Craft Materials: Get Your Basic Crafting Items Online Today!
It’s important to know about different crafting materials and how they work. Every material has different qualities and characteristics that make it unique. For example, some materials might be easy to work with, while others might be more fragile or require special handling.
When crafters know about these differences, they can pick the right material for their project, which can help them make something that looks great and lasts a long time.
Beads
Bead craft is the art of creating decorative objects by stringing together beads or using them to embellish other objects. Bead craft can take many forms, including jewellery making, beaded embroidery, and bead weaving.
Examples of bead materials
- Glass beads are one of the most popular types of beads used in bead craft. They can be used in a variety of projects, including jewellery making, beaded embroidery, and bead weaving. They can be smooth or textured, and can be opaque or translucent, depending on the desired effect. However, glass beads can be fragile and may break or chip if dropped or mishandled.
- Seed beads are often used in bead weaving and embroidery projects, as well as in jewellery making. They are versatile and can be used to create intricate patterns and designs. They are also lightweight, making them ideal for projects that require a lot of beads. However, seed beads can be difficult to work with due to their small size, and may require a specialised needle or thread.
- Metal beads can be used in a variety of projects, including jewellery making and beaded embroidery. They are durable and can add a decorative element to a project. However, metal beads can be heavy, which may make them less suitable for certain types of projects.
- Gemstone beads are made from natural stones, and can be used in a variety of projects, including jewellery making and beaded embroidery. Gemstone beads are known for their unique colours and patterns, and can add a touch of luxury to a project. However, gemstone beads can be expensive, and may require special care and handling to avoid damage.
Wood
Wood craft is the art of creating objects from wood using a variety of tools and techniques. Wood craft can range from simple projects, such as birdhouses and picture frames, to more complex projects like furniture and sculptures.
Woodworking typically involves cutting, shaping, and joining pieces of wood together to create a desired shape or design. This can be done using hand tools, such as saws and chisels, or power tools, such as routers and drills.
Examples of wood craft materials
- Plywood is a type of engineered wood that is made by glueing thin layers of wood together in a cross-grain pattern. This creates a strong and stable sheet of wood that can be used for a wide range of projects, from furniture to construction. Plywood is often less expensive than solid wood and is available in a variety of grades and thicknesses. However, the quality of plywood can vary depending on the manufacturer.
- MDF, or medium-density fiberboard, is another type of engineered wood that is made by combining wood fibres with a resin binder. MDF is often used for furniture, cabinetry, and other woodworking projects that require a smooth, consistent surface. It is less expensive than solid wood and is often favoured for its versatility and ease of use. However, it can be heavy and may not be as strong or durable as solid wood.
- Bamboo is a fast-growing grass that is often used as a sustainable alternative to traditional hardwoods. It is lightweight, strong, and durable, and is often used for flooring, furniture, and decorative items. Bamboo is also naturally resistant to moisture and insects, making it a popular choice for outdoor projects. However, bamboo can be more expensive than some other types of wood.
Fabric
Fabric crafting is the art of using fabric to create handmade items. It involves a wide range of techniques and methods, such as sewing, quilting, embroidery, knitting, crocheting, and weaving. Fabric crafting can be used to make a variety of items, from clothing and accessories to home decor and gifts.
Examples of fabric craft materials
- Felt is commonly used in fabric craft as it is a versatile material that is easy to work with. It can be cut, sewn, and glued onto other fabrics to create various decorative elements such as appliques, patches, and embellishments. Felt is also popular for making stuffed toys, dolls, and ornaments due to its soft texture and ability to hold shape well.
- Cotton is a natural fibre that is soft, breathable, and absorbent. It is easy to care for, durable, and relatively inexpensive. Cotton is commonly used for clothing, bedding, and home decor. However, it can shrink and wrinkle easily, and is not very stain-resistant.
- Silk is a luxurious and delicate natural fibre that is prized for its softness and sheen. It is lightweight, breathable, and hypoallergenic. Silk is commonly used for high-end clothing, such as dresses, blouses, and lingerie. However, it is expensive and can be difficult to care for, as it is prone to staining and requires special cleaning methods.
- Linen is a natural fibre that is lightweight, breathable, and absorbent. It has a crisp texture and a casual, rustic look. Linen is commonly used for summer clothing, such as shirts and dresses, as well as for home decor items like tablecloths and curtains. However, it wrinkles easily and can be difficult to care for, as it can shrink or become misshapen if not laundered properly.
