A Good Starting Point

So you LOVE to craft but aren't really sure where to start from a supply point of view, well this post is for you. Im going to give you a few good starting points with regard to hardware, ribbons, elastics and embellishments.

My go-to site for hardware is http://www.wholesalehairclips.com.au/
They do great quality alligator clips and headbands. They also sell non slip grips and my number one must have - D670 double sided tape, for lining all my clips.

My next hot tip is awesome ribbons as well as great supplies. For brilliant patterns and characters go to http://www.dancinginribbon.com.au/ or http://www.ribbonandbowstudio.com.au/. The have an enormous range and have a few different postage options.

If you are looking for straight out beautiful head over to http://www.camillesribbonbowtique.com.au/
I have never seen more prettiness in one place than here. If you are a Brisbane local, she also does a open day once a week, so look her up on facebook.
I absolutely love buying florals, ready made flowers, rhinestones, mixed bags of headband elastic and grosgrain ribbon on this site. One of my all time favourite places.

If you like using bottle caps or making jewellery head over to https://www.facebook.com/FreeSpiritBottleCapImagesAndSupplies. Her range is great, as is her quality. She is a lovely lady too!

I also trawl an Australian Facebook page called Crafters Clearance. https://www.facebook.com/groups/aussie.craft.garage.sale/
So many brilliant bargains to be found by locals as well as businesses.
A great go-to site.

If packaging your product is something you are interested in pop on by MiMuMee. I use their natural hairclip display cards and have always been happy with their professional quality. http://shop.mimumee.com.au/

There are SSOO many other amazing businesses to purchase your supplies from, but these are just a few that I use and they will hopefully get you on your way.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask.

xx Tegs.

How to Line an Alligator Clip

You will need double sided tape, an alligator clip, ribbon and a lighter.

1. Measure a 10cm length of double-sided tape with a ruler. Cut the piece of tape with scissors. Starting at the base of the clip place the double-sided tape onto the underside of the clip about a centimetre in from the hinge. The underside of my alligator clips have a small circular hole. Ensure you clip is the right way up. Press the tape onto the clip firmly to ensure it adheres. I use a special type of framers tape which is especially strong called D670 tape. As an alternative to double sided tape, you may also follow the same method solely with ribbon using hot glue.

2. Continue pressing the tape over the hinge end, pressing the tape into the hinge with the tip of your finger and then pressing the tape around the top of the clip. Then follow along the top side of the clip, remembering to press down firmly.

3. Open the alligator clip by pinching the hinge with you fingers. Hold the clip open. Attach the sticky end of the tape to the top inner edge of the clip.

4. Press down on the tape covering your clip to ensure it is adhered to it firmly. 

5. Measuring the same length of ribbon as you did with the tape in step one, heat seal the ends of the ribbon by gently running the ends thorough the flame of a lighter. This will ensure your ribbon does not fray. 

6. Doing a small section at a time, Remove the backing off your double-sided tape and follow along the same path with your ribbon, pressing down firmly to ensure it sticks. 

You should now have a completed and lined alligator clip ready to wear on its own to attach to one of your creations. I often will add a non-slip grip to the topside inner prong of my clip to help it stay firm in my hair.

If you have any questions or comments, please do not hesitate to let me know.

x Tegs.