You would never guess it . . . but I’m a total tool junkie. Gadgets and attachments . . . bring ’em on!! I’ve learned the hard way, that there’s a fine line between getting the tool that will get the job done and being stingy with features. When I started sewing, I always got the sewing machine without the bells and whistles until in later years I figured out how much time I was wasting doing things manually (so as to save money). I eventually got the right machine, without being wasteful of options I knew I would never use. It translated into a wonderful romance between me and my sewing machine – I loved using it. I sewed far more than when I skimped on features. Oh, I could talk about this forever. How many of those little paper cutters, you know, the ones that have the blade that slides up and down, did I buy? Five. I bought five before I realized I could have the really good paper cutter that would last me for the rest of my life, oh and cut accurately. Yes, I’m tool lover. I hope some time this week you’ll weigh in on my poll about tools :-) I’m very curious!!
In the meantime, speaking of tools, I’ve succumbed to another one of those a-ha revelations, just like the sewing machine. When I started blogging, I never knew I would get three years into it. This year, I finally “invested” in my tools and upgraded my blog and I really wanted to move towards a look that people would recognize as mine. Well, it’s just like changing your wardrobe to accommodate your look – without getting too wild, you change to smart shoes and smart accessories, right?!? That describes where I’m at today. Because I make and send cards (and sometimes sell), I wanted a kit to have on hand that will easily let me personalize every card I make or at least put some kind of personalization in the box. I figure if I care enough to make it handmade, I should care enough to claim it as mine :-) When I send out boxes I’ve always struggled to put together little enclosure cards. I won’t lie, there’s a little bit of pressure to do something flashy, and I don’t always have time. Believe me when I say, problem solved.
I managed to get my hands on a custom embosser and a personalized stamp that will now take care of that job for me! JustRite Stampers has done this for a long time but recently added the option on to the website for stampers to be able to get personalized stamps that are already inked. They then took it a little bit farther and added embossers that match the personalized stamp designs. They are listed on the home page on the left hand side (Custom Designer Stamps and Custom Designer Embossers).
My studio is in a detached building but I keep all my mail stuff in the house so let me take you through the kit that I cooked up that’s going to make my mailing life easier. I made the kit out of chipboard and design paper. On the inside I crafted four gusseted pockets using Spellbinders Labels Eighteen. On the outside I embellished with Spellbinders Foliage and Doodle Parts. I used some Prima jewels to decorate and crafted one of my Scor-Tape Flowers as the focal point. On the inside, there is a pen holder and the four pockets hold – stamped labels with cord, embossed envelopes, stamped enclosure cards and embossed medallions. You can see the individual items I put in my kit below.
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The stamp is easy to operate, lol! Already inked, you simply just push down and the image comes out right every time :-) No cleaning, just stamp, cover and store.
The embosser is a no-brainer too!! I used a textured metallic paper that I backed with Scor-Tape. I cut out the shape with Spellbinders Pinking Circles LG, inserted in embosser, then pressed all the way down. Voila – a seal!!
Here’s exactly how I plan to use my new tools :-) Did I do okay? I think this is going to save me buckets of time!
So here’s what I can tell you about these gems. There are tons of samples on the website and you just browse through them and when you click on one, it will give you all the options for personalization. The turn around time is lickety split – it takes about 3 – 5 days to get to you. It can be ordered with any of your other JustRite purchases and will be sent along separately for no additional shipping charges. Each item came in its own box and of course I had to inspect them, they are quite sturdy and will hold up for years to come. I’ve poured over these at my scrapbook store (before it closed) but there were a lot of extra fees attached, this was one price and seems to be about 20% less than what I’ve seen around. I’m tickled!! Remember my poll this week? Wondering what my answer was? This is it :-)
| SUPPLIES I USED |
| Stamps: JustRite Personalized Stamp and Custom Embosser Paper: My Minds Eye Ink: Pre-inked Accessories: Spellbinders Foliage, Spellbinders Labels Eighteen, Spellbinders Doodle Parts, Spellbinders Pinking Circles LG, Prima Jewels, Recollection Pearls, |
Thanks for stopping by to see me . . . I’ll see you soon!!
ah yeah…you did good Miss Becca…It will definitely save you time. You are sooo smaert…lol. Hugs sweetie.
I have a love of tools as well as paper. Right now I am a little frustrated in finding a good cutter. I am on my 5th try. Will you share what you found to be the right cutter for you?
Love your idea to get your personalized seal and stamp goodies already done and packaged in such a gorgeous package! Thanks for sharing! When I open your site it always makes my day and puts a big old smile on my face! Have a wonderful day!
