There are so many scrapbbooking theme and page choices that it can be challenging to decide which one to use for your scrapbook. It can be simplified when you think in terms of the goals of your current scrapbook project: Here are some ideas.

Celebrations. Every year we celebrate holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, and more, so this is an easy choice! Chronicle a year in your life. It can be even be scrapbooked in a calendar format
Everyday Events. You can scrapbook the events that happen every day, like a girls night out, the silly things your kids say or do, your kids lemonade stand or school events.
Family History. Create an scrapbook album about your family’s heritage, your early childhood years, or your special relatives and their contributions such as military duty.

Milestones. Did you recently get married, have your first baby, or retire? These provide more then enough material to put it into a scrapbook! In addition, graduation from high school or college are important milestones that have an abundance of memories worth recording and will be cherished for years to come.

Unusual Events. Did you take a recent vacation? Run a marathon, climb a mountain, or see your child perform in a school play or ride a bike for the first time. Collect pictures from those extraordinary events and make scrapbooks or scrapbook pages about them.

The memories and magic we feel on these important days are worth recording and preserving not only for your self but also for future generations.

Each scrapbook page communicates the story you wish to tell. There are five traditional page elements that will help you begin that first page. Here are some tips on what to build into the first page:
 
Photos. Pictures of family and friends, events or milestones will be are the focal point of most scrapbook pages. The number of photos you display on your pages will depend on the page size. Therefore, when you’re choosing photos, think of the page size as well as the theme or story you want to tell. Photos can also influence your color choices for other page elements.

Paper. This is the foundation of your scrapbook page. Choose colors to coordinate with your photos or add interest or texture.

Embellishments. Embellishments such as stickers, ribbon, die cuts, and metal tags can be a nice finishing touch to your layout.

Title. The title can set the tone for your scrapbook page. It can be simple such as name, place or location of the story or even a whimsical play on words, but keep it simple and clear. Think of ideas before you write or place it on your layout. The title also can be used as a design element.

Journaling. This is the part of your page where you tell your story. It’s what distinguishes scrapbooks from photo albums. Let your message connect the reader with the actual event by recording more than just titles, dates, and names. You may want to make a proof copy so you can determine how much room it will take on your page and to re-read for spelling and grammar.

Incorporating these five page elements will give you an interesting and complete layout.

Scrapbooking the first page can be a major challenge for some people and comes quite easily to others. Here are a few tips to make your pages go easier!

·    Be flexible and relax. Each scrapbook page doesn't have to be perfect.
·    Every scrapbook page doesn't have to be elaborate. KISS: Keep It Sweet and Simple.
·    Don't get overwhelmed by too many scrapbooking supplies. Buy only what you need until you get started.
·    Remember why you are making a scrapbook album. It should be fun, not a source of stress.
 
Here is a step by step guide to scrapbooking your first page:

1.    Choose only a few pictures of a single event. You may want to begin with an odd numbers of photos on a page, 3-5 will do!
2.    Pick out the best photos and include those that help tell the story. Avoid any that do not show everyone clearly.
3.    Select one great photo that should be the focal point of the page.
4.    Place the photos on the scrapbook page.  Is there a logical sequence or can you put them where they are visually appealing?  Arrange or re-arrange until you create harmony between the pictures and the story you want to tell.
5.    Time to crop or not. Are there elements in the background that distract your eye from the subject of the photo? If so consider cropping your photo to showcase the object that is the subject of the photo.
6.    Consider adding color to your page by matting a photo with acid-free, lignin-free colored paper or using a die cut.  
7.    Adhere to page once you are satisfied with the embellishments, using photo safe adhesives.
8.    Finish with journaling the events depicted on the page.  Start with the five “W’s”, who, what, where, when, and why?

You scrapbooking skills will come with time and practice and soon you will see your own scrapbooking style emerge!

So, you have found an interest in pursuing a hobby in scrapbooking. Perhaps your first exposure is from friend or through at home party.  Whatever the inspiration, it is now your time to tell your story through scrapbooking. Here are some thoughts to help you begin scrapbooking the first pages:

Take class. Many scrapbook stores offer classes for beginning scrapbookers. Utilize these classes to familiarize yourself with tools and techniques.

