10 Amazing Products That Deserve a Look for Your Craft Room!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Click here to let me know where to send your Hacks/Alternative Craft Supplies Excel Sheet: subscribepage.io/iJQDOU I have no idea why my video is glitching like this on the end; I'll look into it. I'm so sorry!

[@jans1675]

Yay that worked. I could see that above but when I clicked on it nothing happened. Thanks for your help. You are awesome!

[@helencarter5657]

Already subscriber. You are in my A+ list of crafters.

[@stephaniemaddock4875]

Please send me your list. Thanks.

[@marypolancodesigns]

@@stephaniemaddock4875 please click the link above and let me know where to send it.

[@stbam1965]

Ask her out

[@kaylynn0215]

I've been following Natasha Foote for over 5 years. She is the reason I got back into making cards. You definitely remind me of her "use what you have", save money, use your products in multiple ways. I have to say you and Tash are 2 of my favorites to watch.

[@annerandolph6000]

I have been ill, and not able to make cards. Watching your

[@LovinglfDesigns]

Yeah I follow both of them as well.

[@FlowerGemsGirl]

I follow both too. Learned so much from these ladies!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Such a compliment thank you!

[@theeditor1149]

I love Natasha so much! She really took my mindset away from thinking I needed many different kinds of items to make professional looking cards and anything artistic. And she inspires me to change my mindset about what I make, I'm always judging myself if I don't make something perfectly and she's always about just accepting the imperfections because it still looks good.

[@DrgnflyDrmz]

I'm watching you make your 'magnetic board' and laughing as I say out loud, "I DID THAT!". lol I wear the glasses that have the magnetic toppers that I can change to suit my mood. I made this exact board/wallpaper to hang in my bedroom to plop my toppers on. I feel so good that I can associate my ideas with a craft-genius such as you. ♥

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh my goodness that's so funny! What are the chances! I love my readers, they are so helpful to me these days! lol

[@CindyellenRobinson]

Hello Sweetie!!! 1. Dollar General sells those lazy susans and 12" cutting mats. Got both for $5. 2. That Dura film would work for making your own stencils. And now my story about hanging up all my dies on my closet doors. . .and birds. You know what happens when you put all your dies on your closet doors? Your birds find them. And spend AN ENTIRE AFTERNOON picking them off, one by one, because they sound so fun hitting the floor. (I was at a Dr's appt. I didn't think this thru obviously). Yup, came home to EVERY SINGLE DIE on the floor. They are now safely in boxes.

[@marypolancodesigns]

WOW I wouldn't have thought about birdies. lol oops!

[@sharmanmurphree-roberts4018]

🤣🤣🤣😑

[@Honeybee1975..]

😂 I go through that with my cats if I don’t put my small items away and leave them on my desk!

[@bettyhornberger1470]

I bought that wooden turntable to put my Sizzix Big Switch machine on. That way I can spin the machine around to remove the 'sandwich' as it comes out the back of the machine rather than having to stand up each time to reach over the machine to remove the plates as they come out! It's fabulous!

[@maureenherrera483]

Great idea!!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

SUCH a great idea thank you for sharing!

[@msdixie1972]

🤯

[@SofiaOFil]

In Italy we would say something like "you live in the 2050's!!!" Such a brilliant idea!

[@sth.777]

My favourite idea is the wallpaper on the back of your cutting mat for a neat background surface! I don't make videos, but I do document my creations for my own reference before selling them, and a nice background would help - I'll definitely be applying this... as soon as I find the surface of my craft table!🤣

[@marypolancodesigns]

Awesome! I'm so glad that one was useful. I couldn't 'believe I could use it as a craft mat

[@andrealavigne7824]

I have an anti-static bag story to tell. Several years ago, I was in Michael's to get one. I forget what brand it was - it was some name brand - but for ONE bag it was at least $5 or maybe more! I was in a state of true sticker shock when I saw that. Thankfully for me, there was a fabric store in the same shopping center. So I walked down there & bought 1/4 yard of muslin for less than $1. I also purloined some cornstarch that I believe we already had at home that was old. I cut the muslin up into small rectangles, & was able to sew my own little anti-static bags. I just fold a rectangle in half, sew 2 of the open sides, fill it with powder using a measuring spoon that fits inside the bag, & sew up the remaining open side. I have STILL not gone through all those little muslin rectangles I cut, and I have a LOT of cornstarch left to fill the bags. I don't bother refilling them, as that would just be too fiddly, but I just pull out 2-3 rectangles at a time & make more. I use my sewing machine, but I'm sure you could do it by hand with a needle & thread - just make sure there are no spaces between the stitches. I'd recommend a backstitch rather than something like a running stitch. In fact, I actually lost the canister I had the cornstarch in. I searched high & low in the craft room, but finally got a new canister at Dollar Tree & another box of cornstarch. Of course, then I found the first canister right where I'd put it in the craft room! :P LOL So when I said I have a LOT, I'm not just whistling Dixie! :) But my main point is, for less than $1 of fabric - & muslin is still pretty cheap, even now - & a box of cornstarch, I'm still not done making powder bags all this time later. Anyway, thank you for sharing these hacks, Mary. That tip of the non-slip drawer liner under the cutting mat blew my mind! I recently replaced my old one with a Fiskars cutting mat that is slicker on the back than my old one, since both sides are usable as self-healing mat material. So it tends to slide more easily than my old mat. I'll have to find some shelf liner - I know I have some around the house - & try that. I hope you take care, & have a marvelous day! :)

