12 Essential Craft Supplies Every Creative Needs
Whether you’re a beginner just getting started or a seasoned creative looking to organize your craft room, having the right supplies on hand makes all the difference. These 12 essentials are my go-to favorites — the ones I reach for in almost every project — from art journaling and Bible journaling to junk journals, mixed media, and home décor.
Let’s dive in! 🎨
1. Acrylic Paint
Acrylic paints are vibrant, easy to blend, and work on almost any surface — paper, wood, canvas, or fabric. Choose a starter set with a range of colors or pick up a few of your favorite hues.
My favorite acrylic paints:
2. Watercolors
Watercolors add soft, beautiful washes of color to journals and mixed media projects. I especially love using them for backgrounds and layering with pens or stamps.
My two favorite watercolor palettes:
Prima Marketing - they come in different palettes like: tropical, woodlands, classics, etc.
3. Paint Brushes
A good set of brushes makes a world of difference! Look for a mix of flat, round, and detail brushes for versatility.
I usually grab whatever is on sale at Michaels, Hobby Lobby, or Amazon — just make sure the bristles don’t shed easily.
4. Gesso
Think of gesso as your primer. It preps pages, canvas, or cardboard for painting and helps your colors pop.
My go-to brand: Liquitex Gesso
5. Adhesives
From glue sticks to double-sided tape to Mod Podge, you’ll use adhesives every single day. Keep a few types on hand for paper, fabric, and embellishments.
My favorite adhesives:
Bearly Art Precision Glue (perfect for intricate pieces)
6. Ephemera
Vintage papers, ticket stubs, book pages, or printed designs — ephemera adds charm and personality to every project. You can buy curated packs online or collect your own treasures over time!
My favorite places to find ephemera:
Posca pens are a must for adding details, doodles, and highlights. They’re opaque, vibrant, and work beautifully over acrylic or watercolor backgrounds.
These markers come in so many colors and tip sizes — perfect for adding that special pop of color or white accent lines.
8. Black and White Ink Pens
Every creative needs a reliable black pen! Permanent, waterproof pens are ideal for journaling, outlining, or sketching.
My favorites:
9. Frixion Pens
These erasable pens are wonderful for sketching or outlining before you commit to ink. They also disappear with heat — making them perfect for fabric, journaling, or layout planning!
10. Heat Tool
A heat tool helps dry paint, ink, and adhesives quickly — plus it’s great for embossing!
My favorite: Ranger Heat It Craft Tool because it’s quiet, small, and easy to pack for a weekend retreat or vacation.
11. Glue Gun
For heavier embellishments, ribbons, or fabric, a glue gun is your best friend. I recommend keeping both mini and full-size versions on hand.
My favorite: Surebonder Glue Gun — I use both the small and full-size versions regularly.
This tool is a game-changer! It turns any paper piece or embellishment into a sticker — perfect for quick crafting and clean projects.
They come in several sizes: 1½”, 3”, 5”, and larger.
I absolutely love this little sticker maker — I’ve actually worn out two already and I’m on my third!
✨ Final Thoughts
When you have these 12 essential supplies within reach, crafting becomes a joy rather than a hassle. Start with what you have, add a few new favorites over time, and most importantly — enjoy the process.
Creativity is a gift from God, and using it brings joy not only to your heart but to everyone who sees what you create.
👉 Want to see how I use these supplies?
Check out my YouTube Channel for tutorials, inspiration, and Freebie Fridays!
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