Five to ten basic things to learn?

[wavejumper]

With so many beginners...I thought this might make a good chat. I looked for a thread and didnt see it unless it's by a different keyword. In which case please feel free to link it.

What would be the top 5-10 things/skills you would advise a beginner to learn for starters? Ones that are fundamental and they can build on. I didnt say technique-though the two do seem to overlap at times.

It's fine to agree with something already posted so we newbies see that it is a common belief in the community that we should do this first.

Sometimes we get sucked into this seeing a higher level thing. And then have to back off and learn basics. ie heat embossing (raising hand)

Close your eyes and go back to the real beginning. What did you have to learn to do?

Me (not necessarily in order):
1) Stamping. Sounds obvious. Not so much. You have to learn about getting a "feel" for the pressure and different kinds of rubber, wood vs cling, Outline vs silhouette. Multi-generation stamping, etc
2) Inks A lot to learn-still am.
3) Colors a color wheel can be a newbies good pal and not expensive.
4) paper I floundered with this one for a long time re card base weight
Everyone kept saying "you can feel the difference" um..not if I dont have a bunch together to compare at the same time. Everything can feel heavier than thin DPs. Plus there are kinds of paper-coated, watercolor, vellum, kraft, blendable, glossy, core, textured, etc. Plus card sizes.
5) Glue/adhesives Now this might not sound like a skill but there are a lot of them out there between liquids, tapes, sprays. How to know which to use and when.
6) Scale/composition Ok I can stamp. I have an image. I have a cut card. Now what? This is where sketches can be very good. Wish I had done them. And where the color wheel helps.
7) Sponging There are levels of it, but get started on just getting ink on smoothly and edging. Then you can move on to blending. Start with ombres. Maybe sponge some basic stencils.
Dry embossing Before I got the big shot...I was using a stylus to trace stencils on a lightbox. You actually dont even need the lightbox. Just a rubber pad, tape stencil to paper and keep looking. Which you can do to a sponged stencil image to pop it.
9) Masking Big step into gaining depth
10) Coloring What pens to get, blending, etc.

Who's next? Help a newbie out!

[wavejumper]

lol. The number 8 is apparently cool guy emot.

[lindylou1220]

I'd add cutting card stock. It's important to learn how to cut for standard size card bases and how best to maximize paper for layering, etc.

Ink pads -- learning to open and close the Stampin' Up! ink pads is definitely a skill I try to teach. Plus putting them back together if they happen to come apart.

[lesliespringer]

Heat Embossing

Use the embossing buddy over the entire card stock and keep those fingers away from the heat. They burn very easily.

[Cook22]

Expanded from your paper topic - with or against the grain, especially in relation to:


Scoring and folding - I've seen people who have made cards for a long time say that they didn't know for so long which way to fold after scoring (the ridge on the inside of the card, the scored indent on the outside). And burnishing folds for a crisp finish.

And yes, you need to add a space between the 8 and the ) if you want to be uncool ;-). 8 )

[lesliespringer]

Quote:

Originally Posted by lindylou1220

I'd add cutting card stock. It's important to learn how to cut for standard size card bases and how best to maximize paper for layering, etc.

Ink pads -- learning to open and close the Stampin' Up! ink pads is definitely a skill I try to teach. Plus putting them back together if they happen to come apart.

Yes, Yes, Yes!!

I have actually drawn blood from pinching my skin between bottom and top of these pads.

Also I have ruined 2 cards when opening the SU ink pads. When the top fly's off, goes airborne and lands ink side down on top of my card!!!:shock:

[Angelnorth]

I'd agree with your list but I might say "one technique that makes you happy" and that will be different for everyone.

For some people it's heat embossing, for some it's expanding that to a resist technique (heat emboss in clear/white and sponge die-based ink over it), etc. For me I think it was simple masking - I still get a childish delight and want to squee when I take off the mask and have one object apparently in front of another. It has the advantage of needing no specialist equipment either - if you have a decent pair of scissors and some thin paper, you can learn simple masking.