Scraplift ideas. One of the best ways to explore scrapbooking is to study examples others have created. Review magazines and books at the library or visit scrapbooking Web sites to get ideas.

Scrap with a friend. Find a friend who’s also learning to scrapbook. That way you can
discover things together and share ideas.

Follow a template. Some manufacturers scrapping packages with supplies to create single-theme layouts or even a simple acrylic template for a single page.

Layout first. Before you begin adhering items to your page, layout a diagram to show where you want to place things or simply arrange and re-arrange them on the scrapbook page.

It’s all about you. Remember, it is your scrapbook, not someone else’s. Scrapbook what you like and what inspires you to tell your story. Let it be reflection of you!

Every hobby has its own jargon. Scrapbooking is no different. Scrapbooking is a craft that combines the science of photography with the creativity of the enthusiast to create record of a families history and traditions.  While the science of photography has increased the longevity of photos, it can often be confusing and difficult to identify which products are safe for your scrapbook album.

Photo safe has no real definition and is a term widely used in the industry to describe the practice of using materials for scrapbooking that will not deteriorate quickly. It is not however a guarantee that the photos will not deteriorate.  Archival quality term also has no standardized definition, however, it implies that all materials used in the product are chemically stable.

In order to adequately preserve your photos, they need to be surrounded by materials that will not accelerate aging. Keep these terms in mind when shopping for scrapbooking supplies:

Acid: Over time, acid discolors and fades photos and will eventually destroy almost anything it comes in contact with. Acids can weaken cellulose in paper, board, and cloth, leading to deterioration.

Acids may also be introduced by migration from other materials or may be introduced in the manufacture of certain glues. Look for products with pH (acidity) factors between 7 and 8.5.

Acid-free:  In chemistry, materials that have a pH of 7.0 or higher are acid-free.

Archival quality: Archival quality is a non-technical term that suggests that a material or product is permanent, durable or chemically stable, and that it can therefore safely be used for preservation purposes. Materials with this label have been tested to determine that their acidic and buffered content is within safe levels.

Buffered: Even acid-free paper may become acidic over time when exposed to acidic scrapbook memorabilia. Buffered paper reduces this breakdown and is less likely to become acidic. A word of caution: Please be aware that there are differing opinions among the experts on buffering and its desirability

Chemical stability:  The ability of certain chemical bonds to resist changes in their composition when exposed to other chemicals. Paper and photographs which are chemically stable are more resistant to deterioration. Materials which are chemically stable are not easily decomposed or otherwise modified chemically. This is a desirable characteristic for materials used in preservation since it suggests an ability to resist chemical degradation

Crop: Cutting the photo down to remove unwanted portions of it.

Layout: The arrangement of items on your scrapbook page.

Lignin-free: A component of the cell walls of plants that occurs naturally, along with cellulose. Lignin causes paper to yellow and become brittle when exposed to ultraviolet light. Most paper, other than newsprint, is lignin-free.

Mylar:  Mylar (polyester) is used as a protective clear covering for photos and album pages. Mylar is currently regarded as the highest quality material used for this purpose.

Permanent paper - Permanent paper is paper that is compliant with the Permanent Paper Standard ANSI Z39.48-1984 (Permanence of Paper for Printed Library Materials), a standard created by a committee composed of the federal government and the paper industry. To be considered permanent, and to comply with Standard ANSI Z39.48-1984, paper must meet the following requirements:
·    Must have a pH level of 7.5 or greater.
·    Must contain an alkaline buffer of calcium carbonate or another alkaline.
·    Must be free of chemical impurities and, optimally, contain cotton or other rag fibers.
·    Must be resistant to tears and folding.

pH Neutral:  Many manufacturers are using this term instead of acid free. pH neutral is more definitive than acid free. An acid free product could be extremely alkaline. Since is is also undesirable to be highly alkaline because of damages, pH neutral is a desirable quality.

Photo-safe: This term is similar to archival quality but more specific to the materials used with photos. It means the item is both acid- and lignin-free. However, there is no regulation of the term by a legally enforceable standard.

Preservation:   Activities associated with maintaining library, archival, or museum materials for use, either in their original physical form or in some other format.

