10 scrapbooking tips

Scrapbooking is a fantastic way of collecting photographs and memories to cherish forever. We asked scrapbooker Shimelle Laine to share her top scrapbooking secrets - from taking great photos to stress-free journaling.

1. Find your favourite basic supplies

There are a variety of adhesives, scissors and pens available, but finding the ones that feel right in your hand is a game-changer. Try plenty of products then stock up on your favourites.

2. You can tell your story better than anyone

Plenty of scrapbookers pick up the hobby because they have a new baby or grandchild, and crafting a record of their young lives is fabulously rewarding, but don’t forget to include yourself too! Whether it’s read by your children when they grow up or by you in later years, the unique perspective of your own life will be enlightening. 

3. Use albums to keep your pages safe

Many scrappers put off buying their first album because they’re more expensive than sheets of pretty paper, but without a safe place to store your pages, your creative work may end up in tatters! Putting your pages straight into a book makes it easy for you and your family to appreciate what you’ve made.

4. Saving the best 'til last is no fun!

Don’t save your favourite craft supplies for a perfect project that may come along – by then you’ll have new favourites! Instead, use your most-loved papers and embellishments straight away, then you’ll get to see them in your albums in all their glory!

5. You don't need a fancy camera for fab photos

Taking pictures you love doesn’t mean spending more on an expensive camera. Even the best equipment in the world can’t teach you how to frame a beautiful shot, but a few expert tips and plenty of practice definitely can! Your favourite photos will inspire you to scrapbook more than the so-so shots, so take out a camera skills book from the library or join an online class.

6. Polka dot papers go with everything!

And so do stripes, checks and ledgers! Small repeating patterns make great paper choices as they add a little something to your design without taking the attention away from your photos.

7. Print your photos out so they're ready to use

Have your pics at the ready! Don’t spend time fighting with your computer to print out photos. Instead, order prints online once or twice a month (check out www.photobox.co.uk) and you’ll always have something ready to start your next scrapbook page.

8. The is no right or wrong way to scrapbook

Any scrapbooker can tell you their favourite tools, techniques and page styles, but you might enjoy doing or using something entirely different. Scrapbooking is a stress-free bit of fun! So use the supplies you love and make pages that make you smile. If it makes you happy, then you’re doing it right!

9. Invest in tools you know you'll use time and time again

There are way too many punches, stamps and dies for one scrapbooker to own them all, so it’s best not to try! Instead choose the designs that speak to you as versatile, rather than something that goes specifically with one set of photos. The result will be easier on your pocket and will also give your albums a beautiful signature style.

10. Search for a scrapbooking buddy!

Getting together with a scrapbooking friend means you can share tools, page sketches and crafting ideas. Plus she’ll understand your need to have photographic evidence of life, so you can take turns behind the camera! Try www.ukscrappers.co.uk to see if there is another scrapbooker in your area!

For more tips and treats from Shimelle, click over to her website at www.shimelle.com.

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