[Rachelrose]

1. Working with photopolymer and rubber stamps - inking, cleaning, storing
2. Understanding various types of inks and when/how to best use them
3. Difference between types and weight of papers and when to use what.
4. How to use a paper trimmer/scorer
5. Properties of Adhesives - what to use when: glue, tape runner, sookwang, etc.
6. One go-to coloring technique, whether colored pencils, watercolors, markers, etc.
7. Fussy cutting
8. Heat Embossing
9. Using a machine for Die cutting/Embossing Folders - optional, but most people seem to want to get some sort of machine pretty soon after they start stamping.
10. Design styles - CAS, Vintage, Collage, Layered, etc. You have to figure out what kind of cards you like before you can begin to imagine your own designs.

Edited to Add: I have to agree with Joanne. There is nothing like learning to do some technique that really excites you. When you are starting out, knowing how to do something you love gives you a jumping off point for everything you make.

[melissa59]

What a wonderful post! A great reference for newbies and good reminder for oldies.

1. Don't stress and don't give up. We all have images and projects that don't turn out the way we envisioned them in our head. Instead of mentally stamping FAIL on it, cut it apart and turn it into something new. Crafting is a journey, not a destination. (This is a lesson I am just now learning)
2. No need to buy or learn everything all at once. Buy what you need for one or two projects. Over time your ink, paper, pen, paint, scissor, stamp, die, punch, book collection will grow and you, too, will be culling clutter out of your craft room.
3. Stamping: A simple task, but not always so simple in practice. I still smoosh my clear stamps and miss spots or smudge when using my rubber stamps.
4. Ink: Which ink to use when. Like Wavejumper, I'm still learning and I refer to this list when confused: https://thefrugalcrafter.files.wordp...heat_sheet.pdf
5. Techniques: Pick one from the "Tutorials" link above, then practice, practice, practice. Once you feel comfortable, move on to another technique. You just might find one that you'll want to use again and again. Later, you can combine techniques to make something truly unique and all yours.
6. YouTube is your friend. Why pay for an online class when many things can be learned for free on YouTube? That said, if you have the money, an in-person class might be worthwhile and fun.
7. Mentally dissect the work of others. What makes their card or scrapbook page come to life? Is it the color, the texture, the shape, the design?
8. Whenever possible, try new products before you buy. A friend let me play with her Copic markers and got me hooked. But Copics are not for everyone. They are expensive and can be a costly mistake if you don't like using them. I also played with a Cricut. Seeing a shape mechanically cut is like magic, but I also learned that the Cricut cartridges are too limiting for my use, and I'm so glad I did not invest.
9. Paper, scissors, glue: Learn what type works best for each project. I was thrilled to see the difference heavy cardstock made when using it as a base for my cards. But this same cardstock was useless when doing the "wrinkle free distress" technique. I love my Tim Holtz scissors for sticky stuff but not for fussy cutting. Love my Cutterbees for fussy cutting, but sometimes I just need to get in there with my Fiskars finger knife. And glue? Well, let's just say that I'm still learning. Hint: Glossy Accents will leave a shiny mark on your card if you accidentally get it in the wrong spot.
10. Ask questions! People on this site LOVE to help others. We love talking about papercrafts, the products used, the techniques, struggles and successes we've had. We love questions! NO QUESTION IS STUPID!

[Rachelrose]

You know, after reading Melissa's great post, I think my #11 would be:

11. Join SCS and learn to navigate around and post questions.

I stamp alone and always have… there isn't a stamp-selling store within three hours of me so I've never been to one… almost everything in my studio I bought online… and pretty much everything I know so far I figured out on my own by looking at the cards in the galleries on this website, reading threads, and posting a bazillion questions.

[poppydarling]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rachelrose

1. Working with photopolymer and rubber stamps - inking, cleaning, storing
2. Understanding various types of inks and when/how to best use them
3. Difference between types and weight of papers and when to use what.
4. How to use a paper trimmer/scorer
5. Properties of Adhesives - what to use when: glue, tape runner, sookwang, etc.
6. One go-to coloring technique, whether colored pencils, watercolors, markers, etc.
7. Fussy cutting
8. Heat Embossing
9. Using a machine for Die cutting/Embossing Folders - optional, but most people seem to want to get some sort of machine pretty soon after they start stamping.
10. Design styles - CAS, Vintage, Collage, Layered, etc. You have to figure out what kind of cards you like before you can begin to imagine your own designs.

