The Handy Tools To Make Crafting Easier For Beginners
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If you are new to the world of crafting, then you may be wondering what tools you need to get started. Don't worry; we are here to help!
In this blog post, we will discuss some of the essential tools that every crafter should have. We will also provide tips on choosing the right tool for the job. So whether you are just getting started or looking for an upgrade, here are the best tools for crafting success!
Scissors
No crafting project is complete without a set of sharp cutting tools. Scissors can be used for cutting paper, fabric, and other materials.
When selecting scissors, make sure they fit comfortably in your hand, as this will make your task easier. A good pair of scissors should have sharp blades that can easily cut through even the toughest materials without causing any damage.
Paper Trimmer
Paper crafting projects are much easier when you have a good paper trimmer. This crafting tool is used to cut and measure the paper to exact sizes quickly and accurately.
It's perfect for making cards, scrapbook pages, and other projects that require precision. Most paper trimmers come with adjustable settings to accommodate different types of paper.
Related: The Best Stack Paper Cutters
Rotary Cutter
A rotary cutter is invaluable for any craft enthusiast. This simple device utilizes a rotating blade to quickly and easily cut out shapes, trim fabric, and make quick work of tedious tasks.
The blade is sharp enough to cut through multiple layers at once, and the ergonomic handle provides comfort while you work. It’s important to remember to use it with caution and to choose the right size blade for the job.
Related: Rotary Vs. Guillotine Paper Cutter
Double-Sided Tape Runner
Whether you’re scrapbooking, making cards, or creating décor pieces, double-sided tape is an indispensable crafting tool. It’s a convenient and mess-free way to attach paper, fabric, and other materials together without worrying about bubbles, wrinkles, or glue sticking everywhere.
The double-sided tape runner goes one step further - it can be used to create precise and beautiful adhesive lines for more complex projects.
Creasing Stick
A creasing stick is a great addition to your craft supplies – it’s an inexpensive but invaluable tool for creating precise folds and crisp, clean lines.
It can be used for paper crafts such as origami or card-making and fabric arts like quilting and sewing. Simply run the blunt edge of the stick along the paper or fabric where you need a crease, and press down to make the line.
Self-Healing Cutting Mat
A cutting mat is essential in any crafting project - from papercrafts to sewing. It is usually made of durable plastic or rubber and often has gridlines printed to help you cut straight lines.
Cutting mats protect the surface beneath your craft from getting scraped up or damaged by scissors or knives. They also provide a smooth surface on which to cut, allowing for more precise measurements and cleaner edges.
Related: How to Clean a Cricut Mat
Hot Glue Gun
Hot glue guns make it easy to quickly and securely attach materials, allowing you to create more complex projects in less time. You can use them for paper crafts, wood projects, fabric crafts, and so much more.
Glue guns feature a trigger-style handle to control the amount of adhesive used in each application. They are also relatively inexpensive, so you can find one that fits your budget. When using a glue gun, read the instructions carefully and follow all safety precautions to avoid injury.
Related: The Best Embossing Heat Guns
Tweezers
Tweezers are often overlooked as a crafting tool, but they are essential for precision work. You can use them to pick up and place items accurately when working with small beads or sequins.
When working with delicate materials, a pair of tweezers can be valuable. They can help secure delicate ribbons or trims in place and can remove lint or debris from fabric or paper.
Painting Supplies
Paint is a great way to add color and texture to almost any craft project. Different paints are available – from watercolors and acrylics to oil paints and spray paints.
You’ll also want to invest in a set of high-quality paint brushes for detailed work to ensure that your painting looks its best and that the colors are blended perfectly.
When selecting paint brushes for your project, consider the type of surface you’ll be painting on and the size of the brush needed for the job.
Related: Easy Watercolor Painting Ideas
Embellishments
Crafting is about expressing creativity and adding a personal touch to your projects. Embellishments are the perfect way to do that, as they are inexpensive and can be found at any craft store or online.
Many crafters also like to collect unique embellishments from various places to give their projects a personal touch. Whether scrapbooking or making cards, your projects will always stand out with the right embellishments.
Here are some examples of embellishments:
Washi Tape
Washi tape is a type of decorative adhesive tape made from natural fibers such as bamboo, hemp, and rice paper. It is highly versatile and can be used for various projects, from scrapbooking to card making to home decor.
It’s the perfect tool for beginners to use when making crafts because it comes in various colors and patterns, allowing you to easily add color and texture without purchasing expensive materials.