The biggest danger to your photos is their environment. Scrapbooks need to be in a stable environment. Temperature and humidity affect photographs and documents more than any other element. Best conditions are under 70 degree F with the relative humidity under 50%. A closet in the interior of your house is often the best place to store your albums if they are otherwise exposed to fluctuating temperatures or extreme humidity.

Should everything in my scrapbook be "safe"? This is a tricky question, because there is no right answer. The safer that your album is the longer your photos will last. However, there is no way quantify how much faster your photos will age if you use a few “un-safe” items or if the album utilize “un-safe” material. The best advice is to seek out the safest supplies that you can afford.

You have spent some time organizing your photos, giving thought to your first project and now it is time to invest in some initial scrapbooking supplies.  While many craft stores offer a limited selection of scrapbooking supplies, specialty stores offer not only product but often good advice.  They want you to become a loyal customer and are not only educated in the process but also share the same enthusiasm and excitement as you!

Here are a few suggestions for basic items to purchase to begin your scrapbooking story:

Adhesive. You’ll need adhesives to attach items to your scrapbook page. There are many different types of adhesives to choose from. Look for those that are photo safe or archival quality.

Album. You cant have a scrapbook with out one!  A variety of sizes are available.  Choose one that best fits the project.  An album that covers a recent vacation will perhaps fit in a smaller album then that which is designed to store a years worth of memories.

Paper. Paper is the foundation of scrapbooking. We recommend you buy paper in basic colors, such as black and white card stock, because you can use classic and neutral colors on any page.  A little color goes a long way.  Pastels, brightly colored paper or patterned paper should add a subtle burst of color or interest.  Again, until you develop your own style, better to start small. 

Paper Trimmer. A good paper trimmer will become your most vital tool for cropping papers and photos for your scrapbook. Try one that measures at least 12” and you are assured to accommodate most size papers.

Pen. You can never go wrong having a classic color pen, such as black or blue.  Once you have established your scrapbooking style you may want to consider sets that include a limited variety of color or a gold metallic for a little excitement.

Scissors. A quality pair of scissors will allow you to make clean cuts. Also, decorative edges can add character or set the tone for a scrapbook page design.

Once you have had an opportunity to use your new scrapbooking supplies and are confident that you wish to continue your adventure, you may want to consider purchasing an organizer on your next visit to the scrapbook supply store. It will help you keep your supplies tidy and free of damage.

Your first experience to a scrapbooking class or store can be a surprise. The variety of papers, adhesives, stickers and other embellishments—not to mention their expense—can be overwhelming. Here are some thoughts to keep in mind before you purchase your scrapbook supplies:

Go Slow- Try different products slowly until you gather your own sense of scrapbooking style.
Look for Photo Safe or Archival Quality. For preservation of your work, scrapbook safe materials such as acid-free papers, pens, and adhesives are recommended.

Have a budget. It’s tempting to buy tons of papers, embellishments, and other products to begin scrapbooking, but collecting too many products can be not only expensive but also over whelming. Make a list before you go shopping and purchase only what you think you’ll need for your first project.  Then determine that which you liked and didn’t like for your next trip to the store.

Get Excited. Select items that excite you. Think about the subjects, topic, or event you’ll be scrapbooking and purchase product that coordinates and will help to tell the story.

Bring photos. Taking photos with you to the store will help you choose color or print papers to coordinate with your pictures and provide inspiration when choosing embellishments for your scrapbooking project.

Be Trend Conscious. Don’t feel obligated to buy something just because it’s the latest trend. It also helps you to purchase only things you need, rather than everything you think is cute.

Collage by definition : kuh-lahzh ;a technique of composing a work of art by pasting on a single surface various materials not normally associated with one another, as newspaper clippings, parts of photographs, or memorabilia often unified by line or color. This technique has recently found its way into the world of scrapbooking and creates charming, whimsical, and memorable pages.

The word ‘collage’ comes from a French word that means, “to paste”, and while not a difficult process, creating a collage it will take some time. Here are some ideas to help you get your scrapbook collage started:

·    Choose a theme for your collage…what will it be about? Do you want to encompass an event, an emotion, a          trait, or a milestone?
·    Choose the photos you want to include on the page.
·    Look at your photos to establish a color scheme.
·    Gather supporting materials. Collect the papers, the words or journaling, and include any embellishments that      will support the theme of the collage and the color scheme.

