SAVE LOTS OF MONEY! Try These Alternative Products for a Fraction of the Cost

[@marypolancodesigns]

I HIGHLY recommend checking out the comments section here; you all leave the BEST craft tips and I'd love for you to get the maximum from this video. Feel free to share your favorite alternative supplies you've discovered so we can all learn from one another.

[@jordanas3750]

Just a point of clarification when you say you're going to be using or showing craft hacks or craft supplies, you should note that you are talking about paper crafting. I watched the entire video, and other than the tape dispensers. I don't use a single item for any of the projects I work on. Not one of the products you noted do I use. I think they're great for people who work on paper projects, but I do fiber, gemstones/beads, and wood projects. This is collection of products that I could not use. Sorry again except for the tape.

[@CanadianMum444]

Glad to find your channel snd subscribed💛🦋🌻 Amazing inspiration thank you❣️

[@kkrolf2782]

@@jordanas3750 More’s the pity you didn’t find the “gems” most of us paper crafters find on a regular basis here on Mary’s channel! The good news is that KZbin is a veritable wealth of information shared by all manner of talented crafters. I can’t remember the names of any of those folks at the moment, as I don’t dabble in the crafts of your choice, but I’m sure they’re just a search away. Be well, Jordana!

[@sharon94503]

I would like to contribute...instead of paying outrageous costs for craft branded embossing powders, instead search for professional 'thermo graphic powders" that printing businesses use to make those embossed business cards and invitations. It will be WAY cheaper to buy bulk for common ones like clear, black, gold, silver & white. A few years back I purchased a 1 POUND jar each of silver, gold and clear for around $30. Do the math on that based on a 1 oz. jar at Michaels.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much for sharing this is great and I'll have to look into it!

[@evaj.1337]

thanks alot. I found a company here in Germany, unfortunately they don't sell to private customers. But I'll keep looking

[@bethhinds1456]

Thank you for sharing this. It IS outrageous what prices they want for some of this stuff they is not so much linked to creativity etc. I looked into making my own but what little the home made batch results in is just not worth the involved procedure IMO. thanks again and thank you Mary for providing the space for which we can glean such great information!

[@susansmith989]

Could you recommend an online source to purchase these items? I live in a rural area. Thank you.

[@marypolancodesigns]

@@susansmith989Yes everything is linked in the description box of the video; all online. :)

[@ashwrong6144]

I absolutely love acetate for many uses: shakers, embossing, mini-albums, etc but it gets pricey. So I came across acetate rolls that are marketed to be used as wraps around fancy desserts or cakes! (Cake collars) I got a 4” wide roll that’s 394” long or right at 33 FEET long! And it’s a really nice weight! Works perfect for embossing, shakers, all the uses I want and I paid $6.94 on Amazon!

[@marypolancodesigns]

I JUST looked into this too after researching a bit. Thank you for sharing

[@kristinekerr3688]

Wow! Excellent❤

[@GCMickens]

Hello! I shop thrift stores for crafty stuff and I have boxes of acetate sheets that are used for overhead machines for presentations. I have gotten several boxes ( only the Lord knows why so much) for 2$ a box of 100. I have found die sets ($35 per set) for $2.25. Reams of copy paper in different colors for inserts of cards that I create the sentiment and print out. I just joined a scrapbooking group where most of the group makes cards so I can share my stash.

[@iteeshollow]

You can use the syringes for paints too, fun to outline with them. oh, to use the syringes, hold it like you are going to give a shot, but instead of pressing with you thumb, use the palm of your hand, its easy to control and you just squeeze you hand a bit. We used to use the curved syringes for fabric patting back in the 70's lol.

[@marypolancodesigns]

This is so helpful thank you so much

[@iteeshollow]

You are welcome, and thank you.@@marypolancodesigns

[@Kythera1976]

Just a note - most materials safe for laser printers (vellum, acetate sheets etc) will be heat safe for embossing with minimal warping, if any. Laser printers are essentially embossing the laser powder on the sheet, so the surface needs to stand up to the heat of the printer's fuser. And you can get 100 packs of laser transparency sheets for pretty cheap.

[@marypolancodesigns]

GREAT information thank you

[@karenjorgensen1839]

😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊

[@inkinglyyours]

Not had the same positive experience. Even bought 'emboss safe' papers, fail. Even my thicker polycarbon sheets warp w heat gun.. id love to be able to emboss on them better, its not perfect.

[@roswithadeutschmann2657]

Hello Mary - try to use your die and paper from the other Side! Put your die first on the platform and the paper on it ! That could help cutting your glitter paper much better ! Rosa from Germany

[@marypolancodesigns]

I shall give that a go thank you so much!