Cardstock
Cardstock is one of the best materials for crafting, as it's sturdy and can be used for many projects. It is thicker and stiffer than regular paper but is simple to cut and score, making it easy to work with, even for complex designs.
It's great for creating paper flowers, scrapbook pages, cards, invitations, and more. Plus, it comes in many different colors and patterns, which gives you endless possibilities for customizing your projects.
Chalk Markers
Chalk markers are a great tool for crafting beginners! They allow you to create beautiful designs and patterns on any surface, from paper and wood to glass and metal.
They come in various vibrant colors to customize your design and make it unique. The best part about chalk markers is that they are completely erasable; you can create, erase, and start over with ease.
Related: The Best Markers for Fabric
Hole Punchers
Hole punch tools are a must for any crafter, no matter the skill level. They come in all shapes and sizes to accommodate a variety of materials, from paper to plastic.
Using hole punches makes it easy to create neat and uniform holes for buttons, snaps, or other decorations, like confetti or garlands. Plus, they’re relatively inexpensive.
Craft Knife
A craft knife is perfect for cutting intricate shapes and details in paper, fabric, felt, foam, and other materials.
When choosing a craft knife, consider the level of precision you need and select one with a comfortable handle that won’t slip out of your hand when using it. Also, keep extra blades on hand so you can easily change them when they become dull.
Die-Cut Machine
A die-cut machine makes it easy for crafters to create intricate shapes and designs that would be difficult to replicate by hand. It can help beginners create beautiful cards, scrapbooks, and more with a professional finish.
This machine can cut out various materials, including paper, fabric, vinyl, and even cork! It’s easy to use with the included app and software that helps you design your projects from start to finish.
Sewing Set
A basic sewing set allows beginners to stitch fabrics together in various ways, making it easy to create custom designs and patterns.
Sewing sets typically include needles, threads, scissors, measuring tape, and fabric. For those interested in doing more advanced work, such as quilting or embroidery, specialized sets are available with additional tools such as thimbles, seam rippers, and stitch markers.
Steel Cutting Tool
A steel cutting tool is an absolute must if you're into metal crafting. This power tool can help you easily cut through all kinds of metals, from copper to brass.
It is great for making shapes and creating pieces out of metal that would be difficult to do by hand. Not only does it make crafting easier, but it also helps keep your fingers safe from sharp edges. Plus, the tool's handle is ergonomically designed for comfortable use, making it easy to work with for long periods.
Don’t forget to wear safety goggles and protective gloves when using this type of machinery.
Wood Burning Tool
A wood-burning tool is essential for anyone interested in woodworking and furniture crafts. It is a perfect way to get started if you want to add a personal touch to your projects or experiment with this unique art form.
Also known as a pyrography pen, this handy tool allows you to carve intricate and detailed designs on different kinds of wood, making it extremely versatile. Plus, it’s very easy to use and budget-friendly!
Leather Hand Stitching Tools
If you're just getting started in leatherwork, you'll need to get your hands on a few leather hand stitching tools. These include needles, thread, a waxed thimble, and an awl for piercing holes in the leather.
These crafting tools are easy to use and provide a strong and durable finish for any project you have in mind. You can use it for various leather projects like wallets, purses, belts, book covers, and more!
Related: The Best Leather Embossing Machines
Metal Grommet Set
Metal grommets are a great tool to make crafting easier for beginners. They come in various sizes and can be used with fabrics, paper, wood, plastic, and many other materials.
With a set of metal grommets, you can easily create eyelets or small holes to thread string through. The holes created by the grommets are more reliable and secure than the ones created by sewing or gluing.
The Different Types of Crafting Tools
Whether making jewelry, scrapbooking pages, or sewing softies for children, having the right tools will make things easier for beginners. Here are the different types of scissors, hot glue guns, and punching tools to help get you started on any project.
Scissors
Each type of scissors offers unique advantages that make it ideal for certain tasks or materials.
- Fabric Scissors - Slightly serrated blades that grip the fabric and prevent it from slipping.
- Embroidery Scissors - Small, sharp blades for making precise cuts.
- Paper Scissors - Blades are designed to cut paper cleanly and evenly.
Hot Glue Gun
Did you know that glue guns have three types, each with its benefits? Aside from different sizes, glue guns are available in low, high, and dual temperatures.
- Low Temp Mini Glue Gun - Use this for delicate floral, paper, fabrics, or foam.
- High Temp Mini Glue Gun - Use this for small craft projects or home repairs that involve wood, metal, or cardboard.
