8 Must-Have Craft Tools And Supplies

According to data published by the Crafts Council in March 2015, crafts contributed £3.4 billion to the UK economy. If you run a crafting business or simply craft for fun, you undoubtedly know a thing or two about essential tools. There is nothing worse than working on a project only to realise that you lack the right equipment to finish the job properly. Therefore, it is best to be well-stocked so you can have a great range of tools to select from anything the creative urge strikes. Below are eight essential tools you should own as a keen crafter. 

Craft knife

Many expert crafters agree that a sharp and dependable craft knife is crucial for your toolbox. It is common to wonder whether you need a craft knife if you have a pair of scissors since they can be used for similar things. However, a craft knife is worth having because it is best for working in smaller spaces, unlike scissors which can be too large. Also, a craft knife will prevent you from folding your project to access tighter spots.

Bar clamps

A bar clamp is a non-negotiable tool to add to your crafting arsenal if you specialise in working with miniatures like dollhouses. You have likely stacked boxes or books atop each other to hold your craft pieces in place while the glue sets in. A bar clamp is a great tool to have because it will keep your places together for the glue to set in while leaving you with glue-free hands. 

Rotary tool

A rotary cutter is a great replacement for scissors if your craft is sewing. It is undoubtedly faster to cut vinyl, fabric, leather, and denim using a rotating tool instead of a pair of scissors. However, consider investing in a Dremel rotary tool if your craft involves working with wood, beads, or stones. This tool costs more than many of the others on this list, but you can use it for nearly everything. Also, remember to purchase protective glasses and respiratory masks when working with this tool.

Fabric measuring tape

Measurement is key to crafting, so invest in a great fabric measuring tape. This tape can help you measure items for nearly every type of craft, whether you are making a banner, sewing, paper crafting, or cutting foam. A fabric measuring tape is small and lightweight, so you can easily carry one of them around with you to measure all types of items in your workspace and on the go. 

Hot glue gun

Hot glue guns are popular electrical appliances that use constant heating elements to melt thin adhesive cylinders into glue for use on various surfaces. Using a trigger, you can use this small, cheap, and hand-held tool to apply glue. In addition, you can use your hot glue gun for a wide range of arts and crafts projects, like making jewellery, creating 3D moulds, embossing cards, and producing Christmas ornaments. There are numerous glue gun options on the market, but all you need is very hot and uses long glue cylinders, so you don't have to reload it frequently. You can purchase your hot glue gun from reputable suppliers like Glue Guns Direct, so keep this in mind. Finally, consider buying a glue gun stand in addition to your gun. This stand will provide a secure place to place your gun while working and ensure that your crafting is less messy and more organised.

Scissors

Leonardo da Vinci is often credited with inventing scissors, although this popular household tool was around for quite a while before him. Nevertheless, it is vital to have a great pair of scissors if you wish to follow in the master artist's footsteps since he also used them for cutting canvases. Indeed, a crafter needs a good pair of seasons as much as a construction worker needs a great hammer and nails. You can never really have too many scissors, so ensure that you have at least three pairs. One pair of scissors can be for papercrafts, the other for fabric or yarn, and the third for miscellaneous projects like making pine cone bird feeders. Also, you can select a wide range of scissors and decide whether to go for an affordable or expensive option. However, it would be best to stick to a simple and comfortable pair of scissors if you are a casual crafter. Furthermore, remember to regularly sharpen your scissors to prevent them from becoming dull.

Tweezers

You are likely wondering if you can use the same pair of tweezers you use to remove stray hairs in the bathroom for crafting. While you undoubtedly can, there are curved-tip tweezers purposely made for crafting, so it would be best to invest in these instead. These tweezers are useful when working with thread, beading, or applying decals to glass. Also, they come in very handy when crafting with hot glue. Furthermore, you can use them for intricate paper crafting, paper piercing, and picking up small items. Tweezers are one of the tools you will surely use the most, so consider acquiring several pairs since they have a strange habit of getting lost.

Electronic die cutting machine

An electronic die cutting machine might seem like a lavish purchase, but this piece of equipment can be extremely useful if you are a serious crafter. It can cut out letters, for starters, making it invaluable to your crafting. Also, you can use it to make cards, signage, paper dolls, and even home decor. However, spend significant time learning how to use your machine well, preferably through tutorial videos on YouTube. Also, keep it out and accessible so you can readily practice what you learn and perfect your skills over time. A Cricut die cutting machine is a great go-to choice for beginners because it can cut several different materials for use in a wide range of craft projects. All Cricut machines can cut paper and vinyl, and some others can even cut fabrics, cork, balsa wood, and leather with the right cutting blades.