A: It depends a bit on what kind of techniques you want to do. Hot press watercolor paper is smooth so it's great for stamping, stenciling, and ink blending techniques. Cold press papers have a rough texture, which is great for granulating watercolors and watercolor powders. If you're able to find some samples of each type of paper and experiment, that's always best. With either paper type, a heavier weight (at least 140#) will give best results and resist warping. Also, don't expect the same results from cheap papers as you'll get from studio or artist grade papers - cheap paper tends to absorb water too quickly and can sometimes produce blotchy results. Quality paper really makes a difference!

A: i have a few different things I use. A non-stick mat is great as a palette as well as surface protector when painting, and my little pools of paint peel off easily when they dry. Ceramic tiles make nice palettes for paint or ink, and rinse off quickly. A styrofoam plate is a great disposable option. I keep a stack of acrylic blocks on my desk - I can tap an inkpad on a corner, or scribble a little ink with a marker to lift with a brush. One more unconventional palette on my desk - my son bought me a beautifully glazed mid-century modern ash tray! It's a really pretty piece and perfect for paint.

A: Get your baker's twine or embroidery floss ready, and head over to the Graduation Gift Box tutorial - there are photo instructions beginning at Step 8!

A: Those are handy! Check out THIS TUTORIAL for a corner jig that can be used with or without a stamp positioner.

A: I have used the red-handled Fiskars scissors for years - I actually have 3 pairs now! I recently broke a pair, and was thrilled to have them replaced very quickly by Fiskars, as all their products are guaranteed for life. My other favorites are the Tim Holtz mini snips from Tonic - they are nice for fussy cutting and small corner cuts.