What Do I Need to Start Scrapbooking?
The best thing about scrapbooking is that although there are a plethora of
scrapbooking supplies available on the market, you really don't need a lot to
make your very first scrapbook. Basically, all you need to scrapbook is an
album, some glue, a pair of scissors, and some photographs or newspaper
clippings. Any fabric, ribbon, or bits of leftovers from other projects can be
used to embellish your scrapbook.
As you get more acquainted with scrapbooking, you will find products that
save you time and frustration. Many of these products are well worth the
extra cost. At the top of this list is an exacto knife. This strong and versatile
blade allows you to cut almost anything into any shape. When the blade is
dull, the end is simply broken off to reveal another sharp tip. Just be sure to
place the object you plan to cut onto a mat or wad or newspaper before using
the exacto knife. Otherwise, the knife will cut right through your picture and
into your scrapbook page or dining room table.
The next best tool is a pair of tweezers. Trying to pick up and place small
gluey pieces is a hassle. Tweezers, though not very high tech, allow you to
move pieces without touching them.
Speaking of gluey pieces, various glues and affixing options are available.
These quick and less messy options include glue dots, two-sided tape,
Xyron, acid free photo tabs, and polypropylene corners.
To increase the preservation of your scrapbook and your treasures, look for
albums with acid free, lignin free pages. Both acid and lignin accelerate
photo fading and general deterioration. Lignin is a chemical found naturally
in the cell walls of plants. If the lignin is not removed in the paper
manufacturing process, the chemical will cause the paper product to
gradually yellow and crumble. Lignin and acid free products come in
virtually any color and texture.