view from the classroom - do over
yet: they allow the scrapbooker to work in any order, and easily add more sheet protectors. They also accommodate the divided sheet protectors mentioned previously.
While most scrapbookers are still using 12x12 format albums, many are much less rigid about page sizes now, than when they first started scrapbooking. They enjoy mixing 8.5x11, 8x8, and 6x12 pages, which is especially easy to do with a 3-ring binder album. An album with mixed page sizes has a more eclectic feel, which appeals to many experienced crafters. Many told me they wish they’d taken this less rigid approach from the start.
Organize thyself! Overwhelmed by photos and purchases, many experienced scrapbookers have a tendency toward disorganization over the years. Several crafters said they wish they’d set up an organization system from DAY ONE, which would have helped them be more efficient, and enjoy scrapbooking more. They suggested “getting organized” from the start, and maintaining your system (that includes cleaning up after yourself!) so that you STAY organized. Several crafters suggested organizing supplies by color for greatest efficiency.
Manage memorabilia Many scrapbookers told me they wish they’d set up a system to house their memorabilia when they first started scrapbooking. The endless stream of school papers, children’s artwork, and vacation brochures can be daunting. Many still haven’t figured out how to organize everything, so an item can be located when needed, and the thought of sorting through stacks of memorabilia is overwhelming.
I recently found a memorabilia system that works, and I only wish I had set it up when I started scrapbooking. I use 12x12 accordion files, one for each calendar/school year. I set up a tab for each month, and then I simply drop the memorabilia into the appropriate section. When I’m ready to scrapbook a particular event, I check the slot for any corresponding memorabilia. Having just finished years of scrapbooking for my graduating senior, I can attest to the fact that this system worked like a charm: I could retrieve a concert program from April, 2004, in a few seconds flat.
Pare down purchases Several scrapbookers told me that they have purchased considerably more product than they could possibly use. A predominant theme was, “I have way too much patterned paper!” These crafters have learned that product styles change much faster than they can use all the paper they’ve purchased, leaving them with scads of paper that doesn’t match their photos, or their changing tastes. Their advice: Buy only what you need. Buy coordinated products to match your current project. And USE WHAT YOU HAVE. There is no paper or embellishment too beautiful to use!
Test drive tools Many scrapbookers I spoke to wish they had tested tools before buying. They shudder to think of the money they have invested in trimmers, die-cutting systems, and specialty tools that they either don’t like, or don’t use frequently enough to justify the cost. Their advice? Try out tools prior to purchasing. If possible, spread the cost by sharing tools with friends.
78 scrapbook business
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