Here at Sassy Scrappers we often get asked about what tools are required when starting a scrapbook album. "What do i need to get started??" So we decided to put together a quick basic list for you.. We hope this helps...

What is a scrapbooking album?

A scrapbooking album is a collection of memorable photos that also have stories behind the photos describing the importance of that specific photo or the event. The photos are usually stored in order of events making it organized and easier for the viewer to follow or recall an event based on when it occurred.

What are the tools you need to get started?

• Scrapbook Albums:

Scrapbooking album come in all shapes and sizes... They can be as simple as blank book such as the Heidi Swapp Storyline Chapter Books or as long term as faux Leather Album  such as the We Are Memory keepers Album/ binder with rings. It can alsp be any size you wish , from a simple 4”x6” album all the way up to a 12”x12” inch Scrapbook Ring Album with page protectors to insert your decorated pages. If you plan on  documenting longer term, you may want to invest in a quality album with rings that can hold a large number of pages or if it’s a small event you want to document you may choose a smaller Flipbook type album..

•  Card Stock:

Cardstock Is one of the most essential items required for starting a scrapbooking Page. Cardstock can be used as a base for the scrapbook page or can be used to create pretty headings or embellishments using a scissors . They are available in different colors and textures  to set the tone of the page. One of the premium brands Bazzill also offer different weights of cardstock such as Heavy weight cardstock.

• Patterned Papers:

Patterned Papers add design to the scrapbook page by making it colorful and appealing to the eye. All scrapbooking collections come with co-ordinating 12”x12” scrapbook papers that work well together making it easier to mix and match according to your page theme. You can find patterned papers with Birthday themes from Echo Park Paper or Summer inspired papers from Carta Bella Paper or general everyday papers from Simple Stories and Crate paper..

•   Paper Trimmer/Cutter/Scissors:

Paper Trimmers, cutters and scissors are another essential item to be able to cut your paper and embellishments to size. Trimmers and cutters are mostly used for larger paper cuts whereas scissors are mostly used for smaller more intricate cutting… Our favourite products are the We R Memory Keepers Trimmers, Tim Holtz guillotine cutter and the Tim Holtz Scissors..

•  Photos:

The purpose of a Scrapbooking album is all about documenting and preserving memories and telling your story… Photos are the focal point of a scrapbook page.. All the papers and embellsi complete the scrapbooking album, what we need the most are the photos of those events.

•  Adhesive glue or tape:

Sticking your papers and embellishments to your scrapbook page requires an adhesive..All glues, glue sticks  and double sided tapes must be acid free to be used in scrapbooking to preserve your photos. There are also many options to choose from. It all comes down to personal preference and ease of use… Liquid Glues tend to take a little longer to dry and double sided tapes are more quick to adhere and long lasting.. Xpress It manufacture a wonderful easy to rip double sided tape that is quick and easy to use and has become one of the most popular..

•   Pens or markers:

Pens and  markers are used to journal your story on your scrapbook page.. Handwriting your story is a meaningful way of adding that personal touch to your scrapbooking project. Permanent pens and markers should also be acid free to preserve your photos..

• §  Embellishments:

There are a tonne of embellishment options to decorate your scrapbook project . Scrapbook stickers, flowers, enamel dots, chipboards and alphas just to name a few.. They all add that little bit of “special” to your scrapbook page, card and project ….Mix and match and layer embellishments around your photos to complete your scrapbook project..

Grab these items now to get started with your very own scrapbooking album right away!