Basic Skills - Punches and accent beads

Punches come in all shapes and sizes. Small punches have some uses but I mainly try to use the larger ones. To get value for money it is best to chose a punch that it symmetrical horizontally and vertically as it gives you more ways to use it. Punches also come with long arms, so that you can reach further into the page and are not limited to the edges. I find it helpful to use a hard backed book to lean on the punch as it protects your hand. Once you have punched your shape you can use the shape or die to stick onto the card. Turn you card over and using a clear peel-off, cover the hole. Next tip over the accent beads, making sure you hold it over a container so you can collect them to reuse.

You can also back punched holes with a variety of materials. Click here for the Flower/beads Birthday card for an example of this.

Accent beads can be used on double sided tape. It is best to use the type that has a backing as it is easier to position on your card. Simply place a piece of tape on the front of your card, remove backing and sprinkle on accent beads.