How to Make a Scrapbook; Beginner Scrapbooking; Steps to ScrapbookingIt is the fastest growing hobby, but many people are intimidated by how to make a scrapbook. "Where do I start?" "What do I need?" "Will it be expensive?" "Do I have the time?" "I'm not artistic." We all love to take photographs, but are your pictures stuck in a drawer or a box or still on your computer? Wouldn't it be nice to have them displayed in a beautiful book for your family and friends to enjoy?
How to Make a Scrapbook: The Basics
Learning how to make a scrapbook is easy. Happily, pages can be as simple or intricate as you like. They are as different as all the people you will meet, so you can't make a mistake! You can use a lot of fancy tools or just a few select supplies. Paper or computer? It's up to you. And once you begin it will get easier. I promise! My mother didn't "scrapbook" as people think of it now, but I am so grateful she spent the time to organize her pictures in photo books and indicate the who, what, when, and where of them. She's gone now, and what a wonderful gift she left to my family and future generations! I want to be sure I do the same.
How to Make a Scrapbook: Beginner Scrapbooking
Where do you start? How about with the latest pictures you developed? Make it easy on yourself and don't stress thinking you have to start from the beginning and work to the present in chronological order. That could be overwhelming! Start with now and work through your older photos as you have time. I often hear people say they'll never get caught up on their scrapbooking. Personally I love the process, losing myself in the journey. So don't feel that if you start it will be never-ending. Will I ever be "done"? Probably not, and that's okay with me. Are you ready to learn how to scrapbook? Come on, let's get started!
How to Make a Scrapbook: Steps to Scrapbooking
The steps to scrapbooking don't have to be complicated. Things can be overwhelming at first because there are so many choices out there, but remember K.I.S.S: Keep it Simple for Sanity! Unless you're going 100% digital, here are a few basic elements you will need to make a scrapbook: 1. Photos - most scrapbook pages include photos of some kind, although not necessarily... you can scrapbook your favorite poem, you can make a page of memorabilia from a trip, etc., but we're starting simply so we'll stick with the pictures for now. :-) If you haven't already, start gathering your photos all in one place and set up some sort of photo storage or filing system until you are ready to use them on your pages. 2. Albums - there are many ways to make your own unique albums, but remember that for now we are keeping it simple. Styles of albums range from ring albums to post-bound to strap-hinged and even handmade. The most popular sizes are 12 x 12 and 8 1/2 x 11, but you can find albums in larger and smaller sizes. Large albums are great for making heritage books, and smaller albums can be more event-specific themes, such as "Christmas 2009" or "Bob's Retirement Party." Don't feel you have to choose one and then you're stuck with it for life. I have a variety of styles and sizes of albums, and I love them all. So just pick one to start and let's go! 3. Page Protectors - these are what hold your pages in your album; most albums come with some included. They also protect your works of art from fingerprints, dust, and spilled drinks! 4. Paper Trimmer - there are many styles to choose from, but it's best to have one that can cut up to at least a 12 x 12 piece of paper or cardstock. 5. Scrapbook Paper - When you make a scrapbook you can go on overload looking at all the beautiful patterned papers and textured cardstocks there are available. You can find scrapbooking paper to match any theme! To keep your pages from looking too "busy" choose a few coordinating solid colors and one or more patterns that will coordinate with the theme of your photos to use as accents. To protect your photographs you will want to be sure the paper and cardstock is archival quality, meaning it is acid-free and lignin-free. 6. Adhesives - Again, there are many choices available. You can use photo mounts to mount your photos to your page, but most people use adhesive. Again, be sure it is safe to use for your photos. 7.
Journaling
- Journaling is the most important part of scrapbooking and it needs to be preserved. You will want to use a pen that is permanent so that it won't fade or bleed or run if it (gasp!) gets wet.
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