Baby Steps

Baby Steps… Yep I am going to try this blogging thing one baby step at a time.  Kind of like scrapbooking.  One doesn’t create a fabulous layout on the first try.  It takes some inspiration, some vision, a bit of creativity and a lot of faith that those bits and pieces of paper and ribbon, thread and paint, flowers and bling; and whatever else can be stuck to a paper will fit themselves together like a beautiful puzzle and in the end you will have something to be proud of.  Likewise, I am hoping I can craft my thoughts and words together in a way that bespeaks my passion for scrapbooking.  I’m gonna get my crop on!!!

• OK, here we go…baby steps.  What are the basic, essential tools for a new scrapbooker? You need a paper slicer.  I like the 12” Fiskars Portable Paper Trimmer.
• You need adhesive.  I like Therm O Web 5/16-Inch-by-600-Inch Memory Tape Runner.  Get refills too!
• Coordinating Scrapbook Papers, some solid and some pattern.
• Embellishments, such as adhesive letters, ribbons, scrapbook flowers (you can get fancy – but this will start you off until you get the hang of it), etc.
• A Pencil
• A Ruler
• When I was starting, I found the Ek Success 13 x 13-Inch Cutter Bee Self-Healing Mat very helpful, and continue to use it still!  It helps with placing the papers ensuring a square page, and the grid lines help in lining things up.
• Oh!  Photos of course and a Scrapbook Album to put your finished pages in!
• Shape Punches and Edge Punches (as suggested by follower, Carole - Tnx!)
• Archival Pens (as suggested by follower, Carole - Tnx!)

Although I have linked to Amazon, there are a ton of other online sites as well as most local craft stores (Michael's, JoAnn's, Hobby Lobby in the US to name a few) who also carry these items.  Don't get overwhelmed by your options.  Pick some papers and choose coordinating embellishments that appeal to you or reinforce your subject (such a boy scout embellishments for that boy scout camping trip or floral embellishments for your little princess in her party dress).

What tools or supplies do you consider necessary for a basic, essential beginner tool kit?  Please leave a comment with your thoughts!