Have you ever wondered just how much “stuff” you need when crafting? I sure have. And my husband DEFINITELY has! Sure, some projects require more tools and supplies than others, but what’s critical and what’s extra? And I’m not talking about “consumable” supplies – the supplies you use up regularly like paper, glue, tape, etc. I mean the tools that you only replace when they are broken or just plain worn out. So, in no particular order, here are my picks for the top 5 crafting tools you need to be using.
Cricut Maker
I’m absolutely IN LOVE with my Cricut Maker and I’ve barely scratched the surface of what it can do! I especially appreciate the “set and go” mentality that comes with the simpler projects you can make on the Cricut. Load in the mat and let it do its thing while you are focused on another aspect of the project. Of course, there are many complex patterns that you can make that will require a lot more focus and attention, but for simple crafts, it’s just so easy!
No Cricut Maker? No problem! Just click the link below to be taken to the Cricut site, where you can check out the Maker and all their other amazing products as well!
Self-Healing Mats
These are a must for sewers, but they are very handy for crafting as well. Any project that involves an Exacto blade should include a self-healing mat. Depending on the nature of your projects, you might be able to use a smaller mat (approximately 12″ x 18″), or you might go for the big one right from the start. I have a large Olfa mat (24″ x 36″) that I use for cutting fabric and large sheets of paper, but I also use smaller sizes.
Here are some great options that you can order from Amazon:
Hot Glue Gun
The quintessential crafting tool, the hot glue gun is any creator’s answer to “how does it go together?”. You don’t need to spend a lot of money on this handy item, but like anything else in this world – you get what you pay for. I recently upgraded my little glue gun to a larger version that gets a little hotter and what a difference! Of course, I’ve burned my fingers a few more times as well, but hey – it’s the cost of doing business!
Click on these links to add your own glue gun to your crafting necessities:
Paper Trimmer
When you need nice clean cuts of paper, scissors just won’t do. Do yourself and your crafts a favour and invest in a really good paper trimmer. You’ll want to look for one that will cut your 12″ sheets of paper and cardstock. Also, make sure that you can get replacement blades. You don’t want to have to replace your paper trimmer just because the blade dulls. This tool is invaluable if you plan to make a lot of cards, but it does come in handy in a number of other projects as well.
Here are some picks for paper trimmers:
Scissors
Seems simple, and yet so many craft rooms lack a basic pair of REALLY GOOD scissors. In my house, my family knows to NEVER touch my sewing scissors, but the craft scissors are fair game. You want a good pair that will stand up to regular use on a variety of materials. You don’t need to spend a fortune but, as I said above, you get what you pay for. Invest in a sturdy pair of shears that will last a good length of time.
Amazon carries a large selection, of course, and here are just a few suggestions for a great pair of scissors:
So those are my picks for the top 5 crafting tools you need to be using. What are your favourite tools for your craft projects? Be sure to share in the comments below!
For some inspiration on how to use your Cricut Maker, be sure to check out these posts:
How to Make a Mandala MacBook Cover with Cricut
Why You Need to Get a Cricut
Easy DIY Valentine’s Day Heart Garland
Here are some quick and easy projects for you to try:
How to Make a Photo Board
How to Make a Quick & Easy Table Runner
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