Card Basics

These are the basics which I follow in my card making.

Unit of Measure
My choice of unit of measure is inches simply because 1/8" is the smallest and clearest measure on the ruler to read.

Card Size
I trim down A4 sheets to measure 8 x 11" and  cut each in half to make two card bases.  The finished folded card measures 4x 5 1/2".

Essential Tools
Adhesives - various are needed for different purposes.
     Multipurpose Liquid Glue (my go to for most gluing)
     Fine-Tip Glue Pen ( perfect for adhering embellishments and intricate cut dies)
     Mini-Glue Dots (great for sticking ribbon and other embellishments. Now in big and small size.
     Stampin' Dimensionals (adheres and adds depth)
     Adhesive Remover (rubs away unwanted glue and smooths rough edges of paper)

Cutters
     Paper Snips (scissors)
     Stampin' Trimmer

Clear Blocks - various sizes required for clearmount and photoplymer stamps.  Guidance for matching size is recorded in the catalogue or on each stamp case.

Simply Shammy - This reusable cleaning mat makes stamp cleaning easy. Rinse in water, then wipe your stamps to clean. Rinse before storing. The mat will stain from the inks.

Take Your Pick - Double ended tool. One end picks up sequins, paper accents and small embellishments. The other end has 2 enchangeable, double ended tips with paper piercer, mini spatula, small stylus and large stylus. In cludes protective cap on each ends.

The above tools will get you off stamping but there are more very useful tools to help take your stamping further.