- Polyester is a synthetic fibre that is durable, wrinkle-resistant, and easy to care for. It is commonly used for clothing, bedding, and home decor. Polyester is often blended with other fibres, such as cotton, to improve its texture and breathability. However, it is not as breathable or comfortable as natural fibres, and can sometimes feel stiff or scratchy.
Wax
Wax craft refers to the art of creating objects or designs using wax as the primary medium, which can be shaped, carved, or moulded to achieve desired forms and textures. Candle craft is a popular form of creative expression that involves making candles from various materials such as wax, wicks, and fragrances. It encompasses techniques like melting and pouring wax into moulds, adding colour and scent, and experimenting with different shapes, sizes, and decorative elements.
Examples of wax craft materials
- Wax is a fundamental component in candle craft and comes in different types such as beeswax, soy wax, and multi wax. Beeswax is a natural and eco-friendly option with a pleasant honey-like scent, while soy wax is derived from soybeans and offers a clean and long-lasting burn. Multi wax blends are often made of a combination of waxes, providing a balance of desirable characteristics such as fragrance retention and smooth texture.
- Wicks are essential for a candle to burn properly, and they come in various sizes and materials. Cotton wicks are commonly used for their clean and steady burn, while wooden wicks offer a unique crackling sound and aesthetic appeal. The size of the wick is crucial in determining the rate at which the candle burns, ensuring an even and controlled melt pool.
- Tins, or containers, provide a practical and versatile option for candle making. They come in different shapes, sizes, and materials such as tinplate or glass. Candle tins not only serve as a vessel for the wax but also add a decorative element to the finished product. They are especially popular for making travel candles or as gifts due to their portability and aesthetic appeal.
Paper
Paper craft is the art of creating objects and designs using paper. It is a versatile and accessible form of crafting that can be done using a wide range of techniques, including cutting, folding, scoring, and glueing. Some common types of paper crafts include origami, scrapbooking, paper quilling, and paper cutting.
Examples of paper craft materials
- Cardstock is a heavyweight paper that is thicker and sturdier than regular paper. It comes in a variety of colours and textures, and is often used for cards, invitations, and other paper crafts that require a more substantial feel. Cardstock is also good for printing photos or images that you want to last longer. However, it can be difficult to fold and may not work well for intricate designs.
- Vellum is a translucent paper that is often used for overlays, envelope liners, and other paper crafts where a delicate, translucent look is desired. It can be printed on with laser printers, but not with inkjet printers, as the ink may smudge or bleed. Vellum can also be difficult to cut and tear, so it may not be suitable for all projects.
- Tissue paper is a thin, delicate paper that is often used for gift wrapping, crafting, and other decorative purposes. It comes in a variety of colours and is often used for adding texture or layering to projects. However, tissue paper can tear easily and may not be suitable for projects that require a more substantial feel.
- Scrapbooking paper is a decorative paper that is often used for creating themed pages and albums. It comes in a wide variety of colours, patterns, and textures, and is often acid-free to prevent yellowing or deterioration over time. Scrapbooking paper can also be used for other paper crafts, such as card making and origami. However, it can be expensive, and some designs may not be suitable for all projects.
- Construction paper is a thick, coloured paper that is often used in elementary schools and for children's crafts. It comes in a variety of colours and is often used for drawing, colouring, and cutting. Construction paper is not as sturdy as cardstock and may not work well for projects that require more durability or weight.
Clay
Clay craft, also known as pottery or ceramics, is the art of creating objects from clay. Clay is a natural material that can be moulded and shaped when wet, and then hardened through firing in a kiln. Clay craft can range from simple hand-built objects like bowls and cups, to more complex and detailed sculptures.
Examples of clay materials
- Polymer clay is a type of synthetic clay that is soft and pliable when first opened, and can be moulded and shaped by hand; popular for making jewellery, sculptures, and other decorative objects. It is easy to work with, comes in a variety of colours, and can be baked in a home oven to harden. However, polymer clay can be brittle and may not be suitable for functional items like bowls or cups.
- Air-dry clay is a type of clay that hardens when exposed to air, without the need for firing in a kiln. It is often used for making small sculptures, decorative objects, and ornaments. It is easy to work with and doesn't require any special equipment or firing, making it a great option for beginners. However, air-dry clay can be brittle and may not be as strong as kiln-fired clay.
