Scrapbooking Basics to Get You Started

by Sandie Rollins
(Philadelphia, PA)

It can be daunting when you first enter the scrapbooking aisle at your local craft store. There are racks and racks of supplies and you just don't know how to start. Here's a short list of the essentials needed to start showing off those memories of yours. Read through the list, print it out and bring it to the store with you. You'll be happy you did.

Scrapbooking Starter supplies:

1) The Album – Find the perfect size, and design that fits your style.

2) Additional pages for refills - It's best to pick up the refills now, so that later on when you are running out of pages, you don't have to hunt all over to find the exact style or manufacture. Sizes vary from one to the next.

3) Cardstock (decorative or patterned papers) – This is what you will need to accent the photographs you have. The come in all different colors and themes to match your pictures.

4) Scrapbooking Scissors - These should be easy to hold and comfy in your hand. Look for fine- tipped scissors made exclusively for scrapbooking and keep them with your supplies so that they don't get used for other things and become dull.

5) Tapes, Glues and Other Adhesives – This area can get kind of sticky. (Pun intended, sorry couldn't resist.) There are so many to choose from. Just remember –adhesives should be 1) acid-free and 2) work with cardstock and photos. Still confused? Just pick one that you feel comfortable with, if it doesn't work for you, try another.

6) Pens and Markers – With so many to choose from, you'll feel like a kid shopping for back to school supplies. Again, acid free is the key here. Picking fine tips is also important for writing captions and journaling in your scrapbook. Be creative and have fun with your favorite colors.