A beginner’s guide to scrapbooking
If you don’t have a stack of old photos piled high up in a closet that you haven’t glanced at in years, then you are a rare commodity. It’s safe to say that the majority of people have photos all over the house – including a large folder of happy snaps on your computer that just keeps increasing. Don’t let these photos disappear into the abyss. Instead commemorate and celebrate them by creating a scrapbook. It’s a fun and creative way to preserve cherished memories and a beautiful way to show off all your important moments with family and friends. Scrapbooking may look like a big task but it doesn’t have to be. Just read our handy hints to get you started.
Make copies
Don’t use original photos especially if they are precious and one-of-a-kind like your wedding photos. Make copies to use for scrapbooking and store the originals safely away.
Cutting pictures
Cutting your pictures in shapes like hearts or the person’s silhouette is a novelty that may wear off. Trimming photos is a good idea but keep them to classic shapes.
Write notes
Journaling is what makes scrapbooking so special. Write about what is happening in the photos including names, location and dates but be sure to chronicle the funny, sad or inspiring tales you want to remember. Handwriting it gives it a personal touch.
Plan, plan, plan
Decide what photos you are going to use and where (not just on the page but in the scrapbook) before gluing anything down. Playing around with layouts, text and embellishments will spark the creative juices.
Keep it simple
When you first start scrapbooking, there is a tendency to think more is better. But overloading with pictures, embellishments and text can be overwhelming for the reader. Remember you don’t haveto use all the stickers on a sheet!
Use embellishments
The previous point wasn’t to say you shouldn’t use embellishments at all. Little add-ons like ribbons, accents, patterned paper, sequins and a whole host of stuff can transform pages into a unique and personal works of arts.
Acid-free and lignin-free
It is crucial that you ensure all your tools for scrapbooking are acid-free and lignin-free otherwise your photos will deteriorate and damage. Check especially for papers, pens and adhesives.
Choose a theme
Having a theme to concentrate on such as an event, era or celebration will give your scrapbook focus and make the task easier.
Have fun
This is the most important tip of all! Scrapbooking is meant to be fun so don’t get bogged down in thinking you have to create a masterpiece. It your scrapbook and your family and friends will love you just for taking the time to preserve previous photos and cherished memories.