Scrapbook Layouts for Less
19 May 2009Scrapbooking can be a very expensive hobby. However, there are several ways that you can start scrapbooking on a budget today.Regular household items can be used, including things that you normally would throw out. Here are a few ideas that will keep more money in your pocketbook, as well as help you recycle items that would otherwise end up in the landfill.
1. Food Containers and Boxes
If you have a die cut machine that can cut chipboard, such as the Cricut Cutter, don’t waste your money on expensive chipboard. Instead, use food containers, such as cereal boxes.After you cover them in colorful scrapbook paper, you will never know that it came from your pantry! If you do not have a die cut machine, you can use cookie cutters instead, to cut the box and paper into the desired shapes.
2. Wallpaper Scraps
In many respects, wallpaper remnants are as beautiful as expensive scrapbooking papers.Make friends with the folks at your neighborhood paint and wallpaper stores, and request that they hold discontinued sample books for you. Keep in mind, however, that the adhesive on these samples may not be acid-free. Although they may not be suitable for your pictures, they can be used for other projects, such as making cards.
3. Wrapping Paper
Think of all the beautiful wrapping paper you have thrown out over the years. Recycle it by using it for your scrapbook projects.When you know someone will be unwrapping a gift, have a bag handy to collect it before it is thrown away..
4. Fabric and Ribbon Scraps
Fabric and ribbon scraps are another perfect way to embellish your paper crafting projects. Many of these fabric and ribbon scraps are too small for sewing, yet are the perfect size for accenting handmade cards and more.If you know any seamstresses, ask them to collect their fabric and ribbon scraps for you.
5. School Supplies
Many of the products in the scrapbooking aisle are simply embellished school supplies. School supplies cost far less, though, and can be easily modified for scrapbook projects.Instead of buying expensive scrapbooking brads, purchase paper fasteners instead.You can paint them with acrylics, glue on embellishments, and jazz them up in a number of ways.
With a little imagination and creative thinking, you will surely find even more common household goods that you can use for scrapbooking on a budget. Make sure you always have a container handy, so when you come across things you can use for your projects, you have a place to put them.
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