You don’t need expensive tools to make amazing projects and gifts, but if you’ve been paper crafting for awhile, it’s safe to say you have probably had your eyes on some of the items on this list. I get ridiculously giddy at the very thought of a new paper crafting toy. Check them out and let me know what you think.
If you are a beginner, check out this post for 6 basic tools to get you started.
Texture Boutique: I love this little thing! The brand is Sizzix and it is a small tool for embossing paper smaller than 4.5 inches wide. This little baby may be out of production but as of this posting, you can still find one on Amazon or in craft stores. I get many Darice brand embossing folders when they go on sale at Joann craft stores, 5 for $10. I’m not sure how much they are regularly priced but watch for the sales and stock up. Embossed paper really amps up your project! I recently embossed my business cards. I think it gives them “a little extra” don’t you think? : ) I mean, how many embossed business cards have you ever been handed? Exactly!
This adorable monster card (monster svg from misskatecuttables.com) uses a mixed dot and a mini polka dot embossed pattern. Irresistible!
Cricut Cuttlebug: This compact machine not only embosses paper but works with die cuts as well to cut and emboss items smaller than 6 inches wide. If you want to cut something quick and dirty without firing up the computer and a cutting machine, this is your baby. It’s not inexpensive though and you will need to purchase dies and embossing folders. (Darice embossing folders will fit in a Cuttlebug, but Cuttlebug folders will not fit in the Texture Boutique.
Envelope Punch Board: By We R Memory Keepers. This tool is so fun for making a fast and accurate envelope. Measure your card, check the provided chart, and handcraft your envelope with paper you love. Make all different sized envelopes for any project. It doesn’t just have to be for mailing an item. Make small ones for your child’s lunchbox, keep a special note in your journal or even a private prayer inside of your bible. And envelopes galore for Mini Albums! Making envelopes is addicting. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.
Tab Punch Board: Also by We R Memory Keepers. I know you are thinking, what do i need a tab punch for? The answer: Anything!!! Bible tabs, journal tabs, planner tabs, recipe separators, coupon separators, scrap paper separators, bookmarks, making your own small file folders. Another addicting tool.
Cricut Explore Air or Cricut Maker: Do you have to have one of these to be an awesome paper crafter? NOPE. But if you are becoming an awesome paper crafter, YOU WANT ONE! The difference between these two machines is that the Maker has a rotary blade tool that can’t be used with the Explore Air or other Explore machines. It works flawlessly for fabric, crepe paper, felt and more delicate materials that may “pull” when cutting with the straight blade. The Maker also has the option of a Knife Blade for thicker materials such as Basswood and now additionally has an Embossing Tool. Both machines cut paper and a variety of materials. So fun!
I know there are Cricut users and there are Silhouette users and you typically fall in one camp or the other. I have never used a Silhouette machine so I can’t speak to the pros or cons. I’ve always had Cricut machines and I love them. Leave a comment below and let me know what other amazing tools you use in your paper crafting. I’m sure I’ll be enticed to check them out for myself.
