Calling all card-makers - how to get started

[prufrock]

My mother is terrible to buy presents for, but has recntly got herself a card making kit and has professed to enjoy making her own cards. So I thought I could get her a selection of "stuff" to do so as her Xmas present.
But I'm gazing at the latest Lakeland Crafts catalogue in bewilderment- there's so much choice. Any tips on the basic kit to allow her to enjoy making cards? I'm looking at spending about £50

how about a heat gun (for embossing) and some embossing powder? Also some rubber stamps and ink pads. Also you could get some card or handmade paper. Punches are nice too!! You could round of your "kit" with some embellishments (things you add to card, eg stickers, flowers, buttons etc)

there are some lovely starter kits in the Anita's range that include all many of the things that Champs mentioned. i'll see if i can find a link

here is one of them . i have ordered from this company before and they were very good.

another, more expensive

and more

are you near a HObbycraft, they are really good for kits.

if i were you i'd but a couple of different ones as some techniques may appeal more than others.

i also have a metal embossing kit but can't seem to find it on the internet

i've found it

If you're near anywhere that sells Do-crafts stuff, they're doing boxes of card making stuff starting from £39.99. They have stamps and ink and all sorts of gubbins in them. There's one for just under £50 that has a heat gun for heat embossing. Try the Do-crafts website and you should be able to find a supplier near you.

oh yea, some peel offs would be good too.