Essential Tools

I am back with my 3rd post for craftykickstart16!

Today I am sharing 3 of my favorite basic tools (other than scissors), and highlighting the importance of using the right tools. In my opinion these tools are a must for every paper crafter.
[Before I start, I just want to add that there are alternatives for practically every tool, BUT if you want to save time, and minimize effort, invest in the right tools]

1. Scoreboard
This is a must have, and if you are a paper crafter, this is your best friend! In ancient times, I would score the cardstock using a ruler, and an ink-less ballpoint pen; yes, it did get the job done, but it took me twice the time and effort. This is highly recommended if, you want to score straight lines in a matter of seconds.

I use the Martha Stewart Scoring tool, and it works great for me. It is true that sometimes, when you are going really fast, you might jump the line because the groves are only 1/8th of an inch apart, but I don't mind that much. I love the fact that there are groves every 1/8th inch, because that allows me to score multiple times, without having to move the cardstock around.

2. Trimmer
Buy it! Your wrists will thank you! Using the paper knife may serve the purpose, but when you use it frequently you realize the pressure it puts on your wrists, and your fingers. The trimmer is your savior. Go get it!

I've worked with Fiskars and Tonic, and between the two, I prefer Tonic simply because the blades last longer. Most trimmers come with a scoring tool, Tonic does too, but I prefer using a scoreboard especially when I am working with cardstock that is longer than 12".

3. Craft Sheet
If you like to keep your desk/table clean, and damage free, do invest in a craft sheet. It is worth the investment.

I use the Ranger Inkessential non-stick craft sheet. I like to keep my table clean, so before I owned a craftsheet I would use large plastic mats, and though they served the purpose, cleaning them wasn't very easy especially when I had to remove UHU or permanent ink from them. The rangers craft sheet is very easy to clean, one wipe does it all; I also realized that it makes inking with the blending tool a lot easier, for some reason the ink seems to just flow easily onto the cardstock when you are inking the edges, with the cardstock placed on the mat.

These are my top 3 essential tools, and in this post I've only highlighted what I like about them. If you would like to read more about their features, just click the hyperlinks in the post.

Happy Crafting!