Showing posts with label Tools. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tools. Show all posts

Sep 5, 2023

The Ultimate Crafting Companion: We R Memory Keepers Crop-A-Dile Review


Note: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 

Crafting enthusiasts know that the right tools can make all the difference in bringing creative visions to life. One such tool that has gained a reputation for its versatility and convenience is the We R Makers (aka We R Memory Keepers) Crop-A-Dile. I have owned my crop-a-dile for over 12 years!  I'll dive into a detailed review of the Crop-A-Dile and explain why it's my favorite tool for crafting!  

The We R Makers Crop-A-Dile is a compact and powerful tool designed to punch holes, set eyelets, and even snap metal snaps with ease. Its versatility is one of its standout features, making it an essential tool for various crafting projects, from scrapbooking to card making and beyond.

Key Features

Here are some of the key features that make the Crop-A-Dile a must-have for crafters:

1. Dual-Purpose Tool: The Crop-A-Dile is not just a hole puncher; it's also an eyelet setter. With two different hole sizes (1/8-inch and 3/16-inch), you can create holes in various materials, including paper, chipboard, leather, fabric, and even thin metal.

2. Eyelet Setting: Setting eyelets can be a finicky process, but not with the Crop-A-Dile. It effortlessly punches the hole and sets the eyelet in one smooth motion, ensuring a secure and professional finish.

3. Quiet Operation: Unlike traditional hole punchers, the Crop-A-Dile operates quietly, making it a great choice for crafting late at night or in shared spaces.

4. Adjustable Hole Punching: The Crop-A-Dile features an adjustable measurement guide that allows you to precisely space holes in your projects, ensuring perfect alignment every time.

5. Easy-to-Use: Its ergonomic design and comfortable grip make it easy to handle, even for extended crafting sessions. The built-in storage compartment keeps eyelets and snaps organized and easily accessible.

6. Durability: I appreciate the Crop-A-Dile's sturdy construction, as it's built to withstand heavy use and last for years...mine is going on 12+!

Crafting with the Crop-A-Dile



Let's take a closer look at how the Crop-A-Dile can be used in various crafting scenarios:

1. Scrapbooking: Create custom scrapbook pages with neatly punched holes for binding or decorative eyelets to add flair to your layouts.

2. Card Making: Add eye-catching eyelets to your handmade cards for a polished look, or use the Crop-A-Dile to punch holes for ribbon or twine embellishments.

3. Leatherwork: Whether you're making leather journals, keychains, or wallets, the Crop-A-Dile can handle leather materials effortlessly.

4. Clothing and Accessories: Use it to set snaps on fabric projects like clothing, bags, or home decor items.

5. Home Decor: Add hanging hardware to home decor pieces such as picture frames or wall art.

This is my all-time favorite tool! I use it in my paper craft projects, sewing projects, memory keeping and journaling projects.  Its ability to punch holes, set eyelets, and snap metal snaps makes it an invaluable asset for a wide range of crafting projects. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or just starting your creative journey, the Crop-A-Dile will quickly become your go-to tool for adding that professional touch to your creations. 

Tell me what your favorite craft tool is that you can't live without!

Happy Crafting!

Sep 4, 2023

Favorite Paper Crafting Tools


Note: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 

Paper crafting is a versatile and captivating form of crafting, offering endless possibilities for creativity. While the act of crafting itself is rewarding, having the right tools can elevate your paper crafting experience to new heights. Here are some of my favorite paper crafting tools that can enhance your projects and make the creative process even more enjoyable:

1. Precision Cutting Tools: A reliable and sharp paper trimmer is essential for achieving clean, straight cuts in paper. Craft knives and cutting mats are also handy for intricate cutting and precise trimming.

2. Scissors: High-quality scissors are a must-have for paper crafting. They should be comfortable to hold and capable of cutting through various paper weights with ease. Detail scissors with fine points are perfect for intricate cuts, or fussy cutting.

3. Adhesives: Choose from an array of adhesive options, such as double-sided tape, glue sticks, liquid glue, and foam tape. The right adhesive ensures that your paper elements stay securely in place while maintaining a polished look.

4. Paper Punches: Paper punches come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, allowing you to create consistent and intricate shapes effortlessly. They are excellent for making embellishments and decorative elements.

5. Stamping Supplies: Stamps, ink pads, and markers open up a world of possibilities for adding designs, patterns, and sentiments to your paper projects. Experiment with different colors and stamping techniques to personalize your creations.

6. Scoring Board: Scoring boards are invaluable for creating precise and neat folds in paper, essential for making cards, envelopes, and 3D paper structures like boxes and bags.

7. Decorative Papers: Stock up on a variety of decorative papers, including patterned paper, cardstock, vellum, and specialty papers. These materials provide the foundation for your paper crafting projects.  As a standard base, my all-time favorite cardstock to use is the Neenah White 110lb Cardstock.  It's perfect to stamp on and the weight (gsm) of the paper is sturdy.

8. Embellishments: Sequins, buttons, rhinestones, and ribbon can add flair and sparkle to your paper crafts. These embellishments allow you to customize your projects and make them uniquely yours.

9. Crafting Brushes and Blending Tools: If you're into techniques like ink blending and distressing, soft-bristle brushes and blending tools are essential for achieving smooth and gradient effects.

10. Die-Cutting Machine: Die-cutting machines are a game-changer for paper crafting. They allow you to cut intricate shapes, letters, and designs quickly and consistently using metal dies or electronic files.

11. Storage Solutions: Organizational tools such as paper racks, storage boxes, and drawer units can help keep your paper crafting supplies tidy and easily accessible. An organized crafting space can boost your creativity and productivity.

12. Bone Folder: A bone folder is a simple yet invaluable tool for creating crisp, professional-looking creases and folds in paper.

13. Heat Gun: Essential for heat embossing and drying inks, a heat gun is a versatile tool in paper crafting.

14. Crafting Mat: A self-healing cutting mat protects your work surface and prolongs the life of your cutting tools while providing accurate measurements and guides.

These favorite paper crafting tools not only make the creative process smoother but also enhance the quality of your finished projects. Remember that while having the right tools is important, the most vital ingredient in crafting is your creativity and imagination. So, gather your tools, explore new techniques, and let your paper crafting projects come to life. Happy crafting!

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