The top 10 basics for every craft room

If you're like me, you have 20 ideas in your head at all times. That room you want to paint, that outdated dresser you need to bring into this century, scattered bits and pieces of scraps you want to use up...there is always a craft project or 100 taking form in my brain. As I was outside today in the 30 degree weather (literally) spray painting an old table with freezing fingers I started to think. It is feasible to accomplish most things on your DIY list in a single weekend, or even a day for some, as long as you have the basic supplies. As I ran through my favorite must haves for my craft area, a list started to form. So if you are beginner looking for items to start with or a seasoned veteran in all things creative looking to take inventory, this is my compiled list of the top 10 basics every craft room (or closet or box) should contain.

1. Hot glue gun - This may sound like a no brainer but hot glue is definitely my go to adhesive. It's quick, it's painless (well most of the time), it adheres to almost anything and it WORKS! There are a couple options and sizes available but my personal preference is a small to medium sized gun with hot temp (there is a cool touch option).
2. Scissors - Another no brainer to most but I truly believe a decent pair of scissors is worth a little splurge. Once you find the perfect pair guard them with your life. DO NOT let little fingers use them to poke play dough or try to cut Popsicle sticks. DO NOT attempt to cut fabric with them (they will become duller than a butter knife) or wire or plastic or anything else that is not good old fashion paper.
3. Scrapbook paper - I have quickly become obsessed with scrapbook paper. It costs next to nothing, comes in countless colors and can be used for a hundred different projects. Micheal's is always a good bet when looking for specific patterns or designs, be it seasonal or something that corresponds to your color scheme in single sheets. Plus, they almost always run sales making it easy to stock up on the cheap. However, Wal-Mart is another great place to find decorative paper at a great price. They carry quite a few books for $5 a piece. That's a GREAT deal compared to most places who charge double that.
4. Mod Podge - The sticky, goopy, wondrous creation tugs at my heart strings. Mod Podge (coined from the term modern decoupage) has become a trend with DIYers and designers alike. It's a snap to turn everyday, and let's face it, boring items into something fashionable and unique. Decoupage anything from light switch covers, table tops, jewelry boxes, walls, floors, houses...you name it.
5. Paint brushes - It's pretty overwhelming to walk down the painting supply aisle at large chain stores. Brushes range from small to humungous and prices will either break the bank or are too cheap for even a toddler to use. So where do you begin? For starters a mid range (think under $10) value pack will give you 5 or 6 decent brushes. They normally contain finer points used for detail work and maybe a 1/2 inch or fan brush (which is more for artwork than crafting). After that a must have is a 1 1/2 or 2 inch angle brush (the kind with the rollers at Home Depot or Menards) to apply paint or varnish to larger surfaces. Go for the good one, $7 will get you a trusty tool for years to come (just make sure to clean it properly). A popular option (though truthfully I'm not a huge fan) is the foam brush. Mostly used for decoupage or staining, they give a smoother finish and can be cleaned easily. However, I think they feel flimsy in my hand and don't offer much control. Lastly, inexpensive wooden brushes. By inexpensive I mean I paid $2 for a pack of 20 at Menards and I don't think twice about throwing them away after a messy project. Perfect for glue or primer that isn't going to be seen. Just be careful of loose bristles. 
6. Craft paint - Most people will tell you to just buy large bottles of the primary colors and make your own shades. That's fine if that's what you want to do, but with so many beautiful PRE made colors I can't imagine why you would go that route. Now I'm not saying you should buy out Martha Stewart's entire line, but when you see a color that strikes a cord, put it in your cart along with the basic colors you know you are going to use. Don't forget to sneak in a few wild cards now and then too; metallics, glitter paints, antique finishes...all for less than a buck!
7. Spray paint - Just like craft paint, it's essential to start with the basics then build up your stash over time. I typically go for high gloss finishes that have a professional finish (try Rustoleum) in black, white, silver and gold. If you like more texture try a hammered copper. You can buy a spray primer but honestly, I never use them. 
8. Stain - Yes, like you would use for your deck. It's never been hidden that I prefer a funky fabric covered or brightly painted piece of furniture to one of stained wood any day but it's still a good product to have on hand. I use stain a secret weapon; a finishing product that adds that something special. Want to give a newly painted table a little depth? Wipe the edges with stain. Want to darken the edges of a decoupage project? Stain. Want to make paper look old? Stain. You get the point. Just be warned, a little go a long way and it lasts forever so a small can will do you. 
9. Sandpaper - There are different levels of coursness that should be used for different things. The higher the number the rougher it will be and it's best to keep a few different varieties on hand. Besides the obvious, furniture, sandpaper is also used for smoothing decoupage, distressing wood, de-splintering dowels and roughing up any surface that needs to be painted. I opt for a 200, a 400 then a washable square (just look, you'll find it) that has multiple sides.
10. Embellishments - I know, I know, this is a pretty broad term. That's because there is no limit to what is available and it largely depends on the type of crafts you do and your personal style. This is also where the most money will add up if you're not careful. My best advise is to start small and shop clearance bins. Sure those little butterfly stickers are adorable but you don't really need them right this instant. Start by picking up "bling" or flat backed jewels that add glam instantly, beads from a broken necklace or a few rubber stamps in a funky design, basic colors of ribbon, stick on letters in a couple different fonts or even googly eyes for projects with the kids.