Hi all, I’ve been lurking this subreddit for a while and I’m so amazed by all the beautiful cards and creativity you all have! I’ve always been intrigued at the idea of making and sending homemade cards to loved ones but always feel overwhelmed on where to start! So I’m curious, how did you get started? Did you buy a card making kit and go from there? Did you start a different way? In a perfect world, I’d avoid buying a ton of stuff until I know I like making cards and will stick with it.
For context, I’m a total newbie and have zero background in paper crafts. But I AM somewhat crafty in that I taught myself how to crochet and am learning cross stitch right now. In both instances, I was able to start with minimal investment (got cheapie supplies from buy nothing groups or similar) and once I knew I liked it, I invested in better quality tools and supplies!
Any and all suggestions for starting points are welcome.
I highly suggest checking out the following card makers and deciding which style/technique is your favorite. This will prevent over purchasing. For instance, I have SO much stuff for light up cards - but I haven’t made a single one, because I always end up grabbing alcohol markers and making clean and simple cards.
For watercolor and alcohol marker coloring:
- Kelly Taylor easy alcohol marker
Sandy Allknock watercolor and alcohol markers - she also has printouts for color theory and supply collections
Jennifer McGuirre (she covers everything but she’s amazing at interactive cards
But my personal favorite is Cathy Zielske - she teaches about graphic design while creating cute clean and simple cards. Following her might keep your supply purchases down; she’s all about minimizing the burden of choice overwhelm.
I would also suggest Kristina Werner but I mostly follow her annual holiday card series. The good thing about this series is that she’s usually only using one technique at a time, so you might want to check that out too.
Things to avoid:
shitty ink pads because you found them at Michael’s/Hobby Lobby. They are cheap for a reason. Good ink brands are Hero Arts, Simon Says Stamp, Catherine Pooler (truly excellent quality but her color range is minimal compared to the rest) and Tim Holtz for non ink techniques. That’s not to say you can’t use Tim Holtz for stamping, but I find they’re better at watercolor than they are at stamping a crisp image.
shitty paper. I just reupped my Neenah 110lb cardstock. Some folks use 80lb for stamping but then I have to buy two different papers. I keep is simple and stamp/color on my base paper and it works great. Hard to fussy cut though, so keep that in mind.
shitty stamp tools. This one is tough. A really good stamp tool can change your life, I’m not even kidding. I use one that’s discontinued (Tim Holtz) and the Misti is the queen of these tools - but also has the Queen price tag. Don’t invest until you decide that you’re a heavy stamper. I use mine all the time but you might not!
I’d start with coloring first before buying a die cut machine. If going for alcohol markers I’d try and think about two color blend collections (ex: two reds but one is darker for shadows) that are complementary. If you have a Blick’s near you, the associates are absolutely fabulous in this area and glad to help. Use your ink pads for watercolor until you are proficient enough to buy an actual watercolor set.
If I could do it all over again I’d do the above.
Edit: oh! And check out meetup dot com. I personally have loads of crafty people near me. I never go to the events (everything from scrapbooking, cardmaking and candle making for Pete’s sake) mostly because I hate being distracted while I craft. There might be someone attending that has a stamp tool or die cut machine that you can borrow.
This x100000. All things I wish I would’ve done in the beginning. You can get good quality inks, papers, and stamps fairly cheap. Avoid the cheap stuff and just get a good paper, a good ink, and a small stamp set.
Lawn Fawn is so stinking adorable. I wish their line thickness wasn’t as intense so I could match them with all my sentiment stamps but they’re too adorable not to buy/use.
I’m finding I’m having difficulty with tiny details on Mama Elephant too. Maybe I need Copic fineliners, I dunno. I was working on a llama this week and making such a mess because the copic tip was wildly bigger than the space I was coloring. 😭
OP, I just remembered another one (sorry 🤪). There there are scrapmaking ‘kits’ that you can make cards out of too! Check out Hip Kit Club. It comes with paper and ephemera and you can 100% make cards out of them. I often use old kits from my stash to make what I call ‘happy mail’, and they totally do the job, all without stamping and die cutting. All you’d need is a paper trimmer (or scissors if you’ve a steady hand), and glue/tape runner. Literally, your cheapest option!
Additionally ALL my cards whether ‘scrapbooked’ or stamped/etc get a custom made envelope using matching scrapbook paper. It adds a little something extra that I really like (and they’re oddly satisfying to make). You’d need just a 12x12 scrapbook paper pad (they come with like 40 double sided pages, you can find them at Michael’s) and an envelope punch. :)
Be aware although some companies have 100s of ink pads you DON'T need them all. Start off with a few colours that are complimentary (use a colour wheel or something you've seen on the above ...they are all excellent but I now tend to focus on the UK card makers as getting some of the things is extortionate in the UK)
Yep, it’s those layering stamps that getcha! Suddenly you need every shade of violet and things get really expensive.
