Right Tool, Right Job

By Gina McNulty, owner and creator JARFULLZ

“If all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail” - Abraham Maslow

The author of this quote is also the creator of MASLOW’S HIERARCHY OF NEEDS, which basically summarizes the things we need as being most important (food, shelter) down to things we need but not as a priority (self actualization, self awareness).

Maslows Heirarchy of Needs

As a creator, there are some tools that are most critical to the creative process.

NOTHING stifles creativity more than feeling like you're not prepared. Though the perfect sketchbook may not turn you into Picasso, it will inspire you and make you feel like a “real” artist.

When I first began my art, I had 2 crochet hooks and the standard acrylic yarn. Likewise, I had a simple sewing machine with the most basic sewing needle and was completely unaware that different fabrics require different handling.

In time, as I became more involved in how things would flow and color and texture. However, no matter how long I have been creating, there are some basic items that NO creative person should do without- and yet sometimes we take this for granted

Here are FIVE ESSENTIAL ITEMS THAT ALL CRAFTY PEOPLE NEED

*NOTE I have made this list based on everything I use regularly !!!

1) SCISSORS

Whether you're cutting paper or fabric, you will need scissors. Believe it or not, there is a big difference in the type of scissors you might need.

For cutting fabric I highly recommend SINGER Heavy Duty Sewing Scissors

If you're cutting thicker material like cardboard FISKARS is known for making scissors suitable for children and pros. Nothing beats Fiskars Pro PowerArc Shop Shears

2) Forceps/Tweezers

From pulling thread, to picking up tiny rhinestones to handling itty bitty screws, tweezers will make the job easier.

Tweezers (or forceps) Stainless STeel Law GRade Tweezer

3) Transparent Ruler

Better than a traditional ruler, a transparent ruler is more effective when trying to align print or edges. Since some projects require inches and others requires millimeters, a two-in-one ruler is a must have: