Paper Craft for Beginners | Essential Supply List

New to papercrafting and not sure what you ACTUALLY need to get started? This list is for you! My recommendations on the best supplies for paper craft; the must have tools and supplies to start scrapbooking, card making or even junk journalling. These are essentials for any paper craft, no matter what your style or the direction you want to take it, these supplies are a fantastic place to start.

There are so many amazing tools and supplies on the market BUT it can be tricky to know which ones you actually need and which choices will stand the test of time. Which are the tools that you will reach for over and over again? How do you know what supplies to buy if you haven’t figured out your crafting style? The following list of supplies will let you know what’s actually worth buying. These are all the things I would tell myself to buy; the things I would buy again if I was just starting, based on everything I’ve learned over the 30 years I’ve been paper crafting.

#1 – A good Paper Trimmer – These come in 3 basic styles, Rotary, Sliding and Guillotine. I recommend starting out with this Sliding version for cutting large papers and this Mini Guillotine version for smaller papers and more finite cuts.

#2 – Paper Crafting Scissors – You’ll need 2 pairs. These small scissors are perfect for cutting out smaller details and you’ll use these large scissors for more general use. I recommend getting both of these, as a good pair of scissors can make or break a project. You can also get scissors in sets, like this set of 3. These are a good option too! If you plan on using thread and fabric in your papercrafting, you’ll also need a good pair of fabric scissors.

#3 – If you plan on scrapbooking, you’ll need Scrapbook Albums to store your pages. These 12 x 12 D-Ring versions are my favourite because of their durability and ability to store lots of layered pages. You can shop them on Amazon or here for more styles and colours.

#4 – Print at home Printer – It sounds extravagant however, it’s so beneficial to be able to print in a moments notice. So many times I’ve been inspired to document a special photo and I’ve been able to get started in minutes by being able to print at home. Not only can you print your personal photos to scrapbook in high quality, you can also print images for your embellishments or junk journaling ephemera.

#5 – Glue and Adhesive – I’ve learned that adhesive is a very personal thing. Many paper crafters will have a favourite adhesive they use, so until you find yours continue to ask for recommendations. My absolute favourite liquid adhesive is this one by Nuvo. I would also recommend getting some kind of tape runner. These are really good for use with just paper, super fast and easy to use. I also use Double Sided tape in many of my paper craft projects.

#6 – Embellishments – This is where the FUN starts, because you have so many options available. If you’re just starting out, I have 2 pieces of advice. Firstly, don’t buy too much to start, until you begin working with supplies and crafting you won’t know what you love to use. So try a few things but only buy limited amounts until you have some clarity. Secondly, don’t fall into the trap of thinking you need a bunch of supplies in all the colours of the rainbow. Start with just one collection and go from there. Some MUST HAVE embellishments include Washi Tape, and Ephemera. Even if you’re not on a budget, you’ll benefit from watching this video full of ways to save when it comes to purchasing craft supplies. ((I’ll also leave details of my favourite brands down below.))

OPTIONAL extras:

#7 – Stamps and Dies – These are especially useful if you are planning on making cards. The BEST part is that they can be used over and over again, so whilst they will be an investment to start with, you’ll get your money back over time. {Note that you’ll need a manual die cutting machine if you purchase any dies, more on that below.}

#8 – Die Cutting Machine – To get the most out of your stamps and open up a world of creativity, I would recommend getting a Sizzix manual Die Cutting Machine. I have had a Sizzix for over 20 years now and use it almost every time I create! You can die cut cardstock for Scrapbook pages, create your own sentiments for Cards and so so much more.

#9 – Inks and Mixed Media Supplies – There are so many options in this category, it will be hard to resist going down a rabbit hole looking at supplies. My recommendation if you’re brand new, start with inks. My absolute favourites are these from Tim Holtz and these by Pink Fresh Studio. Another excellent option are those from Altenew.

#10 – A Sewing Machine – Adding stitching to your paper crafts will give you a professional finish and really take your projects to the next level… AND, it’s not as complicated as you would think! I share all of my best tips and tricks in this video, including all the supplies you’ll need to get started. This is an absolute beginners guide that walks you through everything you need to know.

#11 – Unlock endless Colour possiblities! Make choosing colours for your projects simple and EASY with The Colour Cube, an essential tool for beginners. Endless colour inspiration in your hands: the best colour palettes for crafters is HERE!

With so many options available, I can understand if you’re still feeling overwhelmed by choice! To help narrow down your search, here are my favourite craft brands, I know you’ll find supplies you love here.

1. Altenew – For Stamps, Dies and Ink, pretty florals and so much more!
2. Scrap Diva Designs – Some of my favourite dies, amazing quality and the cutest designs! Use code CREATEDBYGWEN at checkout for 10% OFF!
3. Scrapbook.dot.com – A complete collection of paper craft supplies.
4. A Cherry on Top – Another great source of supplies with many items not available elsewhere.
5. My Amazon Storefront – Here you’ll find my favouite Craft Room Organisation Ideas as well as links to Paper Craft essentials.

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