- Hybrid Multi-Temp Cordless Glue Gun - This is for high and low-temperature projects using any glue stick.
Punching Tools
Different punch styles offer different advantages, which is why selecting the right tool for the job is important.
- Hole Punches - Use this to make holes in paper.
- Corner Punches - Use this to create rounded corners on paper.
- Shape Punches - Use this to make cut-out shapes from paper.
Handy Tools for Crafting FAQ
What tools do crafters use?
Crafters typically use a wide variety of tools to create their crafts, depending on the type of craft and the materials used.
Common tools for crafting include scissors, glue guns or other adhesives, paint brushes, stencils or templates, rulers and measuring tapes, drill bits and saw blades, tweezers, knitting needles, stamps, and other small hand tools.
In addition to the physical tools required for crafting projects, some crafters may use digital apps or software programs to design patterns or create designs. Those who wish to sell their work may need additional tools, such as a website or online shop, to share them with potential customers.
No matter the type of crafting you do, having the right tools is essential for success!
Can crafters be minimalists?
Absolutely! One way to practice minimalism as a crafter is to focus on creating items with multi-purpose uses.
For example, you could make a piece of jewelry that can also be used as home decor or a scarf that doubles as a blanket. This not only limits the number of materials you need for each project, but it also encourages creative thinking and problem-solving.
Another way to practice minimalism as a crafter is to invest in quality supplies that will last many years and create less waste over time. Buying fewer, higher-quality supplies can be more economical and eco-friendly in the long run.
Lastly, think about what you actually need when purchasing crafting materials. Don’t be tempted by all the pretty things; instead, take a step back and evaluate what is necessary for your projects. This will help you avoid cluttering up your crafting space with unnecessary items that won’t get used.
What are the important tools used in papercraft?
The primary tools needed to participate in papercraft are scissors, glue or adhesive tape, a cutting mat, and a craft knife. For more intricate designs, an X-acto knife or scalpel may be used for precise cutting.
Some paper crafters also use rulers and compasses to create circles of different sizes. Other useful tools include a bone folder for creasing, tweezers for working with small details, and a burnisher for increasing the strength of glued edges. A cutting machine such as a Cricut or Silhouette can also create intricate shapes quickly.
Finally, specialty tools such as embossing folders and punches can create unique three-dimensional designs. With the right tools and supplies, anyone can enjoy the art of paper crafting!
Are crafting tools expensive?
Crafting tools can range in price from very inexpensive to quite expensive, depending on what type of crafting you are doing.
Basic supplies such as scissors, glue, and paper can often be purchased for a few dollars at most retail stores. More specialized crafting tools, such as sewing machines or jewelry-making equipment, can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
If you are just starting, it is best to start with the basics and see what type of crafting you enjoy before investing too much money in supplies. Additionally, many crafting stores offer discounts for bulk purchases or online deals so you can save money on crafting tools and supplies.
No matter how much or little you spend on crafting tools, it is important to remember that quality and longevity matter when crafting projects. Investing in quality supplies can help you create beautiful and long-lasting art pieces.
What are the benefits of having craft tools ready at home?
With a well-stocked craft toolbox, you can quickly and easily turn your ideas into reality and confidently tackle any project that comes your way. The following are some of the benefits of having craft tools ready at home:
- Creativity: Having craft tools at home allows you to explore your creative side and develop new ideas. As the saying goes, “It’s not what you have; it’s how you use it.” With the right tools, you can unlock a world of possibilities and create something truly amazing.
- Versatility: Craft tools can be used for various projects and tasks. Whether you want to make something special for yourself or someone else, having the right tools on hand makes it much easier.
- Cost Savings: Investing in craft tools pays off in the long run, as you won’t have to purchase supplies for each project continually.
- Stress Relief: Crafting is an excellent way to take your mind off of stress and relax. Whether you need a creative outlet or just looking for something to pass the time, having craft tools ready at home will make this task much easier.
- Quality Results: Having the right tools ensures that your projects turn out exactly as you envisioned them. With a well-stocked collection of supplies, you can bring your ideas to life and create something truly unique and one-of-a-kind.
- Fun: Crafting is a fun and rewarding activity for people of all ages. With the right tools and supplies at your disposal, you can make something special that you will cherish for years to come.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – our top tools for crafting with ease. We hope you’ll find these useful and that they help make your crafting experience a little more fun and a lot less stressful.
Do you have any favorite crafting tools that we didn’t mention? We’d love to hear about them in the comments!
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