Scrapbook Supplies: 7 'Must-Have' Items!

Now if you've ever stepped into a craft supplies shop you'd know how easy it is to be totally overwhelmed by all the equipment on the shelves. That's why in this simple guide I'll explain the top 7 pieces of scrapbook supplies you should have in your stash to make your scrapping more enjoyable when you finally sit down to preserve your memories.

Here's a list of scrapbook supplies that I will make your scrapping so much easier.

♥ Three ring: The three ring notebook has three metal rings that hold the page protectors inside of the album. It is relatively easy to adjust the contents in your scrapbook album.

♥ Post bound: This album has two to three screw and bolt metal posts that hold the contents of the album into place. You can disassemble and add, as well as remove pages.

♥ Strap-hinge: This a less common album type. These types of albums are designed with 2 to 3 nylon straps.

To avoid damaging your pictures, use the non-vinyl or the archival-safe kind of protectors. There are two options to pick from when choosing: clear or non-glare protectors. Clear protectors are known to bring out the colors in the layout, while the non-glare protectors tend to have less glare.

There are different types of scrapbooking scissors, so how many pairs you need will be determined by what you're planning on doing with your layouts. If you're cutting fabric, look for scissors that can cut fabric. If you're seeking to cut photos with a jagged look, seek jagged edge scissors. There are some creative types of scissors out there!

You'll need some patterned paper and cardstock as part of your scrapbook equipment. Select colors that will go well with your photographs. You may choose cardstock to provide a sturdy foundation for your pictures. It is low cost and very versatile in its uses. With as many colors and sizes that are available, you can make a variety of color combos to rival most professionals.

Companies often offer cardstock multi-packs, which allow a sample of colors. This is a great way to sample without paying a super high price for individual sheets. You also have the options of having textured papers, glitter papers, and material-like papers, which will add wonderful effects to any album.

When looking for journal pens, look for pens or markers that suit your specific needs. For example, if you are looking to write on a photo in your album (either on the front or on the back), you may want a pen that's soft-tipped and photo-safe.

You may also choose colored pens, as they add brightness to any page in your album.

♥ Rotary cutter: The cutting is carried out with a circular disc that is located inside a sliding mechanism. With this cutter, you can cut forward and backward.

♥ Straight blade cutter: This is a single-sided blade that is encased inside a sliding mechanism that cuts only in a single direction.

♥ Single-edge razor-blade trimmer: This cutter consists of a firm arm that holds the paper and also houses the blade. This is to help you see where the blade will fall.

These are the basic scrapbook equipment you will need to get started in scrapbooking. Of course, there are plenty more materials to choose from. Should you fall in love with this hobby, feel free to add to your equipment list little by little. As you do, you'll have more ways to create beautiful and meaningful scrapbooks.