- Porcelain clay is a type of high-fired clay that is known for its strength, durability, and translucency. It is often used for making fine china, vases, and other decorative objects. It has a smooth, white surface and is often decorated with delicate patterns or designs. However, porcelain clay can be expensive and difficult to work with due to its high firing temperature.
- Stoneware clay is a type of high-fired clay that is known for its strength and durability.It is often used for making functional items like plates, bowls, and mugs, as it is strong enough to withstand daily use and can be glazed or decorated with a variety of techniques. However, stoneware clay can be difficult to work with due to its density and can be prone to cracking or warping during firing.
Metal
Metal craft, also known as metalworking, is the art of creating objects from metal. Metalworking can be done through a variety of techniques, including casting, forging, soldering, welding, and carving. Metal craft can range from small jewellery pieces to large sculptures and architectural elements.
Examples of metal materials
- Copper is a soft, malleable metal with a distinctive reddish-orange colour. In metal craft, copper is often used for decorative objects like bowls, sculptures, and jewellery. It is also sometimes used for functional objects like cookware, due to its excellent thermal conductivity.
- Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc that has a yellowish-gold colour. It is a harder metal than copper, and is often used for decorative objects like musical instruments, doorknobs, and lamps.
- Silver is a precious metal that has been used in metal craft for thousands of years. In metal craft, silver is often used for making jewellery, silverware, and decorative objects. However, it is a relatively soft metal and can scratch or dent easily, so it may not be the best choice for functional objects.
- Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon that is extremely strong and durable. It is often used for functional objects like knives, tools, and architectural elements, as well as for decorative objects like sculptures and furniture.
- Aluminium is a lightweight, corrosion-resistant metal that is easy to work with. It is often used for functional objects like aeroplane parts, car frames, and bicycles, as well as for decorative objects like sculptures and jewellery. However, it is not as strong as steel and may not be the best choice for heavy-duty applications.
Glass
Glass craft is the art of creating objects using glass as the primary material. It encompasses a wide range of techniques, including glassblowing, stained glass, fusing, and lampworking. Glass craft can be used to create both functional and decorative objects, such as vases, bowls, windows, lamps, and jewellery.
Examples of glass materials
- Stained glass is made by cutting pieces of coloured glass and assembling them into a design, which is then soldered together with metal. Stained glass is often used in decorative windows, lamps, and other objects. It is known for its vibrant colours and intricate designs. However, stained glass is relatively brittle and can be difficult to work with.
- Fused glass is created by heating pieces of glass in a kiln until they fuse together into a single piece. Fused glass can be used to create a wide range of objects, including jewellery, dishes, and decorative art. Fused glass is known for its versatility and durability. However, it can be difficult to achieve precise shapes and colours with fused glass.
- Blown glass is made by heating glass until it is molten and then blowing it into a mould or shaping it with tools. Blown glass is often used to create decorative objects like vases and sculptures. It is known for its unique shapes and textures. However, blown glass is a challenging technique that requires a high degree of skill and experience.
- Tempered glass is a type of glass that is treated with heat and chemicals to increase its strength and durability. Tempered glass is often used in applications where safety is a concern, such as car windows and shower doors. Tempered glass is known for its strength and safety features. However, it is more difficult to cut and shape than other types of glass.
- Fritted glass is made by melting glass into small particles, which are then fused together to create a textured surface. Fritted glass is often used in architectural applications, such as building facades and windows. It is known for its durability and unique appearance. However, it can be difficult to achieve precise patterns with fritted glass.
How do I get the craft materials that I need?
If you are looking for the best arts and craft supplies and materials, you can get in contact with us in many different ways.
You can;
- Call us at (03) 9587 7037
- Visit our factory clearance shop at 48 - 58 Overseas Drive, (Gate B) Noble Park North VIC 3174, which is open:
- Tuesday 10:00am - 2:00pm
- Wednesday 10:00am - 2:00pm
- Thursday 10:00am - 2:00pm
(Please note, only clearance items are available for purchase from the factory clearance shop. All other products must be ordered online)
- Visit our website and leave us an enquiry (also sign up for our newsletter for more information on the latest arts and crafts)
- Connect with us on social media (Facebook and Instagram)