Card making supplies "must have's"

Making cards and scrapbook pages is not hard at all, just overwhelming with all the stuff available to you...just like scrapbooking is!  If you scrapbook you can make cards and stamp, if you stamp and make cards you can scrapbook!  The fun part of it all is the supplies that both sets of crafts gives you...that can really save you money in the long run!  I started out with stamping, designing my daughters birth announcements out of a Disney stamp, ink pad and colored pencils to color the image in.  From there, it's been all about embossing, using Radiant Pearls paint, and creating fun - one of a kind cards with what I have available to me. 

I am showcasing products that are must have's in my book!  In February we are going to start with easy stamping techniques, so you will need to pick up a few "basic" supplies to get started...but remember, you want to pick up things in designs you will use, not just because they look neat.  Add these items to your tool kit to make it easier for you to be able to create in the first place!  

1. One of the first things you will need is either a card kit, or basic cards and envelopes.  I personally use both, but make sure you check out the selection that Two Peas has right now!  The prices on some of them are half off, so if you are looking at just getting started, you should be able to pick something up without a problem!  
2. One of the main things you will need is stamps - any kind will do, but make sure you look at themes and things you will use, not just purchase because they are cute.  Stamps used to come on a wood base (and some still do), you can also get them to use with a clear base that can be found in different sizes to go along with the stamps themselves. 
3. To go with the stamps, you need to have ink pads.  Ink pads should be stored upside down so the ink stays at the top of the pad.  If you want to emboss, you need to have a special kind of ink called pigment ink.  Ink pads can also be used with your scrapbooking by distressing items or by inking the edges of things you are working on. 
4. The next thing you are going to want is an embossing gun and embossing powders.  This way, you are able to use it with your stamping or use it with other items to be able to create one of a kind embellishments.  Use your powders with Glue Dots 3D dots to create a wonderful "dot" of color where you need it! 
5. You are going to want a bit of "bling", the buttons, ribbon, brads/eyelets or anything else you can think of to go with it!  I love using patterned scissors with papers, one in a patterned and one trimmed flat.  Add a ribbon bow and a button to the top and you are done!    

Starting in February, we will be going over easy stamping techniques to get you started!  Make sure you check out the upcoming shopping alert/site alert post for any kind of specials Two Peas has, or coupon codes that are available for your shopping needs!  Cards are fun to make and get in the mail!  I know for me, I am planning on a lot of fun and unique cards in the next few months...start to look at your own style of handmade cards that people make.  Look at what you are attracted to...the colors, the embellishments, how they make the cards in the first place.   Make sure you bookmark sites, sketch out the details of what you like, or whatever you need to, in order to make sure you can create the card again. 
Thank you for visiting, enjoy...and see you again later! 

Lynda Jeffs

Memories in Tyme