The Basics Of Gathering Scrapbooking Supplies

Remember the catchphrase of the movie "Field of Dreams", "Build it and they will come?" That phrase certainly applies to one's first scrapbook; you get to finish one scrapbook that you liked immensely and one that certainly received plenty of praise and all of a sudden, here it all comes- the scrapbooking supplies that virtually transform your house into a mini Office Depot outlet.

But if you try to remember how you came up with your first scrapbook to begin with, you will recall that you simply used any kind of tool or equipment that you already had to begin with. And this is what most eager scrapbookers forget to remember with their first taste of success, that scrapbooking supplies may already be found in your cupboard or library or your kid's school supplies.

The first rule for scrapbooking beginners is to start simple. Simple scrapbooking supplies call for good, reliable paper shears, glue and adhesives, punches and paints. These are the basics and every house would most likely have these on hand. Scrapbooking supplies by way of embellishments like ribbons, buttons, beads or lace can be scoured from leftover gift wrapping, old clothes, etc. One enterprising woman even used crystals from a broken chandelier and cowhide from a no longer used saddle as materials for a scrapbook.

Remember that the key word here is scrap; you can be excused (and even praised for originality) for using scrap and found objects as scrapbooking supplies. Do not follow the misguided eager steps of those who rush into the next crafts store with a full cart and buy all possible scrapbooking supplies they could lay their hands on.

Such scrapbooking supplies as chalks and rub-ons, die cuts, paper quillings, stamping and embossing materials, overlays and stencils are for the seriously advanced only. Without the proper training and experience that comes with advanced scrapbooking, you may find yourself with a huge bill and nothing much else.

In some instances such as this one, less is certainly more for beginners who must first master the basics of building a scrapbook. Much like architecture, one should begin with basic forms, simple templates and fundamental principles. There is no need for a complete set of scrapbooking supplies that would only clutter your imagination and prevent you from actually learning the initial stages of the scrapbooking building process.

But let's say that you are really just a beginner in the true sense of the word and would like to stock a new apartment or a newly renovated work space with scrapbooking supplies. Let's also say that you are the type who wants a fresh start by buying new stuff. If that is the case then one word of caution for it will be, restraint.

Restrain yourself from over-eagerness and simply buy basic supplies. Also remember to choose quality items and supplies especially the items that you would most often use. Avoid specialty scrapbooking supply stores which carry far too expensive items for a beginner. If you must insist on quality, then limit your specialty purchases to paper or special inks and paints.

Scrapbooking