Merriam Webster’s 10th Edition Collegiate Dictionary gives this as the first definition for “tool”:
tool: noun – a handheld device that aids in accomplishing a task
Blegh! I understand the need to differentiate between tools and equipment, but Mr. Webster, this is the digital age and not all tools can be held. Let’s try something a little broader on for size:
tool: noun – a means to an end
Yessssssss! Tools are everywhere – even suspended among lines of code – and everyone uses them. They are the things (and non-things) that let crafters, well, craft.
Amongst ourselves, we craft a million different things in a million different ways. Some tools are all but universal – that is, used in every type of craft (coffee, anyone?). Others are trade specific (I use a seam ripper daily, but have yet to find use for a Dremel) . Some tools are intended for one thing and used for something entirely different (I believe we call this “hacking“).
tools = growth
&
growth = a need for new tools
It isn’t a hard and fast rule, but, for the most part, tools and growth go hand in hand. To a new indieprenuer that idea is both exciting and daunting. I’m a bonafide shopoholic, so imagine my surprise when the idea of buying something left me completely paralyzed. The thing is, my funds are very very limited and I want to make sure I invest in tools that will help propel me forward.
Join me as I discover what tools I really need, which ones I want, and everything I never knew existed.
I’d love your insights. What tools can you not live without? What’s on your wish list? Your own tool reviews are more than welcome, too!
Janice Bear designs unique garters (for offbeat brides, burlesque, Tuesdays…) because she believes everything you wear should be a reflection of you – right down to your underpinnings. To learn more about what she does and why she does it, please visit her 
I say there’s no such thing as too many tools. The tool I use the most is an 18 volt drill, along with 2 rechargeable batteries, a charging station, and a mammouth set of good drill bits….O.K., and drill tips…and a magnetic drive guide….I actually like an electric drill best, because it never runs out of juice, but I’m not always near an outlet.
Cathi, I should have asked a week ago, but what do you do? I love when women use power tools not least because it is a fun idea to explore with my six-year-old daughter.
One of my favorite tools lately is DropBox. I used to carry a flash drive everywhere, but DropBox makes it easy to keep essential files in the cloud so I can access them at work or at home easily. (Wow, that sounds like an ad, but I really mean it!)
My other favorite tool is a notebook. So many practical uses and creative possibilities!
other than the tools of my trade (crochet hooks, yarn, needles & thread – all of which can be picked up for a song almost anywhere) my by far most valued tool is actually my Mac. I use it for inspiration, communication, storing or manipulating images, writing & printing copy & projects, marketing… the list goes on. This is quite a revelation for a once complete technophobe and has provided immense growth in me as a creator
What made you choose Mac over PC? I’ve always used a PC, but keep eying Macs. I wish there was a trial program. I’m quickly approaching the time when I can buy a new (and my second ever) laptop, but I’m not sure I want to make the leap, especially since my tech support (read: husband) is more familiar with a PC. Now that I think about it, I’m not even sure we can support both types on our network. Aaaack!
So, to repeat the actual question(s). Have you always been a Mac and why did you select the one you currently use?
How funny, I just did a journal page on this very thing on March 7th. http://www.greenislescrafts.com/2011/03/five-tools-i-cant-live-without.html
I did limit my list to five tools!
I also did a test and review of dip pen inks since that’s one of my tools and a lady asked why her ink was running in ways she didn’t want it to.
http://www.greenislescrafts.com/2011/03/acrylic-ink-water-resistance-test.html
Tee
Tee,
I love your journal page! Do you think I can use it in a future post? The colors are just so yummy.
The merry-go-round blogging group, whose members blog on a common subject on the last Friday of the month, did a post about five (or ten) tools we can’t live without on February 28.
Here’s mine, with links to the others:
http://blueterracotta.com/handmade/ten-tools-i-cant-live-without/
It’s great to discover what tools are essential to artists working in different media!
This is so great. Thanks so much for sharing!
xoxo
Janee
yellowbirdyellowbeard.blogspot.com
Hi Again! I referenced your images in my “inspiring images” post today! Here is the link if you’d like to see
http://yellowbirdyellowbeard.blogspot.com/2011/03/good-haul.html
xoxo
Janee
Janee, Your inspiration photos are lovely! You have a great talent for arrangement. I’m Tooling Around had so many elements that appealed to you!