So You Want to Start Scrapbooking?

The Basics For Beginners

For some people, including me, going into a scrapbooking store is overwhelming when you first start. There are so many different tools, stickers, papers etc. What do you start with?
I would recommend not starting in a scrapbooking store. Superstore, Zellers, and Walmart all have sections for scrapbooking. Sure their selection isn't as great, but they are often cheaper and will carry the basics that you will need to get started.

This is what you will need:

• Photos
• Album
  
• Paper
• Cutter
  
• Adhesives
• Pen

Albums come in different sizes and formats. My first and only scrapbook so far was 8 1/2" x 11", and I will probably never make one that size again. Most papers and kits come in 12" x 12", so I would recommend getting an album that size. It is also a good idea to get a post bound album, they have top loading page protectors, and are expandable, so you can add pages as you need to.

Paper is the base of all scrapbook layouts. For just starting out some 12" x 12" Cardstock in solid colors will do just fine. You can get packages that have a variety of colors.

Scissors and an X-acto Knife will be your best cutting tools to begin with. To cut straight lines I use a metal ruler and a cutting mat. Just line the ruler up on the paper where you want to cut, and then drag the X-acto knife along the edge of the ruler. Don't do this without something to cut on, or you will end up with nasty cuts on your desk or table top. To cut other shapes use scissors.

Adhesives put it all together. There are many different choices, its just a matter of personal preference. You can use, glue sticks, glue runner, or my personal favorite adhesive squares. Just make sure the adhesive you choose is acid free, so you don't ruin your photos.

A Pen is used to add journaling. Write what the picture is, what was going on when the picture was taken, or how you felt when it was taken.

With these items you can make basic layouts. Use your creativity and see what you come up with. The fancy tools, stickers, and papers come later. Have fun with it.