[@marypolancodesigns]

What a great share thank you so much. I LOVE when I create my own thing and it's a huge money saver. Yes!! Also, the dollar tree has grippy shel liner

[@pamwaldron3504]

I poured cornstarch into baby socks and used elastic bands to close the open ends. A couple of pats against my hand gets it going, and the proper amount of cornstarch comes out each use. I store them in a tightly closed snack container kep with my embossing supplies. Any baby socks will work. The frilly dressy ones are cute, but even the thicker ones work well, too. Another thing to use is ground cinnamon and a makeup brush and corn starch and a second makeup brush. Dip the brush into the appropriate powder and dust it over your die cut surface to make the cuts more visible for weeding. A dried clean wipe whisks away any leftover powder from the die cuts. A used dryer sheet put between your die and cardstock before cutting makes it easier to get the tiny bits out of your dies.

[@Joyce-lq6gm]

I made my own turntable out of a cake pan, marbles and pizza pan. I bought the pizza pan first, matched the diameter to the cake pan the lip of the pizza pan overlapped 1/4”, then filled the cake pan with marbles and set the pizza pan on top of the marbles. I quilt, so I glued a self healing mat, cot to size, inside the pizza pan. Total cost was

[@faodail3913]

Wow!!! BRILLIANT!!!!❤❤❤

[@marypolancodesigns]

SO clevery, thank you so much for sharing this with us!

[@gailrobinson6933]

I found magnetic "calendars" that fit inside school lockers at dollar tree. They are plenty strong for holding dies yet easy to cut to size. They are usually only available during back-to-school season.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oooh great share, thank you!

[@create.channeleileenelias4795]

Will the sealer and cutter work with the roll of acetate you showed us to make our own storage bags with does anybody know please THANKYOU

[@carolstella6776]

That little silicone trivet you showed is the best thing for using your 2 in 1 tool for getting the paper out of your dies! The honeycomb texture holds the little bits and pieces, then just dump the bits into your waste basket! Fabulous for piercing dies with all those little dots of paper!

[@maureenherrera483]

Wow! Such a great idea!!! I'm definitely getting one now. Thanks!

[@lorraine8037]

Carolstella6776How do you use it?

[@marypolancodesigns]

BEEE----RILLIANT! Thank you for this! I have to try it.

[@deannab.5614]

Love this! Thank you for posting! Perhaps my craftroom floor will no longer look like a 24 hour paper blizzard just hit 😂

[@donnatoledo1976]

Great idea. I currently use a double thickness of the non-slip shelf liner along with the 2 in 1 tool brush attachment to remove bits of paper stuck in dies. It's the kind Mary used in this video underneath of her cutting mat. I like your idea and will try that. TFS.

[@72wick]

Embellishments hack. Using a dryer sheet or the embossing pillow powder will eliminate any static in plastic containers. Just powder or rub the sheet lightly inside new containers. Then you won't have that fly away glitter, beads, ect

[@marypolancodesigns]

Fantastic tip, thank you!

[@sharmanmurphree-roberts4018]

Great idea! I've been going crazy trying to make shaker cards where the pieces inside don't static themselves to the acrylic window. Cornstarch shows if you use it, but I'll bet the dryer sheet will work. I can't wait to try it! 😀

[@lornapayne2805]

I stick the antistatic powder bag to the top of my versa mark so I never forget to use it before inking. That came to me having forgotten on several occasions!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Such a great hack; thank you! I use it every single time.

[@dianalama1591]

Yes, Tasha is my… absolute favorite!!! Frugal, down to earth and clever 😍 No big head about her skills and what she knows. THankYou Mary for sharing this product information with us. You’re great.

[@marypolancodesigns]

I love her videos so much! Thanks so much for the love and support

[@lilfedak2312]

🎉😢😂😮😢😅😮😊😅

[@RinasAMaker]

*NOTE* Ohuhu Markers - IF you purchase the FANTASTIC Ohuhu markers - now with refill inks and nibs - Mary’s blending charts and color matching are a MUST HAVE! She did all the “hard work” for us and I recommend these almost daily! Just wanted to throw that in here. 😊

[@marypolancodesigns]

Awww thanks so much for this share. YAY!

[@louiselacroix8921]

Thank you for the tip! Where can I find the blending charts?

