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How to save money on scrapbooking punches!

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Find great deals on paper punches!

The rising popularity of scrapbooking has exploded the variety of specialty paper punches available on the market today. From EK Success to Martha Stewart, there are dozens - probably hundreds! - of exciting designs available, not to mention punches that have been retired. Unfortunately, they are quite expensive - often as much as fifteen or twenty dollars, or even more. Especially for novelty paper punches that are so specific in theme that you may not use them that often, that adds up very quickly and often you just can't justify the cost.

However, if you're clever and a bit patient you can fairly quickly amass a large collection of punches like the one shown here. That's my stash of punches... actually it's just most of them! Believe it or not, I only spent $1-$2 on each of them - even the huge, fancy punches. Wanna know how? Read on!

Look for boxed sets or punches that make multiple shapes.

Get your craft punches in bulk and save!

Buying in bulk is a classic money-saving concept, and it applies to paper punches too. You can buy a craft punch set, usually alphabets or a theme, for far less than if you bought them individually. Also, some makers design 3-in-1, 4-in-1, and other multiple-punch models. Check out some great punch sets and multi-punches on Amazon:
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Give an unwanted paper punch a new home...

Buy your craft punches secondhand!

It's a common practice for crafters to sell off rarely used tools and supplies on eBay when they're cleaning out their craft room - or if hubby is getting on their case about the amount of money they've spent! Check out these super-cheap gently used punches:
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"But won't used paper punches be worn-out and dull?"

Buying "used" doesn't necessarily mean "used up"


A lot of my friends were skeptical when I showed them my new collection of secondhand punches. They asked, "Do they still punch right?" "Aren't the blades going to be dull?" and I told them two things:

  • I always check the description before buying. Often sellers will mention if the punches have only been used once or twice, or rarely. (This is often the case!) Even if they don't mention it, I find that more often than not they punch quite well.

  • If I get one that isn't punching right, it's often an easy matter to spruce it up. Punching several times through heavy-duty aluminum foil can help sharpen a dull punch, and punching through waxed paper will lubricate it and keep it from sticking. I have heard some people disagree with this advice, and while I agree it's not a miracle-worker I usually find it does the trick.

Now combine those ideas for SUPER savings!

Buy secondhand punches in bulk and save a fortune. I only bought three or four lots and now my collection of punches is enormous... and I spent less than $100.

Here's my BIG secret to a huge stash of punches for relatively little cash. Combine both of the previous concepts (punch sets and used punches) and search eBay for scrapbookers selling off their whole collection of punches. These sellers don't have the time or patience to list them individually, so they are willing to take less money overall to get rid of the whole lot.
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Easy storage solutions for all those punches!

Punches are heavy, and come in a variety of shapes and sizes - how do you store them?

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How can you use your paper punches?

Check out these awesome books for inspiration.

Want some ideas for how to get creative with your new paper punches? Check out these great books filled with tips, tricks, ideas, and loads of eye candy.
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Punch Art Book Reviews

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Ok, that's about it! Tell me what you think.

Please leave any questions, comments, or additional tips on how to save on paper punches here!

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Come out and make a beaded heart pin like the ones in top photo, discuss the impact of technology on art and craft, and mingle with other local crafters. Treats and punch will be provided by the host. When: Sometime in February.
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Betsi_Goutal

Just a neon-haired twenty-something trying to find her path. I am driven to learn and explore, and share my discoveries.

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