Thanks for sharing Becca…When are we going to get the tutorial for the flower yesterday?
I love your art piece. Like you I’m a gadget lover. First thing I look at when I’m in my favorite Scrapbook store. I did not know about this one. You always have such good informations. It is always a delight to open your e-mail. Thank you so much for sharing.
That’s just not fair asking the poll question earlier…then showing us these scrumptious goodies!! Can I change my poll answer? LOL!
I too would like to know what cutter you have. I am continually buying the cutting rails for mine and it’s about $2.50 a shot, plus the blades. I am using a rotary Fiscars and I can’t buy the cutting rails in the stores, I have to order them on line. If they quit selling them, what will I do? I need to plan ahead, please help!
Becca,
As always you are a God send. A friend and I were just talking
about trying to find something to do just what you showed. I’m
off to get mine NOW. Thanks for all your wonderful cards and
tips. I too am a tool junky. I think it comes with the addiction.
Oh I am also a tol junkie- but still on the search for a usable cutter that doesn’t dull and have to be replaced each week!
LOVE the pictures and your embosser is great…everything is so beautiful
Great idea . This makes things look very professional. Of course everything you do is with style and class !! If I only have time to view one site it is your site and I am never disappointed.
I’d just seen these at JR about 2 days ago — AWESOME — some day?!!! Looks like a great investment for your needs!!! I too LOVE tools, especially good ones that do the job without a lot of hassle!!!
I too would LOVE to know what your paper cutter is that you love, Becca? Do tell, please?!!!
I would also like to know what cutter you use.
I’ve been wanting to get a personalized stamp to identify my creations. Thanks for the great idea!
That is a wonderful idea and a sure way to save a lot of time. I love the embosser also. That can be used for sure.
Love this! You have great insight! But, you are talking to a girl who is on her 5th? 6th? paper cutter- the one that slides up and down. LOL I haven’t found the perfect alternative yet, so I would love to hear what kind of paper cutter you invested in. Sorry if you have already mentioned it and I missed it! {{hugs}}
BEAUTIFUL Becca, I love tools too ,I can’t make a card without a die and some stitches.
I thank you Becca, I have been straddling fence on these. I look at them, and look at ’em, and talk myself out of buying ’em. Darn it, now I know this tool is a good buy. My hubby is going to love you :).
Tool junkies of the world unite.
Regina
It really is a great idea, but I would love one that included my little “insignia” that I draw in (a stick figure, stylized willow tree) and I am not sure where I can have that made. I think your embosser is totally cool. You are now set to mail!!!
I’m getting to the point I agree on the tools making a difference, my husband kept telling me that for years but I tried to find ways around.
I love how you put all your things together, thank you for another wonderful idea.
Isn’t it funny how we finally get it and realize how much we can simplify our lives by a little investment. It’s so worth it. LOVE the embosser – just might have to save my pennies to purchase one of those cool things.
p.s. – Would the embosser work on those gold seal stickers made for notaries? I have some and I’m thinking that it might work really well and it might simplify things for you.
This is such an awesome tool, I have to agree. I´ve also been looking around for something to show, that it was my work, and I also got a small stamp here, that I had to build up with letters myself, but after it had been used maybe 10 times, the letters started to fall out, and then I suddenly missed 2, and then it didn´t work anymore, so all that money was wasted, so maybe I should look into this one too.
Thanks a lot for the info hun, and have a wonderful day.
Becca, now you have my curiousity up and running. What is your favorite paper cutter? As card makers, we are always looking for the one that is just perfect and cuts clean and straight.
Okay…now I don’t feel like an odd duck….I always say “you can do anything if you have the right tools” and I so agree that it’s better to spend a little more up front for quality and versatility than to go cheap and wish later I had sprung for the extra few bucks. I had to learn that one the hard way. I love my tools in my craft room and my friends love to have our stamping play days at my house because I have so many tools, but I also have them organized so they are accessible. I’ve just hit my 3rd year anniversary for stamping and I have acquired so many things…but, the wish list never goes away. Current obsession….Spellbinders….I’m right at 40 sets of them and have many more on my wish list.
I’m going to check out the embosser…reminds me of the one I had when I was a notary….note to self….add to wish list–embosser. LOL
I also want to know what type of paper cutter you use. I have tried so many and I still am not thrilled.
I bought a personalized stamp a few years ago and now I stamp my work. I used to use clear labels that I printed on the computer. I love the idea of a mailing kit.
Gail
Your tools are wonderful – I really like your “look”!! I, too, love tools that work well and my latest favorites are the corner chomper and the Martha Stewart punches. I use both all the time and have been very happy punching away! Thanks for all you share with us! Hugs!
wow..This is a fabulous tool :) and gorgeous card set.