[@raineysmith3303]

Duralar acetate also comes in a pad of large sheets. I haven't used a roll but the sheets are easy to work with. I love how heavy it is.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Awesome to know thank you so much!

[@deannab.5614]

For die storage/display I use magnetic vent covers which are used to cover heat/AC vents to block air flow. They measure 12 to 15" in length and 5.5 to 8 inches in width. The magnet is VERY strong as they are intended to stick to ceiling vents to block air flow. On Amazon they are $12 to $24 for 4. Some have a white nonmagnetic side. I purchase a few at a time. My craft room is a converted garage and has metal doors and I don't even have to use adhesive for them to stick!

[@lindameigs8330]

I totally agree about the magnetic vent covers! I get them in a 3-pack for $8ish at Lowe’s - the best for storing my dies, and buying a few at a time (I usually stay a tiny bit ahead of my die purchases 😂).

[@marypolancodesigns]

Love this share, thank you so much! I tried to find them once but didn't try hard enough. haha

[@marypolancodesigns]

Fantastic ideas!

[@normahemauer4933]

@@lindameigs8330 Home Depot also carries the same brand for around the same price.

[@sharmanmurphree-roberts4018]

​@@normahemauer4933I've gotten them from Home Depot before, but found theirs to be thinner and less strong than the ones from Lowes.

[@lizhummer1280]

Mary, I love watching your videos, not just for the content, but for your giggle/laugh. You always make me smile, and that is a good thing!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Well that's the best compliment ever thank you so much!

[@lucyc]

Love these ideas - thanks, Mary! Here's a tip if you are embossing on black cardstock. If you get spots of heated powder where you don't want it, colour over them with a black alcohol marker to disguise them - works a charm!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Boom! Love that idea; so good!

[@MR-pr8tp]

Enjoyed your video. Have to share my all time favorite hack: After purchasing and repurchasing craft tables for stability and quality, I finally purchased 2 unfinished kitchen cabinets with drawers and 2 with open space, added an inexpensive ready made counter top and placed on top of the cabinets. One could just add a board as well. Though a little tall for me (I'm 5'3") I use it for cutting and storage, ability to organize.. I didn't even glue the counter top to the cabinets so that if I change my room around, it is free to be moved. This is sturdy and hides most of my "stuff". Most of all more money for the buck.

[@marypolancodesigns]

WOW wish I could see a picture of this. If you feel inclined, you can share it via email at [e-mail]

[@yvonnesands]

For a grip mat I use ones designed for use in cars. Small ones hold ink pads still and the larger ones work for card and stencils etc. Much cheaper than ones designed for crafts

[@marypolancodesigns]

I searched for this but not sure what I'm looking for. Sounds interesting.

[@yvonnesands]

I bought mine in a UK 'cheap' shop, a bit like Dollar Tree. Amazon have them, but they are textured in the picture, but they do not show the back of them (which may be smooth). I have a small and large one in black but did find a medium sized one that was transparent- so they do exist Sorry this doesn't help you really as I have no idea where you may find them in USA or Canada.

[@yvonnesands]

Try searching for sticky dashboard mat 😂

[@jackiejohnson7158]

Thanks Mary. I’m going to have to get those acrylic drawers might help me use my embellishments more also. I like the coloring idea on the turntable but feel like my arm wouldn’t be level if that makes sense haha. Also like your die panel. So many great ideas. I appreciate all you do for us 😊

[@denisefonda2815]

Mary, I started following you in 2017, I think you were just starting on YT. I admired a card, that you made, and admitted that with no little girls, to make cards for, I had no reason to buy the product. You were very kind and sent the card to me. I framed the card and put it in my craft room. I discovered Natasha, from the YT suggestion page and I like her ideas and card making just as much. It is always good to get alternative ideas for using our stash and to save money. This was a great YT, I’m definitely going to check out the powder idea, as well as the magnet roll. Thanks again.

[@marypolancodesigns]

What a wonderful memory to share with me. Thank you so much! I think I remember you telling me you framed it which is just the greatest compliment ever! YAY You're the best

[@sals1123]

When I took a Rosemaling class at John C. Campbell Folk School a turntable was an essential item for painting and keeping the oil-based paints minimally in proximity to the artist’s arm / clothes during the painting process. Adding a mat for stability and a surface that is something “sticky” to hold the paper or other surface is a grand idea!

[@marypolancodesigns]

It's truly a great idea even for coloring. Thank you for sharing this!

[@sharmanmurphree-roberts4018]

Magnetic vent covers sold at Lowes come 3 to a package, and are 8" x 15" each. They're a fraction of the price of buying magnetic sheets sold for crafting, but are the same thing Mary was using. I cut them in thirds, and have 9 sheets, 5" x 8" each, for about $8 total. I store die sets on them, inside the bags used by many crafters for stamp storage (but an off-brand, of course 😉). It works great, I can store stamps and dies in the same types of containers, and I save a lot of money, that I can then spend on stamps and dies, instead of storage. 😄

[@marypolancodesigns]

Wow great share thank you so so much

[@Pebblesmas]

Thx so much, again an amazing video that gave me tons of brilliant ideas again ! Thx so much, LOVE your channel !

[@marypolancodesigns]

YAY So glad to hear this, Thank you!

[@debraolm7104]

TFS Mary!!!!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

My pleasure!!!

[@sharonhaughton-pearson2790]

Thank you great ideas❤!

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! It's my pleasure

[@ABJILL033]

For anyone who wants to compare, the magnetic roll is the equivalent of 31 sheets of A4 or 8.5 x 11, except the long side will be the 12 inches. Love the embossing powder idea, big thumbs up, I’ve ruined so many by getting them wet that this will save me money in the long run. I also like the lazy Susan idea, I would buy an A4 cutting mat & glue it on so not to have the uneven surface.👏👏❤️❤️🇬🇧

[@marypolancodesigns]

WOW...thank you for doing that math on the magnetic sheets; SUPER helpful!

[@irishk.1041]

Am laughing out loud again. You are SO down-to-earth in your videos. The "gelly"" plate was priceless! My favorite tip was the cute static powder inside the powder puff thingy. I WILL do this - detest those little bags. Your use of the shelving paper on your work surface - looks just like the paneling in my art studio :). Enjoyable as usual. Great job kiddo. Love the laughs - always be YOU!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Awww thanks so much! You're always so kind to me. I do have a blast "talking to myself" in these videos. haha

[@carolrios4876]

I love her!!! She does use what she has in her stash so you’re not spending a ton of money.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Agree, I love what she comes up with!

[@margarettallett762]

Very inspiring!!!!!❤

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much!

[@OneGuyOnline2]

Great ideas! TFS

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome!

[@candyclouston1412]

Re: Acetate I re-use acetate packaging (some dies come in it) by cutting it into card-sized pieces and putting it between enamel dots or rhinestones or other 3D stuff that's on my card and the envelope so the envelope's less likely to tear going through postal machinery. If the envelope ends up too bumpy or won't bend, it requires a non-machinable stamp, of course.

[@maureenherrera483]

That's a great recommendation! Thanks! I never thought about what couldn't go through their machines.

[@marypolancodesigns]

WOW brilliant idea! YES! Thank you for sharing that.

[@WilmaVoermans]

The die storage , super idea, thanks!

[@marypolancodesigns]

My pleasure thank you

[@flickster69]

Fab ideas.....I love watching ur videos and I think ur absolutely amazing

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much 😊 What a kind thing to say

[@flickster69]

@@marypolancodesigns you're very welcome. You put yourself out there a lot and I thought I'd let you know its much appreciated

[@karenandcatz2915]

I’m new to your videos; thanks for this info. I do amigurumi and jewelry, so I need to organize small items (eyes, buttons, beads, etc). My favorite is Harbor Freight. They have a manageable size clear plastic container with small locking boxes inside. I usually buy all that they have in the store whenever I go to a town that has a store. 👍🏻

[@marypolancodesigns]

Great idea, I need to take a trip there! YES

[@cheribrowning9212]

Hi Mary, just wanted you to know ... I LOVE Natasha Foote too!!! 💙💙💙She is AMAZING but So are You! Keep up the GREAT JOB you do!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much!!

[@99zanne]

I cut a Tim Holtz gray grip mat to fit under the less expensive lazy Susan to hold it in place on my glass craft mat, too, and I have liked using it while I "color in" my stamped images.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Great tip thank you so much!

[@jackiejohnson7158]

Thanks Mary! I need those acrylic drawers. I like the powder puff for an embossing buddy.

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome Yes I love those drawers so much; one of the not so cheap things that works so well for me.

[@jackiejohnson7158]

@@marypolancodesigns I think I’m going to have to order a second one. I didn’t realize what a small footprint they had.

[@bethjackson8727]

I watched this video again. I had forgotten two ideas. This is super.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks you so much! :)

[@ladybdeloreswhitney_CM_CCH_PCM]

Hi Mary, Your tutorial found me today. I had all but given up with my dies, die cutting machine, card making etc. I am inspired to start again. Thank you for the inspiration.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh this makes me so happy! If it brings you joy, keep going. Crafting should be our therapy; it's so important to have an outlet.

[@janasher4940]

I use the rolls. I cut the magnetic material to fit into page protectors. I store all my dies on 8 1/2 X 11 inch pieces of magnetic laminate (glued to hard cardboard for stiffness) and put them into sheet protectors. If the dies fall off, they are still in the sheet protectors. Then my dies are stored in plastic storage bins. I can flip through these sheet protectors quickly and find the die I'm looking for. I have 6 large plastic storage bins full of dies. I own it all! I've gone through many storage systems in 30 years and love the magnetic laminate system.

