Estella's Favorite Art Supplies and Tools
Stencil Making Tools
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As you embark on you stencil making journey, you may be wondering, “what do I need to get started?”
The following is a list of recommendations of invaluable tools I’ve carefully curated that you can use for stencil making. You may already have some of the items listed and your choice of the following tools will depend on which stencil making “path” you decide to follow.
Drawing Tools
Wooden Pencil
A classic wooden pencil is a staple for any artist. It offers smooth, consistent lines and is perfect for sketching and detailed work.
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Manual Pencil Sharpener
This manual pencil sharpener is a reliable tool for keeping your pencils sharp. Its compact design makes it easy to carry and use anywhere.
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Electric Pencil Sharpener
Keep your pencils sharp and ready for detailed work with this electric pencil sharpener. It’s quick and efficient, making it a great addition to your workspace.
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Mechanical Pencil
A mechanical pencil provides consistent and precise lines for your drawings. It’s perfect for detailed work and sketching.
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Polymer Erasers (block)
Polymer erasers are perfect for clean, precise erasing without damaging your paper. They are ideal for correcting mistakes and refining details in your drawings and sketches.
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Retractable Eraser
This retractable eraser offers the convenience of a pen-style design, allowing for detailed and controlled erasing. It’s perfect for fine-tuning your artwork.
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Kneadable eraser
A kneadable eraser is perfect for adjusting and refining your pencil sketches. Its flexibility allows for precise erasing, making it an essential tool for any artist.
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Mixed Media Paper Pad
This mixed media paper pad is versatile and durable, suitable for a variety of art techniques. Its high-quality pages are perfect for sketches, watercolors, acrylics, and more, making it an essential item for any artist’s toolkit.
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Tracing Paper
Tracing paper is a must-have for transferring designs and creating overlays. Its transparent quality makes it perfect for detailed work and pattern making.
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Ruler, Metal
A metal ruler provides precision and durability for your measuring and cutting needs. It’s an essential tool for creating straight lines and accurate measurements.
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Sharpie Marker
Sharpie markers are renowned for their vibrant colors and long-lasting ink. They are perfect for adding bold lines and details to your projects.
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Correction fluid
Correction fluid is an essential tool for making small adjustments and corrections in your stencil designs. It’s easy to use and provides a smooth finish.
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Manual Cutting Tools
Fiskars SoftGrip Detail Craft Knife – 8″
This craft knife from Fiskars features a soft grip handle for comfort and precision. It’s ideal for detailed cutting work, making it a great addition to your toolkit.
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Fingertip Swivel Knife
The Fingertip Swivel Knife offers precise control for detailed cutting. Its ergonomic design makes it comfortable to use, perfect for intricate stencil designs.
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16-Piece Craft Knife Set
This comprehensive craft knife set includes a variety of blades for precise cutting. It’s perfect for detailed stencil work and other crafting projects.
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Electric Hot Knife Cutter Tool – Hot Stencil Cutter Multipurpose Heat Knife for Cutting Plastic
This electric hot knife cutter is perfect for cutting plastic stencils. Its multipurpose design makes it a valuable tool for any stencil maker.
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Precision Scissors, Small
These small precision scissors are perfect for cutting detailed designs. Their sharp blades and comfortable handle make them a must-have for any crafter.
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Stencil “Substrate”
Acetate (needs to be at least 7mm)
Acetate sheets are perfect for creating durable and reusable stencils. Their transparency allows for easy positioning and precision cutting.
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Cardstock (200 gsm, 74 lb., 7mm)
Cardstock is a versatile material for stencil making. Its thickness and durability make it ideal for creating strong and long-lasting stencils.
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Laminating Sheets 5 mil (will need a laminator)
Laminating sheets provide an extra layer of protection for your stencils, making them more durable and reusable. A laminator is required for this process.
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Mylar 7mm
Mylar sheets are a popular choice for stencil making due to their durability and flexibility. They can be easily cut and are perfect for detailed designs.
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Plastic Binder Dividers
Plastic binder dividers can be repurposed as stencil material. Their sturdiness and availability make them a cost-effective option for creating custom stencils.
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Synthetic “Paper” (used for alcohol ink art)
Synthetic paper is perfect for alcohol ink art and stencil making. Its smooth, non-porous surface allows for easy application and cleanup.
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Glue Gun Stencils
Cutting Board
A cutting board provides a safe and sturdy surface for using hot glue guns and other tools. It’s essential for protecting your workspace and achieving precise cuts.
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Hot Glue Gun
A hot glue gun is an essential tool for crafting and DIY projects. It allows you to quickly and securely adhere materials, making it perfect for stencil making and more.
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Hot Glue Sticks
Ensure your hot glue gun is always ready with a supply of hot glue sticks. These sticks provide strong and reliable adhesion for various materials.
