The Ultimate Crafting Supply List: Debi’s Top Resources

If there is one thing we know for sure at Studio MD AZ, it is that you don't need to spend a fortune to create high-end, boutique-quality decor! But to get that gorgeous, professional finish—and avoid a lot of crafting heartache—you absolutely need the right tools for the job.

Whether you are painting black-and-white checks, upcycling a thrifted purse, or adding some signature bling, I get asked every single day: "Debi, what supplies are you using?!"

So, grab your notebook! Here is your all-in-one master supply list of the absolute best primers, paints, glues, and embellishments we rely on every day.

(Just to throw this out there, I am an affiliate for companies like Amazon, Plaid, and Vintage Retail Therapy. If you buy anything using my affiliate links, I do get a small commission. It doesn't cost you anything extra, but those few pennies really add up and help me afford to keep buying the fabulous supplies you all love so much. In some cases, using my links and discount codes gets you an extra 10% off your order, so we both get a bonus!)

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1. Primers, Sealers, & The "Magic" Top Coat

Prepping and sealing your project is the most critical step. If you don't use the right primer, your paint will scratch off, or hidden dyes will bleed right through your beautiful decoupage.

• Dixie Belle Bonding Boss: This is my absolute favorite stain-blocking primer. It comes in gray (for incredible one-coat coverage), white, and clear. You can find it on Amazon, or support one of our Sisters by purchasing it at debrabucherdesigns.com.

• Liquitex High Gloss Varnish:This is the game-changer. I use this to seal almost every mixed-media project. It gives everything a unified, highly reflective, porcelain-like shine that makes your project look store-bought. I usually buy the big 32oz bottles on Amazon.

• VHT Engine Enamel (Clear): For outdoor projects, this automotive spray makes your crafts completely weatherproof. You can grab this at AutoZone or Amazon.

2. Decoupage Mediums for Every Project

Not all Mod Podge is created equal! The secret to a wrinkle-free finish is using the right consistency.

• Mod Podge Multi: My go-to for delicate paper napkins. It is thinner than regular Mod Podge, so it won’t tear your napkins, and it is dishwasher safe and indoor/outdoor safe. (Available on Amazon).

• Deb’s DIY Liquid Patina: The best medium for thicker decoupage papers and scrapbook paper. Get it at vintageretailtherapy.com and use code Sisterhood for 10% off.

• Pentart Decoupage Glue: Incredible for heavy papers; it outshines standard mediums when doing faux book makeovers. Available at vintageretailtherapy.com (Code: Sisterhood).

3. Glues & Adhesives that Actually Hold

• B7000 / T8000 Precision Glue: The absolute best glue for tiny rhinestones and trim. The precision tip keeps things mess-free. (Available on Amazon).

• Titebond Instant Bond Adhesive: A gel adhesive that forms an instant bond, amazing for securing heavy Form Flex clay molds or metal. (Available on Amazon).

• Tanner’s Bond Adhesive Tape (by Tandy Leather): The ultimate double-stick tape for seamlessly attaching heavy pleather and designer fabrics without using messy liquid glues. (Available on Amazon).

4. Paints, Checks, & Specialty Finishes

• DecoArt & FolkArt Acrylics: I mix these constantly! Some of my must-have shades include Lamp Black, Dioxazine Purple, Poodle Skirt Pink, and Adrift (which makes a perfect Tiffany Blue).

• Plaid Liquid Leaf (Classic Gold): An oil-based paint that goes on like butter for brilliant, rich gold accents.

• Chrome Nail Powder: Want a solid metal look? Paint your object dark, coat it in clear wax, and rub cheap chrome nail powder over it for an instant, highly reflective metallic finish. (Available on Amazon or vintageretailtherapy.com).

• Pentart Fine Line Porcelain Crackle: A gorgeous two-part medium that creates fine, delicate, authentic-looking antique cracks. Get it at vintageretailtherapy.com (Code: Sisterhood).

5. The "Must-Have" Brushes & Tools

• Dynasty Brushes:If you want to paint perfect black-and-white checks, you need these. They are short, fat, flat, and firm. We sell sets of 4 (sizes 2, 4, 6, 8) directly through Studio MD AZ for $31, which includes shipping and a fun custom pencil!.

• Drill Master 2-Inch Benchtop Cut-Off Saw: A safe, ~$40 mini chop saw from Harbor Freight that easily cuts through thick wooden dowels and vintage rulers.

• Precision Nippers: Tiny wire cutters that easily snip rhinestone trims and cut the shanks off vintage buttons. (Available on Amazon).

6. Bling, Resins, & Embellishments

Because everything is better with bling!

• Designer Bling & Patches: For high-end "bougie" decor, I buy my designer patches (like LV and Chanel) and heavy rhinestone trims from Fifi at ilfaitjourshop.com. Use code Sisterhood for a discount!.

• Yeho / Let's Resin UV Resin & Flashlight: This inexpensive kit cures rock-hard in 20 seconds using a UV pen light. It is a game-changer for securing heavy jewelry. (Available on Amazon).

• Form Flex Compound: An air-dry clay that you press into silicone molds and pop in the freezer. It remains completely flexible for wrapping around curves. You can buy it directly from our Sister Tammy at formflexcompound.com.

• Stickles (Mercury Glass & Platinum): A premium, fine-tipped glitter glue. I use it to outline words and trace decoupage elements. Buy it direct from RangerInc.com for the best prices.

7. Favorite Places to Source Paper, Stencils & Designer Fabrics

• Transfers & Decoupage Papers: For high-quality IOD (Iron Orchid Designs) rub-on transfers and gorgeous decoupage papers, I shop at Mara's store: vintageretailtherapy.com. Use code Sisterhood for 10% off!.

• Designer Stencils & Molds: To get perfectly branded checks, stripes, and designer logos, check out itacakes.com. Use code Sisterhood or StudioMDAZ for a discount.

• Designer Pleather & Fabrics: If you want rolls of beautiful designer-inspired pleather (like Louis Vuitton or Gucci prints), go to mingfabricstore.net and use code Sisterhood.

• Amazon Cut & Collage Books: Search for "Pop Art Collage" or "Vintage Pinup Ephemera" on Amazon to find inexpensive books filled with images you can cut out and decoupage directly onto purses and boxes.

Crafting is all about pivoting and having fun, so grab a few of these supplies and start elevating your everyday thrift-store finds into boutique masterpieces! Keep embellishing, keep taking it up a notch, and remember—if you make a mistake, just add more bling!