[@jeanettenagel1187]

Your suggestion of syringes for liquid glue was FABULOUS! I bought and used them for a class of over 55 years never before card makers. I had the students glue a full face intricate die cut to watercolor paper (that they had colored with powder pigments and water) and the watercolor paper to a card front. The order of 10 syringes enabled almost everyone to have a glue filled syringe and were great in the size of the drop of glue for good adhesion! Your idea was great in that it taught me a lesson in alternative product use (after a lot of years) in which I passed on to my new card makers! A win all around! Thank you!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh this is just the best comment! YAY Thank you so much for sharing your experience with me; you've encouraged me more than you know. Seriously, thank you so much!

[@CanadianQueenmagenta]

Oh Mary I am so excited for your cardstock recommendations. I'm Canadian and the prices for paper crafting supplies are just nuts then add in postage and you can go broke quickly! I checked our Canadian Amazon and sure enough, the cardstock was there with many positive reviews. I have a card business so you can imagine how thrilled I am. Thank you for all your hard work on this video. Jan

[@marypolancodesigns]

YAY! This just made my day, thank you for sharing it with me. wooohooo HAPPY NEW YEAR

[@CanadianQueenmagenta]

@@marypolancodesigns HAPPY NEW YEAR MARY!

[@kkrolf2782]

On one hand I hate offering additional funding to a country that quite possibly has designs on its neighbor (Taiwan), but nearly e v e r y item offered to us from the crafting industry all comes from the same source anyway, so I’ll just put it out there … TEMU has a wide range of craft products and, TO AMERICA, shipping is free. And, unlike the hit-or-miss delivery we got from “foreign vendors” on ebay, they deliver in relatively short order, and no missed items (so far). Just saying …

[@artcreationsbydar]

@@kkrolf2782 Temu is great but watch after awhile the stuff you get will go up in price quite a bit. After you have been buying for while they up the price. Plus I have also noticed that they sell patented items, like so much of Tim Holtz. Maybe Tim is aware, maybe not. 🤷‍♀️ I must admit I have gotten some pretty cook gadgets from Temu for a great price!

[@expressivepaper]

Some great tips! I love my Sweet Petunia Glue Press. No pins, no worrying about cleaning the tip, no plunging or releasing air. Just put it back in the holder. The water mister you show is by FAR my favorite and I think I found that in one of your previous videos. Thanks for all you do. ❤️

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks for sharing this! YES i love that water bottle so much!

[@scrappyLiz1]

I use the old projector sheets for shaker cards or for a lawn fawn stamp set has a fish tank in it I use the clear sheets for that. Add the fishes behind it just for a little fun. Snow globes too. I got a box of 1 thousand at a resale store. I also use them for the box cards to hold the items up so u can see them instead of pieces of paper.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Yes indeed, great tip thank you so much for taking the time to share it.

[@hepcatliz]

oooh that spray bottle looks like a febreeze air container! if you remove the label, the tops pop off and they can be reused. great video!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

What what? It does...hmmmm *goes to buy febreeze and sprays it 3x a day to reuse bottle* haha

[@summer5851]

Mary I can't thank you enough for taking the time to do this video. I already have an order in my cart on Amazon for a lot of the recommended products. The glue syringes are my best hope for easy application. I have very severe RA. Diagnosed at age 21yrs. By forty had deformity. Now 60s severe deformity and weakness. Even the easy squeeze glue bottles are hard for me. But I refuse to give in to this disease and give up my card making and crafting. Plus, on a very fixed income, as most of us are, so many of the products you shared will let us continue our love of card making. Thanks so very much! It is greatly appreciated. I'm going for the stencil class, so excited! Thanks again. Love and hugs!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much for this; I truly do hope those syringes help. You need hardly any pressure but the hold of them might be awkward. I really appreciate you sharing this comment with me. Happy New Year !

[@amazinggrace5692]

I agree! The glue syringes are brilliant and I will def buy. It doesn’t just have to be for crafting, I will use it for precise repairs around the house as well. My daughter, Laura, had RA at 4 years old and I have OA.

[@susanne60]

You inspire other RA Crafters. Thank you for sharing your journey.