I was just looking at an old embosser today and thinking I would like to have one made for myself for my card making. I am so glad that you posted this! You are such an inspiration! I too would like to know what cutter you use? I have been afraid to invest in a good one until I know what brand really is the best. I am also curious about how you store your punches. I still have not found a great way. Mine are in drawers right now because I have very limited space.
I love the project you shared and totally agree with being a total tool junkie … I’m one too!!! Not just with my crafting, but with cooking, etc. Gotta have those gadgets!!! LOL So … as other inquiring minds want to know, what cutter did you find that cuts accurately?!? Do tell, do tell!!! Pretty please, with a gadget on top :)
Wow Becca that is beautiful! I love your embossed Gold seals! I am also a tool junkie, and could not exist without them. I have purchased the Score-it (didn’t care for it), then the Scor-Pal (and it is much better), finally I got the Martha Stewart score board and I am in love!! It really does help to get the very best when at all possible. I gave my Score-it to my daughter-in-law, but still use both the Scor-Pal and the MS scoreboard. I am also wondering just which cutter you find to be the best. I have at least five different ones, but am not thrilled with any of them. Would love to know what you conside to be “perfect”. Thanks.
The absolutely best paper cutter in the world is a Genesis. The company makes one at a time so the wait can be months. And they’re pricey. I bought mine about 9 years ago and still love it.
Oh those are two very cool tools! I give them my seal of approval!
Add me to the list, I’ve already wasted to much of my small budget on three cutters I don’t like.
The stamp and embosser really gives a classy look. As classy as your projects always are they deserve that little something that says ‘I’m proud of my work.’
Love your little kit! So cute and useful.
I’d LOVE to have a tour of your studio!
Blessings Bernie
WOW, BECCA!!!!! I’m LOVING IT!!!!!!!!!! LOVE what you’ve done with this stamp & embosser!!!!!!!!!!! SERIOUSLY, I can see why you’d choose this as the tool you’d pick!!!!!!! I’ve been wanting one of those embossers for quite awhile now! AND the stamp, I hadn’t even thought they could look like that !!!!!!!! NOW, I know WHERE TO LOOK!!!!!! :) Thanks Becca!!!!!!!!!
All I can say is “WOW”! This is a simply gorgeous look, and the personalized embosser & stamper will have to go on my Wish List, as I’ve just ordered some of the new spellbinders. TFS. Blessings.
I too am a gadget person. I love all the tools I have acquired over the years while doing my stamping. I also had trouble finding a paper cutter that met my needs and still cut precisely. I purchased a Tonic guillotine paper cutter and I could not be more pleased!! I would recommend this to anyone. This cutter cuts straight and cuts with ease. I use it everytime I need to cut paper and even some chipboard.
The embosser is quite elegant. I really like the end results. I may have to look into the info on this. Thanks for sharing. Hugs Linda
I also have bought tools I didn’t use, but now love my new Cuttlebug and my Fiskars desktop rotary trimer as it has a metal rail that the blade slides on, so no more curved lines. Use my Martha Steward scoring board on every card and the Tim Holtz idea-ology ruler with the 0 in the middle on one side. So easy to get things lined up in the middle of the card. Have other things I use and like also, but these have got to be favorites. Love your new embosser and stamper. Edna
I agree with the last comment, would you mind sharing what you consider a good paper cutting tool. Thanks…
I totally understand what you are saying about tools, I went through 7 trimmers and now that I have a cutterpillar I am in love. It is a great trimmer for those who want an accurate cut and the edge light is fantastic especially for cutting apart picture sheets.
Wonderful uses for your new goodies, Becca!
I would LOVE to talk about cutters. I currently use a slider cutter because when I bought the Making Memories guillotine, I HATED IT. It cut paper crooked and the ruler wasn’t accurate. What is the best cutter out there?
Becca,
I didn’t vote on you new poll because i would probably buy a variety of things such as spellbinders, embossed foldesr, paper & embellishments
Vicky
Becca,
This is way too cool! I love the embosser and the stamp. Will have to investigate! Thank you for sharing.
I so agree with you Becca! For the longest time, I would skimp on supplies (admittedly because there were mouths to feed, LOL!) Now I figure out WHAT I need, and go from there~~thanx for sharing!
Cheri
Absolutely one awesome project!!!!!
Becca, those are great tools, and I am a gadget freak too. Love your book, I wonder if I can get the tools shipped to the U.K.?
Your new blog is awesome too.