Edited to Add: I have to agree with Joanne. There is nothing like learning to do some technique that really excites you. When you are starting out, knowing how to do something you love gives you a jumping off point for everything you make.

This looks very much like the list I would make. I would add that taking classes and watching experts (YouTube, Pinterest/crafting blogs) handle these different elements and techniques over and over again can make you proficient very quickly.

For instance, I just bought the 1-2-3 Punch Board. I remembered how some YouTube crafters handled the coin envelope sequence, and even though I didn't quite understand the instructions with the board, I remembered how it was demonstrated. It saves you so much time and frustration!

I wouldn't be afraid of techniques in the beginning. I think you have to follow what gets you excited, which is what will keep you persevering through the frustrating moments.

[wavejumper]

Masking rocks! I'll always love that!

Very good point Sabrina about the fold and the bone folder. I had no idea either for a long time there was a right/wrong way. With lesser paper it was cracking when done in the wrong way.

I agree. Finding a technique that resonates with you is wonderful...and you can live there all the time or go for day trips to another one.

You tube is great-and if you dont understand it...try another one. There are often a dozen videos on the same thing and maybe one teacher will work better for you than another.

If you are in a class, dont hesistate to say you dont get something or you cant seem to manage something...not only are you paying for it but I have never met a mean person in this craft. If they laugh-it isnt at you, it's with you b/c they had trouble in the beginning too or maybe still.

[Janet1000]

Inks: watch some YouTube on what inks should be used when. Make a table for reference.
Get a Misti or make your own version of it.
Paper: Spend a couple hours at Michaels � start with their 110lb card stock in white-buy a pack to take home. Open it up and pull one page out. Fold it in half. Now go around and feel the difference between that 110lb CS and the single piece DSP, the DSP pads, the Ranger DSP pads, the Recollections DSP pads, then purchase a pack of Recollections in solid white/ivory/grey to take home (can always find a use for this in layering or sentiments) but open it up in the store and feel the paper. Learn the difference between �cover� and �index� weights, and look up the paper weight when you feel it. Paper can be very tricky, especially when vendors say it�s 110lb card stock (but it�s 110lb index weight, which is not really 110lb paper).
ATG gun, and where to buy cheap refills.
Glue: GA and Ranger Matte medium. If you plan to use any other glue type, test it out first on scrap paper
Coloring: Pick a small set of Copics or Spectrum markers, as well as a small pack of Prismacolor pencils. Play with them and watch a few videos to learn how to blend simple things. Figure out which ones you like best, and give the other small set away/sell. Now focus on expanding that one set. Really good markers, as well as pencils, are expensive to get and maintain.
Sponging: learn to do a sunset with Distress Inks.
Equipment: If I had to do it all over again, I would purchase a Big Shot and paper trimmer from the store. And then purchase everything else used. (I would by the Cameo new also, but just starting out you don�t need a Cameo.) Build up stamps and embossing folders over time by shopping sales and craigslist and other avenues. There are people pairing down, or actually quitting the hobby, and you can pick up stamps and folders for a fraction of the retail price.
Target audience: What kind of cards do you want to make? Who will receive these cards? Do you like simple, one layer cards or do ornate Spellbinder cards interest you? Are you more artistic and free designing, or do you want to use card sketches/CAS to make your cards? Answer these questions first before you invest a lot of money in �a style� that you outgrow in 1 year. Or purchase a hodge podge of everything that is hard to use.
Watch YouTube and the tutorials on SCS. I get as much entertainment watching other make cards. If they would send me their creations to fondle...

[melissa59]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Janet1000

I get as much entertainment watching other make cards. If they would send me their creations to fondle...

I am so glad that I'm not the only tactile learner on this site. Many, many, many times I've seen cards in the gallery and think, "I wish I could touch it." I guess that makes us Paper Pervs!

[uncbballfan]

Great thread, wavejumper!

