<blockquote><i class="fas fa-quote-left"></i><i>2imagine4</i> wrote:<br><p>Let’s create a comprehensive list of snail mail and crafting terms, along with useful information! If you’d like to add a term or share something helpful, post it in the comments, and I’ll include it in the list.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Adhesives & tools</strong></p> <hr /> <ul> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Bone folder</strong></span>: A must-have tool for creating sharp, clean creases in paper and cardstock, essential in bookbinding and card making.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Brayer</strong></span>: A small hand roller designed to evenly spread ink, paint, or adhesive across a surface, making it ideal for printmaking and other crafts.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Corner chomper</strong></span>: A versatile tool that rounds the corners of paper or other materials, offering different sizes for a polished look.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Craft knife</strong></span>: A precision blade tool used to cut intricate shapes from various materials, perfect for detailed work in paper crafts.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Cutting mat</strong></span>: A protective mat that serves as a cutting surface, typically self-healing, ensuring both your work and tools are protected.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Doodling</strong></span>: Adding freehand designs or illustrations directly onto your craft project, providing a personal and creative touch.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Embossing powder</strong></span>: A fine powder used with sticky ink and heat to create raised, textured designs on paper, adding dimension and shine.</li> <li><em><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Foam pads</strong></span></em>: Adhesive-backed foam pieces used to lift elements off the surface, creating a three-dimensional effect in crafts.</li> <li><em><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Foam tape</strong></span></em>: A thick, spongy tape that adds height and dimension to elements on your craft projects, perfect for creating 3D effects.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Heat gun</strong></span>: A tool that emits hot air, used to set embossing powders, dry inks, or cure paints quickly and efficiently.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Masking fluid</strong></span>: A liquid used to block off areas of a surface from paint or ink, which can be removed later to reveal untouched areas.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Mod Podge</strong></span>: A multi-purpose adhesive that also works as a sealer and finish, ideal for decoupage and other mixed media projects.</li> <li><em><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Pop dots</strong></span></em>: Adhesive foam dots used to lift elements off the surface, creating a three-dimensional effect in your projects.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Sanding block</strong></span>: A block wrapped in sandpaper, used to distress or smooth surfaces, adding a vintage or worn look to your projects.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Scoreboard</strong></span>: A tool that helps create straight, even fold lines in paper and cardstock, making it easier to fold precisely.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Washi tape</strong></span>: A decorative, repositionable tape made from traditional Japanese paper, used to add patterns, colors, and texture to various projects.</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p><strong>Materials & surfaces</strong></p> <hr /> <ul> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Acid-Free</strong></span>: Refers to materials that do not contain acid, preventing deterioration and ensuring longevity in archival projects.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Burlap</strong></span>: A coarse fabric often used in rustic-themed crafts, providing a natural, textured look.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Chipboard</strong></span>: A sturdy, cardboard-like material used to add structure and depth to craft projects, particularly in scrapbooking.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Gesso</strong></span>: A primer applied to surfaces to prepare them for painting or other media, giving a slightly textured base.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Glimmer mist</strong></span>: A spray that adds a shimmering or glittery finish to your projects, enhancing the overall visual effect.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Vellum</strong></span>: A semi-transparent paper that adds a delicate, soft overlay to scrapbook pages, cards, and other paper crafts.</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p><strong>Ink types<br /></strong></p> <hr /> <ul> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Pigment ink</strong></span>: Thick and opaque, this ink sits on the surface of the paper, offering vibrant colors.<br /><em>Best on</em>: Smooth paper, vellum, dark cardstock. Needs heat-setting on glossy surfaces.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Dye ink</strong></span>: Water-based and quick-drying, this ink absorbs into the paper, resulting in a more transparent look.<br /><em>Best on</em>: Light-colored paper and regular cardstock. May fade or bleed on textured papers.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Archival ink</strong></span>: Fade-resistant and waterproof, this ink is designed to last.<br /><em>Best on</em>: Paper, photos, and mixed media. Ideal for projects needing durability, like scrapbooking.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Distress ink</strong></span>: A special dye ink that stays wet longer, making it perfect for blending and creating aged effects.