Hey guys! Here's a list of my favorite packing supplies (all supplies you can get on amazon, vetted by me!), plus some answers to your questions about all things packaging. :)
Where did you get your custom stamp made?
StampMeCo on Etsy! I got a 2.8 x 2.8" circle stamp - I use it for stamping paper bags and I looove it.
How do I move toward more eco friendly packaging?
I'm still working on this! trying to incorporate as little plastic as possible and sub in recyclable paper products (recycled/compostable kraft paper bags, washi tape, water-activated paper packing tape, kraft mailers) whenever possible. :) Unfortunately, I still haven't found a good alternative to plastic protective sleeves for prints or plastic bubble-lined mailers! If you've found something that works for you, please please share!!
How do I get started when packaging supplies are so expensive?
If you're on a tight budget, start with the bare minimum! All you need to start out is enough packaging to keep the products safe during transit and some simple branding. Thank you cards and business cards make packages cute and personal - and they're super cheap to print!
The protective materials you'll need will vary based on what you make - but if you're sending art prints, I would recommend buying plastic sleeves, rigid mailers, and backing to keep your prints safe in transit! For backing, you can cut pieces of chipboard, heavy kraft, mat material, or foam core down to size - this will keep your art prints from being bent or damaged! (So far with shipping stickers and cards, rigid mailers have been enough to keep them from getting bent - so you probably won't need any backing for those.)
Which paper bags do you use for cards & stickers?
These ones! I've used several different types of paper bags, but the most important thing to look for is no gusset. (The gusset is the fold-out base part at the bottom of the bag that makes it stand up when you puff up the bag.) I use these paper bags for greeting cards, stickers, and packaging inserts/freebies. They're made with 100% recycled paper, and they're reusable, recyclable, and compostable!
How do you weigh packages for the shipping process?
I use this small kitchen scale! Super lightweight, compact, and easy to use. Luckily, Etsy takes care of calculating shipping for you! All you have to do is weigh your packages in pounds/ounces, then enter the weight when you're purchasing shipping labels. :)