by Rebecca Young

Created on: May 24, 2009

Scrapbooking for beginners 10 tips for success

So you've decided to make a scrapbook but have no idea where to begin.... I have the 10 tips that will have you creating beautiful family heirlooms in no time.

Creating a scrapbook for a novice can be an overwhelming task. What supplies will you need? Where do you buy them? What kind of products should you be buying and how much are they going to cost? These are all very important questions to consider before you begin.

Tip 1 Don't break the bank: Where you buy your scrapbook supplies can depend heavily on how devoted you are to taking this craft up. For a beginner my tip is to go to your nearest Wal-Mart and visit the craft section. You will find a great selection of scrapbook supplies, papers and tools that you can buy in packs that are reasonably priced. I still find myself at Wal-Mart buying a lot of my supplies and all of my albums; you just can't beat the price. You don't need to run out and pick up the newest Martha Stewart stamps right away, that can come with time. Buy the basics don't go overboard, just because it's in the scrapbooking aisle doesn't mean you have to buy it.

Tip 2 Take inventory at home: Before you go to the store to buy embellishments you may have some great stuff right under your nose. Look around your house for thread, ribbon, buttons, bottle caps, old silk flowers or even paint, these are all great ways to embellish your pages and add flare.

Tip 3 Read the label before you buy: This is a very important tip to ensure that your scrapbook is preserved for years to come. Some products that you buy can harm your pictures and over time can eat away at them. All papers, adhesives, pens or markers should be acid and lignin free to ensure your photographs are protected.

Tip 4 Buy the basics: The basics are all you will need for your first book and over time you can build your inventory. Paper is the main supply you will be buying and it comes in many different designs, colors and weights. You will need a selection of cardstock and lighter weight papers. If your not sure what designs or colors to choose from, take your photos with you to the store when selecting and then opt for colors that will compliment them. You will also need adhesives to help seal your pages and they also come in a variety of forms. If you are beginning I suggest buying a great acid free glue stick and a sealer like Mod Podge. Other supplies will be needed like an album, a good pair of scissors, pens

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