My #1 rule: Done is better than perfect. I strive for excellence and leave perfection to God.

Don't buy something just because it's on sale. Don't buy something just because you have a coupon.

Buy a great quality cardstock: Papertrey Ink's, Gina K's and Michael's 110# Recollections are the ones that come to mind.

Before you buy a stamp, die, punch, ribbon or embellishments, think of at least 5 ways you can use them.

Find a card that you love, here in the gallery or on Pinterest or a stamping blog. What do you love about it? What draws you to this card? You're on your way!

Learn about focal points, the rule of thirds and white space. Well on your way now!

Play around with your inks and paper. If you screw up, it's JUST paper. But you might come up with something wonderful.

Have fun!

[Janet1000]

Quote:

Originally Posted by melissa59

I guess that makes us Paper Pervs!

Just what I would have aspired to be. My mama is proud.:shock:

[sprtchick]

I loved reading everyones responses. This is a great thread. I especially loved reading which side should be on the outside when you score and fold your cardstock. I am sure I am going to forget which way is right and have to bang my head on the table a few times next time I cut a whole package of cardstock and need to score and fold.

[Allistamps123]

Yes, how to stamp...straight down, don't rock or you will print some of the edge.

Don't pull off the paper too quickly. Let the ink soak in.

I had to learn how to measure for layers. I still use tick marks a lot!

I learned about edging-using a piece of sponge ( I use stamping up) rubbed onto the ink pad and then rubbed on all the edges of the card or a layer really makes a card "pop" and really completes a card.

I learned to use quite a lot of adhesive and to press down all over the layer to really seal the adhesive. I use an ATG at home but bring Elmer's glue runner snails from Wal-Mart at classes and the Elmer's hold really well with this technique.

I learned that a company that does the color coordinating between card stock, ribbon, ink, etc like SU, Amuse, PTI is incredibly valuable.

I learned watching You tube stamping tutorials really teach you a lot.

I learned you can many times fix a mistake...turn over the layer to uSe the back, cover a small area with a raised punched out piece ( just did this lately), sometimes it's possible to pull a layer off without ruining the base, etc...and if there is a slight imperfection...only God is perfect! Someone told me that years ago!

Before buying a set of stamps like Stampin Up Find a card gallery here, Pinterest or the companies website for a stamp or set you like and see if the sets still speaks to you.

Yes, read all you can on SCS! Also read stamping blogs. After ten years last week I watched a video on someone's blog on how to sponge a night sky! I'm still always learning!

[TeeGeeDee]

Quote:

Originally Posted by sprtchick

I loved reading everyones responses. This is a great thread. I especially loved reading which side should be on the outside when you score and fold your cardstock. I am sure I am going to forget which way is right and have to bang my head on the table a few times next time I cut a whole package of cardstock and need to score and fold.

If you have a label maker you could label your scoring board (and/or paper trimmer) with a reminder. I find the more I see/read something the faster I learn it and I remember it longer too.


HTH and ...


Happy Crafting!
Tina aka TeeGeeDee

[beaddict]

Focusing on the basic aspect this is what I as a beginner (many moons ago) did or would have liked to have learned in the beginning

*Cutting and scoring (for the first year I folded my cards without scoring and burnishing)
* The true benefit of buying great quality card stock
* Heat embossing
* 2-3 go to techniques
* White space is OKAY. I look back at some of my first cards and boy oh boy.....I really needed to know about white space :p
* KNOW your adhesives. I keep a dry adhesive, a multi use (Tombow Multi), and a clear glossy adhesive/sealer, on hand at all times
* Don't be afraid to try new products, techniques, styles but also don't be afraid to stick with the tried and true. If you come into a style that you really, really love then it's okay to stick with it but maybe you can use more updated images
*It's okay to not have a specific style. I used to struggle with figuring out what my style is until I finally figured out that I don't have to figure it out. I love CAS, but I also really enjoy vintage style, retro style, whimsical, traditional and I can make all of the above. This is why I could never hold a desk job, my brain wasn't made to do the same thing day in and day out...
*If you buy supplies to try a new technique only to discover that you really don't like it, it's okay to throw away, give away or sell those products without waiting for years (you know, that "I might try it/use it again someday" thing we all have a tendency to practice). I've been spending the last three weeks purging stuff I bought YEARS ago because I used it once and never again or I never used it at all.
* Wait at least 24 hours before you click buy (especially if it's an online purchase) because of my comment directly above

[wavejumper]

Amber I did put a label on my score board to remember to fold the ridge side INSIDE b/c it goes completely against my natural inclination.

