Card making is becoming a very popular hobby and it's no wonder, card making is relaxing, inspirational and fun.

How many people go to a card shop and think that is lovely, I wonder if I could make something like that?

Well that's how I got started. You don't need experience or a great deal of supplies, the basics of card blanks, envelopes, paper, glue will get you started.

Card making is great as it is such an easy hobby. Wonderful tachniques can also be incoporated into your handmade cards, for example: decoupage (image layering), Tea Bag Folding, Iris Folding, Rubber Stamping, Embossing, collage and so much more.

There are loads of monthly magazines available and information on the internet, which will give you inspiration, information and techniques so you can develope your card making hobby.

Please be warned - Card Making is addictive!!!!

Card Making - A general guide to materials needed to get started.

These are the basics that are needed in any card makers stash. These items will get used time and time again. It is always worth investing in items of good quality which will last for many years.

Scissors: A few pairs of scissors can be used and this depends on the type of technique. A good place to start is a pair of kitchen scissors for general cutting but a pair of micro fine/precision scissors are recommended for more detailed craft work and precise cutting.

Trimmer: A guillotine is a must have for cutting those straight lines. Available now though are light weight craft trimmers perfect for crafters and easy to store.

Score Boards & Bone Folders: Ideal for creating your own card blanks and acheiving clean sharp folded creases. Scoreboards are a great investment, as when your confidence and creativity is growing boxes, envelopes and more can be created useing these boards.

Adhesive: There are so many different craft adhesives available, but a good place to start is a tacky or PVA glue, foam pads/tape and adhesive double sided tape.

Tweezers: Perfect for using and working with peel offs, stickers and small embellishments.

Pencil: A must have for templates and much more.

Ruler: For measuring, guiding, cutting and drawing.

Cutting Mat: Ideal for protecting your work surface. Many different types are availble but self healing mats are ideal and last for ages.

Craft Knife: Again there are many different types of craft knives available, but if you choose one with changeable blades then this will last a long time.