<br /><em>Best on</em>: Cardstock and watercolor paper. Great for vintage looks and water-reactive techniques.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Alcohol ink</strong></span>: Fast-drying and vibrant, this ink works best on non-porous surfaces.<br /><em>Best on</em>: Yupo paper, glossy paper, metal, glass, and plastic. Ideal for creating fluid designs.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Permanent ink</strong></span>: Waterproof and long-lasting, this ink adheres well to various surfaces.<br /><em>Best on</em>: Metal, plastic, and glass. Perfect for durable projects and labeling.</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p><strong>Stamp types<br /></strong></p> <hr /> <ul> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Rubber stamps</strong></span>: Also known as traditional or mounted stamps, these are made from rubber and are usually attached to a wooden or acrylic block. They’re known for creating detailed, sharp impressions.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Clear stamps</strong></span>: Also referred to as acrylic stamps or photopolymer stamps. These transparent stamps need to be used with an acrylic block, allowing you to position them accurately on your project due to their see-through nature.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Foam stamps</strong></span>: Sometimes called soft stamps, these are lightweight and made from foam. They’re perfect for bold designs, especially when creating backgrounds or larger, simpler images.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Cling stamps</strong></span>: Also known as unmounted or repositionable stamps. These rubber stamps have a cling backing, so they stick to an acrylic block without being permanently attached. They offer the quality of rubber stamps with the versatility of clear stamps.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Self-inking stamps</strong></span>: Also known as automatic stamps. These stamps come with a built-in ink pad that re-inks the stamp after each impression, making them great for repetitive tasks.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Pre-inked stamps</strong></span>: Sometimes called flash stamps, these contain ink within the stamp itself, producing clean and detailed images without the need for a separate ink pad.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Digital stamps</strong></span>: Often referred to as digi stamps or printables, these are digital files that can be printed and used in crafting. They offer the flexibility to resize and reuse the designs as needed.</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p><strong>Techniques & processes</strong></p> <hr /> <ul> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Collage art</strong></span>: A creative technique where various materials such as paper, fabric, photographs, and other found objects are assembled and glued onto a surface to create a unified composition.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Dry embossing</strong></span>: A technique where a design is pressed into paper without heat, creating a raised effect that adds texture.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Flocking</strong></span>: The process of applying fine fibers to a surface to achieve a soft, velvety texture, often used in paper crafts.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Fussy cutting</strong></span>: Carefully cutting out specific shapes or images from patterned paper to use as detailed embellishments in your projects.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Foiling</strong></span>: A process that applies metallic foil to a design using heat or adhesive, creating a shiny, reflective effect. </li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Heat embossing</strong></span>: A method where embossing powder is heated to create raised, glossy designs on paper.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Layering</strong></span>: Stacking different elements like papers, embellishments, or fabrics to add depth and interest to your craft projects.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Matting</strong></span>: Framing a photo or artwork with a layer of cardstock or paper to emphasize it and create depth on your page.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Mixed media</strong></span>: An art technique that involves combining different materials and mediums—such as paint, ink, paper, fabric, and found objects—into a single artwork.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Paper piercing</strong></span>: Creating a pattern by piercing small holes in paper, adding texture and intricate detail to your design.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Quilling</strong></span>: Rolling narrow strips of paper into shapes and arranging them to form intricate designs, often used in decorative projects.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Stenciling</strong></span>: The use of a template made from materials like plastic or metal to apply a pattern or design onto a surface by brushing, sponging, or spraying over the stencil. </li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Stippling</strong></span>: A technique where small dots or short strokes are used to create texture or shading. Stippling can be applied with a variety of tools, such as pens, markers, or brushes.</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p><strong>Decorative elements</strong></p> <hr /> <ul> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Brad</strong></span>: A fastener with prongs used to attach materials together, commonly used as a decorative element in scrapbooking and other crafts.