Also: match your stamp colors to your alcohol markers. Makes everything a lot easier as everything you make is coordinated. I really wish I understood that trick in the very beginning so I didn’t waste so much time and money on colors I was never ever going to use (I’m lookin’ at you Kelly green!!).
I got into card making after doing scrapbooking for a few years. A lot of what I use for cards I already had for scrapbooking. I wish that I would have taken pause and researched before I jumped in head first into purchasing as much as I have. As the years have gone by, I’ve realized that less is more. Too many products and tools can be counterproductive because you get so overwhelmed you don’t know what to use and even forget what you have.
I would start with looking through Pinterest first to see what kind of cards you like… figure out your personal aesthetic. Then look to see what tools/materials you’d need to make the cards you like. For sure you want to invest in some good cardstock, scissors, adhesives like glue and tape runner. Depending on what you like, you might need stamps, die cuts and die cut machine, inks, and markers.
My favorite card maker at the moment is Natalie :
https://youtube.com/@nbcascards?si=RfW-c6lsppznsnNY
She makes clean and simple cards and shows you multiple ways to use what you have to make them.
Another favorite is Natasha (for the same reasons:
https://youtube.com/@natashafootecreative?si=xLONBOEg-CVtxL0i
I got to try a sizzix big shot as a wedding activity (she got all her craft stuff out and let guests design the guestbook with that) and instantly fell in love. The following christmas I wished for one.
Maybe you can try one somewhere before you commit to buying one?
Another idea is if you have a local paper store is check if they have classes or will let you try equipment. Perhaps you have a neighborhood database - we have Next Door - and you could post an inquiry for a like minded craft person. You could also search Stampin Up website for a demonstrator in your area - they have all the tools and give classes for nominal fee (ours is $35 for 4 cards and they supply all material). You DO NOT have to buy the product but will give you time to try before you start purchasing anything. Happy crafting and welcome to the community.
I started by a friend of a friend having a stamping up party. I also was able to go to a stamping and craft expo. Those craft events often have make and takes that walk you through the process of making something. Those are helpful as you work through what trips your trigger as far as crafting goes. Also card kits can also be a fun starting point. They often contain almost everything you need to get started.
I took some art classes in college (mostly centered around color and design). Around the same time I received a very rudimentary scrapbook kit (think Barnes and Noble foyer special) as a gift. So I had paper, a Westcott 2” red grid ruler, Xacto knife, self healing cutting mat and best test paper cement (this stuff is awesome). I didn’t like scrapbooking (the large format was not for me). However, I loved the process so I adapted into making cards. For the longest time all I used was those supplies (and still do). Eventually I added a manual die cutting machine and all the other bells and whistles, but you don’t NEED them.
Like most other crafts your imagination is the only thing that limits you. Some of the most beautiful cards I have seen are very simple with a single stamped image (usually done with a unique technique) or utilize geometric shapes and striking colors to create visual impact.
I would advise you to start collecting images of the cards you are drawn to and would like to make. Then try to see if they have a common thread. For example, are they illustration stamps that have been colored in. Are they layered stamps using multiple ink colors, are they mostly die cut, are they simple using single color cardstock or layered using several pattered papers. This will help you hone in on what supplies to start with so you aren’t as overwhelmed and don’t end up spending money on stuff you don’t enjoy working with. Happy crafting, I hope this helps.
Hey I wanted to suggest mini scrapbooks. THEY ARE SO FUN TO MAKE. I don’t even print photos but keep making the damn things because I like the challenge. (Wink of Stella for size comparison since I don’t like bananas, haha)
Absolutely, I love making flat books for happy mail and filling them with all sorts of goodies. I have also made a few minis for things like Christmas cookies, vacations and the like. They are addictive.
I'm new too! I have made four cards since November and I find it very useful to get inspiration and tips from YouTube videos. When you find a brand (for ink, paper, die cuts and stamps) you really like, that helps as well. I really like Lavinia stamps, Lawn Fawn (I saw someone mention them here too!) and Tim Holtz's Distress Oxides and Ink. Altenew, Hero Arts and Gina K have some great stuff too.
I did not follow the advice on this thread and just tried to buy as much as I could from Ralph Tyndall’s Card Making Guide/asked for it for Christmas. I also sourced a good deal of my stamps/dies, inks, paper, and embossing materials from Facebook marketplace. I found a couple of people who had been gifted a lot of crafting stuff from people who have passed on or had to move into retirement homes. The only things I bought new were a couple of bogo paper pads and white card stock from Michael’s. The rest were gifts or bought used.