[@grammyet]

Love seeing all the alternative products that are definitely good enough for us casual hobby crafters. I am not concerned about archival quality since I don't sell my crafts or expect them to last forever. One thing I have found that is excellent for alcohol ink is the back of cheap photo printer paper. The front is made with a clay or some substance that grips and holds the dye printer ink, and that is wonderful. BUT the back is usually plastic and non-name brand companies don't usually print their company name on the back. The ink moves around so nicely and is easily re-wet with the addition more ink. Plus the alcohol ink dries perfectly on them. The dollar stores often have large packs for very small amount. Also when going to crops or craft days, it is best to not take along a lot of your expensive tools since they can get lost in the shuffle. Things like the makeup sponges and clips is a good idea as well since they don't take up a lot of space and you can save space in your tool kit. Cheers! I have subscribed and an off to see more of your videos! 😊

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much for sharing these tips; they are great. I have used the back of photo paper as well and it worked wonderfully. I'm so glad you're joining me here. :)

[@ChristineARose]

Awhile back, I too had gone Gah Gah over a tape dispenser lol. It has three single large wheels, so I put a wide masking tape and a narrow one in. Weighted a bit so works great. Was like around $25 on Amazon.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Awesome! I want! Lol

[@SandraMilne]

There are two types of transperancy sheets…laser printer ones take heat while ink jet ones are not so heat friendly. I buy these sheets at thrift stores :) Duralar sheets ( got at Michael’s using a coupon) are great for alcohol inks and heat embossing as well are thick enough to use as acetate in shakers

[@susanbrittain103]

I just got that vellum mentioned. Did a beautiful job with a 3D embossing folder. Result was vivid with absolutely no cracking. Good to know about the heat embossing. Thanks, Mary!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Great to hear! Thank you so much for sharing this!

[@bethrogers5656]

Another alternative to acetate and yupo that is heat resistant ( and besides clear comes in black and opaque white) suitable for alcohol ink and scratches less easily, die cuts well and can be used for stencils is the grafix duralar and dura- bright. They come in pads of 25 9x12 sheets. I also bought the accent opaque cardstock in 120#, 325gsm, use those for my card blanks and the 80#/100# for card layers, stamping, die cuts, coloring. Since they all match ( same white) the heavier blanks help prevent the cards from warping, especially if you’ve done a lot of wetter media applications on the lighter weight cardstock and they are buckling, and there’s little bleed thru when using alcohol markers. Plus if you like to do 3D makes, like the ones Tonic design, the heavy 120# 325 gsm is sturdy enough for those projects. Love the glue syringe idea!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Yes! I looked into it and seems incredible. I have a follow up video

[@thecraftykiwi8756]

I bought a guillotine on line, the old fashioned type that we had in the classroom at school. It was about 1/4 the price of paper cutters. No blade changing and can cut multiple pieces of card and paper . Mine also has imperial and metric measurements as well. Which is handy . I use a small fiscars cutter for smaller cards. I would never go b ack to my old cutter.

[@sharonb.7867]

Amazing video! I was a director of a small daycare center for 27 years and "retired" with c-19. Now we are a one family income and I am enjoying being a stay-at-home wife and mom. . .however, that means I am struggling to buy craft supplies! Your tips have been SO HELPFUL ~ AGAIN THANK YOU!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

That is awesome! Thanks so much for letting me know! :)

[@stellaolejar9007]

Thank you Mary for all the time and effort you put into making these tutorials for us. I truly appreciate you. Wishing you and your family a blessed and happy New Year.

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome Thank you so much for this compliment! I appreciate YOU

[@sharoncollier6900]

Great ideas! I came up with an alternate to the expensive craft glass magnetic mats. I bought a glass magnetic dry erase board and it works great for half or more less cost. The only difference is it does not have a grid.

[@TD-bu9wv]

I use 8.5x11 photo paper for alcohol inks makes a beautiful background and for many cards

[@marypolancodesigns]

YES I've heard this as well, such a great tip

[@cathybfromga]

Wow!! Just found you! Thanks for the video. Glue bottles have been the bane of my crafting existence. I just ordered the syringes and some stainless steel pins. Delivery tomorrow!! Yay!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

YAY! So fun, I hope they work for you!

[@Mar-fs1gz]

Thank you Mary for this video. I always look forward to your alternative products when making my crafty purchases. You are always down to earth and shows us true affordable items that we can get it. Thank you for all your hard work, it is very well appreciated.

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! Thanks so much for this!!

[@cindysartor2667]

Mary, you are just the absolute BEST!!! You take your time and money to buy, test and share what you find out about all kinds of supplies, and you do it often. Thank you so very much. I don't know how you manage this time-wise! [Do you ever sleep or shower or see your family? 😉] Your sense of humor and good nature are also the bees knees! Thank you again. 🤗❤

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much for this I appreciate it. Since retiring for my full time job I have a little bit of extra time.

[@amazinggrace5692]

I appreciate that she showed the tests that didn’t pan out as well. 💕🐝💕

[@RinasAMaker]

Mary… with so many people getting Ohuhu for Christmas, I’ve been directing people from several FB groups over to you for your marker chart. I know it’s helped me tremendously! I appreciate your thrifty videos ❤😊

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh thank you! That's so kind of you; I appreciate YOU!

