papercraftcrystal

Ink pads

There are five types of ink pads: Prices generally start around $7 per ink pad for a “full size” pad which is generally 2” x 3”. Mini ink pads cost about half and are generally 1” x 1”, but contain roughly 20% as much ink as a full size ink pad. Ink pads can beContinue reading “Ink pads”

Manual die cut machines – basics and optional extras

Manual die cut machines are human-powered and offer a platform with rollers. You crank a “sandwich” of cutting plate, die, and paper (or other material to be cut) through the rollers with a handle. Basic pieces The standard cutting plates are a hard polycarbonate plastic. They are consumable, so they will need to be replacedContinue reading “Manual die cut machines – basics and optional extras”

Die cutting – what to look for at the thrift shop or garage sales

Manual machines use human power to put cutting plates or platform through rollers to apply steel dies to material such as paper, fabric, plastic, thin cork or leather. Dies cost extra, but are widely available from a range of manufacturers. The originals, Sizzix and Spellbinders, can handle old-school steel rule dies that are aboutContinue reading “Die cutting – what to look for at the thrift shop or garage sales”

Papercraft Glue

I compared the various glues I had in my craft room, inspired by Mary Palanco (https://youtu.be/DaaRhzmA0H4). Her test was great, but I was more interested in price per ounce than price per container. I tested 13 glues, all of them items I had and none bought for this purpose. The most expensive glues were glueContinue reading “Papercraft Glue”