Cazzy x
You’re too cute, Becca :) I have learned time is money and it pays to save and get good quality – from stamps and stamping goodies to furniture, cars etc. Glad you have a wonderful new tool to play with – look wonderful and what a lovely touch to add to your gifts. Thanks for the heads up :)
Becca, what paper cutter did you finally decide on? And really does cut straight! I’ve tried cheap and very expensive and…….NONE…. of them cut straight!
Wow, I NEED to have those in my stash, what a lovely finish to a hand made gift. Thanks for sharing this great info with us Becca, lovely as always.
What a great idea ! I love it very much.
Count me as one that needs to know what cutter you use. I dislike mine so much. I need another and was so hesitant to waste money on another bad cutter. Please share with us when you can :-)
I love your kit!!!! I think your personalized embosser is a great idea too.
Thank you, thank you, Becca, for solving my dilemma!! I’ve been trying to design a simple, yet elegant stamp to have made at our local business-supply store, but was afraid to learn what the cost would be. Never thought to check out that topic on JustRight; ususally in too much of a hurry. Now I can “sign” my cards without using the cutesy stamp I have – the only one I could find. I have to agree with Mary – none of the paper cutters I’ve tried cut straight. I’ve stuck with the inexpensive Fiskars because it’s the closest to straight I’ve found. Love your blog and your wonderful creations. Thanks.
What a fabulous kit! Thanks for sharing. I would also like to know what cutter you chose. I have made mixed success with the 5 that I already have.
So beautiful!
@willow
Hi Willow, there is a stamp that you can “Design Your Own” so you can have just exactally what you want. Just click on the box for more detail. :)
Love your kit— you thought of everything. I would also like to know which cutter you finally love. I also have a bunch
Will definitely check this out. I looks beautiful and so do your projects.
What brand/kind of cutter do you use?
Wow, love your new tools. Thanks for the info! A question for you…..you mentioned your paper cutter, what kind do you have?
Becca , did not know justrite carried those .Thanks for fyi.
Way cool – TFS this info…..this really does personalize something in a very elegant way.
I have one of the embossers, someone gave it to me and it is for books so they will come back to you. I have to get one for my cards,
So what paper trimmer do you love?
What a fabulous idea. Thank you for everything you share.
How cool is this? Love it!! I agree about a good paper cutter. My son bought one to cut posters for his DJ business but I think I use it more than he does! If he ever moves out (he’s 33) I’ll have to buy myself one.
I happened upon these items a couple of days ago and wondered about them. thanks for the information :o)
Hugs
Anne (UK) x
O.K. I can’t stand it. WHAT paper cutter did you decide on and love?
I prefer guillotine cutters, and for my b-day many years ago, several friends pitched in and got me a 12 x 12 Boston guillotine cutter. It’s nice and heavy, so that when I lift the blade, the base stays on the table. The cheap ones are plastic, and the whole thing lifts off the table when the blade is lifted. I cut through foam core and mat board with this baby too. I am just so curious to know what you like, and about how much it cost.
Hi Becca! What a great idea! So professional! Everything you do has that extra touch of excellence. You always go beyond the ordinary, to that next level that separates the good from the great. I have a question….. Will you ever do a tour of your studio? I would love to see the place where you go to create all the “goodness” that you share with us. Thank you for allowing us to come along on your journey. Iris, Saved by Grace
As usual, you make things look very elegant. The embosser will be just the right touch for you. Also I would like to know what cutter you use. I love it when they come out with new toys, I mean tools.
That is very nifty!
Well, I have read the almost all your comments and the overwhelming question to answer is…which cutter do you go to sleep and no longer worry about having to purchase???
The embosser is FABULOUS…maybe when I get more active I might go that route for now my initials work famously…DKN I extend the back of the D2 spaces down and add the fronts of the K and N and add the month & date! I guess I have the perfect initials for my “stamp”
Impressive, my Dear!!!
hugs
What a great gadget! It’s not even something I have ever thought of before. I love your emblem design. Now I have more tools to add to my ‘list’!
Thanks for sharing! :)
Very nice Becca. I love your design LOGO’s. Beautiful. Just Right did a great job for your personnalized products. I should have to consider it!
Thanks for sharing.
