Guest Author - Sandy Laipply
There are several basic tools that need to be in every papercrafter's toolbox. We'll discuss some of them here.
First, of course, is paper! We are so fortunate today to have such an abundance of papers to choose from. Basic card stock is a must, in both white and black. I like to have a nice selection of colors. Neutrals like cream, ecru, soft gray and beiges work well with almost ant theme or technique. Birthday cards often call for brights - primary red, blue and yellow as well as green, orange and purple. If you're fond of Victorian and romantic themes, you'll want to add some soft pinks, violets, yellows, peaches and blues. Masculine projects cry out for burgundy, navy, hunter green and assorted browns. Matte papers work well for most projects, but you'll want to add a few gloss finish or coated papers for special techniques.
Next come the specialty papers. The variety available in any scrapbooking store makes me feel like a kid in a candy store. Florals, stripes, plaids, geometrics, and novelty prints beg to go home with me. Specialty papers like mulberry, tissue, vellum, handmade and metallics will add excitement and zing to your creations.
Now that you have all these wonderful papers, you'll need something to cut them with. A paper trimmer will assure you of straight, clean lines and accurate measurements. Change the blade often, as cutting paper dulls a blade quickly. Some crafters prefer a cutting mat, metal edge ruler and craft knife. The learning curve here is a little steeper, but with a little practice you will be cutting even curves this way.
Scissors are a must! I most often reach for my micro tip Fiskars. These are great at getting into small, tight spaces, and extremely sharp, so if you have them make sure to keep them away from the kids. When you cut, feed your paper into the blades, and turn the paper, not the scissors.
You'll also want some kind of adhesive to attach layers and elements. Glue sticks are quick and easy and work well for paper-to-paper applications. Double stick tapes come in a variety of widths, and strengths. Good old school glue will also work, but use it or any other wet glue sparingly on paper to avoid wrinkling.
A # 2 pencil, a good eraser, a stylus or bone folder and a good set of markers will complete your basic tool kit. We'll talk soon about some of the other products that are so much fun to have!