</li> <li><em><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Embellishment</strong></span></em>: A decorative item like stickers, sequins, beads, or ribbons added to craft projects to enhance their visual appeal.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Enamel dots</strong></span>: Small, glossy dots used to add a colorful, raised embellishment to your craft projects.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Eyelets</strong></span>: Rings inserted into holes in materials to reinforce them or for decorative purposes, often used to thread ribbons or cords.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Glossy accents</strong></span>: A clear, dimensional adhesive that creates a glossy, raised finish on projects. It adds shine and texture, and can also be used to secure small embellishments.</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p><strong>Types of projects & community spirit</strong></p> <hr /> <ul> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Angel</strong></span>: In crafting swaps, an Angel is someone who volunteers to send an item to a participant who did not receive theirs, ensuring that everyone is included.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>APC</strong></span> - <em>altered playing card</em>: A playing card that has been artistically altered while keeping one corner’s number and suit visible, integrating its original features into the design.</li> <li><strong><span style="color: #3598db;">ATC </span></strong>- <em>artist trading card</em>: Small, collectible pieces of art, typically 2.5" x 3.5", created to be traded between artists rather than sold.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>ATC (coin)</strong></span> - <em>artist trading coin</em>: A small, circular piece of art with a 2.5-inch diameter, designed for trading among artists. Similar to Artist Trading Cards, these coins can be created using any medium and are intended for creative exchanges.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Ephemera</strong></span>: Collectible printed materials not originally intended to be kept long-term, like tickets and brochures, often used in scrapbooking for their nostalgic value.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Flaker</strong></span>: Someone who fails to complete their part in a swap or trade, leaving their partner without the agreed-upon item.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Flipbook</strong></span>: A small, interactive book made up of folded pages or pockets, to share letters, photos, stickers, and other small items. Each "flip" reveals different contents or decorative elements, making it a fun and creative way to send happy mail or gifts.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Grid layout</strong></span>: A structured design where elements are arranged in a grid format, providing balance and order to a scrapbook page.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Inchie</strong></span>: A miniature piece of art that is exactly 1" x 1", often traded like ATCs but on a smaller scale.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Kawaii</strong></span>: A Japanese style characterized by its cute and playful aesthetics, often featuring characters with big eyes and bright colors, popular in various crafts.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Loaded envelope or bag</strong></span>: A creatively embellished, handmade envelope or bag that is filled with various crafting goodies such as tags, stickers, embellishments, and other small items.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>MemoryDex card</strong></span>: A small, decorative card designed to fit into a rotating MemoryDex holder, similar to a Rolodex. These cards are often embellished with photos, journaling, and other creative elements.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Mini album</strong></span>: A small, themed scrapbook or photo album, usually handmade, focused on a specific event or story.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>PM</strong></span> - <em>personal message</em>: A private message exchanged on forums or swap sites, used for direct communication between participants.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Pocketletter</strong></span>: A creative pen pal letter made by filling the pockets of a 9-pocket trading card sheet with themed decorations, small notes, and flat goodies. </li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>RAK </strong></span>-<em> random act of kindness</em>: An unexpected gift or gesture given without the expectation of anything in return, often found in crafting communities.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Round Robin</strong></span>: A group craft project where each participant takes turns adding their own work to a shared piece. The project is passed from one person to the next until everyone in the group has added their contribution, creating a collaborative final product.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Shaker card</strong></span>: A type of greeting card that features a clear, sealed compartment filled with small, movable elements like sequins, beads, or glitter. When shaken, these elements move around, creating an interactive and fun effect.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Twinchies</strong></span>: Small artworks that measure 2" x 2", similar to ATCs but slightly larger, often created using a variety of materials and techniques.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Wax seal</strong></span>: A decorative impression made by pressing a seal stamp into melted wax, often used to seal envelopes or add an elegant touch to letters, invitations, or packaging.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Zine</strong></span>: A self-published booklet often focused on niche topics, filled with text, images, and artwork, and distributed within specific communities.</li> </ul></blockquote><br>

