So you decide you want to scrapbook.  You go to your nearest local scrapbooking store and grab anything that catches your fancy.  More often than not, if it’s your first time to make a scrapbook then you’d probably buy some pattern papers, adhesives and a few things to use for decorations (we call them “embellishments” in scrapbooking).  Then, when you finally decide to do your first layout you realize that there must be a better way to cut your paper to be always straight, another adhesive to use other than a liquid glue that turns out to be so messy to use, and tons more questions you want answered.

Here in BasicScrap, we will try our best to give you the easiest answer to your basic scrapbooking needs.  This column is intended for those who are really new to the art of scrapbooking and for mommies who would like to filter the information contained here down to their kids who would like to scrap. (We've received quite a lot of emails for "help" for those who are starting to scrapbook and are overwhelmed by the so much information. Some even said a peek in the Gallery scared them from scrapping a page! Haha! Ladies! Layouts are intended to inspire NOT to scare!)

ScrapMeet 3 made us realize that  children as young as 5 years old can actually scrap a page – with the gentle coaching and guidance of course of an instructor, a parent or guardian.  We continue to receive a lot of positive feedback about our Kiddie Scrapping segment during Scrapmeet 3. (Hence we have decided to come up with a Gallery Album just for the scrapped pages of kids aged 5 to 12 – their mommies can upload their pages!)  

In this upload, we will be featuring the basic supplies you need to start and why you need them.  If you have any scrapbooking related questions you want featured or answered, kindly email it to us at lala{at}myscrapworks.com  and we will gladly answer them for you.

The MUST BUY Stuff

Scrapbooking is as expensive as you want it to be. If you DON’T want it to be expensive, it won’t be. There are a lot of alternatives to scrapbooking supplies. The ONLY thing you need to be careful about is the quality of your stocks/materials. The key question MUST always be: Is it archival-safe? MSW always goes for materials that would make your scrapbooks last longer.

You actually need 5 items other than your photos and memorabilia to get you started.  These are  (1) albums, (2) papers, (3) adhesives, (4) cutting tools and  (5) journaling tools.  These will be discussed in brief for now and in detail in the succeeding uploads.

Albums

Can be any size you want but the most common scrapbook album size in the local market is that of a 12 in x 12 in or an 81/2 in x 11 in one.   The price varies depending on the brand. The most important thing to take note of is that it should have plastic sleeves inserted or a protective paper included in between the actual pages provided.  This would ensure that your finished pages (we call layouts), will be protected.  Be very particular of albums with acid free plastic sleeves and paper.  These may cost a little bit more but if you want your finished layouts to last you a lifetime, then this is a must!

Albums also come in different types.  Most common are the ring binder and the post-bound types. 

Papers

The two types that you will often use are the solid and patterned papers.  These papers may come in various weights (thickness) and sizes depending upon your use and preference.  Again, the most important thing to consider is that the paper should be of top-quality, acid and lignin-free and if possible buy those made especially for scrapbooking.  Sheets usually come in  8 ½” x 11” or 12” x 12”, sold individually or in packs. 

Adhesives

Choosing the best  adhesive for each job would greatly improve the appearance and speed up your scrapbooking time!  Pictures are best mounted with photo corners/squares or a tape-runner, while plain glue sticks will work for paper.

• Glue stick – Least expensive option.  A solid, paste-like glue that may be permanent or repositionable.  Not good for intricate gluing.
• 2-Way Glue stick – Liquid glue that is blue when wet and dries clear.  Use it while wet for a permanent bond, or let it dry before sticking items together for a temporary bond.  Comes in a variety of tip sizes.
• Photo Squares – Double-sided, sticky tabs for mounting photos.  Only one square is needed in each corner of a photo.
• Photo Corners – A small, triangular pocket that holds photos without having adhesive in contact with the photo.  Great for irreplaceable, original photos. You won’t have to stick them permanently in your layout!

Cutting Tools

There are different types of cutting tools but it’s still the trusty old pair of scissors that is a must!  For those who plan to make scrapbooking a serious hobby then a paper trimmer would be a priceless possession.  Craft knives, paper cutters, and swivel knives do come in handy.  Of course, decorative-edged scissors are an inexpensive tool for the beginner that can quickly add dimension and pizzazz to your pages.  They come in a so many patterns. 

For kids, kindly assist them in using scissors or any form of cutting tool.  Show them the do’s and don’ts in handling these tools to avoid accidents.

Journaling Tools

The most basic journaling tool you will ever use and need is a pen.  But like everything else, you need to look for one that will not ruin your scrapbook in time.  Non-xylene containing pens are safe.  Look for pens that are archival-safe, photosafe or acid-free written on them.  Some safe pens to use for journaling are as follows and are available even in local bookstores.

• Gel Pens – An acid-free type of pen, with rich, thick ink that is a pleasure to write with!  These dry slower than a regular pen, so be careful not to make smudges.  Use for journaling or to add decorative outlines to photo mats and cut-out shapes.
• Pigment Markers – Have color-rich inks that are acid-free and won’t fade.

Those who are not comfortable with their handwriting can use a computer printer as long as printing is done on acid-free papers.