You may have a room full of stamping supplies, but do you have the STAMPING ESSENTIALS?  When people sit down to craft a handmade card, they often think it’s “easy.” But as we know, it can be a bit scary when you have lots of shelves full of stuff, but you aren’t sure you have the right stuff!

I get asked all the time: “Leanne, what do I actually need to get that professional, polished look without a craft room full of clutter?”

After stamping for over 20 years, I’ve learned that you don’t need a room full of supplies to make beautiful, handmade cards.  If I had to start my craft room over, I now know there are only 10 essential supplies.  If you have these basics, plus one stamp set, the right-sized block(s) for this set, and one ink pad (of course!), then you’re ready to create.  

So what is the magical combination of tools to start your creative journey?  Never fear, I’m right here to help you!  Today I’m sharing my Stamping Essentials – the foundational tools I have at my craft table for almost every project at Create Handmade Cards.  And because Stampin’ Up! makes THE. BEST. PAPER. INK. and TOOLS. 

Here’s my list of the essential Stampin’ Up! supplies every stamper needs.  

NOTE: If you are missing any of these foundation pieces—or your current tools leave your projects looking a little unloved—I have added all 10 of these items into the STAMPING ESSENTIALS shopping list from my Stampin’ Up! store.  Click on the button at the end of this post, add the items you need, delete those you already have, easy peasy!

• Bone Folder
• Multipurpose Liquid Glue
• Stampin’ Pierce Mat
• Basic White 8-1/2″ x 11″ Cardstock
• Basic White Medium Envelopes
• Stampin’ Shammy & Stampin’ Mist
• Stampin’ Dimensionals
• Paper Trimmer & Replacement Blades (Cutting Blades Multipack)
• Basic Gray Classic Stampin’ Pad & Basic Gray Ink Refill
• Cling Stamps & matching Clear Block(s) of your choice *

* When you click on this link, you’ll find a collection of stamp sets that have both floral images and sentiments.  If you have only one set, this is what I recommend you start with.  

Now that you’ve seen my list, do you agree with me?  Leave me a comment with what I may have left off this list that you think is essential, and tell me why! 

I hope this curated list of Stampin’ Up! tools and supplies has helped you look at your craft room in a new, brighter light.  Clear your desktop of all supplies not on this list.  Don’t throw them away; just put them aside for a bit.  Now find these supplies in your collection, and place your order for the items you’re missing, and place them in a pretty container on your desk.  Take a deep breath (that cleaning-up process can be brutal!), and then sit down to stamp.  I hope that after you’ve created a few projects, you’ll find that these items are, in fact, the only ones you need to create a beautiful card.  I can’t wait to see what you create with your STAMPING ESSENTIALS!