My Favorite Cardmaking Tools

I wanted to show some of my all time favorite tools for cardmaking. It really helps to have good tools to make it easier and more successful.  For example, until I found the Simply Shammy cleaning mat, I had ruined several stamped sentiments and imagines (and wasted so much paper)  UGH!  It is a game changer for me! The shammy is used to wipe/clean off your stamps. It cleans very well and doesn't leave dust or lint like the wipes or paper towels did for me.  Just wet the mat, use it until it needs rewetting, continue on.  You may have something that works well for you, however, if you are a beginner and are looking for an easy way to clean off your stamps, this may be helpful for you.

Okay, enough about that, let's get on to all my other favorites... (Yes, there are more😊)

My Favorite Cardmaking Tools

I will list the items from each picture;  Pictures, left to right, top to bottom.  

My tools are from Stampin' Up!® and can be found in the Stampin' Up!® 2022 Annual Catalog or online at stampinup.com   

Picture One:

• Simply Shammy  This is a shammy mat, that is reusable, wet it, ring it out, clean the ink off of your stamps. When it needs a rewetting just do it again and reuse.  I keep it in a standard stamp case, which helps keep it moist for a few days.  I LOVE IT!    
•  The Bone Folder burnishes your score line to make the card base lay flat when closed. This helps align your card front.  
•  Paper Snips  You will need scissors for your projects. Any will work, just have a good pair for paper cutting. I use a different pair for cutting ribbon/twine. 
• Take Your Pick Tool    This helps pick up small embellishments. It has a tacky end and a changeable double end with a  paper piercer and spatula.  Look at this tool online for an explanation. I use this for every card.    
• Stampin' Up! Clear Blocks  The block is used for adhering to your stamp. They come in many sizes, which are needed for your different size stamps.
• Wink of Stella   This is a glitter brush which I use on almost all my cards. I love a bit a glitter.   

Picture Two:  ADHESIVES

• Multipurpose Liquid Glue  I use the liquid glue for all my cards, especially for the card fronts. The liquid glue allows wiggle room for adjusting the alignment of your paper. I often need wiggle room! lol.  I also use the Stampin' Seal, however, the liquid gives you time to adjust, "wiggle room 😊".  
• Stampin' Seal  This is great for cardmaking as well. I use this often. I will say I have had trouble with other brands seal tapes. I always throw them out before they are out of tape. I have never had trouble with the Stampin' Up! Stampin' Seal. It works well and now it is the only brand tape I use for seal.  
• Stampin' Dimensionals  I use these on most of my cards!  I love the dimensional!!  They are double sided foam dots that add depth and dimensions to your cards.  I go through many!    They also come in mini and black.
• Tear & Tape Adhesive  This is a strong adhesive that you can tear and easily place on your projects.  
• Silicone Craft Sheet   I use this craft sheet when adhering my cards.  Use it under your project when applying any adhesive. This keeps your workspace clean from adhesives.  You can wipe it clean.  

Picture Three:  Cutting and Stamping Tools

Paper Trimmer  If you will be making cards you will need a trimmer. I like the Stampin' Up! trimmer because it comes with the cutting and scoring blade. I do not use another scoring tool since the trimmer can be used for both cutting and scoring.  This makes it quick and simple for me to just use the one tool.  

Stampin' Cut & Emboss The one in the photo is the mini machine. There is also a bigger one. I will be honest and tell you that I still use the embossing machine I purchased from Stampin' Up! a few years ago, which they no longer sell.  It works, I do not need a new one, and therefore I will continue until it no longer does.  I did buy the mini for the portability.

Stamparaus This is a positioning tool for your stamps and helps you place your stamp for a perfect, crisp image. Look at this item online for a better explanation.

Blending Brushes I love these soft brushes. You get three in a pack. They blend your ink on the paper. 

Sponge Daubers These can fit on your finger to help you touch ink onto your projects. They come in a pack of five.

Picture Four:  

Grid Paper   I use this to protect my workspace from getting ink or adhesive on it. The

 Stampin' Up!®grid paper can be used as a ruler as it has both inches and centimeters. I also use it as scrap paper while stamping.

Thank you for reading my post.  Stay tuned for more!