Basic Materials for Scrapbooking
Through the years, more and more styles and themes have emerged when it comes to scrapbooking.
Since the craft doesn't require formality, anything goes as long as the person enjoys the outcome of the product.
Before you start on your new scrapbook, you should have a basic set of materials.
Here's a list of "must-haves" for any scrapbooking project:
- Album: The first thing you need to consider is a place for your photos and embellishments and
that's usually an album. You'll need first to decide what size of album you want as this will
determine the quantity of materials you require for the project.
The usual size of albums most scrapbookers use is 12" x 12", but it is up to you how big or small you want
your scrapbook to be. Aside from the size of the album, you will also need to consider the color
you prefer and the pattern that will work for the theme of your chosen album.
- Refill pages: Since it's not possible when starting your project to know exaclty how many pages you'll
need for your album, it's wise to have refill pages of your chosen album available.
Consider buying a couple of refill packs when you select your album to ensure you get matching quality and materials.
You don't want to go back to the store at a later date and find the available refill packs don't match your album.
- Sharp Scissors: Scrapbooking requires a lot of cutting so it's hightly recommended that you purchase a pair of
good quality scissors that will stay sharp. Look for scissors that have very fine tips and that, for your hand size,
are comfortable to hold and use. Fine scissors might be a little more expensive compared to the ordinary pairs,
but the cost will be worth it in the long run.
- Paper cutters and cutting boards: Not all cutting can be done with scissors. There will be occasions
when you need a paper cutter or knife to get the result you want. When using a cutter, make sure you place the
paper on a cutting board to avoid cutting papers or photos underneath or worse,
leaving cut lines on the surface of a table.
In addition to offering protection and a firm surface, cutting boards also have guide lines that will
help you cut paper in straight lines. Most cutting boards also have rule measurements that will help you
when you need to cut paper to specific sizes.
- Adhesives: In the market today, there are many kinds of adhesive that come in different sizes and containers.
For archival purposes and to protect your photographs, it's best if you use an acid-free adhesive
that is designed for using with cardstock and photos.
- A variety of cardstock and speciality papers: Just like in choosing your scrapbook album, you need to
select papers that will work well with the colors and the theme you have chosen. Consider choosing
colored and patterned papers and cardstock that accent and highlight your photos.
(Tip: Try to buy papers and cardstocks at scrapbook stores that sell individual sheets as well as bundles, so you
can purchase according to your needs.)
- Several journal pens: It is best to use acid-free, permanent, pens that have fine tips for
handwriting, especially if you are doing magazine scrapbooking. You can of course buy pens that have different size tips.
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