Lol, I use my stamp press and washi al the time. I love seeing what other crafters love and hate. Great video!

I have decided that crafters really have two hobbies. Crafting and organizing.

we need a website where all of the crafters can swap or sell or trade products.

I take 3 or 4 washi tapes, lay strips of them side edge to edge together on a piece of white cardstock. Smooth them down so they adhere well and then use a punch like a heart, flower or butterfly to punch out a unique patterned shape. 🌸

" I will never buy patterned paper again" ...I died right there!! I love patterned paper...I don't use it either but I love to hoard it 🤣🤣🤣👍❤

C.H.A.O.S. Can't Have Anyone Over Syndrome. There isn't a crafter out there that doesn't get that. Cheers, ✨ Edit: spray adhesive is good for quilters, holds it all together instead of pins. Do you know any quilters?

I think covering a good size of paper with washi tape then die cutting words is really pretty.

When I moved across the country, I let the mover's pack my good china but I packed all my scrapbooking, crafting stuff myself. lol

I see a lot of wisdom in your words. There are just too many craft options, and being on disability, I really have to be careful what I do buy. I have to be able to use it several ways.

I agree with you for most things. Washi tape was a momentary weakness and such a waste. Same with all the different planners I got that ended up in paper recycle! Right now, I'm using my washi to hold down dies, reinforce spines, etc. Just because I have it on hand. Might end up donating. Stopped buying dies of all kinds because I have so many I don't use. Patterned paper is useful to me right now, and I'll probably never stop buying paper collections (G45, Prima, etc). This video just makes you think about all the things you bought, and don't use. Thanks!

I agree with most of your choices. In fact the one I don't "agree" is because I don't have the tool. I also purchased a ScanN'Cut machine some time ago and I'm saving my money to buy stamps sets and stand-alone dies. I assume that if it means we purchase stamps sets instead, why should crafting companies be mad at us ? And it's also a question of storage, I don't have a dedicated craft room, so every little bit of space is precious. I think the only time crafting companies could "go mad", and I actually do the same, is when I see some video showing some cheap articles purchased on Amazon or other similar websites when you find good quality goodies on the small crafting companies websites. For exemple, I'm thinking about the blending brushes. Yes, make-up brushes were on the market before Picket Fence started to sell their brushes. But it's Picket Fence people who had the idea to use such brushes for crafting. So the money I save on coordinating dies helped me also purchasing their brushes, which I LOVE by the way ! Thank you for the video. I wish you to have more time for crafting very soon 😉 !

Your thoughts on washi are exactly how I feel about ribbon. There are a few staples I will keep for tying a bow, and there are some classic twines that are always good. But for the most part, ribbon is a dust collector for me.

I agree with you for the most part, but I still think washi tapes are so useful if you do art journaling. It’s such a fun and cute way to tape a photo or a leaf down on the page. I don’t need anymore of course, but I’m very happy with the collection I have. 😍✨

I totally agree on the washi tapes and pattern paper especially 12/12 they are adorable and gorgeous but they are just not used very often and end up taking a lot of space,and about stamp press i actually forgot i have it since I haven't used it after i got Misti.. Don't stress too much and i do miss watching your videos,they are so helpful and fun to watch

Wow, JD! You're hurting my heart. Most of you list is stuff that I love! That being said, I realize that I don't NEED 300 rolls of washi tape or hundreds of pieces of patterned paper. You know that it is the thrill of the hunt, don't you? Most crafters just like finding and owning cool stuff whether we use it or not. LOL! The contents of my house are insured only because of my massive craft stash. That is no joke. I will, however, need to cut back. I'm getting tired of putting together shelving to hold my stuff.

I feel your pain about about no craft room. I made all the clothes for my kids when little and had no sewing room. I hope you have a craft room of your own soon. In the meantime I’m impressed by your ability to make choices and not feel you have to follow the latest fad. I think you have substance and probably character as well. Good for you

As far as the coordinating dies - add to the fact the stamp companies for some reason have raised the prices sooooo much in the last year, I can't even afford them anymore. $15.99 for a stamp set, 15.99 for a die set is reasonable. $20, $30 and up for a stamp or die set alone?? No way!! I personally think they're making it the beginning of the end for this industry. I wonder if their profits have gone up or down since they started with this marketing strategy.. but anyway, that's just my opinion. As for your video, I agree with all of your choices and I'm kinda in a similar predicament with crafty chaos in my bedroom/craft room!!! Good luck with cleaning or purging, whatever you do :)

Craft Chaos!!! Oh girl I get you so much with this. What I've been doing in my room purge (20 years worth of supplies) is to put them in boxes for some local group homes. These kids don't get a lot of craft supplies to play with and I have way too many. Maybe you could think of donating them that way?

