If you simply want to give quilling a try with very basic designs, then the most important tools are paper strips, a few round toothpicks, and some good liquid glue. With these, you can easily make all of the basic quilling shapes. Some quillers use straight pins to hold pieces to the board. The large open space on the right is an area where you can experiment with different designs of the basic shapes. If you are just getting started and want to make very simple designs, you might be able to get away with making your own quilling board. All slotted tools will work with regular weight paper strips. However, if you wish to work with cardstock weight paper, then you might have trouble fitting the paper into the slot. Look for a slotted tool with a slightly larger opening so you will be able to work with heavier weight papers. You can very easily cut your own paper strips from the patterned paper or cardstock in your scrapbooking supplies. Cardstock will be slightly more difficult to roll, however, it will give you very strong designs that hold up well in scrapbooks and on greeting cards. To make your own strips, simply use your paper trimmer to cut 11- or 12-inch long pieces that are only 1/8-inch wide. Alternatively, pour a spot of liquid glue on a disposable plate or scrap of paper. Use a toothpick to apply a dot of glue to your paper strip. Quilling patterns for beginners.
