The latest example of my problem happened only this week. I had seen Crafter's Companion advertise their new die cutting machine around Christmas time and knew I had to have it. Not too much of a 'problem' you might say but I already have a perfectly working Ebosser. My sister (always more sensible with other people's spending than her own - sorry Kate) asked what it did differently to what I already had. erm.... It reverses!! was my only answer. Not quite the amazing breakthrough machine I had waxed lyrical about but to me that was all it needed to justify spending £170.
Now, I hear some of you say, that doesn't sound much like a hoarder to me. Surely this is just an update on a machine I use every time I craft. However, if I tell you it's my fifth die cutting machine (all of which are still in my craft room), despite the fact I've only been seriously crafting for about 4 years, then you might begin to see what I'm talking about. Again, of course, I can justify each and every one (and I DO intend to sell my Ebosser - yeah whatever) so to me it doesn't seem that bad.
But then it got me thinking about what other multiples I have. That's when I realised just how bad I am.
To name but a few of my items I have 6 trimmers, 7 scoreboards, 4 pokey tools, 6 bone folders, 100s of pens of all makes and 16 pairs of scissors!!! And that's just the basic tools of the trade. I dread to think how many 12x12 paper pads, card kits, punches, stamps and, most importantly, dies I own. I really think I have a problem. I'd like to say it's because I'm getting better products each time but that isn't necessarily the case. Often it's because I can't resist a bargain - a serious problem for an over stocked craft room. It's no surprise that a hobby that started with a carrier bag, a shoebox of embellishments and a 12x12 paper pad is now threatening to spill out of an entire bedroom.
Now I know I'm not alone and the crafters among you will think this is just normal but I'm beginning to think it might not be. When I won't fork out £30 on a new pair of work shoes because I can't justify the cost but I'll spend over £100 on a new die cutting machine (to be honest not only because of the pause and reverse thing but also because it looks so sleek and is purple!!) then I might have to re-evaluate my spending habits.
Ah who am I kidding? I nipped into the works earlier and spent £20 on 'bits and pieces' - more gems and tape and pencils and pretty things. Whilst my obsession continues then my hoard will increase.