I ruined a bunch of cards folding the wrong way-the color surface cracked and showed the white core. Yes-I used a pen to try to save it but too often it just didnt work. I thought it was the paper being crappy and cheap. (I didnt throw it away, I cut it down to postcard size to use as a layer)

Melissa-as for touching cards...lol...they must think I am crazy in stores. I INSPECT cards...""hmmm.....uh huh...ok...still too much" and I shove it back in the rack. Poor employees. :shock:

I have though sometimes bought a card to keep to dissect because I want to make it or show my Yoda with big eyes...and she looks at it and says yes, it can be made.

Sidebar:
Ok-not to waste a thread to ask a silly question but what is the MrGreen emot for? I thought being green was envy but he is very happy.

[JBgreendawn]

I use him when I am making faces... :mrgreen: ( kinda like rolling my eyes I guess but, in real life I cannot actually roll my eyes) So... ( and I like green)

I would say in the very beginning people need to be told or read online that there is a reason paper is two sided. no one stamps things perfectly from the get go. and with a lot of wood mounted stamps, the first time you stamp it is when you learn if they actually put the words on the block straight at the factory. :mrgreen: ( see?)

I may think of 9 more later but, I think most the lists cover the basic's. I had no concept of the internet when I started stamping so, I very rarely even think to go to youtube and look for a how to video. for me I just do it and do it again.

eventually I "get it" ( fancy folds almost always kill lots of paper for me so, I have started trying them out on not my favorites the first few times)

[wavejumper]

Stacy there is a rolling eyes one here that's actually pretty good as emots go. I love the big eyes one. That might be my fav.

Ok-so green guy is like being impish?

Good point about the paper. I had to overcome my inclination to round file mess ups and do it again on the other side. Maybe b/c in the beginning I was not using good paper and it showed through it.

There's a lot to say for self discovery...you usually remember those best!

[uncbballfan]

Amber, INdented = OUTside of card.

[UnderstandBlue]

What a great topic and amazing advice here. This is what I would say:

1. Practice - we are impatient. To find out if you like watercolor or alcohol markers, you can't try them once, twice or three times and master them. Stamp ten images at a time, go out in the backyard and color all ten. Learn some things. Repeat the next day. I think people see great results online and expect to recreate them on their first try. Be patient. Don't expect to make a card the first time you try something. Which leads to...
2. Create for the trash Start something KNOWING it's a scrap. You often give yourself more creative permission if you know it's a trial run and sometimes you find miracles.
3. You don't have to have "that" product: When we see someone use something online, we want THAT. That marker, that watercolor medium. Try the technique with something you already have - a different marker, your reinkers. Experiment.
4. Create for yourself. Don't worry what other people think - if it brings you joy, do it.
5. Give what you want to receive: Set your phone timer for ten minutes each day to give back to the community - comment in the gallery, on social media, hit those like buttons - be the feedback you want to receive. You never know when your comment is just what someone needs to turn their day around.

Thanks for a thoughtful post!

[sprtchick]

Quote:

Originally Posted by uncbballfan

Amber, INdented = OUTside of card.

I should be able to remember that one!
Thank you!

[lyndaejane]

One I would add - never impulse-buy stamps, dies and possibly lots of other things, especially if your budget is tight. Certainly when you're starting out you need products you will go to time and time again, rather than something that would make a great card for Mary-Sue and, oh dear, it doesn't suit anyone else and I won't be able to use it again for her birthday next year.

Lynda

[pbbennett]

Quote:

Originally Posted by uncbballfan

Amber, INdented = OUTside of card.

I have never heard this. Is it making some reference to embossing?

