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Scrapbooking is creative hobby that lets people express their creativity while preserving treasured memories. Scrapbooking is one of the hottest hobbies in America today. There are many magazines, workshops, stores, products and conventions available for scrapbookers of every level. But if you are new to scrapbooking, just getting started can seem daunting. There are so many products and publications out there clamoring for your business. Do you need that speciality tool? Should you buy paper by the sheet or in value packs? Here are a few suggestions for the new scrapbooker to get started without feeling overwhelmed.

If you are just getting started with scrapbooking, the most important things you need are a few basic tools. Before you buy any paper or embellishments, you should have a paper trimmer that is large enough for 12" sheets of paper, adhesive (a tape runner is a good choice for beginners), a small pair of scissors, and a hole punch. These four tools can carry you a long way in your scrapbooking efforts, and you can decide as you go if you need other tools.

You may be tempted to run to your local scrapbooking or craft store and purchase a cart full of supplies. Restrain yourself! Until you get into the habit of scrapbooking regularly, and get a feel for your scrapbooking style and interest, it's in your best interest to buy supplies on a project-by-project basis so you do not end up with baskets of supplies that you never use.

To get started, select a specific project. This could be a single layout, or an album theme, or a mini-book topic. Once you are focused on a single project, select the photo or photos you want to use for that project. Take the photos with you when you go shopping, and pick out some paper and a few embellishments that coordinate with your photos. Don't go overboard here, you can always come back if you need more products.

Having a dedicated place to scrap is certainly a benefit, but not everyone has that option. You may want to purchase a container to store your supplies in when you are not working on your projects. Some people use a rolling card that can be brought to crops. Others use drawer systems or bookshelves to store their materials. The selection of storage equipment can often be as intimidating as the selection of scrapbooking products themselves, so take it easy and decide what option is best for you in your current situation.

Scrapbooking is a fabulous creative outlet that results in albums and other projects that your family will cherish. It is so rewarding to see your kids or grandkids flipping through your albums and reading all about the past. Getting started can seem difficult, but it is easy if you take it slow.

Learn more about this author, Susan Kristoff.
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