DIY Essentials: Crafting Basics

I’m sure by now you know I’m no stranger to crafty pursuits. I love taking the time to craft, whether it be trying something new or just adding a bit of paint to this or that to give it new life. B and my mom pick on me constantly for how frequently the words, “I am so going to paint this” or some variation thereof comes out of my mouth. It might honestly be daily. It should be noted that since my days in architecture school I’ve been hoarding craft and art supplies like it’s my job. (Although, in all fairness, I could argue that it actually is my job.) That said, I try to keep in mind when sharing DIY projects that not everyone has a craft room or office bursting with papers, punches, paints, brushes, markers, glitters and glues. So today I thought I’d share a handful of my most frequently used DIY essentials. Consider them the basic crafting supplies you’ll want to keep on hand if you’re feeling crafty!

For starters, gold spray paint is one of my must-have items. I usually keep at least a few cans handy in case inspiration strikes on a whim. (Which it often does.) I personally prefer Rust-Oleum Specialty Metallic in Metallic Gold. It’s just my favorite color of metallic gold paint. It also comes in great brass, copper and silver colors. I literally could not live without my craft knife, either! I prefer X-Acto knives, generally with a #11 blade. A stash of paint brushes (both foam brushes and craft brushes) come in handy – I usually pick them up in bulk packages to keep the cost down. I generally have a couple rolls of kraft paper lying around so I don’t ruin my house when crafting and I literally could not live without my ModPodge. I keep it around in multiple finishes but I suggest the matte finish if you just want to have it handy without keeping an inventory akin to that of a craft store. Various widths of painter’s tape and great craft paints in a variety of finishes (satin and high gloss being my favorite) will come in handy more than you know.

I know all this may sound like a lot, but you’ll be surprised how often these basic supplies come in handy when you’re working on a project. Of course, depending on the type of projects you personally like, your list will vary, but I thought it might be helpful to see what I always have stocked in my craft closet. (To the extent that when we moved I was shocked at just how many tubs of ModPodge and bottles and cans of paint I actually own. Oops!)

[Shop: Gold spray paint | Martha Stewart Crafts paints | X-Acto knife | ModPodge | foam paint brushes | jute twine | kraft paper | painter’s tape | craft brushes.]