[@marypolancodesigns]

I love this idea so much; I started doing that too with some of my dies. They are really great to store that way

[@pattiepan]

lots of good tips and ideas. I like the last one especially as I also have to see my stuff for it to inspire me. The storage for holding my dies...I'm going to do that for sure...........thanks Mary love your video's and feel you do a great job. pat

[@marypolancodesigns]

That's so encouraging thank you so much!!

[@donnasmith9093]

Absolutely fantastic 😍 loved it !! Thank you so much ❤ xxx

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are most welcome, thank you so much!

[@mixedupmargie]

All great ideas, really liking that acrylic storage container, I added it to shopping cart, thanks for linking it.❤

[@marypolancodesigns]

I love it so much, using my stuff so much more now

[@janetteireland9801]

I loved the magnet

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you, I"ve been getting so many uses out of that large roll. lol

[@ginnyhopper]

Great options!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much!!

[@veransia]

These videos are some of my favs to watch! So many great tips! I believe it was me who shared the lash tape idea in the comments of one of your other videos. I don't know how it's used for lashes either lol. I think I bought it to use as a template for applying eyeshadow (to get a crisp line), but never did use it for that (yet). Anyway, thanks for testing it on watercolor paper because I hadn't tried that yet. Glad to see that it works! Now I'm going to check out some of those other items in your list. 😉

[@marypolancodesigns]

YAY! THANK YOU it's a great tip and it was my pleasure to play with it.

[@carolprice5657]

Mary , I watched this on Tuesday night , ran right to Amazon . Love the dura lar that’s a game changer . Also bought the little wood thing for makeup that is perfect . Thank you so much for your tips on card making supplies . I bought the dura lar for 17.99 got 25. 9x12 sheets well worth it

[@marypolancodesigns]

YAY So glad you found this useful. thanks so much!

[@lavoriscarter3536]

Awesome ideas! Thanks for sharing❤❤❤

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome!

[@oraleeb.2072]

Another great informative video, Mary! There were a lot of alternatives to think about trying out. Thanks! 😊

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome!

[@Ms.W529]

I also use a flatiron for hair to seal Mylar bags.

[@marypolancodesigns]

YES such a great idea, thank you!

[@dyannbaker9536]

Great video Mary! Thank you for helping us craft better😊

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome!

[@debityger4458]

I love your giggle😊

[@marypolancodesigns]

Aww thank you! :)

[@JeannetteK]

I live in the Netherlands and for almost more than 40 years I use my sealmachine from the brandmark TEFAL with a button for different temperatur (normaly used for plastic deepfreeze bags) and it still works very well for different thickness of the plastic and has a cutting knife so no need to cut is with scissors 👍👍👍

[@marypolancodesigns]

Awesome thank you so much for sharing this!

[@bethjeans3780]

What a fun video! I’ve used yellow Frog Tape for years and it doesn’t rip paper, but first I tap the tape on my jeans or arm - just takes a second. Grafix Dura-Lar is so highly respected as an acetate alternative (I forget what it’s made from) - it comes in pads too, different thicknesses, different sizes. It makes good stamp backer sheets too, if for some reason you need one - like if you pulled a bunch of similar sentiments from different sets to make your own sentiment stamp set.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Amazing tips, thank you so much for taking the time to share!

[@guardself921]

I love the idea of a magnetic roll. For the size it’s not priced bad. Especially if splitting it with a crafty friend. I’ve seen a hanging “decor” for most used dies. After this last military move this summer I’ll have a real craft room that’s one of the first things that’s going up. Thanks for all the tips!

[@marypolancodesigns]

YAY! Congrats on a craft room; it took me a few moves myself to get the one I wanted. lol I'm so excited for you.

[@mariafernandez6537]

As usual, great ideas! FYI if you put your tape (whatever you use) on the OUTSIDE of the die it won't rip the inked/stamped area. I learned the hard way (and Amy R does this all the time). No worries when you pull it off. And yes, Natasha's videos are wonderful. So many creative ways to use what you have/find around. Keep up the good work.

[@marypolancodesigns]

That's a great tip thank you so much!

[@Cindyalbritton]

I just love your videos, sooooo helpful! Thank you for working so hard to get them to us.

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome!

[@jacquelinecoster5502]

Hi Mary, I live in Australia so I'm not sure how things are over your side so this may not apply. Here we have "Sign Writers" they also make signs that just stick to your car to advertise your company. These signs are made of magnet! 😊 I go to my local bloke who has it in metre wide rolls lovely thick, strong stuff. I buy a couple of metres long by one metre wide. I buy white or cork boards and glue magnet to them. Running out of room 😂 Cheers from Aussie

[@marypolancodesigns]

Woah great tip thank you so much for sharing

[@sharmanmurphree-roberts4018]

Great idea! I'll have to see if that's a thing here in the US.

