What supplies do I need to get started scrapbooking?

 

When you type the word "scrapbooking" in a search engine, there are literally thousands of search results that will pop up, and that is because it's a very popular hobby.  A beginner looking for materials may have a hard time searching through the websites for possible tips on how to start creating a scrapbook.  Fortunately, we have made a list of some of the most important items to get you started off right. They are listed below:

1. Album
The album pages should be acid-free, PVC-free (polyvinyl chloride-free) and photo-safe.  There are several types of albums.

The first one is the binder-type album which is a three-ring binder similar to a generic three-ring school binder. This type of album is expandable, so it will be easier to add more scrapbook pages as they are created.  It is also convenient because pages can be moved without damaging the entire album or scrapbook page.

The second type is the post-bound album.  A post-bound album has sheet protectors which you can take apart because they are bound by metal tubes.

The third type is the strap-hinge album. This type is also expandable but it only goes to certain extent.  The album has plastic pockets to protect the pages, and is bound by wire loops.

Whatever you do, do not use a magnetic photo album! Pictures and papers become stuck to the backing and tear when you try to remove them.

2. Mounting Pages
Mounting pages are available in various designs and colors. Again, since mounting pages serve as a photograph's support, it is important to make sure that they are acid-free, PVC-safe and photo-safe.  Mounting pages usually come in two sizes, 8 1/2 X 11 and 12 X 12.

3. Mounting Supplies
You can use glue, phototape, or mounting corners to post photos. They need to be labelled "photo-safe" or "archival" so they won't damage photos. Supplies for scrapbooking should also say  "acid-free". These supplies prevent your photos and other works of art from fading and yellowing.

To mount newspaper clippings or brochures, you need to use an Archival or deacidification spray first prior to placing in your scrapbook. Coat item both front and back before including it in your scrapbook.

4. Cutting Tools
Scissors are sold in many arts and craft stores, but there are special scrapbooking scissors you can purchase.  Popular cutting tools used in scrapbooking are circle and oval cutters, paper trimmers to trim photos or to cut small decorations, and scrapbooking punches, available in various designs. Paper trimmers are wonderful for getting those nice straight edges on your papers.

Other than the materials and tools mentioned, you can use other materials like stickers, cloth, dried flowers, leaves, twigs, or even rocks to create a unique scrapbook. Natural elements add a wonderful touch to your scrapbook.

It's so easy to become overwhelmed with the huge selection of scrapbooking products available today, but take time to look around your house for things that you already have. Buttons, staples, bottle caps, ribbons, paper clips, scraps of fabric, dried flowers, and so many other items like these will make your scrapbooks have a wonderful, whimsical and personal touch!

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