Scrapbooking is not only a fun hobby but it also provides you with a way to showcase your artistic side and express your creativity. Once you are done creating an album, you have a beautiful keepsake filled with cherished memories that can be handed down through the generations.
If you are ready to get started with this hobby, there are some essential scrapbook tools that you should purchase. Having the right tools and supplies on hand will make a big difference in the overall success of your first project. It can also affect how you perceive scrapbooking since it is a lot easier and a lot more fun when you are working with the correct supplies.
Here are some of the primary tools and supplies that you should consider buying:
1. An album. Having a safe, secure place where you can store your completed scrapbooking layouts is essential. Putting them all together in an album is the best option since it not only protects them but also makes them easy to look at or to share with others. There are a number of different types of albums available. When you are just starting out, it is usually best to go with an album in a standard size such as 8.5″ x 11″. That will make it easier to find pages that fit inside. Three-ring albums are great for beginners since they make it extremely easy to add and remove pages.
2. Refill pages. When you buy your album, be sure to buy quite a few extra refill pages. That way, you don’t have to worry about trying to find pages that fit at a later date if you decide that you want to add more pages.
3. Cardstock and decorative paper. The heavy-duty nature of cardstock makes it ideal for creating bases for your layouts. It also has a consistent color all the way through the paper, meaning that you don’t have to worry about white edges showing up if it is cut or torn. Consider picking up a multipack of cardstock in a variety of different colors so you have a lot of options to choose from. You should also buy decorative paper that fits with the theme or color scheme that you are planning on using in your layouts.
4. Acid-free adhesive. Look for an adhesive that is designed to work on paper and photos. Ideally, it should be specifically formulated for scrapbooking.
5. Scissors and other cutting tools. At the very least, you need a sharp pair of scissors. Make sure that they are comfortable to hold and that they leave a crisp edge on the paper. If you have room in your budget, you should also consider picking up a paper trimmer since they are extremely handy for making precise cuts.
6. Acid-free pens or markers. If you are planning on adding handwritten words to your layouts, make sure that you use pens or markers that are acid-free.
Once you have all of these scrapbook tools, you are ready to get started. The only other items that you need are some beautiful photos to add to your layouts.