<p>Let’s create a comprehensive list of snail mail and crafting terms, along with useful information! If you’d like to add a term or share something helpful, post it in the comments, and I’ll include it in the list.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Adhesives & tools</strong></p> <hr /> <ul> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Bone folder</strong></span>: A must-have tool for creating sharp, clean creases in paper and cardstock, essential in bookbinding and card making.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Brayer</strong></span>: A small hand roller designed to evenly spread ink, paint, or adhesive across a surface, making it ideal for printmaking and other crafts.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Corner chomper</strong></span>: A versatile tool that rounds the corners of paper or other materials, offering different sizes for a polished look.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Craft knife</strong></span>: A precision blade tool used to cut intricate shapes from various materials, perfect for detailed work in paper crafts.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Cutting mat</strong></span>: A protective mat that serves as a cutting surface, typically self-healing, ensuring both your work and tools are protected.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Doodling</strong></span>: Adding freehand designs or illustrations directly onto your craft project, providing a personal and creative touch.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Embossing powder</strong></span>: A fine powder used with sticky ink and heat to create raised, textured designs on paper, adding dimension and shine.</li> <li><em><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Foam pads</strong></span></em>: Adhesive-backed foam pieces used to lift elements off the surface, creating a three-dimensional effect in crafts.</li> <li><em><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Foam tape</strong></span></em>: A thick, spongy tape that adds height and dimension to elements on your craft projects, perfect for creating 3D effects.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Heat gun</strong></span>: A tool that emits hot air, used to set embossing powders, dry inks, or cure paints quickly and efficiently.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Masking fluid</strong></span>: A liquid used to block off areas of a surface from paint or ink, which can be removed later to reveal untouched areas.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Mod Podge</strong></span>: A multi-purpose adhesive that also works as a sealer and finish, ideal for decoupage and other mixed media projects.</li> <li><em><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Pop dots</strong></span></em>: Adhesive foam dots used to lift elements off the surface, creating a three-dimensional effect in your projects.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Sanding block</strong></span>: A block wrapped in sandpaper, used to distress or smooth surfaces, adding a vintage or worn look to your projects.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Scoreboard</strong></span>: A tool that helps create straight, even fold lines in paper and cardstock, making it easier to fold precisely.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Washi tape</strong></span>: A decorative, repositionable tape made from traditional Japanese paper, used to add patterns, colors, and texture to various projects.</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p><strong>Materials & surfaces</strong></p> <hr /> <ul> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Acid-Free</strong></span>: Refers to materials that do not contain acid, preventing deterioration and ensuring longevity in archival projects.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Burlap</strong></span>: A coarse fabric often used in rustic-themed crafts, providing a natural, textured look.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Chipboard</strong></span>: A sturdy, cardboard-like material used to add structure and depth to craft projects, particularly in scrapbooking.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Gesso</strong></span>: A primer applied to surfaces to prepare them for painting or other media, giving a slightly textured base.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Glimmer mist</strong></span>: A spray that adds a shimmering or glittery finish to your projects, enhancing the overall visual effect.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Vellum</strong></span>: A semi-transparent paper that adds a delicate, soft overlay to scrapbook pages, cards, and other paper crafts.</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p><strong>Ink types<br /></strong></p> <hr /> <ul> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Pigment ink</strong></span>: Thick and opaque, this ink sits on the surface of the paper, offering vibrant colors.<br /><em>Best on</em>: Smooth paper, vellum, dark cardstock. Needs heat-setting on glossy surfaces.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Dye ink</strong></span>: Water-based and quick-drying, this ink absorbs into the paper, resulting in a more transparent look.<br /><em>Best on</em>: Light-colored paper and regular cardstock. May fade or bleed on textured papers.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Archival ink</strong></span>: Fade-resistant and waterproof, this ink is designed to last.<br /><em>Best on</em>: Paper, photos, and mixed media. Ideal for projects needing durability, like scrapbooking.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Distress ink</strong></span>: A special dye ink that stays wet longer, making it perfect for blending and creating aged effects.