Scrapbooks make excellent heirlooms that can be passed down through generations.
Creating a scrapbook is one of the most entertaining and creative ways to store photos. For your scrapbook to be a success, it is important to start with the right supplies. A few essential tools will help you to create a scrapbook that can be used for weddings, baby shower or anniversary gifts, or simply to showcase your most prized family photos.
Paper and Cardstock
Selecting the right paper or card stock can create a tremendous difference in the color and personality of your scrapbook. Brightly colored paper and card stock that feature an array of backgrounds are available at most craft and scrapbooking stores. Having a variety of colors on hand will allow you to color coordinate your scrapbook according to theme and event and helps to ensure that you have a broad range of options from which to choose.
Trimmers and Scissors
Scissors and trimmers are essential tools for creating a scrapbook. While the two are often thought of as one in the same, scissors and trimmers are actually very different tools that can be used to perform varying tasks. Scissors are best used for general cutting, and can be purchased with specially shaped edges to add a decorative touch. Trimmers, however, are best used to create precise, straight cuts and crop photos. For best results, look for scissors and trimmers that are coated in Teflon to prevent materials from sticking to the edges while cutting.
The Proper Adhesive
The success of your scrapbook relies greatly on the type of adhesive you choose. For scrapbooks, glue that is acid-free is best in protecting the quality of photos, and preventing discolorations. Spray adhesives are good for use when gluing large areas and help to prevent photos from wrinkling. Glue sticks and traditional school glue work well for smaller photos and securing decorative trim.
Photo Album
When it comes to selecting a photo album for a scrapbook, be sure to look for one that has pages that are acid free. Photo albums that contain pages that are treated with acid can cause discolorations to photographs, particularly older ones. The size of the album you will need depends greatly on how many photographs you intend to include, however, when in doubt, larger is better. Larger albums allow more room for individual photo displays and creative touches.
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