by Pamela Kay

Created on: June 18, 2009   Last Updated: June 28, 2009

A scrapbooking crop is a fun, relaxed craft gatherings where you meet other scrapbook enthusiast and learn about the latest techniques and gadgets. It can be a small informal group of friends or on a larger scale with invitees from all over the country. Planning the scrapbook crop is much like planning any gathering. Here's how to set up a scrapbooking crop that will be a huge success.

*Start With A Plan And Program

Use a notebook to create a plan for the crop. Have sections for cost analysis, guest names, phone numbers, games and prizes, hourly agenda, refreshments, rentals, special speakers and so on. Using this as you plan the crop will help you keep things moving in the right direction as the crop begins.

Once everything is set up, create a program for each guest and present it to them as they arrive. The program should include a welcome, planned times for speakers, working, games, swapping, refreshments and any contests. Be sure you leave plenty of time for socializing as well as sharing ideas.

*How Many-Where-When

You can host a crop at your home with a few friends or invite a crowd; it all depends on how much room you have and what your budget allows. For a few friends, a family room is usually large enough to set up one card table per person and refreshments can be served in the kitchen.

For a larger event you can always use a church hall, recreation facility or rent a banquet hall at a local hotel. However, the latter will run up your cost unless you plan to charge a fee which is usual and also helps defray the cost of the speaker.

Choose your date carefully and take into consideration holidays, vacation time and work schedules. With plenty of notice, weekends usually work out well.

*Invitations

Create a scrapbook style invitation with all the pertinent information such as the date, time, place, guest speakers, demonstrations and a brief suggestion that each person decide ahead of time what they will work on. A map of the area is a good idea for out of towners and any discounts you have arranged for local accommodations.

*The Speaker

A well known scrapbooking expert is a great draw for a crop. If they have authored a book, it is normal for them to sell them at the crop as well as any tools or materials they have created. Giving a demonstration should be a large part of the allotted time so the guests can see as well as hear about the latest products and techniques.

*Refreshments/Lunch

You can adjourn the meeting for lunch if you so choose

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