This looks like a “lovely” tool! :-)
What a great kit – and I love it even more because it’s all special and it’s for YOU. I’m definitely going to be checking out JR…(again)…Lots of requests about your cutter – me too. In fact I could probably open a papercutter store! I have my very original Fiskars slider, from 20+ years ago. Several of the upgrades to that, 2 rotaries (again, the original Fiskars one there too), and then some. I found a great one that has all the sizes marked for you – but it’s so stiff that I can only use it once per session because I actually hurt myself trying to get it open (I’ve taken it to stores to see if anyone can help, and we just aren’t finding the magic trick. And I’ve even got 2 of the same one because I thought it was so great (I actually do like it, and now have a backup). BUT, I’ve got a friend who swears by her guillotine. So, Becca, dear, please tell us what your favorite is. Obviously it’s going to have be a post on it’s own in order to answer all our questions :-)
Count me in on the paper cutter question. TFS your tools with us.
I have also gone through a lot of paper cutters…can you share which one you found to be the best? Love your work!!
Love your little booklet to hold all your precious supplies for your card my by who… Great idea
Question Please what kind of paper cutter do you have. purchased a couple that I always have to change the blade to and so it’s costing a lot to maintain and I hate it. WHAT are you using. Can you email me what kind? I would love to check it out. I have bought others that i hated and took back that did not cut straight and it wasnt me as others tried also before returning. Thanks so much and love your blog and your new look – heck I love it all. Thanks
Please, please. please—-share the name of the paper cutter with us. I started with the smaller Fiskars cutter, then went to the bigger one so I could cut 12×12 paper. Then I tried one that “lights” up so you can see where you are cutting. Well, that was a flop. Then I went to a larger, metal Fiskars but it is defective. The metal that measures the paper is set crooked so it does not cut straight. I keep on looking but can’t seem to find anything worth getting.
Becca, you make such lovely, elegant projects. Your recent polls have been so interesting to watch. This week it is hands down tools & die cuts for me but my copic markers are close behind. Thank you for sharing your talent and a bit of yourself.
Beeeeeeeeyoooooootiful work as always……can I come an live with you???
I have a number of cutters including one of the large industrial kind that you could take off a hand with……….however, my favourite one is the tonic that I bought a few years ago.
Thank you thank you thank you!! I have been looking at various ones and none of them really got my attention. That gold emblem is perfect!!! Where did you find the metallic gold paper at?? I have seen some that are sorta gold…but that one looks true gold – please pick a store that has a location near me (or online).
Thanks so much!!! You know I love your work..but this is my #1 favorite post! Well except for the flower ones, and storage ideas. and your Spellbinder creations, oh and cannot forget what you do with ribbon. Ok so maybe not my #1 favorite LOL
Jackie
Ok, I am curious about that paper cutter.. What kind that lasts forever?
Your cards are so beautiful.
Great idea and good tips.
I would be interested in knowing what paper cutter you finally found that you like. I’m still looking. I must have tried a dozen so far.
Oh Becca this is fab….u…..lous!! I so enjoyed your info on you preferred tools and found it very informative. I would also like to know which cutter was your chosen one as I always think mine isn’t cutting the perfect size no matter what I do.
Love Sheila xx
Beautiful project Becca, I love the color choices. I like the embosser and stamper. I’m sure they make the project go by so much faster. You can get more done in a short amount of time. As always Becca, TFS!!! :-D
Becca this really makes sense! What a great idea as well. Congrats on having available a valuable tool. Naturally with your talented hand/mind, the booklet looks GREAT and the other things as well. Bravo gf. Hugs.
WOW!!!! Loving that Embosser…..what a lovely tool to own!
LOL Eileen
What a wonderful project and how lovely to have your personalized stamp and seal. That is a great Christmas wish list item – hubby take note.
What can I say? You’ve just cranked the “chic” factor up to the top of the elegance scale. My method is closer to the hokey end of the scale with a little “made by” stamp where I write my name in. I thought that was pretty cool when I first got it. Now I want one just like yours. Of course I wish I could make cards, just like yours. So maybe my hokey stamp is closer to the level I’m at for the time being. Until I catch up to your level, of course. Ha ha ha!
Also, I just want to mention that while I read your blog because of you, I’ve grown very fond of the comments my fellow readers leave. I learn from you all.
Anyhoo dear leader, when it comes to sophistication, you’ve got it!
Becca, Your poll was too hard! I would split the $90 between several categories. However, I went with Copics. I need some additional colors.
Triple thanks for the cutter info. I’ve struggled with wavy lines, too soon dull blades etc. I have enjoyed, been blessed and inspired by your designs.
Becca, I’ve seen these on the JustRite website but didn’t really think I needed to have one. You may have changed my mind! Maybe I’ll get one formy daughter too.
P.S. I love the new website!
As usual, gorgeous flower and card. Can’t wait to try it. Your work is simply amazing. Look forward to checking everyday to see what you have up on your blog. Thank you again for sharing!
I love your site and the kit is awesome! Thanks for sharing all your wonderful ideas.