[@annamarielewis7078]

So I am very unhappy with my Uhuhu alcohol markers. I just don’t understand the hype. The color caps don’t match, so I might be obligated to swatch, which I hate. I need a few tutorials, too.

[@Rebecca_English]

Those Amazon sissors are great! They're sharp enough to be fabric shears, and they're so cheap! And having extras is so convenient.

[@marypolancodesigns]

RIGHT? They really are amazing!

[@cordulacorrea6381]

I purchase a bottle of kerosene from Walmart and put some in a small bottle to clean the glue from sizer or any paper from any ware, it works wonders.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Great tip thank you so much

[@sydneybristo22]

The large roll tape despenser would be excellent for sewers as well especially for the double sided tape we use in sewing. Ive yet to see one marketed for sewing tape so this would be excellent.

[@marypolancodesigns]

OOOH good point thanks for that added share

[@karenkettering1725]

Wow! What a great hack video!!! Thank you for putting the time and expense into putting all these great ideas together for us crafters and trying them out before giving your opinion! I am a brand new subscriber primarily because you are so careful with my dollar.

[@marypolancodesigns]

That's a great compliment. Thank you so much for being here. I'm so glad you joined me

[@nancyb.4381]

Just came across this, love these hacks. I also started buying brushes on Amazon, makeup brushes but you can soak them wash them they 9.99 14 brushes can't go wrong. I have had them so far for 3 years.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Agreed...love them. Also your profile picture of that cutie puppy is so great!

[@scrapper6928]

I watched your video all the way through and I was so stoked to see the tape dispensers! Mind blown! Now I gotta order them and make my crafty life a little easier on myself! Loved the whole video, very eye opening for sure! Thank you for being the Guinea pig so to speak on testing out cheaper alternatives! Happy New Year!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Yay! Thank you! I'm so glad it was helpful! Thank you for letting me know.

[@misseskval2686]

I love the dispenser for the big rolls...I was just looking at Temu, next to Amazon. thanks for the testing...!!!!!!!

[@amazinggrace5692]

I don’t HAVE to get the big roll dispensers, but I WANT to. 💕🐝💕

[@denisejames855]

Lots of great tips. I used to loathe glitter pens, especially giving a card to youngsters as they get glitter all over themselves. I decided to try hairspray, it works

[@marypolancodesigns]

Great tip! Thank you for that!

[@kkrolf2782]

So many hairsprays end up sticky … can you share with us the brand you use?

[@SoulfulXprssion]

This was a GREAT VIDEO… I am so disappointed I missed your stencil video .. look forward to the next one - been watching you for several years now and I have seen your journey with retiring and spiritual - God Bless You Mary 😊

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh thank you so much Lisa! I know you have been, and you've been a great support! Thank you! :)

[@sherrywoods4630]

Thank you SO much, Mary. I adopted the Accent #100 paper based on one of your older videos and haven’t looked back. I am definitely going to try some of the recommendations in this video - the jewel picker and the glitter card stock now but others may be good for me in the future. I really appreciate you trying the less expensive alternatives. The $$$ saved on some of these supplies enables me to spend more on the stamps,stencils, etc. Also, that tape dispenser…..

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much for sharing this. I just love that paper! And it's bright white which I love.

[@phoenixineohp]

@@marypolancodesigns your link for the 100 pound goes to a ledger size. Is that what you use? Or is it the typical "slice in half" letter size?

[@user-DonsWoman]

@32:15 instead of buying clear film I've seen vids where they use envelope windows. I found thicker clear plastic that were on top of frozen food bowl products. (Scrape food residue off first then wash & air dry before using them in your projects) ....Hope this helps

[@marypolancodesigns]

Great hack! Thanks for sharing this! :)

[@Rockymtnbloom]

This is one of the best product videos I have seen!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Wow thank you for that. I appreciate it so much

[@oraleeb.2072]

Wow Mary, this is a great video! Thanks so much for sharing all these informative tips. I only wish you had been doing this when I first started crafting. I could have saved a lot of money. Thanks for offering to allow us to pay what we can afford on your stencil course. That is so incredibly generous of you. As a senior on a fixed budget and the current exchange rate, it limits what we can afford to spend on courses. Thank you again! 😊

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much for this message; it's my pleasure and I get to learn a lot when doing these videos as well. :)

[@donnam5891]

Oh I agree! I could have saved so much money 😂Thanks, Mary.

