers:

Tombow Dual Brush Pen Art Marker, N15 – Black:

• Fixing mistakes in stamping
• Adding details
• Outlining cut shapes

  Amazon 

 Sakura 37488 3-Piece Gelly Roll Blister Card Medium Point Gel Ink Pen Set, White:

• Adding details to images (stitching, dots, squiggles, shinny spots)
• Fixing mistakes when ink went some place it shouldn’t have.

Amazon 

Wink of Stella Pen – Clear: 

• Adds a bit of shine to images where you want it
• Water based
• Dries quickly
• Flat – this glitter is not going to come off and make a mess
• Can be used in place of water when water coloring an image to put sparkle through out

 JoAnn's, Hobby Lobby, Amazon, Simon Says Stamp 

 Stamp Block (s)

•  Only used with Cling Mount or clear stamps (If you only want wood mount stamps disregard this item)
• Get various sizes
• Blocks with etched lines help to position and line up your stamps
• Clear blocks allow you to see right where your stamp is going to go (especially when working with Clear stamps)

  Available where ever stamps are sold.

I hope this post will help you when starting your card/paper crafting adventure. 

Let Me Introduce Myself

Welcome Crafty Friends

My name is Krickett and I have been making cards for about 20 years now.  I started with a simple Christmas card kit that was on sale.  That lead to another kit the next year, then a sticker set here a rub on set there when they were on clearance. About 12 years ago I had the epiphany that I could make cards for more than just Christmas, and the rest is history.  

About 10 years ago I really threw myself into the paper crafting world, watched videos (who knew you could learn so much on the internet) bought a Big Shot die cutting machine, found a local stamp shop, went to my first convention, and truly embraced this new media.  Now I find I need a whole room for my stuff, I have my own unique style, I will finally call myself a Card maker (it’s not just something I do, but part of who I am) and I love the community I have discovered.

I have been around crafting all my life, and tried many different crafts along the way, but this fits for me. I have made so many friends, met so many interesting people, learned so much and I realized I’m not alone in my craft any more.

I decided to create this blog simple to share, my thoughts, a cool project I create, and great tools, or techniques I might find along the way.  It was on the internet that I found some very creative people that helped me blossom, and I hope that someone may stumble upon this and it might just help them.

Go, create and enjoy!

Krickett