In some ways I much prefer going to a large office supply store for my craft supplies. There's something so appealing about the simplicity of these kinds of stores. All you'll find here is raw materials, nothing contrived or over-the-top craftsy. It's like getting back to basics. This is when true creativity happens. Unless you're especially craftsy, craft stores can be quite intimidating. It's easy to get lost and frustrated with the overwhelming selection. You almost need a personal guide to talk you through the store. And to top it all off, sometimes they don't even stock the basic supplies like tape, plain paper, regular pencils, markers, etc. Not so with an office supply store. They specialize in the basics, and that's why they are an important stop for anyone interested in simple (and not-so-simple) craft projects.

A cork square, a CD envelope, and a number stencil make up this adorable display.

The first place to look is in the printer paper aisle. I prefer colored printer paper over construction paper for all of my craft projects. (Construction paper gives me the willies, like nails on a chalkboard) The colors are great and don't fade. Also look for white and/or colored card stock, another paper product that I use quite often. Keep a good supply of paper and card stock handy for your projects and general arts and crafts.

This piece combines a small clipboard, a large letter stencil, a date stamp, and a few tags and stickers.

The next stop is the label and tag section. Here you'll find all sizes of tags starting with the teensy Jewelry Tag all the way up to the large Shipping Tags. Also look for the metal-rimmed circular Key Tags. Grab a few packages of Sticker Labels in a variety of shapes and colors. Kids love these stickers and will enjoy making cool pictures with them. I like to have Avery Shipping Label #8163 on hand for my booklet projects using the Large Shipping Tags. All of these stickers and labels will add a nice decorative touch to your paper projects.

The glue and stapler aisle has all of your basic supplies. You'll find Elmer's Glue by the gallon, Spray Adhesive, hole-punches, glue sticks, masking tape, large-capacity staplers, scissors, binder clips, and my favorite, the paper cutter!

Other things to look for as you wander around the store are cork squares, clip boards, letter stencils, label makers, ink pads, date stamps, CD envelopes, loose-leaf rings, and my favorite pen, Extra Fine Point Sharpies. Most stores have a respectable art supply aisle stocked with quality colored pencils, markers, and water color paper.

I made these easy recipe booklets with large shipping tags, Avery shipping labels (#8163), and a loose-leaf ring.

There is lots of inspiration in the aisles of these seemingly generic and utilitarian outlets. Go for a browse and see what inspires you!