If you want to get crafty, you will need the right supplies. Find out which crafting essentials you should keep on hand to be ready for any project that might come along.

While you can always run to the store to pick up crafting supplies for a project that catches your eye, keeping some crafting essentials at home will save you a lot of time and trouble. Here is a quick overview of the most important tools and materials to stock your crafting kit or drawer with.

1. Cutting Tools

There is hardly a crafting project that won’t require you to cut something. At the very least, you need a good pair of comfortable and sharp scissors for cutting paper and a pair of shears for cutting fabric. Precision scissors, which feature smaller blades, are also good for making intricate and precise cuts. Finally, a craft knife will come in handy for small and accurate cuts or cutting delicate materials.

2. Ruler

You know what they say: measure twice, cut once! Keep a ruler handy so you can always take accurate measurements and make straight marks and cuts. This is one tool you need for just about every project, from fabric crafts to papercraft.

3. Glue

At some point during a crafting project, you will need to glue one thing to another thing. Your crafting tool kit should include a good all-purpose glue that is resistant to moisture and heat and can be used for various materials. A quick-drying glue is also useful to have on hand for projects where you don’t want to wait around, like card design or scrapbooking.

4. Tape

While you’ll probably rely more heavily on glue, tape is important for temporarily holding together different components of a layered project or for holding together two pieces while you wait for the glue to dry. Look specifically for low tack tape that can be easily re-positioned and removed without leaving residue.

5. Craft Paper

Whether making cards, scrapbooking, or putting together a gift box, you’ll need craft paper and cardstock in a rainbow of colours. White cardstock with a smooth finish will also come in handy for a variety of projects, acting as a blank canvas for other colours and decorations. Make sure you also pick up some paper pads with patterned designs that you can use to create frames, borders, and other decorative embellishments.

6. Writing Tools

Pencils, pencil crayons, pens, and markers. — you’ll need them all to complete almost any crafting project. Find a good pencil case and stock it up with writing tools of all types and colours so that you’re all set for writing, drawing, colouring, and more. Let your inner artist loose!

7. Decorations

Finally, you’ll need some decorations to put that finishing touch on any craft. This includes everything from glitter and sequins to buttons and ribbons. You can also use beads, charms, stickers, and more to bring your projects to life and make them shine with personality.

Getting crafty is more fun when you have the right tools and materials. Be prepared to tackle any project that comes your way with supplies that cover all your bases.