Card-Making – Start a New Hobby

If you ever need a relaxing break from work and want to create something meaningful for your family or friends, I highly recommend card-making. It’s fun, pressure-free, and full of creative possibilities. Since there are already plenty of great tutorials out there, I’ll skip the “how-to” part and instead share a list of essential art supplies and why you might need them.

Stamped Cards

Stamped cards use pre-designed images, sentiments, or decorative elements. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Stamps – I’ve handpicked affordable, creative, and unique stamp collectionsfrom around the world. My favourite brands include Katkin Krafts, AALL & Create, Colorado Craft Company, Impronte D’Autore, and others.
• Acrylic blocks – Whether you’re using clear or rubber stamps, you’ll need an acrylic block to mount them. Just press the back of the stamp onto the block—it’s that simple. If you want perfect alignment, use a precision stamping platform.
• Ink – I love using Ranger’s black ink for outlines and then painting over the stamped characters. We also carry a variety of archival pigment inks in many colours.
• Ink pad – A basic ink pad from Amazon or any craft store will do the job.
• Paper – The paper you choose affects the final look. Hot-pressed watercolour paper works beautifully for painting stamped images. For ink or marker colouring, white cardstock is an affordable and reliable choice.
• Markers or watercolour paints – Go with whatever sparks your creativity! I personally like Winsor & Newton and Karin watercolour markers.
• Cardstock – The possibilities are endless—we have hundreds of options to choose from.
• Scissors, adhesive tape, or glue – To cut and attach your elements.

Die-Cut Cards

Die-based cards are perfect for anyone who loves clean cuts and prefers to skip the painting or colouring part.

• Die-cutting machine – I use a Sizzix, but other brands work great too. You can also use it for embossing, which opens up even more creative options.
• Dies – They can be pricey, but we try to offer them at lower prices by catching distributor promotions. Please avoid buying from TEMU—many designs sold there are stolen, and the quality can be disappointing. As artists, we know how important it is to support original creators.
• Cardstock – We carry a wide range of cardstock, as well as specialty papers like cotton and mulberry. They work beautifully with dies or as layered backgrounds. Our Re-wrapped and Lucy Says I Do papers are ethically sourced from recycled materials and are fully recyclable. Though thinner than standard cardstock, they’re perfect for layering and inserts.
• Adhesives – I recommend double-sided transparent tape and Bearly Art Glue.
• Distressing tools – For adding depth or vintage effects, I use Ranger inks and blending brushes.

Other Tools & Add-Ons

• Stencils – Add unique patterns and details.
• Embossing powders – Create dimensional accents (you’ll need an anti-static spray, watermark ink or glue, and a heat gun).
• Embossing folders – Add beautiful texture and character to your designs.
• Embellishments – Add charm and personality.
• Rice paper – Great for layered or decoupage techniques.
• Tweezers – Perfect for precise glue or paint application.

You don’t need everything right away—start small and see if it clicks with you. For me, card-making has become a creative escape and a true passion.