[@annablyth6978]

First time watching your videos. I was so excited to see your syringe idea for glue. I have very sore thumb joints, so after watching this idea I went straight to Amazon and ordered some. They arrived this week and I am loving using them instead of the hard to squeeze bottles. Thank you so very much for sharing.😊

[@marypolancodesigns]

Awesome! So happy to hear this

[@maureenherrera483]

Thanks for all your tips! Also, I found a tape dispenser that fits the blue tape from SBC, it's part of the rose gold office accessories at the Dollar Tree. It was a great find!

[@marypolancodesigns]

WHAAAT??? that's a great find, thank you !

[@Freddybender123]

I also found the tape rose gold dispenser at DT and the pencil holder love them’❤

[@mythmod]

35:58 Here's a tip - you don't need Fixatif! Get yourself a spray can of super hold Aqua Net hair spray. Does the same thing as Fixatif, but cheaper! We did this back in art school during the 80's. It's the bomb for stuff like those glitter pens and chalk/pastels/pencils too!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Someone else told me that so I purchased just that. lol Thank you so much!

[@Lizperez-bg3bu]

I used this for watercolor and colored pencils. It works great, I like a bit more expensive hairspray that has a finer mist.

[@TLZ78]

Dollar tree is really a great deal for these projects. Temu is also a great option for these. It's dangerous lol

[@marypolancodesigns]

Agree

[@amazinggrace5692]

My first time here and you gained a new fan. As an aside, you have fabulous hair!!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hi there and WELCOME! I'm so glad you're joining me. Thank you so much for the compliment! :)

[@sunsh1ne539]

You are a treasure to this community! Thank you so much! Love the tape dispenser! 😂 It’s definitely the little things!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you very much for this; what a thoughtful thing to say! Big hugs

[@CFO_Events]

…can’t help but ‘out’ myself here as a broke (but not broken), artist; and express my gratitude to you for sharing ALL of your tips for less expensive ways to be able to test out new methods of making art without investing a lot of $ upfront. That has been a problem for me up until now. I‘ve been wanting to try so many different craft techniques that I see demonstrated. Although, falling in love with another craft method would not be in my best (financial) interest right now, I like to have a couple different fun art styles in my back pocket for something different now and then. Thanks for your suggestions and advice, once again 😊

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks for this very encouraging comment; I'm so glad it could be helpful! YAY!

[@dianalama1591]

Goodness, you’ve done sooo much work of research to share with your viewers!!! Love every bit of your content! THankYou lots👍👏

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much! I appreciate that

[@pennydouphinett4545]

I've used Accent Opaque forever. I have 80, 100 and 120. I bought the 120 by mistake and use it for card bases. I also use the 20 and 27 pound for digital printing for junk journaling.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Love it so much; the 120 is so sturdy!

[@genehaney9191]

scissors like those socks are somewhere in the universe......

[@marypolancodesigns]

Bwahahahah....facts!

[@krissyknox7181]

My cat toys and cat balls are hiding with the scissors and the socks somewhere in the universe as well!

[@TD-bu9wv]

You always have the most helpful videos and classes. I appreciate you so much. You pay as much as you can, classes are the best, and you can see you just love crafting for the sake of it and want to share.

[@marypolancodesigns]

That means a lot to me, thank you so much! What a wonderful compliment to see today; thank yoU!

[@leemorris8723]

i create mixed media assemblage art. i found you because i always want to learning new techniques. Thank you for sharing your amazing, hard earned knowledge. i think you just changed my life with the introduction of the glue picker (foil leaf) and the needle syringes (detail placement). My creative limits have been blown away. Thank you for the inspiration!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Awesome! Thank you! What kind compliment, I appreciate it so much

[@ellenl5626]

I love how organized you are and how much work you put into compiling all of this great info!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh thank you so much, this is great feedback!

[@juliekoester7776]

I can’t thank you enough for making these videos! I’m not in good health as I have some serious health problems and am unable to work so we’re down to one income. These videos really help me be able to afford card making. I don’t feel like doing it often but I do enjoy it when I have a good day. Thank you so very much once again for all of your hard work and posting these videos! God bless and have a safe and blessed New Year! ♥️

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are most welcome! i'm sending you lots of loving and healing energy; I hope you get well soon!

[@maureenherrera483]

I totally get it, I'm in the same boat. Wish you good health.

