I became interested in scrapbooking when I saw a memory scrapbook that my best friend had created for her wedding.

Her wedding scrapbook was absolutely gorgeous and after getting a look at it, I started to ask questions. Things like where did she get her supplies? How did she get started scrapbooking? And how could I get started?

I was surprised when she told me she purchased many of her scrapbooking supplies at our local dollar store, and that some scrapbooking supplies she actually printed from websites online.

According to her, the easiest way to get started on your very first memory scrapbook was just to purchase:

a few pages for a small album

some solid and patterned paper

a few pieces of cardstock

acid-free adhesive or glue
 

She also suggested acid-free paper as well, so that your pages don't yellow as they age. Well, needless to say, after all that I was hooked!

So, if you're new to scrapbooking -- as I was a few years ago -- how do you create your first scrapbook page when you're a total beginner?

Here are my own tips...

Let’s face it, as far as hobbies go, scrapbooking isn’t quite as easy on the pocketbook as say gardening.

But that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank to make beautiful albums and interesting scrapbook layouts.

Here are some tips for stretching your scrapbook dollar...

Crafts like scrapbooking and card making are wonderful hobbies and a creative outlets for many, but they can become very expensive.

The cost of embellishments alone can cramp your style, but here's an idea for the do-it-yourselfer.

Why not use all those fun papers, fabric scraps, and doo-dads to make your own embellishments?

If you're like me, you have sheets of rub-ons that are half-full (in the same box as the half-used sheets of stickers).

Now that Stampin' Up has rub-ons that coordinate with their stamp sets, there is a new technique using the new product.

Of course, rub-ons aren't just for paper anymore...

A couple of days ago I posted an article about my solution for storing 8.5x11 inch cardstock.

In an effort to share some other ideas about how my work space is set up, I'm going to post a few articles that might give you some new ideas. In turn, I would love for you to share your ideas as well.

This idea helps me stay motivated - a board full of project ideas!

Here is an idea for a Valentine Treat bag for giving away treats.

If you have a small heart punch and some cardstock, you're ready.

The best part is that it requires no stamping and can literally be done in less than 10 minutes!

We've all seen them...
The advertisements in scrapbooking and rubber stamping magazines are tempting. The pictures of perfectly organized and spacious work areas make me jealous. They look so inviting and functional (and some are even decorated!).

--> Here are some beeeeautiful stamping and scrapping rooms.

If you have the space and finances for such a room, then I say go for it. If not, then you can still have a nice organized area by thinking about other options.

Paper piecing is a technique that provides additional interest to a card or scrapbook page. Generally speaking, it is a method of using several pieces of paper arranged to make another image. It can be as basic as using construction paper for a kids' craft project, or with additional effort can make a beautiful piece of art.

--> Here is a simple explanation of paper piecing.

Now, imagine the same technique using stamped images....

I remember these lace 'doily' hearts from when I was a kid.

We were always doing little craft projects growing up, and I suddenly realized what a great (cheap) embellishment this could be for Valentine cards, gifts and scrapbook pages.

I got a pack of 24 for $2.00... you just can't beat that.

Stamping handmade cards is a great way to show your friends and family that you care very much for them.

Another way to use your stamps (and other creative talents) is to dress up your packages and gift tags.