[pbbennett]

Quote:

Originally Posted by JBgreendawn

I use him when I am making faces... :mrgreen: ( kinda like rolling my eyes I guess but, in real life I cannot actually roll my eyes) So... ( and I like green)

I would say in the very beginning people need to be told or read online that there is a reason paper is two sided. no one stamps things perfectly from the get go. and with a lot of wood mounted stamps, the first time you stamp it is when you learn if they actually put the words on the block straight at the factory. :mrgreen: ( see?)

I may think of 9 more later but, I think most the lists cover the basic's. I had no concept of the internet when I started stamping so, I very rarely even think to go to youtube and look for a how to video. for me I just do it and do it again.

eventually I "get it" ( fancy folds almost always kill lots of paper for me so, I have started trying them out on not my favorites the first few times)

Or scratch computer paper. . .

[buttons2]

I would add to scan all the wonderful samples of cards stampers have made. It is a wonderful source for ideas.

Wanda

[wavejumper]

Quote:

Originally Posted by pbbennett

I have never heard this. Is it making some reference to embossing?

They are discussing how to remember which side to fold a card spine on when you cut them yourself. One of the little tidbits newbies never seem to be told right away and makes a difference.

[ciocidi]

I have found that one things to learn is to find like-minded people who enjoy your craft and art. Working together breathes life into my being, critiques are honest, supplies and techniques are shared, new sites are opened for ideas, and the results of our work are shared with people who may not share our enjoyment of the process but treasure the products. Diane

[Buried Treasures]

1. Learn patience. The intended project will take longer than you thought it would. Always.
2. Learn that mistakes are inevitable. It's only paper. It's okay to throw it away.
3. Learn that you don't have to buy everything on the market. Think about the tool you want and ask yourself if you already have something in the house that will work (e.g. a plastic knife works as well as a bone folder), or if you can make it yourself (paper flowers), or if you can find a similar image free on the internet. Microwave food boxes make great cardstock.
4. Learn that it's okay to get your ideas from others. Browse the Gallery on this board and Pinterest to get your inspiration. Even the great art masters copied from one another.
5. Learn to explore what style is right for you. If you don't like the pressure of making "perfect" cards, try mixed media.

[mamaxsix]

These are great thoughts!
I'd add....
1. don't toss those "mistakes" right away. Today's mistake might be tomorrow's bg. ;)
2. Learn rescue techniques: sponging, sequins or other embellishments to cover random ink, stamp another sentiment and layer it over the one that smeared on the card you just spent an hour creating :mad:, a glue eraser to remove stray adhesive, etc
3. Learn to cut the middles out of paper that is going to be covered by another piece (save money and weight on your heavily layered cards)
4. Don't buy it just because it's retiring....other stamps, colors, etc will be coming and you'll find new things to love. Corollary-learn to check the clearance rack and the Buy Sell Trade forum and the Pay It Forward Thread here for bargains.
5. Remember why you started stamping in the first place. I went through a dark phase where it became all about the number of views, comments etc. I lost the joy and had to step back and regroup.

That's all I've got right now....so many have already said it well.

[gregzgurl]

These are all amazingly wonderful, accurate tips! I think I like Lydia's list the best...

I need to carve out time for gallery-gazing and commenting. I know that there have been several times when I was having "dark days", and I would go through my own gallery and re-read comments that others had left for me - it totally turned my emotions around and I felt like a relatively "normal" person after that. I definitely need to send some of that love back out into the world!

Which brings me to the only comment that I'll add to the list: It's easy to get caught up in "deadlines" or other pressures - I have to do ALL of the challenges for this week, this VSN, this HYCCT, this blog hop, this WHATEVER. DON'T DO IT! Enjoy the process at whatever pace fits into your joy, and let the rest go... I'm letting go of my near-panic on the current HYCCT marathon (I'm eleven challenges behind as of today) because it just sucks the joy out of whatever creations I AM in the process of making. Relax, take a breath, carry on...

