Scrapbook papers should be acid-free and lignin-free. Acid-free paper is paper that has had the acid-a chemical used when manufacturing paper-removed. Lignin, the agent that binds wood fibers together, is the chemical that causes papers to turn yellow. Today, most scrapbooking papers are acid-free and lignin-free, but always check to be sure. Scrapbooking paper that is acid-free and lignin-free will hold color well and should last for generations.
Varieties of Scrapbooking Paper
Scrapbooking paper comes in many different forms and textures, weights and sizes.
Cardstock is a thick paper that is used as backgrounds for scrapbooking pages, as trim on successive pages in an album, as the message text box and can be cut into shapes that can then be used to embellish each page. Cardstock is versatile and comes in a variety of textures as well as smooth sheets. While black and white cardstock tends to be more popular than other colors, it's important to keep in mind that all plain colors of cardstock will be used more often than printed. Make sure you only purchase as much as you need.
Double-sided cardstock is heavier and holds up well to cutting, folding, punching and stamping. It is fade-resistant, as well as chlorine-free, acid-free and lignin-free. Double-sided means that each side of the cardstock is colored. That can mean the color is the same on both sides or that each side is a different color. Double-sided cardstock is often textured.
Transparent paper is clear paper that you are able to see through. It comes in a variety of shades.
Vellum paper comes in a variety of shades and is sometimes printed. Photos and textures beneath vellum paper will be fuzzy or unclear and can create the illusion of distance or mystery.
Textured papers include papers such as papyrus paper, rice paper and mulberry paper. These papers are usually thicker or coarser. Be aware that mulberry paper will leave a fuzzy edge when torn, papyrus is more woody and rice paper does not store well.
Thin scrapbooking paper-about the thickness of wrapping paper-that is decorated with holiday prints and everyday sayings and pictures can be found in every scrapbooking and craft store. Scrapbooking papers can be doubled to add fullness, cut into layers, folded, punched and ripped to create a different look or feel to the layout.
Organizing Scrapbooking Paper
Because scrapbooking involves cutting paper, it can lead to a messy desk in a big hurry. To keep the mess under control as well as keep useable pieces in good shape, keep pocket folders and ziplock bags on hand. Even the smallest pieces can be used again on another page.
Store sheets by color, with patterned pieces tucked in with their corresponding color. Place all shades and patterns of one color into the same folder. For easy access, keep all page folders in the same file cabinet or plastic crafters bin.
 | Learn how to scrapbook with these beginner's tips on choosing materials, backgrounds and photos and laying out your first scrapbook pages. |
Whether you like to mix colors or keep accent colors to a minimum, if you let your own personal style and flow become the main force behind your creative scrapbook page layouts, you'll end up with scrapbooking pages and albums that show your unique tastes and styles. |
With the rise of technology and computer enhancements, digital journaling and digital scrapbooks are also becoming popular. |
Even the beginning scrapbooker understands the importance of organizing scrapbook supplies and keeping them organized because scrapbooking is an activity that can involve anywhere from a few pieces of paper and embellishments to thousands of items. |
Scrapbook backgrounds, whether textured or smooth, plain or intricate, set the theme of each scrapbooking page. Taking the time to plan your scrapbooking background so that it creates balance with the layout, as well as the main photo, will be well worth the effort. |
