I often get asked, “How do you do that?” Typically, this question follows a client getting to see their invitations in person for the first time. Through the years, I have accumulated quite a few tricks of the trade. And, honestly, there are some tools that I really couldn’t live without when I’m assembling stationery. So, today I’m going to give you a little peek behind the curtain and share the five stationery production tools that I can’t live without.
Scoring Board
It’s probably no surprise that I fold a lot of cardstock. Whether it’s for folded programs or tented escort cards, there are hundreds of folded items that leave my door each month. In order to make those crisp and clean fold lines, I use this scoring board to score the stock where I need to fold. I can easily make the perfect fold in no time at all.
My tool recommendation: Bira Craft 12 X 12 inch Multi-Purpose Scoring Board & Score and Fold Tool
Crop-a-Dile
Programs, favor tags, welcome bag adornments, escort cards….what do these all have in common? They all may need to have a hole punched in them…or multiple. The crop-a-dile is a life saver when I’m punching heavy cardstock and thick stacks of paper. It will even punch plastic and metal too. You can punch different size holes, attach eyelets and grommets too.
My tool recommendation: Crop-A-Dile 2 Big Bite Punch by We R Memory Keepers
Paper Cutter
I think it’s pretty self explanatory why I can’t live without my paper cutter — I actually have this one in two different sizes. I can easily cut small stacks of cardstock quickly, and precisely. No ruler and scissors needed, when you have this tool.
My tool recommendation: Dahle 552 Professional Rotary Trimmer
Long Reach Stapler
This tool has been been a lifesaver when I have to assemble program booklets with multiple pages. Since it is long reach, I can staple in the center of a fold of a booklet.
My tool recommendation: Swingline Heavy Duty Long Reach Stapler
Glue Gun
A glue gun probably seems pretty self explanatory. And, while I use a glue gun to hot glue certain adornments to my paper designs, there is one other key use for this tool. I use it to melt wax sticks for creating wax seals on the back of mailing envelopes! The stand on this one is so nice…along with the dual temperature setting.
My tool recommendation: MONVICT Full Size Glue Gun 60/100W Base Stand Heavy Duty
So these are the five stationery production tools that I couldn’t live without. Even if you aren’t a stationery designer, some of these tools would come in handy for small craft projects, scrapbooking or even arts and crafts with the kids. Hope you enjoyed this little look behind the scenes in my design studio!
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