In this article, learn about the beginning and advanced products and tools that you can use to create beautiful scrapbook pages.
Blank Scrapbook
First, of course, you will need a blank scrapbook. Some people prefer photo albums with removable pages, and others like to work in hard-bound blank books or journals.
Scissors
A good pair of scissors is vital. It is easier to cut out fine details with small scissors, so start with a pair of these, and add other scissors to your collection as you go. You might also like some of the specialty scissors on the market, like those that cut pinked or wavy edges.
Glue
Glue sticks and school glue work well for most of your scrapbooking needs. You also might try special paper glue; it dries quickly and doesn't leave visible residue on the page. In addition, for attaching buttons and other odds and ends, you will need a low-temp hot glue gun, rubber cement, or an all-purpose, heavy duty craft glue like Wellbond.
Paper
You will use paper to create backgrounds, borders, and other decorative touches. Collect at least some of the following: construction paper, wrapping paper, patterned paper, textured paper, and decoupage paper with images.
Markers and Pencils
Fine-tipped felt markers are perfect for lettering, adding details, or drawing designs. Have pencils and a good eraser on hand to sketch out your lettering or drawings first.
Ruler
A ruler is important both for measuring and for using as an edge to draw straight lines.
Hole Punchers
At your local craft store, you can find hole punchers in an array of shapes beyond the basic circle, such as hearts, stars, and four-leaf clovers. You can use these to punch designs into borders or to punch out shapes. They're usually no more than a dollar or two, so add a couple to your scrapbooking tool kit.
Glitter
Glitter adds sparkle to your pages, and it's cheap, so you can easily afford to have a variety of colors in your collection. Draw designs or letters with glue then pour on the glitter, or, for an allover effect, rub a glue stick on the entire page, then sprinkle a light coat of fine glitter.
Odds and Ends
Odds and ends, such as trinkets and trims, turn your scrapbook into a three-dimensional display. Here are some suggestions to stir your creativity:
-Buttons
-Small wooden shapes
-Beads
-Sequins and rhinestones
-Ribbons and lace
-Fabric scraps
-Stickers
-Die-cut shapes
-Craft wire
-Miniatures
-Natural objects like flowers, shells, twigs, and leaves
Your Photos and Mementoes
Some people choose to put only photos in their scrapbooks, and others like to include mementoes from vacations and important events (like invitations, postcards, or ticket stubs). Place a box in an accessible drawer or cabinet, and toss in items that you might want to add to your scrapbook when you have time. Let your family know that the box is there, and soon, you'll have quite a collection of memorabilia.
Storage System
When you've collected all of these materials, you will need some way to organize all of them! If you have the room to set up a scrapbooking station, then standard office organizers will help you keep your materials in order. Small, stackable plastic drawers work well for ribbons, trims, and other small odds and ends, and file trays can help you sort your papers. Use cups, trays, tins, and shoeboxes to separate your pens, markers, scissors, glue supplies, and other tools.
If, however, you don't have much space, then you might want to get one large plastic box with a lid to store all of your materials. You can use smaller boxes for small tools, a divided craft box for small odds and ends, and gallon freezer bags for paper clippings and trims. In addition, an artist's portfolio, with lots of pockets and folders, makes a great portable storage system.
Advanced Supplies
The supplies discussed so far give you plenty of options for scrapbook layouts. As you learn more about scrapbooking, however, you might want to try your hand at stenciling, stamping, or etching. In addition, some scrapbooking fans purchase their own die-cutting machines or paper cutters to be able to create professional results. To learn more about these techniques and how you can apply them to the art of scrapbooking, check out books from the library, search online for information, or sign up for a class at your local craft store.
