Create Your Own Scrapbook

Have you ever considered journaling your life’s pages and
transforming an ordinary collection of photographs into a
vibrant and visual storyboard? Telling the stories behind the
pictures and revealing hidden memories and emotions through the
creation of a scrapbook can be a wonderful experience that you
will admire in years to come as it will make you smile while
looking at your past adventures. But most importantly, creating
your scrapbook from scratch will give a unique and intimate
feel, as a personal touch will turn your albums into something
very special. That is the power behind journaling a scrapbook
and this cherished feeling is one of the most important
elements of different types of scrapbooks.
 
The best thing about creating a journaling scrapbook is that
although there is a plethora of scrapbooking supplies available
on the market, you actually do not need much to make your own
version and personalizing it according to your imagination. In
fact, all you need to create your own scrapbook is an empty
album, glue, a pair of scissors, and your collection of
photographs, stickers, tickets and newspaper clippings.
Additionally, any fabric, ribbon, or bits of leftovers from
other projects can be used to embellish your personal
journaling scrapbook. Have in mind that as you become more
familiar with scrapbooking, you will find products that will
save you time and frustration. Although these are somewhat more
expensive they are well worth the extra cost. The most usual
“investment” is that of an exacto knife. Its strong and
versatile blade allows you to cut almost anything into any
shape and when the blade is dull, you can simply brake off the
end to reveal another sharp tip. But remember to place the
object you plan to cut onto a mat or wad or newspaper before
using the exacto knife, since it will cut right through your
picture and into your scrapbook page or dining room table if
you are not careful or exercise more power than needed.
Moreover, you should buy a pair of tweezers as trying to pick
up and place small gluey pieces can be a hassle. Tweezers,
however, will allow you to move pieces without touching them
and getting glue all over your fingers. At this point you
should know that there are various glues and affixing options
available at your local supplies store. Some of these quick and
less messy options include glue dots, two-sided tape, Xyron,
acid free photo tabs and polypropylene corners. Also, remember
that you should purchase acid and lignin free albums will
increase the preservation of your scrapbook and your paper
treasures intact. You can find lignin and acid free pages and
albums in virtually any color and texture.
 
Finally, when your journaling scrapbook is ready it is time to
add its content. First, think about the people who will read it
in the future. If they were not part of the activity you are
about to describe you should give them as many details as
possible so they can relive your memories and stories for
themselves. The 5 W’s method is usually the best strategy. Name
the people appearing in the photo, and describe who took it and
who else was present. Then state the purpose of the photograph.
Describing what was happening can help the reader understand the
circumstances that prevailed and feel part of the story. Of
course, you should state where the event your photo illustrates
was and it is always good to give some background information.
Remember to tell to the reader when the photograph was taken
and add the specific date including the year if possible. In
addition you should state why this photograph was used. What
makes it so important?
 
You should not be afraid of scrapbook journaling. Just remember
that all stories have a beginning, middle and an end. Ask
yourself, “What would I want to tell future generations about
the photos on my page?” and this should be more than enough to
help you write down your stories. A title page or famous
sayings, quotes or a special poem you wrote for the occasion
can gradually lead the reader to the end of your story.

About The Author: Kadence Buchanan writes articles for
http://erecreationstation.com/ – In addition, Kadence also
writes articles for http://igamerscorner.com/ and
http://thetravelinglifestyle.com/