Scrapbooking is as varied a hobby as its enthusiasts. If you have an item that means something to you, it can most likely be included in a scrapbook. Even if your trinket or treasure is too bulky or oddly shaped to be placed in a scrapbook, you can most likely find a digital image or clipart from the web to replace it in your scrapbook.

There are numerous websites out there for scrapbooking, many of which have collections of clipart, digital images and fonts that can be downloaded or software programs for such that can be purchased to allow you more flexibility and creativity with your layouts.

When starting out, consider what you may want to include in your scrapbook. You may want to include memorabilia like the program from a play or ticket stubs from a movie, or the hospital bracelet from your child’s birth. Having an idea of what you want to include will make purchasing your initial supplies less costly and less confusing.

If you intend to preserve precious memories in the form of photos and memorabilia in your scrapbook you’ll want to start with supplies that will protect them. Choose supplies such as acid-free and lignin-free paper and acid-free or neutral-pH adhesives and permanent, fade-resistant inks and pens. Using these types of supplies will lessen the risk of deterioration.

Along with the acid-free adhesives and papers you may want to purchase an album or other type book to create your scrapbook in.

There are also decorative-edge scissors to cut your photos and paper, to add a little flair to them or to crop out unwanted areas. Other supplies you may be interested in are stickers, decorative rulers, templates, a paper trimmer, paper punches and rubber stamps, all of which can be fun and help you add pizzazz to your creations.

Most importantly, remember to just have fun. Feel free to be as creative and expressive as you wish. You’ll be creating something that you and your friends and family will enjoy for many years to come.