<br /><em>Best on</em>: Cardstock and watercolor paper. Great for vintage looks and water-reactive techniques.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Alcohol ink</strong></span>: Fast-drying and vibrant, this ink works best on non-porous surfaces.<br /><em>Best on</em>: Yupo paper, glossy paper, metal, glass, and plastic. Ideal for creating fluid designs.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Permanent ink</strong></span>: Waterproof and long-lasting, this ink adheres well to various surfaces.<br /><em>Best on</em>: Metal, plastic, and glass. Perfect for durable projects and labeling.</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p><strong>Stamp types<br /></strong></p> <hr /> <ul> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Rubber stamps</strong></span>: Also known as traditional or mounted stamps, these are made from rubber and are usually attached to a wooden or acrylic block. They’re known for creating detailed, sharp impressions.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Clear stamps</strong></span>: Also referred to as acrylic stamps or photopolymer stamps. These transparent stamps need to be used with an acrylic block, allowing you to position them accurately on your project due to their see-through nature.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Foam stamps</strong></span>: Sometimes called soft stamps, these are lightweight and made from foam. They’re perfect for bold designs, especially when creating backgrounds or larger, simpler images.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Cling stamps</strong></span>: Also known as unmounted or repositionable stamps. These rubber stamps have a cling backing, so they stick to an acrylic block without being permanently attached. They offer the quality of rubber stamps with the versatility of clear stamps.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Self-inking stamps</strong></span>: Also known as automatic stamps. These stamps come with a built-in ink pad that re-inks the stamp after each impression, making them great for repetitive tasks.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Pre-inked stamps</strong></span>: Sometimes called flash stamps, these contain ink within the stamp itself, producing clean and detailed images without the need for a separate ink pad.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Digital stamps</strong></span>: Often referred to as digi stamps or printables, these are digital files that can be printed and used in crafting. They offer the flexibility to resize and reuse the designs as needed.</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p><strong>Techniques & processes</strong></p> <hr /> <ul> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Collage art</strong></span>: A creative technique where various materials such as paper, fabric, photographs, and other found objects are assembled and glued onto a surface to create a unified composition.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Dry embossing</strong></span>: A technique where a design is pressed into paper without heat, creating a raised effect that adds texture.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Flocking</strong></span>: The process of applying fine fibers to a surface to achieve a soft, velvety texture, often used in paper crafts.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Fussy cutting</strong></span>: Carefully cutting out specific shapes or images from patterned paper to use as detailed embellishments in your projects.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Foiling</strong></span>: A process that applies metallic foil to a design using heat or adhesive, creating a shiny, reflective effect. </li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Heat embossing</strong></span>: A method where embossing powder is heated to create raised, glossy designs on paper.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Layering</strong></span>: Stacking different elements like papers, embellishments, or fabrics to add depth and interest to your craft projects.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Matting</strong></span>: Framing a photo or artwork with a layer of cardstock or paper to emphasize it and create depth on your page.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Mixed media</strong></span>: An art technique that involves combining different materials and mediums—such as paint, ink, paper, fabric, and found objects—into a single artwork.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Paper piercing</strong></span>: Creating a pattern by piercing small holes in paper, adding texture and intricate detail to your design.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Quilling</strong></span>: Rolling narrow strips of paper into shapes and arranging them to form intricate designs, often used in decorative projects.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Stenciling</strong></span>: The use of a template made from materials like plastic or metal to apply a pattern or design onto a surface by brushing, sponging, or spraying over the stencil. </li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Stippling</strong></span>: A technique where small dots or short strokes are used to create texture or shading. Stippling can be applied with a variety of tools, such as pens, markers, or brushes.</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p><strong>Decorative elements</strong></p> <hr /> <ul> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Brad</strong></span>: A fastener with prongs used to attach materials together, commonly used as a decorative element in scrapbooking and other crafts.</li> <li><em><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Embellishment</strong></span></em>: A decorative item like stickers, sequins, beads, or ribbons added to craft projects to enhance their visual appeal.