BASIC SUPPLIES

While I've begun to include a fairly detailed list of supplies in my posts I thought it would be easiest to share my basic supplies here with you. I am including a detailed name instead of shopping links since many of these products are available from a host of retailers, both brick and mortar or online, and my goal isn't to influence where you make your purchase but to just share with you the tools/supplies that are an indispensable part of my crafting.

BASIC CUTTING TOOLS

Tonic Cutter 12" x 6" with Extension Arm:
I have tried many cutters over the years and have found this to be the best one for me. It makes clean cuts, has no need for blade replacements and the compact size makes this ideal for me as it is easy to store and pack away in-between crafting sessions. The extension arm is packed away in the bottom of the cutter too, saving precious desk space.

Westcott® 8" Titanium-Bonded Scissors, Straight-Handle: These are my basic scissors and have served me well for the past 4-5 years that I have had them. I also have a pair of Singer Scissors that I strictly reserve for cutting ribbon. I've tied a ribbon to the handle of that pair to make them easy to spot in my tool bag.

EK Success Cutterbee Scissors: I've been using these small scissors for the past 6 months or so as my primary 'fussy cutting' scissors and have found them to be very good for detailed work.

Fiskars Softouch Spring Action 6-inch Scissors: I use these for fussy cutting too. The pointed tips allow access into very tight spaces. They are a great choice for anyone with limited dexterity or arthritis because of their unique spring action and handle style.

Fiskars Desktop Scissors Sharpener: This is probably one of the best $12 investments I have ever made. It makes it simple to keep basic scissor styles sharp which is so important for paper crafting. 





ADHESIVES

Scotch 1/4'' Pink Advanced Tape Glider:
This is my 'go-to' adhesive when I craft. I was apprehensive when it came to buying one originally thinking it would just be way too bulky but now find it to be indispensable. I do also keep a couple smaller tape runners on hand for smaller detailed work but all-in-all this is the easiest, most cost-effective option if you craft a lot.

ATG Tape Refills 1/4" x 36 yards:
I go through a lot of ATG tape and buy refills in bulk quantities a couple of times each year. I have purchased online from both Findtape.com and TapeDepot.com and the prices are competitive, though one might be a better choice than the other depending on your location and the quantities you buy.

Tombow Mono Multi Liquid Glue:

This is my 'go-to' choice for attaching embellishments from bows to buttons to bling. It's got a nice dual dispenser design and sticks quickly.

Double-Sided Foam Tape by Uline 1/2" x 36 yards - 1/16" thick: This is a BIG roll of foam tape. You'll need a place to store it but I've found it's a good price even when you account for shipping. I also buy the Scotch 3M Brand in small rolls when the budget is tight or I need some fast since it's widely available.



COLORING MEDIUMS

Spectrum Noir Markers: After receiving the basic set of 72 (12 packs, each has 6 markers from one color family) as a gift and using these for a while I have recently completed my set. These markers are alcohol-based, refillable and while the color range is not as extensive they do have a numbering system similar to Copics.

Uni-ball Pen Signo Gel Pen - Smooth Broad White: By far the BEST gel pen on the market. It flows smoothly and consistently delivers nice results. This is a must have for adding stitching and highlight details to your projects. 



OTHER ITEMS

Distressing Kit -  I created my own distressing kit that consists of three shades of brown Colorbox Chalk Ink — Dark Brown, Chestnut Roan & Creamy Brown. Combined with a Tsukineko sponge dauber and refills for each color this covers virtually all of my needs where inking/distressing edges are concerned.

Versamark - This is a staple that I use whenever I do any heat embossing and it's also great for creating tone-on-tone effects.