[@jeanadamsick9854]

THANK YOU MARY, YOUR SO CLEAVER!!! THE HANGING MAGNET BOARD W/YOUR DIES, LOOKS, LIKE AN ARTSY PICTURE!!! Do take care. Fl.

[@marypolancodesigns]

It really does...YAY! I love it

[@beverlyball6403]

Thank you for all your ideas, I just had an idea as I was watching you, I'm going to try a gel plate on a lazy susan (spin plate) for colouring in! No need for sticky on anything! I too watch Natasha and love the cardmaking she does!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Such a great idea, love it!

[@justlm316]

Great ideas

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much! I appreciate that!

[@user-qi4ff5in9z]

Glass paint palettes range from $30-$75 . Instead, go to your local home improvement store and buy a glass window pane at whatever size you want. I covered one side with duct tape, so it would not shatter everywhere if I dropped it. Bought 2 for $4.

[@marypolancodesigns]

WOW what a deal! Thank you so much for sharing this.

[@lisasisneros8200]

I used to do that too with leftover old frames with glass. You can also find small 7" glass cutting boards at dollar tree in round or square shape for a glass or ink palette as well! Plus the edges are rounded and safe to handle. :)

[@Cards4Cancer]

Great video. For Christmas this year hubby bought and wrapped a roll of magnet and sticky sheets. it was 3ft long but he said he got it to make like a book of magnetic pages for me to put my most used dies on. If you go in a hardware store and look at cabinets for sale. They have these samples on hinges so you can see each option and flip through. He has just got the hinges in and the pages will be 12x12 and about 10. I can put dies on the front and back of each page. He said that's why he got such a big roll. As you said Magnetic sheets are not cheap. I am very anxious to play with it. I had seen something similar from a very nice lady in a craft group. So sorry, can't remember her name at the moment, (old lady syndrome). But her husband had put 4 or 5 pages on either side of her window. She shared pictures and he used hinges that hold glass, but he had mdf board covered in magnetic sheets, not glass but those hinges worked great for her. When my hubby gets it finished I'll share some pictures with you.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Such a great supply. I was playing all day today with it

[@donnaokoniewski3761]

Thanks Mary. Great ideas, as always. xo

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much!

[@WhiteSwann]

Love the magnet for die storage. Gonna do that one soon.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Awesome thanks so much!

[@dixieblasberg7405]

Some really good ideas. In my former home, I installed cupboards in my craft room & applied the magnetic sheets on the inside of the doors. It worked really nice. Wish I had them in this house.

[@marypolancodesigns]

That's a great idea! Love

[@susandavenport9257]

I have the rectangular "turn table" (found on Amazon). The grip mats fit perfectly on it!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Awesome idea! Didn't see that one.

[@MatidaJane]

Great video and lots of ideas. Thank you.

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! YAY So happy to know this

[@lisabloedel539]

Love all these ideas! The second you started to wrap up your video I said, “ wait it’s over already!” 😂 I was wanting more! You always have really great videos on all these alternative options, and you show everything thoroughly! I really appreciate it! I think a gel plate, turn table are in my future! And the acetate and magnet roll…!Thank you Mary!

[@marypolancodesigns]

You didn't want it to end...best compliment ever. Thank you so much for sharing that. It TRULY makes a difference. I have so much fun "talking" with all of you, sometimes I feel like you're all right here. :) Thank you for your encouragement.

[@nikkirosindale7854]

Thanks for sharing awesome tips,cost of living in the UK is off the chart,So anything that's going to save me money but still able to craft is Brilliant

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome!

[@homeismyvacation]

Thank you. Many great ideas, loved the eyelash tpae and magnetic board.

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! Thank you so much

[@LeslyeMcCulloch]

I have found a lot of good storage items over the years in fishing gear dept. My first good sewing box was a tackle box I won at a school function. I didn’t fish so it became, and is still ONE of my sewing boxes. But the little plastic boxes for fishing gear is perfect for my sequins etc.

[@marypolancodesigns]

YES, that's a great idea. I have to head to Harbor Freight too.

[@jeanbabb3487]

I love watching these videos. It gives you some new ideas to use as your crafting

[@marypolancodesigns]

That's so great thank you so sharing with me. :)

[@donnatoledo1976]

Lots of great ideas in this video Mary. TFS.

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome Thanks so much!

