5 Craft Supplies We All Hoard and How to Finally Use Them

Let’s be honest for a second: we all have craft supplies we “save for something special,” and by “special” we mean a mysterious, far-off day when we magically get organized, inspired, and caught up all at once. Spoiler alert: that day does not exist.

But here’s the good news. You don’t need a perfectly labeled craft room or a Pinterest-worthy space to finally use the things you already own. You just need a few smart ideas and a little nudge. Consider this your nudge.

Today we’re tackling the five craft supplies we all hoard… and exactly how to start using them right now.

1. Paper Scraps

How to finally use them:

  • Trim them into photo mats
  • Layer them under clusters for instant interest
  • Create borders or side stripes on layouts
  • Use punches or dies to make shapes
  • Turn larger scraps into card fronts

Quick win: Pick three scraps that look cute together and layer them behind one photo today.

2. Sticker Sheets

How to finally use them:

  • Build clusters around your photos
  • Layer stickers with labels and die cuts
  • Use small icons as sparkles around titles
  • Fill awkward gaps or corners

Quick win: Create one embellishment cluster using just leftover stickers.

3. Washi Tape

How to finally use it:

  • Frame a photo
  • Create a border on a layout
  • Make faux tabs on a journaling card
  • Decorate the edges of a page
  • Tape down labels, tags, or die cuts

Quick win: Add one strip of coordinating washi under a title.

4. Embellishments Still in Their Packaging

How to finally use them:

  • Pre-make embellishment clusters
  • Add finishing touches to a layout
  • Create a stash of ready-to-go page toppers
  • Stick them onto journaling cards

Quick win: Grab three embellishments you love and put them on the next page you touch.

5. Paper Collections You Love Too Much to Cut

How to finally use them:

  • Start small with one layout
  • Use a simple sketch so the paper does the work
  • Cut one sheet – just one – and see how it feels
  • Pair the paper with your favorite photos
  • Commit to using that collection this month

Quick win: Pull out one favorite sheet and cut a single 3×4 card. Break the seal.

How to Start Using Your Stash This Week:

Let’s make it ridiculously simple.

  1. Finish something small and celebrate the win.
  2. Pick one category from this list.
  3. Choose one layout, card, or project.
  4. Set a 15-minute timer.
  5. Use what’s in front of you, no second guessing.

Done. Progress beats perfection every single time.

Quick List: Easy Ways to Use Hoarded Supplies

  • Make a border
  • Mat a photo
  • Layer a cluster
  • Add a title banner
  • Decorate a journaling card
  • Create a card front
  • Build a mini embellishment pack
  • Use one pretty paper today

The Truth Is…

You don’t need more supplies.
You need more permission to use what you love.

And I’m giving you that permission right now.

Let’s use the good stuff, the pretty stuff, the stuff you’ve been saving. Your photos deserve it. Your stories deserve it. You deserve it.