As a maker and workshop facilitator, I’ve spent years experimenting with all kinds of tools and supplies. But there are a few materials I return to again and again because they’re reliable, versatile, and fun to use.
1. Tombow Dual Brush Pens
These pens are a staple in my studio. Each one has two tips: a flexible brush tip that mimics a paintbrush, and a fine bullet tip for detail work. The water-based ink blends beautifully, allowing for watercolor effects without the mess.
Why I love them:
- The brush tip is perfect for larger format hand lettering and calligraphy.
- You can blend colours to build depth.
- They’re great for layering over collage or mixed media backgrounds.
2. Micron Pens
Micron pens are known for their precision and archival quality. The .08 size is my go-to because it strikes the perfect balance between boldness and control. These pens don’t bleed or smudge, making them ideal for mixed media work.
Why I love them:
- They create clean, consistent lines for outlines, doodles and text.
- The ink is waterproof, so you can layer watercolour or highlighters over it.
- I can get lots of depth and texture by using different nibs.
3. UHU Glue Sticks
Not all glue sticks are created equal! UHU glue sticks are smooth, strong, and dry clear. They’re essential for collage work, especially when working with delicate vintage papers.
Why I love them:
- They don’t wrinkle or warp paper.
- They’re mess-free and easy to control.
- They’re archival quality.
4. Gelli Plates for Printmaking
Gel plates are a game-changer for printmaking. These soft, reusable plates let you create monoprints without a press. Every print is one-of-a-kind, and the process is incredibly intuitive and playful.
Why I love them:
- You can use them with acrylic paint, stencils, stamps, and found objects.
- They’re perfect for creating backgrounds, textures, and collage fodder.
- The process is full of happy accidents.
5. Vintage Books
Old books are treasure troves of inspiration. The aged paper, unique fonts, and illustrations add instant charm to any piece.
Why I love them:
- They add a sense of nostalgia and narrative to your work.
- They’re perfect for altered books, collage, and mixed media.
6. Tea-Dyed Papers
There’s something delightful about tea-dyed paper. Each stained, speckled, and uniquely aged sheet is a little work of art. I love using stained art and lined papers as backgrounds, collage elements, or even as journal pages. The process of dyeing them is a bit time-consuming (set aside at least an hour to create a batch), but the results are always a delightful surprise.
Why I love them:
- They add instant vintage charm and warmth to any piece.
- The natural staining creates organic patterns and textures.
- They’re perfect for layering, writing, or stitching into handmade books.
Ready to play?
Whether you’re looking to try something new or deepen your practice, I’d love to welcome you to one of my workshops!
👉 Click here to view upcoming workshops and sign up!
Let’s get crafty!
PS- Share your favourite crafting tools in the comments.
Nikki Luscombe | Creative Workshops 