I love using my scan and cut in place of dies too. It just saves me. Plus you can stamp out like 5 of the same image and cut them all at once not have to keep moving the die

Missed you and your crafty brain lol I have been de- stashing for 3 years and not sure I have made any progress lol

Those are some pretty wise words, and as you stated, may be injurious to yourself. However, you are being real, and gave actual reasons why. I admire your stance. Those of us who must remain frugal appreciate your honesty. I make my own "washi" tape. Shannon Greene, a goddess in this world, as far as I'm concerned, showed how to apply masking tape to the plastic side of freezer paper, then decorate your own designs, colors, styles, and so on. Thanks JD. Your honesty is refreshing to see. You are not a sell out and that integrity is to be appreciated, at least by me.

Such a relief to hear a KZfaq crafter be honest. I have been really annoyed by the whole Stampin Up thing. They have clearly offered women "business opportunities" and trained them in all manner of tricks to get crafters to buy Stampin Up products. The pattern paper, like most of their products are really expensive and in the video they get the women to cram in as many products and use as much paper as humanly possible. One manipulative trick is to tell you that some important information is on their blog...why not put it in the description box? Because they want you on their blog. They also sell all the products. This is just a particularly dark example of what craft companies do to the (largely) women crafters. It is like we are just cash cows to them. The examples of their cunning is legion...producing multiple colours of a popular ink range very, very similar to an existing colour... No one tells the truth because they have their videos sponsored, sell the products or get sent stuff. I have no objection to a person making an honest living. I do object to being ripped off and knowing other women crafters are too.

I hear ya on pretty much everything. I only use the spray adhesive for my Cricut mat when it gets unsticky. I add glue to all my enamel dots. It’s a pain in the ...but I like them cuz I’m impatient and can’t wait for nuvo to dry. 🥴 I make all my gift bags so that’s where the patterned paper comes in handy. I threw out all my pigment inks cuz we had a horrible relationship. Never used that stamp thing, I bought a tonic one. Meh.. I think I’ll get a misty too. So badly want either a scan n cut or a new Cricut. 🤷🏻‍♀️. Glad your cleaning up and donating! One mans trash is another mans treasure! TFS!

Living in the NYC I too don’t have a craft room but a crafting corner in my living room so what I buy and how I store them plays a huge part in my buying decisions. I stopped buying coordinating dies unless they came together because I had purchased a scan n cut machine for that purpose. Girl crafting is expensive and we all need to pick and chose wisely. Glad to have you back!

Agree with your stand on coordinating dies! My biggest issue - after cost - is that I HATE the white border!!! Thanks for your views on some of the craft items I’ve been questioning the need for as well.

I agree with most of your list and I’m lucky to have a business nearby that’s like a Goodwill for craft supplies.They take almost anything so I donate regularly. I thought I’d use my envelope maker more, but I never seem to get the measurements right. I don’t use colored twine much anymore, and I need to get rid of my paper flowers and brads. I used to scrapbook, and I told myself that if I don’t start again this year, then I need to donate the 12 x 12 paper. Also, you can take your spray adhesive to your local hazardous waste center. I had to do that years ago when I worked at a marketing firm. We had garbage bags full of empty cans.

Oh my goodness JD, I felt like this a few months ago then I watched a wonderful video on how to de-clutter so I thought that's what I need to do. I could hardly get into my craft room so many papers, tools, dies and stamps etc. I decided something had to give I followed the video on how to de clutter and haven't looked back. My craft room looks fantastic and my motivation has been given a new lease of life. I gave some to charities and sold some on Ebay. I enjoy your video's but make sure you spend time with the family we will be waiting for your return.

I think some valid points were made. As a crafter, you don't necessarily have to use everything available in the crafting world. It's great that we have so many options to choose from to help us expand on our arts but within our crafting comfort.

My main thing I hoarded and never seemed to use was the Prima flowers in the jars and buckets. Finally after 10 yrs of not using them, I'm taking a huge load to donation this week. Prima just had that marketing ploy with the packaging. I saw cute examples of using the flowers but it just never looked the same. I'm pretty much echoing your items. The patterned paper in pads. I can't have too many options or I overthink my design and my brain shuts down. Lol I don't know why. I tried to get excited about washi tape. I end up using it on all my various charging cables and plugs so my hubs can't say it's his. 😁

I have been wondering where you’ve been, and hoping all is well! Please don’t apologize for evolving as a crafter!! Although, sometimes, I stop using a supply, only to “rediscover “ it months (or years) later!! I do agree with you on matching dies, though. But then, I *love* to fussy cut!!❤️

Ha ha... wish I’d seen this years ago! DSP is my problem too, now that I make my own! I haven’t bought much washi tape, but I don’t use what I have! You are not crazy at all! I do like my co-ordinating dies but if I ever get a scan n cut, I’m sure they’ll be going. Glad to see you back! Hope you get some time to craft again soon.