[@cynthiakane9928]

I loved your comment and I'm in a similar situation...so just want you to know I'm including you in my daily prayers and rosaries God bless you and all of Mary's videos 🙏❤

[@cynthiakane9928]

So glad to find your Channel and I love your upbeat disposition especially when you chuckle at yourself, which we all should do more often😂 turning 75 next week living on a laughable monthly Social Security which is under poverty but managing. Thank you for the hacks cuz they really helped my budget and I'm looking forward to learning how to stencil, been shopping dollar store and thrift stores for craft supplies😊 may God continue blessing you and thank you for sharing🙏👍

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much for the super encouraging and thoughtful post. I'm so happy here here.And I really appreciate the uplift this morning

[@aprildomer422]

Hello Mary, GREAT show, as always!😊 Thank you so very much for sharing your tips, tricks & alternative options! And I just love your voice! You are so REAL, so genuinely happy & upbeat! Your sincere love for everything you do shines through & is infectious. Thanks for bringing so much sunshine & joy into our lives Mary, we are truly grateful for you & your creativity! ✨🌞✨

[@marypolancodesigns]

This is just so kind and encouraging of you. Thank you for filling my cup today. I appreciate you

[@sweetsarah9702]

Thank you for putting all the time and MONEY into this video! Sure wish you had done it a few years ago before I purchased so many of the more expensive things - but as I use them up, I will refer back to this list, for sure! A couple of the things I was already using - the cardstock and the Amazon blending brushes - and have been perfectly happy with them. Thanks again - and have a happy new year and keep these videos coming (and I am looking forward to January 13!)

[@marypolancodesigns]

Glad it was helpful! Thank you so much for this

[@elizabethvallely4044]

Great Video Mary very helpful, full of infor and tips, ticks, hack's awesome!!!! Thank you so much for Sharing! Liz 😊💕

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much! I'm so glad it was helpful!

[@debravanorden5612]

Thank you #1 for your service to our country. Also ty for sharing your time and knowledge. P.S. Thank your daughter also.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much for this message; I appreciate it so much!

[@irishk.1041]

Mary you ARE a treasure to all of us creative souls. SO much work you do to make our creative time wonderful because of YOUR work FOR us. These are the videos that first drew me into you :) May God bless you and your little family throughout this coming new year. Thanks again, for ALL you do for creative folks everywhere.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Wow, thank you, what a great compliment. I appreciate you!

[@Geoqueenbee]

Hi Mary, I just signed up for your live stencil class. Thank you for making it affordable for all of us. Looking forward to the class.

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are most welcome and i'm so excited to have you there

[@irisstormo6913]

A tip I find useful with my family. I have scissors for different jobs. I don't want my sewing scissors used for opening kitty litter. I wrote on the scissors in black marker the job or room the scissors are for.This has saved my sanity and no more ruined sewing scissors. 🌲🌺🌲

[@marypolancodesigns]

Great idea! I hid my fabric scissors so they are never a source of temptation. haha

[@shadygardens2256]

I do that too!😁

[@gailrodgers3079]

With no kids left in the house, my scissors stay where I leave them! My husband understands scissors and would never use my scissors without permission. One thing that helped was getting two sets of knives, both with kitchen scissors included, so handy for opening bags, clipping coupons, etc. All scissors upstairs are for my crafts/sewing.

[@Lizperez-bg3bu]

Attach your fabric scissors to your sewing machine when not in use. String or whatever you have on hand will do, You won’t have to search for them and they won’t get picked up and used.

[@annchambers5697]

I don’t know how much money I’m gonna save. I just put $300 worth of items in my Amazon cart. Lol!!! Thank you for sharing the information!!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hahaha I literally LOL'd...

[@susanfranklin8550]

This video was on the first page when I opened the YT app today. Am I happy I watched it. Thank you for all of the money saving tips! I'm a subscriber now. Thank you, Mary!😊

[@marypolancodesigns]

YAY! Welcome aboard! So glad you joined us.

[@laurieblack9949]

Great tips! I can't wait to try ink on poster board. The makeup sponges are also good for dabbing glue onto detailed diecuts.

[@marypolancodesigns]

GREAT Tip, thank you for that!

[@Denise11Schultz]

Thank you for all wonderful items and usage tips, and your highly accessible summary and links. My favorite is the same vellum that I have, and haven’t tried yet, will work for heat embossing 💃✨. Thanks for sharing all your testing and quality/price information.

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! This was super fun to put together; I learned a lot!

