Beginner In Scrapbooking?

Get Started (Not Ruined)

Are you a beginner in scrapbooking? Are you wondering how to make a scrapbook - or even more - how in the world to get started without emptying your wallet?

The first time I decided to make a scrapbook for my baby, it took me almost until his first birthday to actually start the project. There's so much to buy... So many alternative designs, kits, books, materials etc. Well, you don't need to buy the whole craft store to get started! (And that's regardless of what the sales person tells you!)

When you finally make the decision to start making scrapbooks, you're very likely to go out and buy all the materials you think you need. This will probably lead to some buyer's remorse when you realize you have a bunch of stuff you don't need or can't afford. Well, you are not the only beginner in scrapbooking experiencing this!

The key in how to make a scrapbook on a budget is to use a lot of stuff you already have. You just need to know where to look. Here are some things you probably already have that can help get you get started.

Stuff In Your Home That Is Perfect For Scrapbooking

Clothes

If you have clothes that are too worn out or stained to make good hand me downs or donations, why not add pieces of them to your layouts. Not only will you be saving money and making less trash, you'll also be reminded of great memories of your loved ones even if you didn't manage to get a picture. Unless you save them anyway, consider using a piece of your baby's first onesies for example...

Jewelry

Have an earring that's missing it's mate? A necklace with a broken clasp? What about a bracelet your child has outgrown? Instead of getting rid of them or just filling up space in a box, why not use them to add a little sparkle to your scrapbooks?

Gift decorations

Think about all the birthday, Christmas, baby, wedding, and any other gifts you've ever given or received. Now think about all the money you spend on wrapping paper, bags, bows, ribbons, and other decorations. Sometimes old decorations can be reused, but often they just get shoved in a closet or thrown away. Using them in your scrapbooks can make beautiful layouts and bring you back to the special occasion where you got them. Just watch out, some of these products can have high acid content.

Trash

Yes, some trash belongs in a trash can (or a compost heap), some might just make for a creative new layout. Next time you go to throw something away, take a good hard look at it first. It might just make a great background, border, or embellishment.

Souvenirs and Memories

Pictures aren't the only way to spark your memories. Add the hospital parking ticket from when your baby was born; some of all the greeting cards you got, the invitation to the baptism ceremony. Maybe the restuarant bill from the last visit you did ALONE with your spouse to a restaurant before your baby was born (it might be long until the next visit... ;-).

Creativity

The only limit you have when you scrap is your own imagination. There are all kinds of things you can use in a scrapbook that aren't found at a scrapbooking store; you just need to teach yourself to recognize them. Sounds easy, huh!? (Not.) Well, I know it can be hard when being a beginner in scrapbooking, but when you get into it, seeing the possibilities becomes almost a habit. (Promise!)

Storage

I hope these ideas help you out a little bit with making the scrapbooking adventure affordable.

Have fun!

Now, what's the next step?

More Scrapbooking Articles

• How to get started scrapbooking
• Useful scrapbooking products and customer reviews.
• How to create (not buy) a scrapbooking table that serve its purpose.
• Scrapbooking Scissors - What Do You Really Need?
• Beginner in scrapbooking? Get started, not ruined.
• Scrapbooking DVDs - Worth buying?
• Scrapbooking videos - Watch for inspiration

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