Hi JD. I want to thank you for sincere comments about yourself which many of us can relate to as well as talking about the products in a sincere way. Earlier today, I watched one of your videos where you reviewed some products and you got stuck on Haberdashery scissor's name. That was hysterical as I did the same at first glance when I came across them. Also laughed when you opened another product and at first couldn't find the English translation of the insert. Who has not had that happen to them?!! Hysterical. What about when you're using an item for the first time and even with directions, you go..what?..and re-read! Again, your relatability to viewers that follow you is very needed. Your videos exemplify that it's okay to not be okay, that we do not do things perfectly, with perfect outcomes, every time; and that it's ok to be silly at times. I laugh every time you say hot mess because it's honest. People and the things we do or say are quirky and many take themselves too seriously. You embrace who you are with honesty and I thank you for that.

Magpie/hoarder in me screaming “nooooooo!” in its tiny little voice... And still, I’m right there with ya. I am having a very serious problem as well deciding right now what to purge and what to keep. I’ve got so many great supplies and I seem to use all of them because I make journals and mini albums along with cards and other paper crafts. Oddly, it seems that the craft pile just seems to get bigger, as much as I make with it. I don’t buy anymore, except for pattern paper, but that has taken up a LOT of space in itself. I do use Color My Life, an app designed by an IT professional/crafter and assisted by her husband. It’s user friendly, you can scan the barcodes of products of any companies who have partnered with them and it’ll automatically populate almost all fields in your product database (aside from tags), and it’s easy to organize and search. It was designed by a paper crafter for paper crafters. Downside? You MUST subscribe in order to add any info to the database. It’s not expensive at all, but even a buck or two a month can add up for some folks. It’s still a paid product, and there’s no free version (because they don’t have ads popping up every 5 seconds. It’s all subscriber funded). Still. I need to destash in a major way (Hush, little magpie. You’ll still have some shiny toys to play with).😊😉

Have missed your videos. I know life gets hectic and in the way. No Crafting time does not make for a happy mama for me anyways. I agree with most of your items. Just went through my patterned paper last night and cleaned it out. got rid of everything but the ones I totally love. Thanks for the fun video! Hope your back soon.

I agree with all 7! I don't have the Scan n Cut, but I do have the small Silhouette Portrait and use the print and cut feature to cut multiple stamped images, otherwise just fussy cut. Hang in there JD. Life is crazy and we (at least I) go through spans of time where uncontrollable sh_t just happens, so I don't get to craft, and other spans where things are going great, all good, but so busy I don't get to craft, and I too go bonkers if it's too long between crafting binges. The discipline or knack of crafting every day has eluded me, and sounds like it has you too. Decluttering our stuff and our lives is definitely the way to go. We all have way to much stuff. So keep on keeping on and you'll find your way.

Last year I purged my craft room amd donated tons of stuff. Half of what I had is gone and Im perfectly happy with it. After many years of crafting I know what I like, need and will use. Felt a sense of relief getting rid of it all.

I use washi tape to tape my card envelopes closed! People absolutely love it...it really adds a cute touch to the back of a plain envelope! Patterned paper makes really cute envelopes (I still use plain washi to close). 😁 I agree with everything else you said! 😍

You have to do what you need to do to make your crafting easier and more fun for you. Miss watching you. Don't stay away too long

Stamp presses are really good for mixed media and stamping in notebooks and planners, I keep mine just for that reason, if you don't do mixed media and planners then yeah toss it. Washi has had it's hey day, again though can still use it for masking tape. Patterned paper is just nice to look at 😍

Thanks for your honest video. I love my washi and designed paper, but that's mainly because I wasn't sure I will get into them and only bought a few. I don't think I will buy more, but ended up loving the few I have, after a long period of getting ideas on how to use them in my own style. The stuff I regret buying most are larger sets of different kinds of coloring medium when I was new to paper crafting and didn't know what my working style will be (mica, perfect pearls, luminate, paint stick, embossing paste in different colors, m.s. colored glitter set, fabric pigment inks, big craft inkpads in too many colors, and vinyl rolls in too many colors). So the general tip is to buy way less in any category until I am sure I love that category and it becomes a part of my style. But I can't blame my earlier self too much because I was new and exploring, and could not have known what I will like until much later. I was able to pare down slowly the supplies in any category I ended up not liking over many years. I teach newbies all the tIme, and give a set of stamps and supplies as moving presents when they leave the area. This way, I was able to get rid of a lot of things I just never liked. But I keep any category that I think I may yet like in the future. Otherwise, I may regret giving them away and buy those same supplies again using good money! LOL. Also when my budget is low, it's nice having those supplies I have not used before. I can "shop" from my own inventory, and try something new. I check KZfaq on ideas for using those "new" supplies and stampsets or diecut designs. This gives me a fresh, shiny new thing feeling without spending any new money! JD, please keep making your lovely videos.

