There is an endless variety of scrapbooking supplies at crafts stores, but don’t let the choices overwhelm you! All you need are a few basics to get started. These are the basic materials you will need to decorate scrapbook album pages and to trim your photographs.

*Paper ~ often used for page backgrounds, titles, and decorations.

Basic paper is lightweight and comes in a wide variety of plain colors, as well as patterns.

Cardstock is a thick form of paper that comes in a broad selection of colors. It is often used as the basic background of a scrapbook page. It’s versatile and affordable. It can be ripped, crinkled, rolled, and used for mats, accents, and more.

Specialty paper such as frosty vellum, soft mulberry, and delicate handmade pieces add luxurious touches to your page.

*Cutting Tools ~ you can use scissors with regular tips for most projects. Fine-tipped scissors are great for detailed cutting on delicate items, such as titles. Other tools are a paper trimmer, circle or oval cutter, or a simple craft blade.

*Adhesives ~ come in the form of doubled-sided adhesive tabs, tape runners, glue sticks, glue pens, or liquid glues. Look for adhesives that are acid free and nontoxic, and that don’t have a strong odor.

*Pens ~ should be permanent, photo-safe, quick drying, and fade resistant. For dark paper, try opaque pens or gel writers.

From “Fun With Photos, Memories, and More�?by Creating Keepsakes Magazine