STAMP WITH SHEL

Scrapbooking Basics

Sometimes we forget, that there are beginning scrappers out there who are looking for guidance.  This blog post is dedicated to the beginners.

Who Scrapbooks?

All ages, men and women and children

What do I Scrapbook About?

1.  Important events
2.  Vacations
3.  Heritage
4.  Family events and occasions
5.  Everyday life….remember it is the simple moments that bring warm memories.

Where do I Scrapbook?

 Space where supplies can be kept in one area, such as abox stored under bed or on shelf.  Remember that you must have enough room to have supplies at hand.  If you do not have a dedicated craft space, you can set up a card table in a corner. Remember, you must have good lighting. 

Why do I Scrapbook?

1.    To save memories and family history

2.    It is a great stress reliever.

3.    Because it is FUN!

When do I Scrapbook?

Whenever you have time for yourself.  Try to set aside at least an hour a week of uninterrupted time.

Tips:

1.  Keep a 3 ring notebook to keep ideas in.  You can insert page protectors to slip in letters, mementos, ticket stubs etc that may be added to pages.  Add stories and events and ideas for future use on pages.  Keep maps and postcards from vacations to use as embellishments.

2.  When putting a page together, put your pictures on the page and your journaling.
The final step is to embellish it.

3.  Get organized before putting the pages together and your job will be more fun and relaxing. Start with a clean work space and have readily available all the tools / products you are going to be using.

4.  After you have pictures developed make certain that you use an acid free pen and write dates, people, etc. briefly so you do not forget important info. Then you can file them away for future scrapbook pages.

5.  My number one tip is to invest in a scrapbook album that has RINGS not posts.  It is so easy to rearrange pages, insert more page protectors if you choose a ringed album.

7.  I suggest you use Tombow adhesive for scrapbooking….it is permanent and you NEVER have to worry about the pages or embellishments falling off. Now you may need sticky strip or glue dots for heavy embellishments as well.

8.  Start simple with a loose leaf notebook, cardstock, dsp,  journaling pen, album and page protectors.. Gather your photos and start organizing them into groups that you would like to make pages for.

If you are new to scrapbooking, and feeling overwhelmed, feel free to contact me with any questions you may have.   Also, I offer scrapbooking classes once a month. This is a fun night out with the girls where we create three pages using a variety of tools, techniques and embellishments.  Check out my class schedule the the top of this blog post under the "Classes and Events" tab. 

Happy Scrappin!