I bought plastic pocketed sheets. I also bought sheets of magnets cut the 🧲. I then double sided taped then into the plastic pockets put my does on them. My dies don’t just fall out anymore. I put the sheets in a binder. My dies and matching stamps are so organized! I like washi tape and my ribbon. I don’t use it like i used to but it’s there if I need it.

When I got back into paper-crafting, I was inclined not to buy coordinating dies, but for those who might want to sell their cards, using a Scan-n-Cut, Cricut, etc. to cut out stamped images violates many brands’ angel policies. Something to be mindful of.

I've missed you. Thank you for taking the time out of your crazy busy life to share your list with us. I hope you get to have crafty time for yourself soon.

I have my dies with coordinating stamps stored together. I have a shoe box that I put clear ridged plastic sleves in. The sleves have a magnetic sheet in them. I glued the cereal box cards to the magnetic sheet. The magnetic side holds the dies and the Other side of it holds the stamps that go with it.

I agree with you too... I mean I love using Washi Tape.. do I need a ton of it? Nope! Yet I do... I do use it, on cards, but I certainly don't think I'll ever use all of it! I love pattern paper, so I'll keep it! :) I like 6x6 more and only buy 12 x 12 for wood projects I like to make... I like enamel dots, but I certainly don't need a ton of them either... My biggest thing, that I use to use a lot was ribbon... I never use ribbon anymore... I prefer twine now... I think that's something I for sure need to let go of. I have purged 12 x12 paper in the past.. gave a ton of it away to fellow crafty peeps that didn't have a lot... and I know I can look around my craft room and point out plenty of things I could get rid of because I think I'm not gonna use it again... The problem is, I'm afraid if I get rid of it, I may end up looking for it when I actually do need it... Does that make sense? I've purged on several occasions over the years and even put things away in boxes... I guess it's time to rethink what I really need or not... So I get ya... We all need to do it... Ooh, and I never buy the matching dies to stamp sets... I own the Scan N cut too, have had it for years and it was such a big investment with no regrets! Makes a big difference when cutting out images... But I will continue to buy cover plate dies... I love them and use them all the time! hahaha - Looking forward to you getting back in your craft space and making videos! HUGS! :)

Very good job, it takes a lot of strength to look at things with a clear eye for keeping or not keeping! I have a terrible time trying to de-stash, I see something I forgot I had and get sucked into starting projects using it! Trouble is, I do this in the middle of de-stashing!!!😉😅

When you said that you weren't going to be buying any more corresponding dies, I said YES! (Quite loudly, and probably scared my poor dog). I have often "NEEDED" them because I want to have a perfect image and I want that certain measurement. It's not happening for me any longer. I don't make multiples of cards, so in the length of time it would take me to get everything situated perfectly, and run it through my machine, I could have fussy cut the image out. Live and learn. And it frees up some of my cash for other crafty stuff, because who am I kidding? I'm not going to stop buying all the fun stuff.

Welcome back. I think that chaos drives us to see things around us clearer sometimes. Puts what we actually need/or benefits us, and what doesn't and is in the way, in perspective. Comparatively, I have a very limited amount of supplies. Its a hobby and that is all it will ever be. I have about 5 rolls of washi tape (picked up in the clearance basket at check out) for holding dies to paper and have very few patterned papers that are mostly holiday themed for specific projects. I don't own any spray adhesive. I do like my coordinating dies as I don't have a ScanNCut. Just haven't committed the funds to purchase yet.

OOOKAAY - Pigment inks - you are not really talking about pigment inks, you're talking about these rainbow sets. Purge them. But DO get single pigment ink pads! Washi tape - great for flags and other accents, but you won't need more than you have. I love sparkly washi tape. Patterned paper - digital takes less space. Coordinating dies - they always leave you with a lot of white space. I totally agree, but I buy them sometimes - guilty, but definitely on your side there!

I'm sorry to hear that you are stressed JD, hoping this phase will pass soon. I'm with you, I'm clearing out my stash and have been doing that slowly lol. I agree with your washi tape, I don't understand the hype on that and I have about 15 rolls of generic and 12 of Xmas. Card kits are being donated left and right too ;) missing your videos xx

Lolly Cunningham did a really cool video about storing crafts. She used 2in metal rings and plastic zipper pockets. It really did make a difference for me. I agree with everything you said except I'm a sucker for floral paper. Hope life calms down for ya but that you're at least having fun now😊

I am sure that every single crafter has purchased SOMETHING that they have used once (or maybe never!!), that they regret. Our LSS has spring and fall garage sales where customers are able to sell their "gently used" treasures. You drop off your priced items, at the end of the week-end you pick up your unsold items. My favorite store gives a store credit for the value of your sales. I don't know if this is available to others but I absolutely love it.