[@marileemck]

I loved watching you discover the Gel Press Plate. It's such a fun tool! The reason it beaded up is that it's new. Once you've used it a bit that won't happen. If you leave a piece of paper on a gel plate for too long -- without also having paint on the plate, your paper can get an oil mark from the plate. Using it as a grip mat might not be ideal. Can't wait to see more of your adventures in the world of gel printing! 💜

[@marypolancodesigns]

That's so encouraging; I was hoping to use my paints I had and not have to buy more so YAY

[@ginalombardi2507]

In my last craft room I had a narrow door from a old wardrobe that was narrow, I put the magnetic tape on it, and it held an amazing amount of dies, and I just leaned it against the wall. 😊

[@marypolancodesigns]

Perfection! love that

[@whaus4005]

It's always so much fun watching your content. You are so creative! I love your ideas to think outside the box. I've got some ideas now! Thank you for all you contribute to the crafty world

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh this is so encouraging thank you so much! :)

[@kcinca5410]

I use cardstock with my gel plate. I found it silly to use copy paper and then have to put it onto cardstock. I do use copy paper for cleaning off the brayer in between pulls - most of the time. (FYI - I think there is a gel plate brand called Gelli plate.) OMG - I needed that magnetic sheet roll info years ago! I'm hoping I stop buying so many dies as, unless my tastes really change, I must have close to everything I'll ever need and then some! Love your attitude. I use an inexpensive media turntable for my Switch machine. I have it on a cart next to a window and it makes it easy to access it without taking up any more room. The turntables with craft names are mostly ridiculously expensive.

[@marypolancodesigns]

I'm so glad this was helpful for you. I was wondering why I never see anyone do the inking on cardstock it seemed to work just great.

[@brendaelainewaddell1682]

Hi Mary. What a helpful video. We can always count on you to give us honest and unbiased product reviews and inexpensive options as well. Thanks so much. ❤ 🇨🇦 😊

[@marypolancodesigns]

Glad it was helpful! And that is a great compliment thank you so much!

[@judipalumbo]

Hey Mary, great vid! Wanted to mention that Dura Lar also sells acetate sheets, they also sell 100% cotton water color paper, water color and wet mediums too.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Awesome thank you so much for that!

[@michelegrigg4952]

I have jad a couple of lazy Susans in my studio for many years. One for clean crafts and one for messy crafts. I use them for everything.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Such a brilliant tool!

[@patsternburg8737]

I made my own gel plate 12? Years or so ago, do a search to DIY gel plate. I do remember it was easy! Have fun

[@marypolancodesigns]

I've been hearing this. Might be a fun science experiement with the kids. thank you

[@katyratyra]

Love my Gel plates! There are two main brands-Gel Press and Gelli,Plate. The reason you had beading with your gouache is your plate is brand new. Acrylic paint and inks will both work. Can’t wait to see what you will create with it. Also I am glad you answered the question I had in my mind…do,I need a grip mat? Nope! I have several gel plates that will function just as well.

[@maureenherrera483]

I wish I had seen this video before buying my grip mats from SBC, I think the Gel plate would have been fantastic instead, but I want one anyway to play around with ink. It looks so fun!!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much for this. Any education on the gel plate is helpful I have no idea about it. lol

[@marypolancodesigns]

It was seriously so fun for even that little demo I did. I shall be diving in more.

[@bethbenson1931]

​@@maureenherrera483 Gel plates are quite thick, so they won't work as well in a stamp positioner, but for stenciling on a table, I think they are super! So, you might be glad you have both. 😊

[@justd4377]

I love watching your videos even though I don't make cards. I get some great ideas for using in my art journals. I loved what you did with the gouache on the gel plate, along with your mantra of use what your have. A recent peek at some "free" classes from my local craft store (it sounds like Bike Els) showed that the cost to purchase supplies to make some earrings, and even a kids project necklace, average about $60 per class! Plus you have loads of stuff left over that I wouldn't use...no thanks. But I will be playing on my gel plates with some gouache! Thank you!😃😃

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks for this. You are most welcome and I'm so glad you're enjoying the videos. I don't do nail art and watch those videos all the time so I get you. lol

[@TrishDarbonne]

Love using the back of your mat as a photo backdrop, and I’m definitely getting a roll of the grippy stuff to keep mine from moving. This video is full of fab ideas. Thanks for sharing. ❤

[@marypolancodesigns]

YAY thanks for sharing that with me! I'm so glad you loved it.

[@debityger4458]

I’m like you Mary. I like spending my big bucks on stamps,clear blocks and coordinating inks , paper , and markers

[@marypolancodesigns]

Right? I am more okay with that. lol

[@CASHayward]

Yay! Thank you SOOOOOOOOO much! I'm always, ALWAYS LOOKING FOR CRAFT ROOM HACKS!! Just happened to stumble upon this channel by accident! New sub FOR SURE!! I have a kind of weird one for you and your other subscribers: I use dry [CLEAN OF COURSE!!] weave sanitary pads to clean my stamps in lieu of a sponge or something similar! I use just a couple of dabs of stamp cleaner, a bit of witch hazel, and a bit of rubbing alchohol [not too much though, as it can dry out your stamps TOO MUCH & it can then lead to them cracking/ breaking/even disintegration of both the spongy part and the actual stamping surface itself!! As they say- a little dab'll do ya'!] - BUT alcohol, especially the higher concentrations [90%+] can clean up ANY [AND I DOOOOO mean ANY] ink!.... Permanent, oily, [not sure about powdery stuff like mica powder or fine powder tint or any other powder/dry color or tint though!] - BUTTTTTTTT - ANY/ALL liquid colorants/inks/dyes do NOT stand a chance! - or at least I haven't found any that can withstand the power of 91% + rubbing alcohol!! --~~> Plus - & since the pads have the core that "locks in the moisture," the cleansers don't evaporate/ dissipate like they do with a sponge!! ANY-WHOOOO~ Aloha & Mahalo Nui Loa!