[@MoniqueAO888]

Great video !!! ...and it is really generous of you to let participating people pick the price they can afford to join the next class 🙂

[@marypolancodesigns]

It's my pleasure thanks so much for this

[@RedArrowTinker]

Hi, Mary! This video came up in my "suggested videos" list. I hadn't seen any of your videos previously. Wow, I'm so impressed! I subscribed right away! I love your suggestions and will be taking advantage of many of them. I do have one comment regarding the Amazon scissors, however. I agree that for the price they're a good deal. Here's my beef with them. To borrow some knife lingo, the scissors blades are not "full tang." That means that after awhile the blades will become loose in the handles and your cutting will become less precise. Especially note that the blades will not meet at the very tips. The Tim Holtz scissors appears to have full tang blades (I don't have one, so I'm not positive) so it will last much longer and most likely can be sharpened. I suppose the Amazon scissors, and also the Westcott brand that can be found at craft supply and discount stores, are so inexpensive that when they wear out you can just toss them and buy new.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thats really helpful info thank you for sharing! I'll have to learn more about the Scissors. Also, welcome! I'm so glad you're here ☺️

[@sarahkeller-vp6hq]

My regional odd lots store--Ocean State Job Lot, up in New England--carries scissors similar to the ones you showed. They are very sturdy, and, at least, start out very sharp, even good enough for fabric! They come in three sizes, and OSJL runs sales where they're only $1 a piece. I admit, I have not really tried sharpening them, but I just moved them to kitchen shears or only cutting paper/cardboard stuff.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Brilliant!

[@deniseknobloch9948]

❤ First time seeing your video. Loved it all. Also loving all comments sharing more tips. I subscribed. I really am not a fan of Amazon though, for many reasons. But it reminds us to search out products at other places that aren't craft stores. Great video! Thanks so much for helping us all in so many ways!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much for this kind comment and for being here! I'm so glad you are!

[@lauragray4052]

Another product you can use as a fixative is hairspray. You can use an aerosol hairspray and it will work great. Don’t use a pump type spray hairspray it doesn’t spray evenly. If you don’t use hairspray just get a travel size can and it will last you a long time.

[@marypolancodesigns]

This is a great tip; thanks so mucH!

[@ThePreciHouse97062]

Great for glitter!

[@quinceyface]

Hi, I just found you and am thrilled. I’m 81 and just started card making about 2 years ago. mostly with dies. I am not artistic and am afraid to color in fear of looking juvenile. I signed up for your stencil class. I hope $10 is not insulting. I hope I remember to attend. This happens at my age.

[@marypolancodesigns]

HI! Oh I'm so glad you're joining! You are so generous thank you so much for signing up. I will be sending reminders as we get closer so as long as you see my emails you are good to go.

[@Rockymtnbloom]

I have a tip about marker coloring die cuts: color paper with the markers and then die cut. You don't have to fiddle with coloring small cuts.

[@felicitycrowe6971]

Such a brilliant video! I just want to thank you so very much for going to the trouble of making the video and posting it! I can’t imagine the amount of time, effort (and money) that goes into these videos (from sourcing the items and buying them, to getting them home, testing them out properly, then videoing and voicing the actual video - which, I might add, would use up your supplies). I don’t have much money, so I really do get a lot from your ideas. All I can say is that you are very generous and must be a very empathetic, caring person. Thank you so very much from the bottom of my heart!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so very much for taking the time to share this with me, how thoughtful of you!!

[@pennywarren2357]

I always enjoy your videos. Thank you for continuing to compare products for us! Blessings!

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome!

[@HeidiLilley]

I always love when you do the alternative products reviews. I have purchased several items based on your reviews. Keep them coming please. Hope you had a good holiday. Happy new year to you and your family. Xoxo

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much Heidi! HAPPY NEW YEAR to you as well.

[@CazkiwiNZ]

0:30 what are you doing with my salad tongs? 😜😂😂😂

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hahaha...making sure I don't burn myself. They are multipurpose 😆 🤣

[@dizzinese]

I have used the krylon fixative so much since I bought it! It’s one Jen McGuire suggested off Amz. It’s also great for sealing powders with mica!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Not sure if I said this in the video, but I use it too; great stuff

[@dizzinese]

@ since you’ve used it a lot. Will it prevent water reactive inks from reacting if you put a light coat over a stamp? I stamp my envelopes do not bend please and non machinable and I’m afraid they’ll get wet and run. I wonder if this would stop that.

[@janetingacollins6409]

When I use the make up sponges for ink or paint, I just hold the narrow end with fingers, apply ink to larger end. To change color, I just snip off the used ink end and proceed to next color.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Great tip!!!

[@brucewanda9564]

Wonderful video, though I am watching in February....never to late to learn more about saving money for more crafting techniques.

[@marypolancodesigns]

So glad you caught it! :)

[@justtere]

🍶🍶🍶 Closest to a vase I have. I love the one with the chain and trinket. I wish you had shown how you did that.

[@marypolancodesigns]

I went back through the video to see which you were referencing and couldn't find it; I'm sorry about that.

[@cindyellis765]

WOW, Mary! These are great tips. I try never to miss one of your videos because you have such useful information. Thanks for all your sharing.

