by S B BLACK

Created on: June 12, 2009   Last Updated: June 15, 2009

If you are just getting into scrapbooking, the first trip to the hobby store can be very overwhelming. As you walk through the scrapbooking aisles, your first thought is to turn around and walk out the door. There are so many different tools, totes, paper and embellishments that a beginner has trouble knowing where to start. Let's just start with the essentials.

The first thing you will need is a scrapbook. There are different sizes and designs to choose from. The most popular books right now are the 12x12 inch post-bound books. There are also 8x8 inch books of this style. The post-bound books allow you to add, remove and rearrange your pages even after you think you have them finished. They come in a variety of colors, some with designs if you happen to be working on a certain theme like sports.

The second thing you will start looking at is paper. It is easy to get lost in the paper aisle. Paper usually comes in 12x12 inch, 8x8 inch and 81/2x11 inch pages. Scrapbooking paper comes in every color and design you could ever want. The hardest part about buying paper for a scrapbook is knowing when to stop. There are also small packages of scrap paper in different colors and books of mat pages for photo matting.

Now that you have a book and paper picked out it is time to start with a few tools. The best thing is to start with the basics and add to them as you go. Pick out a good pair of scissors, a ruler and a 12-inch straight trimmer. With these tools to start out you can cut any size piece of paper or photo. You should also look for some good markers and pens for journaling on the pages in your book.

There are several different types of adhesives that can be used in your scrapbook. You should pick the type that you are most comfortable using. There are tape runners. These have several feet of double-sided tape divided into very small pieces. You simply run it along the back of your photo or paper until you have enough to hold it down. This comes in handy on larger photos or paper. Photo squares are small squares of double sided tape that work well for smaller photos. You just stick each square onto the back of your photo. Glue pens work very well on small letters and embellishments. Once you get the glue started you just rub it onto the back of your embellishment like you are writing with a pen.

Now you can pick out some stickers and embellishments. It is very easy to go overboard on these because there are so many options out there. There are stickers and embellishments for every occasion. Always keep in mind the theme of your scrapbook and try to only buy what you need at the time. You can always add to them later.

When getting started in scrapbooking, it is best to start with just the essentials. This allows you to learn the basics before becoming overwhelmed by all the tools available. Once you become familiar with your tools and how to use them, you can start your wish list.

Learn more about this author, S B BLACK.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.