[@marypolancodesigns]

WOW! I never would have thought to use that but scientifically it makes a lot of sense. Thanks for sharing this with us!

[@BarbaraEMarshallCampbell]

I wanted a sheer or semi sheer fabric envelope and pocket and didn't want to order $7 quarter and half yard organza and wait for it to arrive in the mail. As I took my just washed and dried clothes from the drier I noted the semi sheer just used drier sheet. It was absolutely perfect. I painted on one of the semi sheer envelopes and sewed on the 2nd one. I even used a piece of it as a cloudy window on an envelope. It was perfect for stamping too. The new sheet was okay but the fragrance must have caused the problem I had adhering it. The used sheet can be ironed and colored too. And seriously cost effective to give your used drier sheets a second life for free.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Wow, so creative, thanks so much for sharing this!

[@kirriesummers5219]

This. is brilliant. I love when you use kitchen and other items in your craft room. I try to do that as much as possible. The jewellery box has to be the best storage for gems and other bits. I think I missed where to pick up the Dura- Lar Film Roll and the magnetic roll. I've also followed Natasha Foote for a long time. It is difficult to find in New Zealand and here in Canada many of the products; you in USA have great access. I must be very cautious, too. Exchange and shipping can result in me not having something. So when you say Dollar Tree I'm much happier about trying something. Your cards are always beautiful and desirable and with every video I watch, there is something I learn or want to make.I can't remember what year I began watching you, you were retiring from the forces. You are glowing, beautiful and full of a big, generous energy now. You are sharing love and true passion. I'm drawn to your talent and creativity. And the honest energy is what keeps me coming back. 💕🇨🇦💕

[@marypolancodesigns]

This is the best compliment ever! Thank you so very much for taking the time to fill my cup like this. Big hugs! There is a supply list in the description box of the video for everything but here are the two you're asking about: Dura-Lar Film: amzn.to/3UPOTNc Magnetic Roll: amzn.to/3UN4e0U

[@faodail3913]

Another Kiwi here and ditto to all you said. ❤️

[@peggywood4360]

I think the dura paper is great for alcohol inks also

[@marypolancodesigns]

I can't wait to try; awesome idea!

[@sals1123]

At almost every Home Improvement store carries magnetic register covers in packs of three for under $10. They are about 12” x 4” and cut well with scissors into any size or shape required for die storage. Available year round at a price point much less than from Craft outlets

[@angiehudson710]

I've been using these for years. So much more affordable than the pre cut sheets from craft brands.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Such a great share thank you so much!

[@maryjones107]

Thank you

[@marypolancodesigns]

You're welcome My pleasure

[@didididi4613]

I love the magnetic roll idea! It looks like it's a stronger magnet than the standard craft magnetic sheets. Your idea of hanging your most used dies next to your desk is great! I'm tired of sorting through my dies to find the one I need. Thank you soooo much!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Exactly, so tired of that! Thanks so much

[@7maybe8]

The magnetic die storage on the sign was just what I needed! My next pair of eyeglasses will be from Pair Eyewear, and I know that I'm going to want LOTS of toppers but couldn't quite figure out how I wanted to store/display them. Now I'm thinking I'll make one of the signs (maybe decorate it with my Cricut?)

[@marypolancodesigns]

I HAVE PAIR EYEWEAR TOO!!! Sorry didn't mean to yell at you just excited. haha

[@revajobeattie1839]

That round bamboo container is also used with most women’s loose face powder. They put the adhesive film on the sieve looking plastic piece is placed for packaging, & reason as you mentioned.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you for sharing this !

[@dianaschumaker4252]

You are a genius! I have always used washi tape to hold my dies in place. It is very cost effective for me because I am an “over buyer” and I have plenty of washi tape.

[@marypolancodesigns]

That's a great item to use I just hat using the pretty stuff. Lol

[@susanmorales8675]

Yes. Fun and helpful. Great ideas. I especially liked the die storage that you hung on the wall. If I don’t see it, it never gets used. Thank you.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Same, thanks so much!

[@michelemenard8364]

Thank you so helpful!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

So glad! Thank you so much

[@GoodHeartedCrafter57]

L9ve your video. It 8snt being cheap. It is practical bc we are all not rich, and plus more don't mean better. Especially if we aren't a pro crafter and we do it for fun. So I love it when you show things both ways in price wise. Tfs. Have a great day..

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much for this encouragement, you're absolutely correct!