How to Choose Basic Scrapbook Supplies
So, you've finally decided to do something with all those photos you have sitting in a box? A scrapbook is the best place to store, organize, and save your photos. But it is very important to use acid-free materials and some common sense when you begin the scrapbook adventure. There are TONS of supplies, and you can spend a life's fortune on scrapbook supplies if you are not careful. Read on to see what you need, and how to choose materials.
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Things You'll Need
- a budget
- a scrapbook and blank pages
- acid-free paper
- acid-free markers
- acid-free tape or adhesive
- acid-free stickers
- scissors
- ruler
- pencil
Instructions
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How to Choose Basic Scrapbook Supplies
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Decide on a budget. If you are brand new and have no supplies, a good place to start is $75-$100. If you have a lower budget, you can buy fewer markers or stickers, and decorate your pages with your own artwork instead of using stickers.
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Buy a scrapbook. Go to any craft store, and you will see several different kinds and sizes of albums. Look to see if the scrapbook is acid-free. This is very important to make sure your photos will last a lifetime. Check to see if you can purchase refill pages. Then if you need more blank pages (in addition to those with the original scrapbook), you will be able to easily purchase them and expand your album.
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Purchase scissors, a ruler, a pencil, and acid-free adhesive unless you already have these supplies at home. Many craft stores have special double-sided tape for scrapbooks. It usually comes in an easy dispensable roll and is already divided into small, square tabs. You can find this tape in the scrapbook supplies aisle. It is a good idea to also buy an acid-free glue stick in case you need to secure small pieces (such as letters or clip art) in your scrapbook, but this is not a necessary supply to begin your project.
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Pick out fun supplies next, such as paper, stickers, and markers. Again, it is very important to buy acid-free supplies. Before you buy any of these items, make a rough plan for your book. Will you need paper and stickers for holiday pages? Are most of your pictures taking place outside or during the winter? Think about your photos before you make your purchases, and then you can choose paper and stickers to go with the subjects of your photos. As for markers, start with basic colors, and then you can add more. Black, navy blue, and silver markers are good basic colors for beginners.
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Tips & Warnings
Start with a smaller size scrapbook such as pages that are 81/2 by 11 inches or 8 by 8 inches instead of the large ones. It is easier to fill the pages and test what supplies you might need with a smaller album.
Cheaper is not always better when it comes to scrapbook supplies. You have to read the labels, and make sure your photos will be protected for a lifetime!
Resources
- Photo Credit scrapbook photo by G&A Sattler on www.flickr.com