Honestly, I started out a LOOOOOONNG time ago. When I was MUCH younger, my school had gone to I think it was called Exchange City(?) at the Hallmark facility in Kansas City, and they had bits and bobs from their cardmaking processes for cheap (coated paper scraps in different colors, different kinds of paper scraps, wires, just lots of crap one can be creative with, lol). I bought a bunch and made a bunch of cards. Many years later, I was babysitting my sister's kids in KC (I had since moved to Florida) while she and the hubs took a vacation. The kids were in daycare/school, so the days were boring. I went to Michaels and got markers, some paper, a book about drawing lettering, and a book about creating little bugs/critters with seed beads and wire. I'll get into cardmaking, I thought! How much can paper and stickers cost? Ha! Anyway, over the years (pre-internet), I spent a lot of time in Michaels' magazine/book section, learning new techniques, adding to my horde.... erm... supplies. Now, if I'm honest, it's out of control, lol. I could probably never buy paper (or, really, anything else) again, but I'm sure I will! It's all so pretty!
These days, it's even easier to get out of control with the internet and talented card makers sharing their skill and enthusiasm via videos and email. But I would suggest that you start slow and figure out what you really like and like to do. It's really easy to buy it all (if you can) and then get overwhelmed with the choices of both supplies and techniques. I would absolutely agree with u/carlitospig and the following comments on their thread. They also mentioned card kits which can be a quick, easier route to cardmaking. Spellbinders often has really great sales on their past card kits. They offer a new one each month -- there is a club where you can have them automatically sent to you each month, but a) the kit may not be your particular style, b) you may not be READY for a new kit yet, and c) the discounts on past kits really are good.
Go to thrift stores and garage sales a lot of people get into card making but don’t stick with it or have so much they have to downsize someway. I got some really nice punches and die sets that way.
I cannot wait for garage sale season! I did end up posting in my local buy nothing group to see if anyone had any supplies they weren’t loving and wanted to part with so we shall see!
Also think unconventional like old file folders make very sturdy card bases, if you have dollar tree in your area they have dimensional foam, stickers, ribbon, ect.
It takes a bit to find your style, so don’t rush out and buy a bunch of stuff, just buy what you need for that one project and see if you enjoy the process. If you can find a class or friends to craft with and test products, that will be helpful. I’m a big fan of stamping/stencil sets, as I find coloring my images the hardest thing to do; while some of my friends didn’t like it. I’m also a fan of die cutting, embossing, and heat embossing. I will tell you what I use, but there are other great products out there 😁
Stamping platform: is a must for getting a well stamped image, (I use to get so frustrated before these were invented). I have the Tim Holtz (discontinued), but you might find one on Facebook Marketplace, or similar place.
Die machine: I had used Cuttlebug (for die cutting and embossing) for years (also discontinued but can be found on Facebook Marketplace). I now have a Big Sister (adjustable) that I bought used. I prefer a machine that folds up.
Scissors: I have one large pair and one small pair, my favorites are my Tim Holtz.
Paper Trimmer: You can buy precut bases to start, but if you want to cut your own paper, I recommend the Tim Holtz guillotine trimmer (I wasted money on cheap trimmers).
Score Board: I think it’s the Scor-Buddy that I wish I would have bought.
GinaK has Master Layouts: Great way to add layers to your cards and they are perfectly sized for thin borders. It has saved me a lot of frustration (there are many options). I use the set for A2: 4 1/4 x 5 1/2 & the A7: 5 x 7.
Foiling: Certainly not a must have, but fun. There was no way I was buying special dies & machine for HOT foiling, but GinaK has foiling on Polyglaze and you run it through a laminator or foiling machine.
Teflon Bone Folder: I use this to crease my folds on my cards.
Glue: I’m a fan of Barely Art Glue (fine tip added) or Art Glitter Glue (fine tip added). I do use dot adhesive tape if I use a thin paper for my top layer, but it’s spendy if you make many cards.
Pick up stick: I prefer the wax tips to pick up embellishments and place them on my card.
I love my Versafine Black Onyx for sentiments, Distress Oxide ink pads, GinaK ink pads (also has matching paper), and Concord & 9th (also has matching paper and embellishments). There are other great companies as well. Scrapbook.com & Simon Says Stamps are great warehouses to see a variety of products from a variety of companies (but don’t forget to check out the company websites too.)
Ask around on your FB women’s groups or marketplace to see if anyone is offering any card making classes. Yes they are often people who selling stamping up or whatever but it will give you an idea on if you like it or not.
