Whether you have been crafty all your life or not, don’t worry, I am here to help you get started with this great hobby of paper crafting using the right tools that won’t break your budget!

LIST #1 – FOR STAMPERS STARTING OUT ON A BUDGET, YOU’LL NEED 6 ITEMS TO MAKE CARDS WITH ONLY STAMP, INK, AND PAPER

Visit the Online Store and select a Stamp Set you like that is great for easy birthday cards. Then add a set of Basic White Notecards & Envelopes tol help you get started quickly. One Clear Block D is a great size to put your stamps on so you can stamp easily and grip the block well. Use Memento Tuxedo Black Ink to begin stamping with, Memento Ink Refill (the reinker will keep your black ink pad stamping beautiful images), and a Simply Shammy to clean up your stamps.

LIST #2 – 7 ADDITIONAL ITEMS FOR STARTING STAMPERS  

A pack of Basic White Cardstock is helpful if you want to start layering on your card fronts. The Paper Trimmer will help you cut your cardstock precisely. Regular Dimensionals will raise a layer on your card front to give it dimension. A pack of 11″ x 17″ Grid Paper provides a protective placemat that you can create your cards on. It also helps you line up things and check measurements. A pair of Paper Snips (small scissors) will let you cut out stamped images or words on your cards. If you want to have two layers of cardstock together use Stampin’ Seal adhesive and the refill in case you run out. Of course, you’ll need some Medium Basic White Envelopes to send your cards to friends and family.

LIST #3 – AS YOU ADVANCE YOUR SKILLS

At this level you are ready to move to slightly larger cards that you will cut and crease yourself. A Bone Folder helps to really crease your card folds (without breaking a fingernail). Add a colored ink pad and matching package of colored cardstock (of your choice) (I chose Real Red as it goes nice with Black & White). Add a Clear Block I to create the ability to stamp longer sentiments.

LIST #4 – AS YOUR CONFIDENCE GROWS

Now’s the time to expand your collection of adhesives. Mini Glue Dots are for securing ribbons and baker’s twine. Tear & Tape is also a strong adhesive used in box and gift bag construction. Multipurpose Liquid Glue used sparingly can take the place of any of the other glues mentioned. However, you will probably end up with a favorite that works well for you. It is always a good idea to have paper trimmer refill blades on hand. The Take Your Pick tool can be very handy in placing Dimensionals just where you want them. Lastly add a package of Baker’s Twine Essentials Pack to add a little bow here or there.

So What’s Next?

After these initial items build your stamping tool kit, there is so much more to learn. That’s what I’m here for, to help you build your confidence and be a creative, crafty superstar!

Psst! Think about This!

If you find your wish list is growing and growing, it would be silly to miss out on all the great products, discounts, and opportunities Stampin’ Up! has to offer.  Click the button below to learn how you can join the Stampin’ Up! family, and maybe even make some crafting money along the way! There is no obligation to hold workshops and you don’t have to return the Starter Kit ever.