How to Get Started Scrapbooking

Step 1: Decide on a topic Decide on a topic. If you pick a theme before you start, you’ll be more prepared to organize your material.
TIP: Invite family members to participate for family-bonding time. Form a scrapbooking group to work on projects together and enjoy conversation.
Step 2: Pick a book Pick a scrapbook that suits your theme or has colors or patterns you prefer. There are enough choices for every taste.
Step 3: Find photos and memorabilia Find photos and memorabilia such as newspaper clippings, certificates, and movie ticket stubs.
TIP: Use a small box, such as a shoebox, to store any extra photos and memorabilia.
Step 4: Buy paper Buy cardstock to use as frames for your pictures.
Step 5: Pick out accessories Pick accessories to dress up your pages. Craft stores sell stickers, buttons, and three-dimensional decorations for scrapbooking.
Step 6: Assemble pages Cut and paste paper patterns, ribbons and bows, and decorative buttons. Trim edges with your scissors.
TIP: Page protectors will keep your scrapbook mementos looking good for a long time.
Step 7: Choose pens Choose colorful pens to write names, dates, and quotes on your pages. Use acid-free, waterproof, and fade-proof pens, available at arts and crafts stores.
FACT: In 2007, a letter written by George Washington in 1787 was found in New Jersey in a 19th-century scrapbook.

Lessons in this Guide