Do you want to start a scrapbook? If this will be your first time doing so, you may be wondering what you need to do to get started. Luckily, scrapbooking is not only a fun hobby, but an easy one.
The first step is to decide what you want to scrapbook. Is there are particular theme you want to focus on, such as your child’s first year? Is the scrapbook a gift for someone, such as an anniversary gift for your parents?
Next, organize your pictures and other mementos. Speaking of which, you can use much more than photographs. For a baby’s first year, you could have a sonogram picture or a lock of hair from your child’s first haircut. If making an anniversary scrapbook for your parents, find and scan a newspaper clipping of their wedding announcement.
As for why you should first decide on a scrapbook theme and organize your photographs, it gives you a great starting point to build off of. For example, you will need to purchase scrapbooking supplies. Did you know that you can purchase themed beginner kits? They not only have what you need to start a scrapbook, but they have themed stickers and background pages. If you decided to focus on your child’s first year, you know to purchase a new baby scrapbooking starter kit.
As previously stated, you can purchase scrapbook starter kits. If you don’t want to, you need a blank scrapbook. Many choose those with blank covers too, as it allows for added personalization. The other supplies that you need will or may include background pages, cardstocks, stickers, markers, scissors, and glue. With markers and glue, be sure to purchase acid-free, so they will not damage your pictures.
As for the act of scrapbooking, you may want to do a practice page first. If you are concerned with your performance or don’t want to waste pictures, use magazine clippings instead. Experiment with word placement, picture placement and borders.
Speaking of a border, that is how you want to get your scrapbook page started. An alternative to a border is to use a themed sheet of paper. For example, for a newborn child you can use a background page that is filled with ducks or bath bubbles. Glue this sheet to your scrapbook page.
The next step is to add your photograph. You can glue your picture directly on the background page. If you wish, add a cutout border to the picture. You also have the option of taking a thick colored piece of cardstock or even a simple piece of construction paper. Cut it a little bit larger than your picture. Glue the two together and this creates a background. Then, glue to the scrapbook.
Words, messages, and quotes are not required in a scrapbook, but they do add to the personalization. You can keep it simple and just describe the page. In keeping with a newborn baby, you can write “Sarah’s First Bath,” at the top of the page. If you have poor handwriting, you can purchase letter stickers to create your own saying. In fact, you can purchase quote stickers at most craft stores. There is also the option of using Microsoft Word to print a quote or saying. That can be cut and glued onto your scrapbook page.
At this point, the main gist of your scrapbook will be finished, but you don’t have to stop there. You can add what are known as accessories or embellishments. They include stickers, ribbons, dried flowers, popups, and much more. For the best quality scrapbook page, stick with your theme. For example, if creating an anniversary scrapbook for your parents, have a 3-D sticker of a bride and groom on the page outlining their wedding ceremony.
Once you have finished adding optional extras to your scrapbook page, you are done. If using a loose-leaf scrapbook, as opposed to a binding one, consider page protectors. They will help to preserve both the appearance and quality of your work.
