Cardmaking Basics

Todays post is a bit different, I feel a bit like it is the twilight zone, don’t adjust your sets :)

After a large number of awful mistakes culminating in me droping a glass bottle on the floor I decided to film a different video than I was trying to film (it was awful, glue every except where it was supposed to go and ink dropped on cards.)

So I decided to film a new to stamping video.

My favourite item to recommend to a new stamper is a kit. I love the all inclusive kits as they contain all you need. They have card bases, envelopes, stamps, inks, dimensionals and also the embellishments. Another bonus is they have a block so if you are new to stamping you don’t have to buy a block. The only other things that I recommend is glue and also scissors.

If you know stamping is for you, I then recommend note cards, they come with envelopes - no cutting (whcih i think is a bonus,) You can add ink and punch pieces for quick simple cards. I also use the stamps from previous kits I have to make super cute cards (everyone loves a handmade card!) I would recommend getting one ink collection, my first collection was the subtles, but the in-colours come in 5’s rather than 10’s so can be good to play with at a more reasonable price.

I think that any stamp set with a punch is perfect. I am in love with the dragonflies, for birthdays I recommend the Sweet Ice Cream bundle for birthdays and the Snowman Seasons for Christmas.

What do you think are the essentials for crafting? Have I missed something?

Cards are Looking Good with the Looking Up All Inclusive Kits

I love Stampin’ Up! All inclusive kits, they contain everything you need to make 15 cards. It contains the ink, card bases, stamps and embellishments. The only thing you need to add are a bone folder and scissors. If you like having a bit of wiggle room when you add your toppers, then I would also recommend the Multipurpose glue.

THe kit comes in a compact box which can be used to store the kit and also would work as a beautiful present box when all the cards are made. It is a perfect size if crafting space is limited (in Uni Accomodation or small areas) or for crafting on the go (I have made a kit up on the train before.) Kits are perfect for new crafters but are also useful if you want to make quick easy handmade cards that your friends and family will adore.

The first picture shows the completed cards using the kit. The kit contains a gorgeous stamp set which has a number of very useful sentiments. I often find myself searching around for a ‘Happy Birthday’ or feel better soon sentiment and these are the perfect size for a number of uses.

The video below shows an overview of the all inclusive kit, there is also a second video, which gives more tips on using the kits and stamp storage.

I have had so much fun playing with the kit. I have created a few alternatives which are simple but still pretty. Look out for these coming out shortly. Whats your favourite kit?