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Parchment Paper
Parchment paper is a versatile tool for protecting surfaces and preventing glue from sticking. It’s ideal for use with hot glue guns and other adhesives.
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Silicone Mat
A silicone mat provides a non-stick surface for using hot glue and other crafting materials. It’s easy to clean and protects your workspace from damage.
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Electronic Cutting Tools
Brother ScanNCut (SDX85)
The Brother ScanNCut SDX85 is a versatile electronic cutting machine that makes creating stencils easy and efficient. It’s perfect for both beginners and experienced crafters.
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Cricut Maker
The Cricut Maker offers precision cutting for a wide range of materials. It’s an essential tool for any stencil maker, providing versatility and high-quality results.
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Silhouette Cameo 5
The Silhouette Cameo 5 is an electronic cutting machine that allows you to create intricate and detailed stencils with ease. It’s perfect for all your crafting needs.
Buy it here.
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Gel Printing Tools
The following are my recommendations for invaluable tools you can use for gel printing.
Speedball Red Baron Baren
Enhance your printmaking with the Speedball Red Baron Baren. It’s designed to help you achieve smooth and even prints, making it an essential tool for gel printing.
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Speedball Pop-in Soft Rubber Brayer, 4″
This 4-inch brayer is ideal for spreading ink evenly on your gel plates. Its soft rubber roller ensures smooth application, enhancing the quality of your prints.
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Gel Press Monoprinting Print Plate – 8” X 10”
Create stunning monoprints with the Gel Press Monoprinting Print Plate. Its size is perfect for a variety of projects, allowing you to experiment with different techniques and media.
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Gelli Arts Gel Printing Plate – 8″ X 10″
The Gelli Arts Gel Printing Plate is perfect for creating unique prints. Its flexible surface allows for easy and creative designs, making it a must-have for artists.
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Golden Artist Colors, Fluid Acrylics, 10-color Mixing Set
This set of fluid acrylics from Golden Artist Colors offers a versatile palette for your gel printing needs. The high-quality pigments ensure vibrant and long-lasting prints.
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Grumbacher 90-ml Metal Tube Academy Acrylic Paint, Gloss, Dioxazine Purple
Add a touch of vibrancy to your prints with Grumbacher’s Academy Acrylic Paint in Dioxazine Purple. This high-quality paint provides a glossy finish, perfect for standout designs.
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Liquitex BASICS Acrylic Paint, 118ml (4-oz) Tube
Liquitex BASICS Acrylic Paint is ideal for artists at any level. Its thick, creamy consistency is perfect for gel printing, offering excellent coverage and vibrant colors.
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Sennelier Abstract Innovation Acrylic Quinacridone Pink (120ml pouch)
This innovative pouch from Sennelier offers high-quality acrylic paint in a convenient and easy-to-use format. Quinacridone Pink adds a bold pop of color to your artwork.
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Winsor & Newton Galeria Acrylic Paint, 10 x 60ml (2–oz)
This set from Winsor & Newton includes a range of colors perfect for your gel printing needs. The high-quality acrylic paint ensures vibrant and durable prints.
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Card Making Tools
The following are my recommendations for invaluable tools you can use for card making.
Art Glitter Glue Dries Clear 2 oz with Ultra Fine Metal Tip
Perfect for all your card-making needs, this adhesive dries clear and includes an ultra-fine metal tip for precise application. It’s ideal for detailed work, ensuring your projects have a professional finish.
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Uhu Glue Stic Permanent Clear Application, 1.41 oz (2 Pack)
These glue sticks are perfect for quick, easy, and mess-free sticking. They are great for adhering paper, photos, and lightweight card materials in your card-making projects.
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Genuine Bone Folder
This versatile tool is essential for any paper craft enthusiast. It helps to score, crease, and fold paper and cardstock with precision, providing a crisp and professional look.
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Notecards (3-⅜” x 4-⅞”, pre-cut w/ envelopes)
These pre-cut notecards are perfect for creating personalized greeting cards. They come with matching envelopes, making your card-making process smooth and efficient.
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Heavy Duty Rotary Paper Trimmer (36-sheet)
Cut through multiple sheets with ease using this heavy-duty rotary paper trimmer. It ensures straight, clean cuts, ideal for large card-making projects.
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Paper Trimmer (Single Sheet)
This single-sheet paper trimmer is perfect for precise cutting. It’s lightweight and easy to use, making it a great addition to your crafting tools.
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Paper Trimmer Replacement Cutting Blades
Ensure your paper trimmer is always ready for action with these replacement blades. They keep your cuts sharp and accurate, extending the life of your trimmer.
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Rotary Paper Trimmer (15 sheet)
This rotary paper trimmer can handle up to 15 sheets at once, providing clean and accurate cuts for your projects. Perfect for both small and large crafting tasks.
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Thank you for completing your purchase within 24 hours.