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How to Get Started in Scrapbooking

The first and probably most important step to scrapbooking is organization. From your photos to your supplies, you will be more successful if you know what you have and you are able to locate it when you need it.

Organize Your Photos

Gather your photos and put them in some sort of order. You can group them by topic, event, person, or even color scheme. Whatever works best for you. You may find that getting a small photo file will be helpful. With a photo file you can take your photos separated by category to your local craft or scrapbooking supply store and you will be able to purchase supplies and embellishments that will compliment your pictures and themes.

Gather Keepsakes

Don't forget when gathering your photos to put any other keepsakes that may go along with the theme. You may keep cards, a receipt for back to school supplies for your child's first day of school, a ticket stub from a concert, or a program from a play. Anything important to you and your memories can find a place in your scrapbook.

Stock Supplies

Once you have your photos organized, you will need a few basic supplies. One thing you must keep in mind is that any supplies you purchase should be acid-free. This will ensure that your picture quality stays intact for many years.

Some basic supplies you will need are adhesives, an album and a sharp, pointed, good quality pair of scissors. Purchase a pair of scissors for use exclusively with your scrapbooking. Using your scissors for other crafts or household projects can dull the blades and you will not get the quality cut that your memories deserve.

There are specialized supplies that you can use for any technique you can imagine. Some options for embellishments include stamping, embossing, paper punches and die-cuts, eyelets, and fibers. Keep your eyes peeled for interesting things everywhere you go. You can use sewing notions, glitter, ink, beads, charms and pretty much anything that is flat for a lay out.

To select an album you really only need your imagination. There are limitless album choices available in sizes ranging from pocket sized to 12 x 12 inches. The colors and styles are entirely up to you. You can spend as much or as little money as you like to get started.

Get Started

One of the simplest techniques is to choose complimentary papers and stickers to create your layouts. Sketch a rough idea of what you want your final page to look like and go by that. Doing a rough sketch and making note of the colors and embellishments that you may want to use can help prevent spending too much for things that you may not need at that particular time.

Find a Group

One thing that you may want to consider is to find a local scrapbook supply store in your town and ask about any classes or clubs that they offer. Many churches and community groups will have clubs that you can attend for free and you will be able to share supplies and tools. That is a great way to try new techniques before investing in the tools you need to purchase for your own supply stock. You may be surprised by the techniques and ideas that you can pick up from fellow scrapbookers.

The most important advice about scrapbooking is to have fun! If you love what you are doing, you will be successful. Just enjoy!

Learn more about this author, Kaarina St. John.
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