Modern day scrapbooking is a hugely popular craft all over the world. It is the art of creating a book full of photographs, mementos and memories.
These days it is easy to find a good craft supplier who will stock all the basics for scrapbooking – either as an actual standing shop, or an online shop. Both will give you lots of information on scrapbooking – many small independent shops will be able to give you help and advice and many online shops have projects and examples for you to look at.
The range of scrapbooking products on the market is vast. Styles are always changing and new products are always being released. Because of this, the idea of wading into scrapbooking can seem daunting.
However, there are a few essential items that every scrapper needs, no matter the current styles:
- Scissors – A good sharp pair of scissors is an essential. Over time you will probably find that you will build up a selection of scissors for different jobs. For example, you may have one large pair for cutting paper and a small non-stick pair for small intricate detailing as cutting self-adhesive items.
- Paper trimmer – If you are planning on cutting any straight lines and wanting 90˚ angles then the easiest way to do this is using a paper trimmer or guillotine. Many of them also come with interchangeable blades that produce decorative lines when cutting.
- Craft knife – In the same way as a small pair of scissors, this is useful for cutting intricate detailing but you will also be surprised at how many other jobs they come in useful for.
- Cutting mat – When using a craft knife this will protect the surface you are working on. Many also have guidelines printed on them so you can cut papers and photographs down to standard sizes using standard angles. A self-healing cutting mat is always preferable as the rubber of the cutting mat pushes back into place always leaving you with a smooth surface.
- Adhesives – An absolute essential when buying any adhesives for use on your scrapbook is that they are all Acid Free and Lignin free. This will prevent the deterioration of your photograph. Most adhesives you will purchase in a craft shop will now be acid and lignin free but it is always best to check. There are many types of adhesives ranging from double sided tape to glue pens. It is always best to seek advice about which is the right glue to the type of product you will be sticking.
- Papers – This is where the choice gets varied. There are so many different papers with different styles and colours, it is all down to personal choice and what will work best with your photographs and your style. As with adhesives, make sure that all your papers and card and Acid and Lignin Free.
- Embellishments – This can range from purpose built toppers, stickers, brads and ribbons, to many items you will find in your home, such as buttons and memorabilia to accompany your photographs and memories. Again, make sure that these are all Acid and Lignin Free to prevent deterioration of your scrapbook.
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I just started scrapbooking recently. This one site is making a lot of money on giving out scrapbook ideas. The last time I did scrapbooking was in 2nd grade for arts & craft class.
-Kai Lo
Your list is a good one for scrapbooking basics, but I have seen people quickly fill a room with the next level of equipment and supplies: Decorative albums, photo printer, a Cricut cutting machine… it’s easy to go overboard.
Scrapbooking is a great activity for the whole family. Kids will love putting their own personal touches such as artwork, stickers, and favorite photos on scrapbook pages. Include everyone!
I have recently started the scrapbooking, your post is very nice it helped me alot. Thanks
My wife loves to scrapbook and she spends hours scrapbooking. This is a very informative article for the beginner scrapbooker. I showed up wife and she really enjoyed it.
Peoplel think of using card toppers exclusively for card making but as you have stated they are also perfect for scrap booking.
They can add an extra dimension to your scrap book page and when chosen carefully can compliment the other elements on the page.
I just love scrapbooking when I was a kid. but some how miss it during these phases of life. will sure start again after seeing this post. I used to have variety of shells as embellishments
When I first started Scrap booking I ended up buying a scrap booking for beginners kit online which was fantastic to get started. I can not believe how my scrap booking tool kit has grown. I now have a heap of templates from flowers, to numbers to different fonts. Hole punchers of different shapes and sizes, Knives which cut shapes my supplies are never ending. The creations I get out of these supplies I must say are outstanding, I have so many friends asking me to make scrapbooks for their children that I think I should start charging
. I however LOVE it and will always do it for fun. 
The first benefit that I have found with scrapbooking is that I get a great place to put my pictures in. Now I know that I can place the pictures in a photo album and still get the great benefits of having my pictures in the same place, but as I get older I know that I will forget some of the details of the pictures and being able to place them in a scrapbook will allow me to add in some details that I might have not remembered later on in life.
The craft or hobby of scrapbooking maintains links among the past, present and future. It is one of the fastest growing hobbies in the world. I had made one for my grandpa on his retirement experience. Retirement scrapbooking ideas provides you with a wonderful way to celebrate the culmination of a career, by giving you the ideas you need to prepare a unique gift that will be treasured for years.
I remember doing this a lot as a kid but it kinda died off when I got busy. I should pick it up again really
A good way to stay organized is to print off digital photos that you plan to scrapbook soon. I scrapbook with my sister once per week, so I keep about a six month supply of photos printed out to work with. When I’m through with those photos, I print off another six month supply of photos.
Scrap book making can also bring money for for you. A simple way to get profits from this scrapbooking is to personalize scrapbooks for others, whether instructors or clients. Some instructors may not have the luxury of time to make the scrapbooks, and may therefore fare well to hire another instructor to make it for her.
Great advice for the beginner scrapbooker, thanks
I enjoy scrapbooking, and I do have a lot of scrapbook tools. At times I think I may have too much, and have difficulty organizing some of my things.
With regards to anything that cuts, such as scissors or trimmers, ensure that they are constantly sharp, or you may end up tearing paper instead of of cutting. Also, when it comes to paper, variety is the key.