StampLadyKatie.com: My Top 5 Essential Tools for Card Making

Essential Tools for Stampers

1.Paper Trimmer
	Unless you're buying pre-cut notecards you need a paper trimmer. Make sure your trimmer has these features: the grid lines go the full length of the trimmer bed it should have both a cutting blade and a scoring blade you should be able to move the blade not in use out of the way i.e. past the edge of the paper you're cutting it should have an extendable arm for cutting 12x12 paper
2.Stamparatus
	Its a convenience yes, but so much more. A stamp positioning tool helps with a variety of special stamping techniques such as reflection stamping, split negative, wreath stamping, and more. Make sure your stamp positioner has removable plates for easy cleanup and a bed that is open on 2 sides for larger sheets of paper. The unique - and very useful - feature of the Stampin'Up! Stamparatus is the adjustable hinge positions for the plates. This allows even greater versatility for special inking techniques.
3.Silicone Craft Sheet
	This must have tool has a variety of uses. Its a good non-stick surface for working with adhesives, make a puddle of liquid glue for "painting" or dabbing on detail dies. Tough enough to handle a hot glue gun. it is translucent which makes it useful for image positioning with the Stamparatus it is non-porous and can therefore be used for reflection stamping. Or use as a pallette for watercolor.
4.Take Your Pick
	The tool you never imagined you needed. The pointy end: good for positioning self-stick bling as well as poking paper stuck in a detail die. Or pushing little bits to re-position, or holding things in place while moving other stuff. The spatula end: good for removing self-stick bling and lifting layered pieces to insert another layer. The putty end: great for moving small bits. The putty cap: good for pushing down rhinestones to ensure they are secure. And 2 different size stylus ends. Yep, didn't think I needed it - now don't want to be without it.
5.Clear Wink Of Stella Glitter Brush
	An easy way to add subtle sparkle to a project. PLUS, you can use it like a water pen and grab some ink from a pallette - the Wink of Stella is easy to clean. I keep an extra on hand at all times because I go through so many of them.