Whether you are using paper, textiles or other media for your home crafts there are a few things that you shouldn’t be without. Home crafting can be a fun hobby or you may have even turned it into a small business, but there are some tools that you really need. Check out our guide to accessories for the home crafter.
Self-healing mats
Self-healing mats usually have a printed grid pattern to improve cutting accuracy, and they are also great at protecting your work surface from acquiring damages and cuts. When looking for a self-healing mat it is best to measure the worktop you are using to get the right size.
Green mats
Green mats are the most cost-effective option. Manufactured with three layers for extra protection, this mat is perfect for amateurs, schools and professional use, and a great choice for the home crafter as well. This mat is mostly used with craft knives, rotary cutters, Stanley knives, power knives and scalpels.
Glue guns
In every video or tutorial you may find on the internet about crafting at home you will see people using glue guns. Whether it is for textiles, glass or sometimes even small wooden pieces, a glue gun is an indispensable tool.
Apart from using glue guns to attach things to one another like sequins to clothes you can use the hot glue in more versatile ways. You can find tutorials on how to make a case for your phone, a fly swatter, a cleaning board for your make-up brushes, ways to use glue to add traction to your slippers and rugs and many other things. It seems like your imagination is the limit when it comes to making things with hot glue.
If you plan to use a hot glue gun a lot it is worth investing in a good one. Stock up on glue sticks so you never run out when you need them.
Paper hole punches and fabric pliers
If you are dealing primarily with paper then a hole punch is a must. You can find different kinds for various uses. Especially if you have turned your hobby into a business making paper cards, tags and wall art a hole punch will be helpful to make clean and exact holes where you need them to thread ribbons or any other material.
On the other hand, if you are more textile-oriented, fabric pliers can be helpful to you. They will help you punch holes through the fabric where you need them and help to fasten buttons to your creations. There are many different kinds and models on the market so make sure you find the right one for you.
Scissors/pen blades/X acto knives
Whatever home craft you have chosen you will inevitably need one of these three cutting tools. There are different types of scissors that you can choose from to make your creations cleaner and right the way you want them.
Ribbons and washi tape
Let’s face it, who doesn’t like a nice, pretty ribbon? Great to add the finishing touch on a package or present, to bring a nice touch to an invitation or to thread for effect and a colour pop. Ribbons can be quite versatile.
Washi tape is increasingly popular among home crafters. Apart from its functionality as an adhesive it is also pretty, which makes it perfect for decorations, as well.