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Enamel dots</strong></span>: Small, glossy dots used to add a colorful, raised embellishment to your craft projects.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Eyelets</strong></span>: Rings inserted into holes in materials to reinforce them or for decorative purposes, often used to thread ribbons or cords.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Glossy accents</strong></span>: A clear, dimensional adhesive that creates a glossy, raised finish on projects. It adds shine and texture, and can also be used to secure small embellishments.</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p><strong>Types of projects & community spirit</strong></p> <hr /> <ul> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Angel</strong></span>: In crafting swaps, an Angel is someone who volunteers to send an item to a participant who did not receive theirs, ensuring that everyone is included.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>APC</strong></span> - <em>altered playing card</em>: A playing card that has been artistically altered while keeping one corner’s number and suit visible, integrating its original features into the design.</li> <li><strong><span style="color: #3598db;">ATC </span></strong>- <em>artist trading card</em>: Small, collectible pieces of art, typically 2.5" x 3.5", created to be traded between artists rather than sold.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>ATC (coin)</strong></span> - <em>artist trading coin</em>: A small, circular piece of art with a 2.5-inch diameter, designed for trading among artists. Similar to Artist Trading Cards, these coins can be created using any medium and are intended for creative exchanges.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Ephemera</strong></span>: Collectible printed materials not originally intended to be kept long-term, like tickets and brochures, often used in scrapbooking for their nostalgic value.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Flaker</strong></span>: Someone who fails to complete their part in a swap or trade, leaving their partner without the agreed-upon item.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Flipbook</strong></span>: A small, interactive book made up of folded pages or pockets, to share letters, photos, stickers, and other small items. Each "flip" reveals different contents or decorative elements, making it a fun and creative way to send happy mail or gifts.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Grid layout</strong></span>: A structured design where elements are arranged in a grid format, providing balance and order to a scrapbook page.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Inchie</strong></span>: A miniature piece of art that is exactly 1" x 1", often traded like ATCs but on a smaller scale.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Kawaii</strong></span>: A Japanese style characterized by its cute and playful aesthetics, often featuring characters with big eyes and bright colors, popular in various crafts.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Loaded envelope or bag</strong></span>: A creatively embellished, handmade envelope or bag that is filled with various crafting goodies such as tags, stickers, embellishments, and other small items.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>MemoryDex card</strong></span>: A small, decorative card designed to fit into a rotating MemoryDex holder, similar to a Rolodex. These cards are often embellished with photos, journaling, and other creative elements.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Mini album</strong></span>: A small, themed scrapbook or photo album, usually handmade, focused on a specific event or story.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>PM</strong></span> - <em>personal message</em>: A private message exchanged on forums or swap sites, used for direct communication between participants.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Pocketletter</strong></span>: A creative pen pal letter made by filling the pockets of a 9-pocket trading card sheet with themed decorations, small notes, and flat goodies. </li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>RAK </strong></span>-<em> random act of kindness</em>: An unexpected gift or gesture given without the expectation of anything in return, often found in crafting communities.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Round Robin</strong></span>: A group craft project where each participant takes turns adding their own work to a shared piece. The project is passed from one person to the next until everyone in the group has added their contribution, creating a collaborative final product.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Shaker card</strong></span>: A type of greeting card that features a clear, sealed compartment filled with small, movable elements like sequins, beads, or glitter. When shaken, these elements move around, creating an interactive and fun effect.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Twinchies</strong></span>: Small artworks that measure 2" x 2", similar to ATCs but slightly larger, often created using a variety of materials and techniques.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Wax seal</strong></span>: A decorative impression made by pressing a seal stamp into melted wax, often used to seal envelopes or add an elegant touch to letters, invitations, or packaging.</li> <li><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Zine</strong></span>: A self-published booklet often focused on niche topics, filled with text, images, and artwork, and distributed within specific communities.</li> </ul>