Cheri-J.--great idea to make envelopes with pattern paper. NOW I can use my 1-2-3 envelope punch !!! THANKS!

I agree with not buying coordinating dies. Stamps plus dies set you back $30, I have to make a lot of cards from the one set to justify them, then I learned I could cut my stamp shapes out with my old Silhouette using Pixscan and it works beautifully.

It’s all a personal choice and you have a right to get what you will use. I know I have a lot of stuff and never use anymore and I should break p with them too.

I definitely can relate!! I would love to see a craftroom cleaning or organizing video! I have been trying to finish mine for months! Life gets in the way as I add more mess!! Thank you for sharing!

Hi JD (same initials as me!)...I literally just gave away a mound of stuff an hour ago to a teacher for her summer camp and classrooms. It feels so good to destash and pass along these products I’m no longer using to people who will enjoy them. I feel the same way you do regarding pigment inks, stamp press and adhesive spray. But I love my patterned papers and dies. Learning to use my washi tape on hand,are embellishments.

Hi, JD! I’m right there with you... 6 out of your 7. The only one I still use is flat back dots. I love these for embellishing. When I adhere these to the card, I add a dot of glue to them. This keeps them on the card, because I never know how sticky they are. They could be old or have been stored in a hot warehouse and adhesive not great. I have lots of patterned paper from so long ago! I have even culled through it and given a lot away. Like you, I love to make backgrounds. I never think of using patterned paper. If I’m looking through my paper, it is a last resort because I don’t have something to use fir a theme card. LOL! 😂 The Stamp Press. Oh, my! I bought one not long after it came out and I never used it! It seemed awkward to me. I got rid of it last year and the foam pieces were falling out. I have a few pigment ink pads from VersaFine. I also can’t seem to part with my Brilliance ink pads. I have the complete set with reinkers. Years ago I used Brilliance for almost everything and some really cool techniques. I think I’ll keep these a while longer. Others, like your ColorBoxInk, chalk ink, Fabrico... good-bye. I’m agree about coordinating dies for stamp sets. I don’t have a scan and cut...YET. 😉. I am refraining from purchasing many dies so I can save up for a S&C. The only ones I’m interested in are those with faux stitching or something else vs just a straight cut. I think the S&C will cut any shape, but don’t think it can add the embossing it faux stitching. Washi tape... I’m like you. I have purchased more than several rolls and I’ve yet to use it. Well, I’ve used 3 pieces on my stamp positioner lid and magnets! 😂. It’s just not my thing. LOL! Fortunately I don’t have a lot of stickers. I occasionally want to use a sticker for a certain theme. But I don’t keep a stash on hand. So glad to see you again. Take your time, get rest and maybe sit down with a box of your stuff and just look at it or sort it. When I feel overwhelmed the only goal I have is to look through my supplies. It sure is fun and gets me motivated. Thanks for the video and tips! Take care! 😁🤗❤️

The only thing from your list I still use is patterned paper. And I don't think you have to worry about stamp companies getting upset with you. Even Jennifer McGuire says she'd rather use her money on stamps or other dies than to buy the coordinating. She does have some cool techniques for using them that you can't do (or as easily) with an electronic die cutter, but with a million techniques out there, no big deal if you can't do a couple. I did a big purge but it was mostly stuff I bought when I first started and couldn't find variety, or tools that I've since upgraded. I either need to stop buying stamps or start purging. It would be nice if companies would stop releasing so much stuff and so often! They're going to make us so broke we stop buying altogether!

It's good to hear from you. Life does get in the way sometimes. I agree with some of your choices. Maybe this video will get us to really start thinking about things we shouldn't buy anymore, whether they are the same items you choose or different items. I hope you get to have some crafty time soon.

Hey, I’ve got an entire room that looks like your desk. We must be kindred spirits, or secretly hoarders. I’ve got other things in that room that I need for put in the basement or my future crafting building. I am also a Girl Scout leader and have a butt ton of their crap. Thank you for the advice as what isn’t worth the money or space.

I never could see the draw of washi tape, I use it to adhere images to my Misti. I purchased spray adhesive, used once and tossed. Dies take up a lot of room so I'm pretty stingy with what I will buy. Do not purchase brad's/stickers. I use my pattern paper for homemade envelopes!

