5 Ways To Keep Your Scrapbook Safe

One of the most devastating things that can happen to a scrapbook-er is for
their creation to be ruined. So many hours, time, energy and money have been
exhausted in putting together a work of art that brings back those memorable
moments in time. There are plenty of ways that your book can get destroyed. 
With just a few simple precautions, you can make sure that your book will be
around for years to come for your grand childrens and family members to
enjoy.

(1) Liquids obviously will destroy memorabilia, photographs and negatives. 
To avoid disasters, store your scrapbooks supplies, albums, photographs and
negatives in a dry, cool place where water from broken pipes or overflowing
toilets cannot reach them.  Also, keep food and drinks out of your work
area. Over time, sunlight can diminish photos, negatives, layouts, and album
quality.  Keep all supplies out of direct sunlight.

(2) Extreme temperatures damage photos, negatives, layouts, page protectors
and albums.  Always store all items in a regular-temperature area and in an
area where there is low humidity.

(3) Although it may not be an immediately apparent problem but fingerprints
on photos, negatives and layouts become visible over time.  Oil from skin is
the cause of this problem.  To prevent this deterioration, handle all photos
carefully, touching only the outer edges.  Wash hands frequently or use acid
neutralizing wipes but make sure your hands are dry before handling any
materials.  Use lightweight cotton gloves if available to ensure those
pictures stay perfect.

(4) Handle and store your photos, negatives, and layouts carefully. 
Improper storage increases the risk of scratches, tears, and bends.  Store
and seal your photos and negatives in a sturdy container, in plastic sleeves
that fit into a 3-ring binder, or in acid-free envelopes.  Keep in mind that
not all plastics are alike.  In fact, some sheet protectors, binders, photo
enclosures, and photo corners will eventually damage your memorabilia more
than if you had not used plastic protection or enhancement at all.  To avoid
this, do not buy materials containing PVC or PVA, buy your materials from
reputable scrapbook stores. Yes, it may cost you a bit more but your
scrapbook will last so much longer.  Look for acrylic or polyester materials
as an alternative.

(5)  Finally, paper and cardstock you find in your local hobby store are not
necessarily acid-free unless stated on the packaging.  Also realize that
just because a manufacturer’s lighter colored paper is acid-free does not
guarantee the darker colors will also be.  Your best bet is to test any
paper that is not specifically marked ‘acid-free.’

Now that wasn’t hard at all, was it?  And you’ve earned a wealth of
knowledge, just from taking some time to learn from another avid scrapper.

About The Author
**************
Paul Penafiel can show you how to turn your favorite
hobby of Scrapbooking into a homebased business
For more info visit http://www.paulpenafiel.com/scrapper.html