Now use all your photos, words, colors, and materials to communicate your story in your scrapbook page. Here are some helpful scrap booking steps you may want to follow:

·    Start with a blank canvas. This can be one or two sheets of cardstock, or  your blank canvas may be a tag.              Usually, the entire blank “canvas” of your collage will eventually be covered by other materials.
·    Create a layered foundation or background on your canvas with papers and other materials. Often scrapbook        collage pages have torn pieces of paper arranged to create the background.
·    Arrange, rearrange, your photo(s), words, and materials to get a feel for where they look best. Position them           in different ways on the background until you are happy with what you see. It’s useful to determine the                 placement of the biggest items like photos and journaling before you determine the placement of smaller               accents.
·    Once you complete the arrangement of the elements of your collage, secure them to the background. Voila!

Scrapbooking is a wonderful hobby, and there is never a shortage of craft, paper and supplies. However, if you’re frugal and rather not spend a lot of extra money, there are some creative alternatives to embellish your scrapbook pages. You can scavenge your home for things that can be incorporated into scrap booking for no added cost! Simply gather things around the house that you may not normally think of using.

House Hunting

Kitchen: Look for colorful toothpicks, bottle caps, food label can be distressed for a nice antiqued look, recipe cards, contact paper and the junk drawer hold many forgotten treasures!

Bedroom: clothes often have lovely appliqués, embroidery, ribbons, and buttons.  Children’s rub on tattoo’s.

Garage: You may find pieces of leather cordage, luggage keys, washers, screws, hinges, latches, H-VAC tape, seed packets, old newspapers, bottle caps, and even old wallpaper.

Office: There's lots of fun stuff to use from the office. I found paper clips, calendars, pens, post-its, staples, label gun, business or note cards, envelopes, old stamps, letters, cards, and magazines.

Sewing box or Craft Bag: While it may be obvious, many embellishments can be used in your scrap booking, including ribbons, fibers, patches, patterns, fabric, buttons, tailor's measuring tape, zippers, beads, paints, markers, and glitter.

Simply looking at your household supplies with scrapbooking in mind will allow you to find new ways to use them! After all it is a “Scrap” book!

A.    Acquire archival quality photo boxes for all your scrapbooking photos. Decide on a negative storage system and purchase it before you begin. At this time you might want to have index prints made of your photos. An index print shows a thumbnail of each shot on a roll. You can take your old 35mm negatives and have an index print made for a reasonable fee ($1-$2.00). Start with the last roll of film you pick up after it was developed and put it into a storage box, then put the next one in back of it and then nest and then next. If you do not have time to go back and organize all of your old photos yet, at least let this be your starting point.

B.    Begin working on getting all of your photos and scrapbooking memorabilia into one place. This task may take some time depending on how many places your photographs are stored.  Look in the garage, attic, drawers, files, closets, old and new albums, frames around your house, old Christmas cards and letters from family members. In addition, think about all the photos that you have framed in your home. These photos will be the first to fade and deteriorate. Do you need to get copies made to put in a safe place, if so this is a great time to have the copies made. Lastly, If you know that there are family members that have photos that you would like copies of, now is the time to ask for copies.

C.    Continue with any magnetic albums that are less than 5 years old. The majority of damage done to a photo is in its first 5 years.  If you have multiple years of photos in magnetic albums, tackle the newest ones first and work your way up.  Are your photos stuck in the magnetic albums? Try dental floss to remove them safely, or you may release the glue with a blow dryer on LOW HEAT for just a few minutes. The last option, if cannot be removed is to have copies made of the page. Kodak makes kiosks that will make a photo from a photo without having a negative. Now you will have all scrapbooking materials to begin.

Remember, that negatives stored inside of a fire-proof box may not withstand the heat of a fire. Do not rely on a fire proof box stored in your home to protect your scapbooking materials. In a fire-proof box, photos and negatives may survive the fire but could melt. If you live in an area that has earthquakes, fires, floods, hurricanes or other natural disasters, please consider extra safety precautions:
1.    For a small monthly fee you can store photos on-line or store on in a safe deposit box.
2.    Transfer the photos on to CD ROMs and store them in a safe deposit box.
3.    Make an electronic scrapbook and place it on CD ROM.