How to Make a Scrapbook Album

Scrapbooking goes beyond the basic photo album. Pictures are displayed on attractive, usually theme-appropriate, pages that are works of art themselves. Any photo album will do for a scrapbook, but making your own adds a creative handmade touch. A visit to a scrapbooking or craft store will supply you with most if not all the tools necessary to make your own scrapbook album. Make sure to use only acid-free papers in your album so the pictures do not become damaged over time.

Things You'll Need

• Heavy paper
• Card stock
• Cardboard
• Paper cutter
• Ruler
• Glue
• Decorative paper
• Binder clips
• Drill
• Scissors
• Ribbon

Instructions

1. Make a stack of 10 to 15 sheets of heavy acid-free paper. Use any size paper desired, as long as all the sheets are the same size.

2. Cut 1-inch wide strips from heavy cardstock that are the same length as the side of your paper. Use a paper cutter to ensure straight cuts.

3. Slide a strip between each piece of paper in your stack. Make sure all the edges of the paper and strips are flush on the side you will be binding.

4. Cut out two pieces of cardboard ¼ inch larger width and lengthwise than the paper sheets. Purchase chipboard from a bookstore or use cardboard from a pizza box or similar.

5. Lay a sheet of decorative paper on your work surface, back side facing up. Center your cardboard on the paper.

6. Fold the edges of the paper over the cardboard, similar to wrapping a present. Glue the edges down on the cardboard.

7. Cut a piece of decorative paper 1 inch smaller on each side than the cardboard. Glue it over the section of the cardboard that is still visible.

8. Place the stack of paper between the two cardboard covers. Tap the edge you will be binding on your work surface to line up covers, paper and strips. Secure the stack with a binder clip on the top and bottom of the album.

9. Measure and make three equidistant marks along the spine of the book, ¾ inch from the side. Drill holes through the stack using a ¼ inch bit at each mark.

10. Cut three 4-inch long lengths of ribbon. Pass a length through each drilled hole and tie tightly in a pretty bow with a double knot.

11. Remove the binder clips. Place your photos or other items in the album using double-sided tape or adhesive photo corners.

Tips & Warnings

• Wrap the covers in fabric instead of paper. Personalize the front of the scrapbook with stickers and other scrapbooking elements.

• Wear safety goggles and follow all proper safety precautions when using a power drill.

References

• Alternative Photography