If you are just new to stamping or cardmaking this is the page for you.
It can be a bit overwhelming when you discover a new enjoyable hobby, but don't know where to get started.
Here are some tips that might be helpful to get you started as you browse through our catalogue.
Basic Supplies
There are lots of basic supply lists around - here is mine!
Paper Trimmer - To make cards this really is an essential tool I think. If you might ever be interested in scrapbooking or working with larger papers, get one that will cut 12" sheets. Make sure you can easily get replacement blades for the one you choose.
Adhesive - You need something for sticking cardstock layers to cards. Try a few types and you'll find your favourite. Stampin' Up has Snail adhesive ($11.95, refills $7.05). It is a handy dispenser that rolls out a strip of permanent adhesive. No mess, no fuss. I love Express IT double sided tape too.
Stamps - There are so many stamp sets to choose from. It can be hard to know where to start. Think about what sort of cards you would like to make. For kids, adults, birthdays, thank yous???Perhaps choose one of the versatile sets that have a picture with a greeting to cover a range of occasions. Or select an image stamp set you like most and a greeting set to go with it. With a greeting set and a picture set you can make great cards and then can gradually add to your collection if you choose.
Cardstock - Which colour collection are you drawn to? (There is a colour chart in our catalogue, or come to a workshop or class and I can show you some samples.)
Use good quality cardstock for your cards and you will notice the difference.
Inks - Many people start out with a Basic Black or Basic Gray ink pad and perhaps another colour or two from their favourite colour family.
The best thing about Stampin' Up! products is that they colour coordinate. You get a coordinated look when your inks work so well with your papers.
Stampin' Scrub and Stampin' Mist - These tools make it easy to look after your stamps and keep them clean. It consists of a tray with scrubbing pads, and stamp cleaner to spray onto the pads. Makes cleaning and conditioning your stamps so easy. I would highly recommend making them part of your tool kit.
Some Other Supplies
If you would like to add a little zing to your cards you might like to consider some of the following:
Adding Some Colour
We have a range of supplies for adding colour to your cards. Check out our catalogue for some options. Watercolour crayons, watercolour pencils or sets of markers that match your cardstock.
Come along to a workshop or class and try some of the different methods for adding colour!
Embellishments
There are such a range of embellishment to choose from. They give your cards that little extra something. There are choices for all budgets and tastes. 
You might like to choose a roll of ribbon that matches your cardstock. Get together with a friend and get a roll each and share.
Or perhaps you'd prefer rub ons, chipboard pieces, punches,flowers....... Now this is how our wish lists get so long!
Pick your favourite embellishment and start with that. Personally I'm a big fan of ribbon.
What is your favourite? Look through the annual catalogue for cards that appeal to you or browse some of my blog creations if you are not sure which you prefer. That might point you in a particular embellishment direction.
If you have other crafts that you enjoy, you might already have lots of supplies that you can incorporate into your cards.
Simply Sent Kits
Another way to get started is to select a Simply Sent kit. They include kits of cardstock and embellishments plus project instructions to help you create some cards quickly.
Well I hope that was a little help if you are keen to start stamping and cardmaking but are not sure where to begin.
Another idea for getting started is to host a home workshop and I'll come along and show you some techniques. This is a good way to earn some free stamps and merchandise.
Or I hold regular classes and card making sessions if you are anywhere near Avondale Heights, Vic. (In Melbourne's west.)
You can pick up lots of tips by spending some time browsing the blogs (mine and others, perhaps you'd like to do a bit of blog hopping, click on the links to other stamping sites!) You'll find heaps of great ideas and instructions for an endless range of cards, scrapbook pages, gift boxes and more. Perhaps you'll see a card you want to make that will point you in the direction of a particular set or colour choice.
Good luck building your kit of supplies. If I can assist with advice or ordering please contact me. I'd be happy to help.
Phone: 0417 377 057
Email: smadex@bigpond.com