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! and this is the greatest compliment I could receive; thank you

[@NumberNine_9]

Great video, thanks. That merlot pink ink at 21:20 is gorgeous.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much! YAY

[@kimjriley5463]

Great video and info Mary! Love how you give alternatives! You could put a down pmt in a house with all the craft supplies we buy! Lol!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hahah yes indeed! :)

[@irishk.1041]

Oh my! Yes, I am having morning coffee (at my son's house with grand babies - JOY!!) when you were talking about "your red sweater" I laughed out loud and woke up my grand son. You too, are a JOY in my life!!! :) :)

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hahah...I had to say something else you all think I'm a big liar. lol

[@janazavitz212]

Fantastic video! Thank you for sharing all these great alternatives - and which ones to avoid!

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome!

[@kerriegood1046]

You had me at Alternative Products. Loved your informal style. Thanxs for the alternative search and trial. Happy New Year!!!!!!!!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

This is such great feedback thanks so much!

[@kkrolf2782]

Informal? Yah, but SO well prepared and organized!! She’s a delight to spend time watching.

[@sth.777]

I have the same jewel picker as you do; I only realized a few months after having it that you can break the wax seal under the replaceable wax cap and use the jewels inside!

[@marypolancodesigns]

WOW never would have thought thank you for sharing this

[@artcreationsbydar]

Wow! Mary, this was so much work for you to do! Incredible video and very appreciative! I am a little blown away by all the work you did for us! You are one amazing lady! This is just incredible and I did send for the list. Thank you so much! ❤❤❤

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much! You appreciation means so much to me, truly! Thank yoU! I appreciate you right back.

[@elizabethcoates6925]

I found your channel through this video. Thank you so much for all of the information! I'm new to paper crafting and appreciate these tips. 😊

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! Yay thank youuuu

[@vmiller735]

Dura Lar has a thin (.005) clear film that takes heat. I use it for embossing, to make stencils and for window or shaker cards. Whatever you use, it should say something like heat resistant or I wouldn't heat emboss on it.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Great tip, thank you so much! I'll check them out!

[@karenbrass5053]

Omg! What an amazing video!I’ve just found you…I’ll certainly be subscribing. Hello from the UK 🥰

[@marypolancodesigns]

Yay! Thank you! Welcome aboard!!

[@parisnchristlove]

Awe, great tips here, Mary. And your stencil class was on my birthday, so I think I’ll try to follow your link for that too. Thank you for sharing all the stuff 🫶

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are most welcome!

[@shiba_inu_mom]

Oh my gosh, the glue syringe hack is a game changer for me - thank you soooo much for sharing!

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome!

[@tinaofferjost7330]

I bought 3 sets of the same amazon blending brushes---they are fantastic and so affordable! Love your video :)

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much for this encouragement. :)

[@darleneblackwell6853]

Just found your channel this am. Love your ideas! I have Scleroderma and it effects my hands. Similar to RA. The syringes are wonderful. Frequently I cannot squeeze a bottle. Keep on sharing your ideas. They can be life saving!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh I'm so glad this was helpful for you. I was hoping for that. Thank you for sharing

[@eleeper26]

Great tips and products! I use the Accept Opaque, too and love it! I may have gotten that tip from you. 🙂

[@marypolancodesigns]

YAY! I'm so glad to hear that. The price has gone up but it's still cheaper than Neenah and i love it so much

[@Karl9592]

Thank you so mich for the glue syringe info. I did not know they existed. I do have arthritis in my hands, so I am hopeful these will help.

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! I'm so happy it was helpful!

[@debbiemiller9267]

Loved this video! So many great alternative products. Love, love, love the double sided adhesive dispenser!! I'm ordering some now!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

YAY! That's one of my faves! lol

[@craftcreek4624]

You rock Mary!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you for this encouragement; I appreciate you!

[@marthawilliams8876]

Look for transparency sheets for copy machines. My sister, who happens to be a teacher gave me a box and they don’t warp. Where did you get the blending brush containers?

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much for this tip! This is the particular holder I have for the markers but you can find comparable ones cheaper at Home Goods (USA). LINK: amzn.to/3TQk6PE

[@joycehuff9769]

I love this video. So many things are hard to find in Canada that this provides a few different options. Thank you!

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! Thanks for letting me know

[@bobbyspapercraft]

Stampin’ Up! Has the best thick vellum

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks for sharing this!

[@dianem5878]

Thought I would try the suggested cardstock(100 pound) - LOVE LOVE LOVE IT! Thank you : )

[@marypolancodesigns]

YAY! I love it so so much too