10 Supplies Every Crafter Needs

There are tons of different kinds of crafters out there. Some of us like to create more functional works of art, while others make things that are purely for aesthetic purposes. Some like enduring huge craft projects that take days (or even weeks) to finish, while others are more interested in simple projects with instant results. Whichever category your craft habits fall into, there are certain supplies that I think every crafter should have on hand, and today I’m letting you in on exactly what I think they are. What would you add to this list?

1. A hot glue gun (and some glue to go with it)

Hot Glue Gun

Hot glue is my number one go-to supply. My wing man, if you will. I’m a huge fan of instant results (some call it lazy crafting), and to accomplish such results, a hot glue gun is often necessary. Not only can it hold together a wide array of materials, it literally dries in an instant. If I’m doing a craft that involves adhering something onto something else, you can bet that I’m going to try it with hot glue. I wouldn’t put it past myself to try using it to glue, like, an ice cube to a piece of glass. That’s how much I love this stuff.

2.  Twine

Twine

When it comes to twine, the opportunities are endless. You can use it to hold something in place; you can use it to hang something up; you can use it to bind one thing to another; you can even use it as a simple adornment atop a gift. A spool of twine like the one above can be bought at a dollar store for – that’s right – a dollar. And it might even last you forever.

3. Acrylic paint

I was honestly quite a stranger to acrylic paint before I came to Free People, but now I can say with confidence that it’s one of my best friends. As I mentioned earlier, I love instant results. Acrylic paint caters to this need of mine in that it’s quick drying – plus it becomes water resistant once it’s dry. You can get it in, like, six thousand colors, and use it to paint basically whatever you want, from canvas sneakers to tree branches. Which brings me to my next item…

4. Tree branches

Tree Branches

You guys may not consider tree branches a crafting necessity, but here at Free People, they absolutely are. We’ve done tons of projects with tree branches, from fire pits to holiday mobiles – oh, and this twig mobile, too – and I can assure you we’re not stopping anytime soon. I love the idea of bringing the outdoors in, so I try to include natural elements in my décor and DIY projects as often as I can. Tree branches are awesome to work with because they’re beautiful, each one is unique, and all you have to do is step outside to stock up.

5. Paintbrushes

Paintbrushes

A paintbrush seems like one of those supplies that goes without saying, but that’s exactly why you should make sure to have a bunch in your craft box at all times. You’ll thank yourself the next time you return from a 2-hour trip to the craft store carrying two shopping bags full of acrylic paint but nothing to paint with. Paintbrushes also come in handy when a project calls for something to be coated in Elmer’s glue…

6. Elmer’s Glue

Elmer's Glue

Elmer’s glue is probably one of the first craft supplies you ever used – and with good reason. Not only is it washable (thank goodness), you can use this stuff for everything! Of course you can use it to adhere one material to another, but we’ve recently been loving it even more as a fabric stiffener for crafts like these DIY thought bubbles.

7. Thread

Needle and Thread

I don’t think I have ever gone through a full spool of thread in my life. Maybe it’s because have a hundred of them, or maybe it’s because they just never run out. I love using thread in unexpected ways, like securing a braid in my hair or attaching a card to a package. One of the best parts about thread is that it can be almost invisible if you want it to be – just as it is when used in these hanging flower mason jars. Oh! That reminds me…

8. Mason jars

Mason Jars

It’s almost comical how many uses there are for mason jars. These little glass containers are so inexpensive, so readily available, and so darn versatile. You never know when an opportunity for a mason jar craft will turn up, so I think it’s a great idea to always have a few on hand. Make sure you have different sizes, too! You just never know.

9. An X-ACTO knife

X-ACTO knife

These things can be quite dangerous, but when you have a crafting emergency, an X-ACTO knife can just as well save your life. These little tools are very necessary when you have a precise cut to make – and they’ll cut into just about anything.

10. Doilies

Doilies

Now for my favorite craft supply of all time: the doily. Well, a bunch of doilies. You may already know about my little addiction to all things lace – and doilies feed right into it. There are tons of things you can make with doilies – desktop dream catchers, lace doily bowls, and applique cuffs to name a few – so it’s a great idea to keep some on-hand. Plus, they’re just beautiful to look at.

So that’s my list! 10 supplies every crafter needs.

Craft Box

Actually, I have one more. This is something you’ll probably never need as a crafter, but I figured I’d throw it in here for good measure:

Scissors

Ha. Scissors are probably my most-used supply of all time. What craft supplies would you add to this list?

If you’re in the crafting mood, check out all of our DIY projects!

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11 years ago

I would add construction paper and I prefer Elmer’s glue sticks over regular. And wire cutters and tweezers! Life savers on multiple occasions!

Kayla
11 years ago

Oh my gosh. Iv been waiting for this post! So happy right now! I would add threading floss, mod podge, sharpies, crayons, water color paint, feathers and apocrathey bottles as well. Maybe some beading supplies too. :) thnx again!

Eva
11 years ago

beads…lots of beads, spray paint, glitter and ribbons, trinkets too!

Taylor
11 years ago

yup! I have every one! –especially sticks!
xx

Taylor
http://www.forsurejadore.blogspot.com/

11 years ago

Will not use hot glue, not in florida. Once it gets hot, project falls apart.

11 years ago

alright!!!, I got 3 out of 10! XD I always new twine was supposed to be a very important part of my life. NOw tree branch hunting!

11 years ago

that’s true! great post!
;)

DIY and more:
diyearte by L & S

Rohit
10 years ago

http://www.fabocity.com can be a good source for furnishing fabrics.