I no longer buy crafting items when Im out without checking my Evernote app on my phone (tablet & laptop too) to check whether or not I already own it!Evernote is my crafting inventory. I have no idea what I did before getting that app! I no longer buy printed paper either. I HATE Washi tape, it never sticks! I use what rolls I have now for taping down dies that refuse to cooperate. The only time I've ever used spray glue was Super 77 to mount photos to mats for mounting in a frame. In the Souths humid weather, spray glue (and Washi tape) doesn't stand a chance of sticking. I no longer buy Bigz dies. I recently got 2 that I've been wanting, but no more. I have 32 Bigz dies, mostly Tim Holtz, but Hubby built a special holder for them & they don't get in my way anymore. I only buy the thin dies. When I buy the stamp set I'll buy the matching die, but it has to be really special. I no longer feel any devotion to certain companies. It's been really freeing... OK, I got one company. That is The Hero MMK, although I no longer buy every single month as I did before, I wait until the 1st when the kits are released and decide then if I want it. It has been really freeing changing my ways with my supplies. No more hoarding. If I buy a stack and it hasn't been touched in 3 months, out to the local daycare it goes! Lots more room and money!

So nice to have you back! Never tried spray adhesive, probably won't. I have used washi as a background to cut but mostly it is a "holder" for die-cutting! I have way too much pattern paper but do use it regularly, so for now it stays. Desperately need to purge and organize! TFS.

I found when I was lacking space I cleaned out an got rid of so much stuff only to find later on when I needed something than remembered I'd given it away, as I do lots of different crafts I have loads of crafts so think carefully before getting rid of it can be an expensive thing to have to replace 🤔

I agree on most of the items that you mentioned in the video like : spray adhesive in which I’m about to go buy it and try it, but I changed my mind 😂 thanks for your advice, I don’t agree on patterned papers and coordinating dies, those are the two that it doesn’t hurt for me to get more of even though it took all the spaces in my garage. I’ll pass on washi tapes, enamel dots, sequins, buttons, ribbons, strings, pigment markers, and many more.

I am fairly new at cardmaking so this was very helpful to me. I have already made mistakes buying supplies that turned out to be useless to me, at this time. I love you on KZfaq. Thank you for becoming one of my favorite instructors.

It makes me wonder how my crafting will evolve over the years, super inspiring to be honest JD! Thank you 😊

I agree with most, but I couldn't craft without patterned paper and I like making my own too :)

I think most of the craft supplies you mentioned, I love and don't plan on departing. I do like some of your economical options. I want a scan and cut. Yes, you may feel better if your craft room is clean. I need to clean mine too.

I think a key to using what you have is making sure you organize. I have been making cards for about 3 years. I purchased a Cuttlebug, a paper trimmer, a scoreboard, and my sister gave me a heat gun. That is still all I have. I have about 5 punchboards that I do use a lot. I love paper, so I will always buy paper. Recently, however, I have made it my goal to use an entire pad before switching to another one. That is going so-so, but I am using more of one pad before going to another. My dies fit into one refrigerator try (single size, not the large one), and all of my embossing folders fit into a box designed to organize cards. I have some washi tape, and use it on flip books more than anything else. I have 3 refrigerator trays of ribbon, stickers stored in 3 binders. Doesn't seem like much, but it takes up an entire wall in my living room, which has become my craft room. Hopefully I will hold things down to where they are now. Happy crafting everyone.

You are so right. My washi tape is going. It never seems to stick anyway. I have tons of craft projects I use to do. I haven't use them in years. It's time to donate them. Quite a bit of them too. Now I'll have more space for my card making crafts. Thank you for the inspiration.

I agree with you on almost everything. I have lots I feel I wasted my money on. You live and you learn.

JD I just found this video but boy did you nail it. I am with you on the spray adhesives pigment inks enamel dots PATTERNED PAER (not telling just emphasizing) and coordinating dies with the exception of word dies

I LOVE 💕 spray adhesive!!! I use it to glitter large areas or many multiples for a set of cards ...

Nobody should feel bad for buying supplies and then realizing they don’t use them much. Part of the journey of creating and crafting is experimentation, seeing what works for you, and you can only do this by having access to different mediums and products. I was lucky and went to a high school which appreciated arts and crafts, and I was able to play with lots of different tools and art mediums. There is no way I would have been able to afford to buy all those different things to try them out myself! As long as you are not getting into debt, and your bills are being paid, it’s ok to spend on supplies, and it’s ok to end up with supplies you don’t use. Just be aware of what works and what doesn’t and adjust your spending accordingly. Happy crafting!

Don’t we all have the same chaos through this hobby? I can’t count how many times I have had to stop crafting for weeks till I had the time to reorganize. I sure agree with you on Stamp tool and pigment inks and Washi tape. Patterned paper doesn’t make sense to me in card making but it does in scrapbooking. YES, COORDINATING DIES ARE USELESS! Finally! Someone is saying what I’ve been saying forever! With Scan n Cut who needs them. I can do all my stamping on one page of cardstock and cut them all out at once which is awesome. BUT! Here is the exception: Sometimes you are not using coordinating dies, but you need the die itself because there is some special feature that the die has, like it embosses at the same time it cuts. Great video!!

I ripped the sponge feet off my Fiskars Stamp Press and duct-taped it to a clipboard to create a hinged stamp platform. Love it!

So wish I had invested in a scan and cut years ago. It would have easily paid for itself by now because I would not have bought coordinating dies. Live and learn. Thanks for your candid and honest video.

Omg! You are my sister in every sense of the word!! My craft room and desk look just like yours! I tried to get my craft room organized all summer to no avail! Like you said “life happens” and I just get overwhelmed with it all! I don’t know where to begin and I just think maybe I should just burn it all! I’ve even tried Konmari! I think all I’ve done is shuffle stuff back and forth! Drives me crazy! Thanks for this video I now know I am not alone in this world that is my crazy little craft corner! 💕

Washi tape is the watercolor painters blessing. When putting painters tape on watercolor paper it often removes layers of the paper as it is removed and washi comes off clean. I do feel I have many craft supplies that I will never purchase again and even some that I have no idea what I was thinking. Keep putting out the videos.

I agree with your choices. I would add.... many types of ribbon, shimmer mist, Nuevo drops.

I feel for you. I have my "craft room" somewhat organized, but would so LOVE to have a separate "she shed" to craft in rather than in the house. Just hang in there. Oh, and I have been doing a little "purging" myself and put the items on The MarketPlace on FB.

I use washi tape not as an embellishment, but as the background for some of my cards. Just put coordinating tapes in a row or with a space between to create a background for a card. I agree with the coordinating dies and stamps. I prefer to get shapes that I will use over and over such as tags or geometric shapes. I have a hint though for keeping those coordinating dies accessible. Go to your local home improvement store and buy "Vent Covers" usually in the air conditioning or heating aisle. They are used to cover vents during the off season. They come in a pack of 3 for about $5.00 each piece can be cut into 5x8 magnetic sheets for your dies. I put one of these with the dies in with my coordinating stamps. Keeps dies with their stamps and in order.

I never understood the purpose of washi tape. I have some only because I got it for a super price. I'm also have decided no more pattern paper. Watching you make your own backgrounds did it for me. You are so funny. Sorry die and stamp companies. Lol I have alot of time sorting my dies with matching stamps in their envelopes with magnetics to hold them in place. One, it's expensive Two, It has taken me so much time to get them all organized that I have even made any cards this past year. Heck I'm still getting them organized. I have at least 50-75 more to finish up. I can't blame you one bit.

I agree with you about the coordinating dies. My reason is that I can not stand the border around the stamped image that most companies stamp and die sets create. I do however love that the Tim Holtz dies cut right to the edge of the stamped image.

I do agree with the spongy legs stamper I'll never use since I purchase the Misty & three blocks that is great - washi tape can be use to for back grounds I don't have many but the tutorials I've seen they were great for cutting alpha or numbers. I do think it's too much out there but buy what you love to use. It's like makeup every company is trying g to sell you something. Then you look back you have a lot of makeup you'll never use just like crafting something s you'll never use. Donate the things you will never use I did the children's class at church. I do use the adhesive spray lol. What's good for one may not be good for another some Crafters use it all and it woorks. Be wise in spending.

I agree with all! I have that Fishers stamp press too, and doubt I ever used it, but it is stowed sideways in one of my roller carts; I too have decided NO MORE patterned papers... I love them, but they have become a collection and until I use them, no more... I also got into mixed media techniques and thought, I could make my own darn papers! Washi tape - ridiculously expensive and have just a small supply - pretty much to use to hold down die cuts. And, yeah, no coordinating dies with stamps (also expensive) - just scissors; and really no more need for dies, have plenty, have a decent amount of basic shapes,, nested ones, enough fun shapes; same with stamps; they fit in my roller cart (not the wood mounted ones, oh well) but enough!!! Need to just get crafty! Enjoyed your video! AND I have a craft room, closet lined with two book shelves holding paper stock, cubbies, etc, and stuff spilling out into spare room! Oh well... Enjoy your videos!