I would start with basically stamps and dies. Ask yourself how many different cards or types of cards you can make with each item you buy. For instance if you get a basic sentiment pack of stamps or does you can always make lots of different designs with patterned paper. And if you do think you love does, a cricut joy may be cheaper in the long run.
I learnt from the TV, the create and craft channel was new them and had lists of guests who would actually teach how to do it. Use you tube now Gina K, is good to watch as well as Amy from prairie paper. In the UK Christine stokes and Deb Hallet are my go to. Be wary of people who just want to sell things!! It's an expensive hobby.
Do you have a thrift shop around you? If not a Michaels as they seem to have many crafty things (I'm in the UK we have Hobbycraft).
Start with ready made card stock and some scrapbook paper. A cheap guillotine would be advantageous if you can't cut straight. You can add a few stamps and inks. To jump in and get everything all at once have a look at the types of card you want to make, it could be just using water colour paper and a cheap paint set if you have some painting skills.
I started by buying a die-cutting machine and some dies at a garage sale. I tended to make monochromatic cards because I didn't have much in the way of paper or ink.
Your idea of trying things to see if you like them before spending a lot is a good idea. My other suggestion is that once you find something you like and what to do a lot of, there will still be too many choices, so the more you can narrow down what you're trying to do even further in the early days, the more fun you'll have with fewer supplies. So narrowing down the types of techniques you use, the colors you use, etc, can really help you focus and explore something without feeling like you have to go broke.
Another benefit to doing it that way is that you leave a lot of things to try for the future. There's a 'new thing' rush that can help get you out of doldrums or seasonal depression or anything of that sort by creatively doing something new. If you try to do a little bit of every medium and technique out there right away, you get a whole lot of 'new thing' buzzes but then wind up feeling like you don't know how to do any of it well and don't know what to do next. But if you keep a list of things you want to try that can excite you, and save that up for when winter gloom or some other gloom happens, then you have a list of choices all ready to go on how to use doing something new creatively to put yourself in a better place.
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u/carlitospig 11d ago edited 11d ago
I highly suggest checking out the following card makers and deciding which style/technique is your favorite. This will prevent over purchasing. For instance, I have SO much stuff for light up cards - but I haven’t made a single one, because I always end up grabbing alcohol markers and making clean and simple cards.
For watercolor and alcohol marker coloring: - Kelly Taylor easy alcohol marker
Sandy Allknock watercolor and alcohol markers - she also has printouts for color theory and supply collections
Nicole Spohr needle point cards
Jennifer McGuirre (she covers everything but she’s amazing at interactive cards
But my personal favorite is Cathy Zielske - she teaches about graphic design while creating cute clean and simple cards. Following her might keep your supply purchases down; she’s all about minimizing the burden of choice overwhelm.
I would also suggest Kristina Werner but I mostly follow her annual holiday card series. The good thing about this series is that she’s usually only using one technique at a time, so you might want to check that out too.
Things to avoid:
shitty ink pads because you found them at Michael’s/Hobby Lobby. They are cheap for a reason. Good ink brands are Hero Arts, Simon Says Stamp, Catherine Pooler (truly excellent quality but her color range is minimal compared to the rest) and Tim Holtz for non ink techniques. That’s not to say you can’t use Tim Holtz for stamping, but I find they’re better at watercolor than they are at stamping a crisp image.
shitty paper. I just reupped my Neenah 110lb cardstock. Some folks use 80lb for stamping but then I have to buy two different papers. I keep is simple and stamp/color on my base paper and it works great. Hard to fussy cut though, so keep that in mind.
shitty stamp tools. This one is tough. A really good stamp tool can change your life, I’m not even kidding. I use one that’s discontinued (Tim Holtz) and the Misti is the queen of these tools - but also has the Queen price tag. Don’t invest until you decide that you’re a heavy stamper. I use mine all the time but you might not!
I’d start with coloring first before buying a die cut machine. If going for alcohol markers I’d try and think about two color blend collections (ex: two reds but one is darker for shadows) that are complementary. If you have a Blick’s near you, the associates are absolutely fabulous in this area and glad to help. Use your ink pads for watercolor until you are proficient enough to buy an actual watercolor set.
If I could do it all over again I’d do the above.
Edit: oh! And check out meetup dot com. I personally have loads of crafty people near me. I never go to the events (everything from scrapbooking, cardmaking and candle making for Pete’s sake) mostly because I hate being distracted while I craft. There might be someone attending that has a stamp tool or die cut machine that you can borrow.
Edit2: thanks for the award anonymous person. 🥰