Ahh, technology… it may seem somewhat daunting but it deserves a little credit for driving our creative possibilities. With a whole new world of crafting right at your fingertips, we’re putting tech in the spotlight to prove just how valuable the digital sphere is. From podcasts to digital die cutting, digi stamps and social media sharing, it’s time to press the pause button on that digital detox and switch on your screens.
_820_461_s_c1.png "Digital Crafting: How Tech Is Changing The Way We Craft For The Better!")
1. Tune in
Plug into our pick of the best creative podcasts:
Etsy Conversations Podcast
Listen to hear the personal journeys behind your favourite Etsy sellers as well as the up-and-coming shops you’ll want to check out ASAP.
Craft A Life You Love
Join craft connoisseur Amy Tangerine and learn to live your best crafty life as she chats to some of the top experts and entrepreneurs in the creative space.
Make Share Grow
Artist Julie Marriott’s podcast is dedicated to sharing behind-the-scenes stories as she talks inspiration, finding your creative voice, favourite art supplies and more!
2. Die cutting goes digital
Credit: cricut.com
We all know you love die cutting, but have you considered going digital? At the push of a button, you can cut out any shape, no matter how intricate, in a flash. We recommend giving the Cricut Maker a go with for some super speedy crafting. This one-of-a-kind machine includes various blades to suit almost any material from paper to wood. cricut.com
3. #askPaperCrafter
Q “How can I colour in stamped designs with watercolours?” Julie Holden Via Facebook Watercolour creates beautiful tonal results. As with many craft techniques there are no rules, you can be as subtle, bold and detailed as you wish. I like to use a wet-on-wet technique to moisten the paper first, then apply the paint onto the surface. When colouring, we’re always careful to keep within the lines, but venturing outside of them is all part of the effect with watercolour. Just relax and let the brush flow. If you find that your paper warps, keep it under a book overnight or iron on the reverse once dry. Got a burning craft question? We’ve got the answer! Ask us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or contact us at amelia.bolton@aceville.co.uk
4. Nice pins!
Meet Pinterest, a fantastic platform for creatives all over the world – think of it as an online playground for crafters. Simply create a board and pin your favourite content for a mood board that’ll keep your crafty mojo powering on. Don’t forget to check out the PaperCrafter page for inspiration, free downloads and the top techniques we’re loving.
5. Onto a winner
In need of more craft supplies or just feeling lucky? We pair up with the top brands in the industry to bring you huge giveaways every month. Simply head to papercraftermagazine.co.uk/giveaways to enter – it couldn’t be easier!
6. Watch this space
Opt for an online masterclass and craft alongside designer Corinne Bradd. Head to The Crafts Channel and choose from hundreds of video demonstrations jam-packed with ideas and inspiration for you to try from the comfort of your own home. Visit youtube.com/thecraftschannel
7. The stats
1,097 DIGI STAMPS
Take your stamping digital with our huge archive. Download them, resize, then print them as many times as you wish. Once printed, digi stamps can be coloured in the same way as traditional stamped motifs.
629 PATTERNED PAPERS
Download our free online prints and have a huge array of designs right at your fingertips. Think wild safari scenes, whimsical jungle pals, all-occasion florals, animals in jumpers… we really do have it all!
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123 SVG CUTTING FILES
SVG stands for scalable vector graphics which are digital images that can be enlarged without losing clarity and becoming pixelated. Simply cut them out using your digital die-cutting machine – easy peasy.
Find more cardmaking freebies and resources on our website at papercraftermagazine.co.uk
Like what you see? We’ve got tons of downloads on our website just for you!
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