I understand your thought, but I do use washi tape for my planner, and I use patterned paper for making albums and cards. Everything else is very pricey and I have to watch my budget.tfs

I know the feeling, I must throw out my adhesive spray, I could wallpaper my whole unit with the amount of 12''x12'' and 6''x6'' paper I've got. I'm 79 so I don't need to buy any more but am weak. Ruth down under,

I agree with the die issue. If/when you have time, please add scan and cut tutorials. Thanks so much. Glad you're back 😉

I'd love some of you dies or pattern paper if you choose to get rid of them. I teach a card class for senior citizens and only charge $1 per card ( so I can buy more supplies). It doesn't cover all my expenses, but I'm having fun. Any inexpensive supplies are really appreciated.

I totally understand your thoughts on why you don’t need /want these types of crafty items. I know I have enough craft supplies to last me the rest of my life and then some. Plus I could supply me entire large neighborhood with paper. You mentioned not buying coordinating dies because you use your SNC. I’m wondering if you could do a video on using the scan n cut. I have one that doesn’t get used as often as it should. I’m not the most tech savvy person. I’d love to get some tips for using it instead of continuing to purchase the die sets.

I agree with pretty much everything you said, especially about the dies. I want a scan and cut so bad but it is not in the budget right now (actually nothing is in the budget right now) but it is definitely on my wish list. It was so nice to see you again and you look as beautiful as ever but, and I hate to say this, you do look stressed. Take some more time for self care and I will definitely be here when you are ready to come back!

You could always clean my craft room to make you feel better about yours :)

Have you checked out AliExpress, I get alot of my stamps and coordinating dies from there, I use the AlanDIY store on there the most. Very cheap prices and the quality is very good. I am in a gotta use what I have now for pattern paper, I am a sucker for paper, it seems like I buy a pack every time I go to craft store, so no more til I get my stash down. Making Travelers for family members for Christmas and using up my old Christmas paper pads that I have to make totes to put the travelers in. Gotta do something with all the hot buy pads I keep buying at Michael's. I got spray adhesive in closet, it's been there for years, I use Dollar store washi to hold dies on cutting plate. Currently Saving for a Cricut Maker. It seems like as soon as I get something though, something better comes out making things obsolete.

I agree with just about everything! I’m a paper hoarder and I rarely use it anymore! What? When I can afford the SNC.... I will invest because the coordinating dies are so expensive!

Hi JD I just found your channel and subscribed! I love your honest approach to crafting 💜🥰

I feel you, JD!. I went through a crafting slump not too long ago. Overwhelmed!! I dropped some hobbies first, that helped. I even left a local craft club, due to having to buy supplies for each evening. Many of their crafts weren't even of my taste. Also left two FB groups, due to people buying so much craft stuff, and bragging about it. Or, their arguing about how to do things. Latest step, was my re-organizing my craft room. I dropped off a few bags of usable supplies, fabric, and yarn, and tossed tools that I can't remember why I bought them! Most of your list matches mine. But, I will hang on to my WRMK stamp press, which saved my sanity at Christmas. (I have enough of a tremor that I can't count on getting good stamps each time.) I also have a ScanNCut, so I can save my $$, and leave those dies at the store.😏 I do have a few, but, I doubt I will buy anymore. Pigment ink, is also on that wagon. I really don't care, or use my few colors much at all. I love my versa mark, for the few times I've done heat embossing. But, frankly, I think I could have passed up on that whole idea. Not the game changer my sister in law claimed it would be. Heat tool does come in handy for softening scor tape, if I make a drastic mistake, though (like putting my card front on upside down!). Keep on being you! I know life seems like it is getting in the way, sometimes. But, I wonder if it is a way to tell us that we need to take a break, from whatever. We will be here, when you decide to make more show-how videos. Now, for my take on your list: Patterned paper calls my name, everytime, loud and clear! So, it follows me home.😏 I like making paper quilts with the pattens on the SnC, as well as Iris folding, and some teabag folding. Plus, it saves me time and sanity. I have one small crate of 6x6 tablets and 4 1/2 x 6 1/2" collections, and a few larger tablets on a shelf, along with one small glitter paper tablet, just enough for bling for all the.young girls I send cards to.☺ I have to agree with a LOT on your list of Never Buy Again: Spray adhesive? Same as your reasons. Enamel dots? Or even gemstones? Always falling off, if I don't remember to add glitter glue to them! I use brads to add bling, even adding color with sharpie markers. Never lost one yet, so many colors and finishes. Washi tape is too expensive! I just use strips of my patterned paper, and scor tape, to add pattern.

Missed you too. I agree that it IS hard to keep track of stuff we buy, especially the pattern papers. I bought so many because I had good intention to use for scrapbooking but never did use them. I am still holding onto my stamp positioning tool though because it is light and easy to use since I don't own a misty. Also don't own a scan 'n cut but don't buy or have but a few of the coordinating dies. I fussy cut mostly. Congratulations on letting go of what you don't use anymore. I need to keep working at doing that!