My Top 5 Craft Must Haves

 Hey Y'all!

When coming up with this list I tried to keep it as a general/generic craft related top five list. So there's something for any crafter to take away here. I could absolutely do a top five (or ten) with Cricut related items only. Let me know if you're interested in that in the comments below!

In no particular order here are my current top 5's!

1) Good Scissors are a must! My absolute favorite are the Fiskars Power Cut. You can easily adjust the tension of the blades, and they're comfortable in my hand. They cut extremely well. The only negative about them is where the Cricut* pair come in, the Fiskars just aren't great in small places, with smaller detailed cuts. 

*I couldn't find the Cricut scissors outside of an Essentials Tool bundle, but I know even this bundle is cheaper at other retails.

From Fiskars:

Optimized for size, power and precision, Fiskars® PowerCut(TM) Shears (9 in.) feature innovative, patent-pending, strength-enhancing curved blades for up to 2X more cutting power. Premium, heavy-duty, stainless steel blades power through thick materials such as cardboard, cork, decorative metals, and leather with fewer snips, making these shears just the right tool for bigger home décor DIY projects. A serrated edge makes it easier to grip slippery materials, while enlarged, ergonomic handles include Softgrip® touchpoints for enhanced comfort and control. Additionally, an included sheath helps protect these innovative blades during storage and travel

From Cricut:

You'll be equipped to handle any material that strikes your fancy – vinyl, iron-on, cardstock, and more. A go-to tool kit for all Cricut cutting machines.

With this combo, I never reach for my other scissors anymore. Just these 2 pair do every job I need scissors for!

2) A Large ruler is another top tool for me. I use it to measure materials, get an eye on a straight line, center designs, etc. (Y'all know how a ruler works.) I like a wider, 18 inch, clear ruler for my needs, and the Cricut one was on clearance at Walmart, but any ruler will work.

From Cricut:

Make every measurement count with this essential, go-to crafting ruler. With its 3” x 18” size, you’ll enjoy versatility and precision for almost any crafting activity. A frosted finish with easy-to-see measurements gives you visibility on both light and dark surfaces. Plus, measurement marks in 1/8” increments make it easy to account for even the smallest details, while angled lines at 30, 45, and 60 degrees give you an edge at every critical angle.

3) Self Healing Cutting Mat- I have three! I desperately need a new large one, but these two smaller ones are nice for most of my projects. (My big boy is Fiskars 16x22.) These two are X-ACTO, and Crafters Square (Dollar Tree). I do prefer the X-ACTO since it's a better size (newer ones are larger) and a bit thicker, but at just over a dollar the Crafters Square can't be beat. 

4) In addition to good scissors, I also use a rotary cutter fairly often. I got the Westcott 45mm first because I needed one for a specific project, and while it's good, I actually reach for the Crafters Square  28mm more often.

Westcott:

The trimmers from Westcott are the perfect combination of design and performance. Featuring Titanium Bonded cutting technology and the contemporary design that Westcott is famous for, this replacement blade will deliver unparalleled performance.

• 8.75 X 3.5 X 0.75
• Titanium Bonded blades are 3X harder than stainless steel; blades stay sharper longer
• Cuts multiple layers of fabric
• Great for trimming utility fabrics, burlap and denim
• Manufacturers lifetime warranty

Crafters Square:

Creative thinkers now have a tool for multiple purposes! Teachers, students, crafters, scrap-bookers, seamstresses, DIY enthusiasts, artists, and more have the unique opportunity to cut almost any material with the help from these roller cutters by Crafter's Square®! They are great for cutting paper, fabric, vinyl, and more! Each cutter is 5.75x1.75-in. with a 28mm. blade and fits perfectly in a pocket, bin, or basket.

I'm glad to have both, the 45mm blade will be easy to find when replacement time comes. I just find the smaller easier to hold, and control.

5) Markers! I have several brands, but the most of Spectrum since they are the best affordable marker I've tried. (I'd love to try Ohuhu, and hear your experiences with those and other brands.) Spectrum have a huge selection, and pride themselves on being an affordable art brand for all. I do like them best out of the brands I own; Copic, Crayola, Prisma, Artist Loft, and a few markers from other brands. 

Spectrum's Line Up:

What item(s) would you put in your top 5? Share in the comment section below!

Have a great day,

Craftin' Wife