Quick Tip Tuesday

 

Quick Tip: Build a “Test Strip” Habit Before Every Project

Before starting any craft project—vinyl, sublimation, resin, paint, ink, or paper crafts—create a small test strip or sample swatch using the exact materials and settings you plan to use. Not just when something is new, but every time.

For paper crafts, this might mean cutting a small shape from the same cardstock to test blade depth, pressure, or score lines before cutting your full design. It can also include testing ink blending, stamping pressure, or adhesive placement on a scrap from the same paper pack to see how it reacts.

Why? Humidity, paper coatings, blade wear, and even paper color can change results. A quick test can prevent tearing, cracking folds, or ink bleeding.

Pros treat test strips as part of the process—not a backup plan. Adopt the habit, and your success rate will jump instantly.

Last Minute Christmas Activities for Kids

 If you have kids at home, one thing you'll probably hear at some point during the holiday break is, "I'm bored."  Printables to the rescue!

Kids can color their own Christmas cards to give to friends and family or to use as labels on gifts.  What a personal touch and fun for all ages.

Or how about an exciting Christmas themed Escape Room bundle?  The kids can save Christmas by completing puzzles and secret codes.  Ages 10 and up are most suited for these games.

And check out my Etsy shop for other activities and games for both children and adults!  Happy holidays!

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Take advantage of everything Creative Fabrica has to offer with a sweet deal on yearly subscriptions, or just choose freebies and other graphics when you need them. Get started today!  You have nothing to lose!

Sublimation

Sublimation is a printing method where special ink turns into gas when heated and permanently bonds to coated surfaces—no peeling or fading. It works best on polyester fabric and poly-coated hard goods. You can sublimate vibrant designs onto items like t-shirts, mugs, keychains, bag tags, and tumblers. It’s perfect for crisp, long-lasting color that won’t wash out.

Popular Sublimation Blanks:

• Polyester shirts (65–100% poly)

• Poly-coated mugs and tumblers

• Aluminum panels

• MDF ornaments and bag tags

• Slate photo panels

• Mouse pads

• Neoprene items (koozies, coasters)

You can do this at home with a sublimation printer!

Please let me know if you have any questions and don't forget to join our Facebook group - Crafts for All with Crafteverly!

Quick Tip Tuesday - Arthritis and Crafting

 

I am not getting any younger, and sometimes when I craft, the joints in my hands begin to ache.  I figured there are probably others living with arthritic hands that would still like to do something creative with their hands, so I have six suggestions for crafts with minimal gripping, minimal fine motor work, and gentle on the joints.

1. Watercolor Painting

• Uses light brushes and gentle motions.

• No need for precision.

• You can use larger handles or foam grips to make brushes easier to hold.

  

  I did this with the guidance of Kerrie Woodhouse

  
  

2. Sticker Art / Washi Tape Crafts

• Washi tape journals, cards, bookmarks, and planners.

• Stickers & washi tape peel easily and don’t require cutting

3. No-Sew Fabric Crafts

• Make fleece tie blankets, scarves, or pillows.

• Only requires simple tying motions—no sewing, stitching, or gripping needles.

4. Foam Stamping

• Use large foam stamps and paint to decorate cards, gift bags, or signs.

• Big handles make it easy to press without finger strain.

5. Sticker Art / Washi Tape Crafts

• Washi tape journals, cards, bookmarks, and planners.

• Stickers & washi tape peel easily and don’t require cutting.

6. Decoupage (Mod Podge Crafts)

• Tear or cut paper loosely.

• Brush glue onto surfaces (wood shapes, glass jars, boxes).

• Very little hand strength required.

  
  
  

Have a crafty week!  I'd love to see you post some projects in our Facebook group.

Quik Tip Tuesday

 

Craft Tip: Try Before You Buy Sublimation Supplies

Thinking about getting into sublimation? Before you invest in equipment like ovens, sublimation paper, and blanks, try it out first!

Look for companies that offer hands-on classes at craft conventions (like Pinners) or make-and-take demos at trade shows. These sessions let you test their products, learn the process, and ask questions before you commit.

You’ll save money, gain confidence, and know exactly which tools fit your crafting style.  

This is what I did. Makerflo is really great at demonstrating their products and letting visitors see how it works.  I met them at Pinners, but there are other trade shows. Best of luck to any of you hoping to get into sublimation. 

Christmas Cards

 

Making some more Christmas Cards

This one is a pop-up card

Let me know what you think in the comments, please!  I'd love to hear from you!