[ladyofcards]

Love all of these suggestions. I especially like my little card group. We meet monthly. The hostess gives a theme and each member makes up kits for each member and then we commence to have a wonderful time. Sometimes we go to SU events. When Archivers was open we took card classes there. To newbies remember there are no mistakes in card making! You can fix mistakes! First tool to change my card making was embossing folders! We I saw the little heart folder from Cuttlebug I had to have it and the Cuttlebug! Next tool that gave me a huge jump was getting my Silhouette Cameo. I had used dies in my CB but found them very limiting. So invested in the Cameo 3 yr. ago and love it. The last tool I got that changed my life is the Misti! I was a terrible stamper until I got it! I learned about Misti right here on Splitcoast!

[cindybstampin]

Loving this thread! SO many thoughtful and helpful suggestions. I especially love Lydia's ideas of giving back, and creating for yourself for the JOY of it.

The suggestion I want to voice is: do not overwhelm yourself with choices when you sit down to stamp. If you start out looking at too many stamp sets, too many card ideas, too many paper files, too many accessories - you will just spin your wheels. Get out a few supplies, maybe choose one idea or sketch, and then as the saying goes Just do it! Stamp something.

[jeanne3579]

So many great ideas here already, but here are some that I think are very important and even worth repeating:
1: Don't buy everything you see used by others or displayed in the store. Start with a few images you really like and a few stamp pads in colors that will work with your stamps. If your stamps are open and need coloring, use your stamp pads (by squeezing the lid down on top of the pad and picking the color up with a paint brush or aqua painter. Eventually you will discover other coloring/stamping techniques, but start small and limit you choices.
2: Make lots of cards using your supplies in as many ways as you can, but make finished products. You may not be totally pleased with the results, but the recipient of your card certainly will and their praise will spur you on.
3: Learn about lots of things. There aren't as many LSS with classes or great magazines with ideas as there were when I started, but now there is the internet. Check out the galleries here on SCS as well as the techniques they offer. I would rather learn on my own, so this is perfect for me, but if you would rather learn from a teacher, in a group, find a stamping group in your area, or take a class offered at a craft store nearby.
4: Mistakes are part of learning. Very few are total disasters and most can be used. Remember the 3 C's of Correction---
Cover Up: Rather than discard a botched card because the verse is shaped crooked, consider stamping it on separate paper, cutting it out, possibly layering it with another color and mounting it over the crooked text
Camouflage: If covering up won't work, think about camouflaging a smudge or other slip-up by sponging over it, using a stamp over it, or even smudging the rest of the card randomly to make the original mistake look like it belongs.
Cut out: If all else fails, cut out the good parts and attach them to a new card.
5: Remember we all have our own styles, but it may take you a while to learn what yours is. You will know it yourself when you just love the cards you are making---they will "feel" like you. Also, people will start to say, I just knew this was your card the minute I saw it, or even, wow, this is really a different card for you!

Above all, have fun, create, make a mess and don't feel guilty about the time or money you may spend. It is not a cheap hobby, but it is less expensive than therapy and creates good feelings for the maker and receiver

[poppydarling]

Quote:

Originally Posted by jeanne3579

5: Remember we all have our own styles, but it may take you a while to learn what yours is. You will know it yourself when you just love the cards you are making---they will "feel" like you. Also, people will start to say, I just knew this was your card the minute I saw it, or even, wow, this is really a different card for you!

Above all, have fun, create, make a mess and don't feel guilty about the time or money you may spend. It is not a cheap hobby, but it is less expensive than therapy and creates good feelings for the maker and receiver

Here here! I'm just loving the cards I'm making for the HYCCT challenges, and it's so satisfying to love what you are doing, imperfect as it may be (and always will be). I believe that love and intention will be communicated when someone opens the card.

[susie nelson]

Words from a newbie: "I love that I learned that I can get 2 cardbases out of a sheet of 8-1/2x11 sheet of paper." "I love that I'm learning how to measure for myself." (for layers)

These words came from someone that has been coming to my classes for several years. She does wonders in copying what I present, but she had never ventured out on her own to cut her papers and piece them together. She said: "You always give us our pieces cut to the right size and all we have to do is use them." That was a real awakening for me, too.

By the way, this is a great thread. Thank you, OP, for giving a voice to things we may have forgotten.