My Crafty Christmas List

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Reported by Melissa Norris

Here are some of the crafty things I would love to see under my tree this year.

1. Copic Markers: Yes, I want on that band wagon. Actually after trying them out at CHA this summer I knew I needed to have them. I don't really know what's not to love about them. The things I love most; non-toxic (good when you have a 2 year old running around), refillable (less waste in our landfills), replaceable nibs (which can get smushed over time), and double ended. They dry super fast, blend easily, and don't cause your paper to pill as you layer the colors. There are 3 types of marker and tons of colors, so your bound to find what you need. Individual Ciao markers retail for $3.95 and Sketch for $5.95. There are also many types of sets to help you get a variety of colors.

2. Nestabilities: Another bandwagon here. But these wonderful dies really are a great example about how this industry is constantly changing and improving. For crafters like me, who have an issue with space in their home, these are a must. They are affordable, compact, and come in a great variety of shapes and styles. Sets start at $24.99

3. Bind it All: This is another product that I got to try out a CHA and loved. I've actually been making my own books, of sorts, since college. I worked in the campus copy center and we had several binding machines so I would make notebooks, address books, and more. To be able to do this in my own home would be a joy for me. It would definitely get lots of use, and it doesn't take up much space, which is a definite plus. The Bind It All retails for $59.99

4. Prismacolor Pencil Sharpener: I love using my Prismacolor colored pencils to color my stamped images, but unfortunately, I don't have a good artist quality sharpener and the tips on my pencils break a lot. Which basically means, I'm going to have to buy more pencils. But the Prismacolor sharpener is designed to work with the soft cores of the Prismacolor pencils. And it's small, so it will fit perfectly in my bag. And with a retail price of $3.99, it's the perfect stocking stuffer (a long with a few more pencils, if anyone is asking).

5. Paper Crafts Magazine Subscription: I already get quite a few magazines in the mail, but none are crafty. I would love to get a magazine full of crafty inspiration in my mailbox. This definitely seems like a good place to start, especially since it's the one I find myself being drawn to most when I visit Barnes & Noble. A year subscription (8 issues) is $15.97.

These things rock and would be a great gift for the crafter in your life!

1. Gelly Roll Stardust Clear pen by Sakura: I'm pretty sure I use this pen on every project I make. I'm definitely a glitter girl and this pen adds that little touch of sparkle wherever you need it. And they come in a two pack, so keep one on your desk, and one in your tote. Or keep one for yourself and give one two a friend. Two pack retails for $3.99.

2. ProvoCraft Acrylic Block Set: With unmounted rubber and acrylic stamps becoming so popular, everyone needs a set of acrylic blocks to mount them on. This set by ProvoCraft is a good starter. It contains 4 blocks in a variety of sizes and comes in a neat little case to store them all in. It's a perfect set for taking to a crop or swap. They are a good size thickness too, very easy to hold. Retails around $15.99.

3. Cuttlebug-Yes, you really do need the Cuttlebug. The ability to use other brands dies as well as it's own, do a great job embossing, and a small cute design, makes this affordable product on every crafters wish or favorite tool list. But hey, you already know all the reasons you need it, if you don't own it already. Retails for $69.99

4. Martha Stewart Glitter: I am falling even more in love with this stuff. This is a top notch product from the Martha Stewart Crafts line. With a ton of colors and retailing for $4.99, this glitter should be in everyones craft room. It comes in coarse and fine varieties, and even comes in sets with glittering glue. And one bottle can last a long time. It can be purchased at Michael's stores or MarthaStewartCrafts.com

5. Paper Pretties Subscription: Paper Pretties is a subcription kit club. Featuring stamps from Stamping Bella, My Favorite Things, and Rubber Romance, the Paper Pretties kits come with all you need to make 6 cards (and usually several more). You get cardstock, designer papers, embellishments, and more, plus a design to follow. The monthly kit retails for $39.95. They also feature a Copic Marker club featuring 6 markers a month for $36.00 or a Nestabilities club featuring 1 set of dies (5-7 dies) a month for $30.00. All kits require a 6 month subscription. Your membership also includes access to members only sales, swaps, and contests, a discount at the corner store, access to the clubs Yahoo Group, a gallery to display your work in, and a RAK club. All the details are on the website, you won't be disappointed.

Well, that's what I want, and what I have. I hope everyone has a happy holidays!