Cheap Scrapbook Ideas - A Guide to Using Items You Already Have to Save Money

Has the scrapbook bug left you with more holes in your wallet than punches to put holes in your paper? With the trends in scrapbooking being as they are, you don't need to worry about it anymore. Today you can use almost anything to adorn your pages and give them the much-desired character that you're craving. Here are some ways that you can be cheap and still have the great pages all scrapbooker's hope for.

1. Create your own paper:

You don't have to be a printing or design genius to design your own paper. If you have a computer and access to Adobe Photoshop, or something like it, you can make simple papers in the colors you desire. Ever have a color scheme that you just can't find something right? Don't worry. Like the picture in this article, you too can create a printer ready paper in minutes by choosing a background and using the line or rectangle tool to create barcode stripes in the colors you desire. Printing it off is easy with a color printer, or even at a copy center that prints color copies for cheap. Just make sure it's on acid-free paper to ensure that your pictures last as long as possible.

2. Use Fabric:

A lot of crafters have fabric lying everywhere. Why not make use of it in your scrapbook? Interesting fabrics can make great backdrops or elements on pages and often come in great patterns or shapes. Making a page about your child's favorite, worn out blanket? Why not attach a piece of it to the page as a mat or as a display to keep the memory alive. Making a prom page? If you have a square of the fabric from your dress, it'll make a great backdrop for your page. The possibilities are endless, and you can often find scraps at the fabric store for less than paper.

3. Buttons, Button, Who's Got the Button?

If you've got random buttons and pins lying around, why not put them to use? Something a simple as a button glued to a page can give it a great 3D effect. You can even sew them on the page for added effect. You can also use things like safety pins, paperclips, and needles to get a good look, just be sure they're not poking out so that someone gets a shock while turning the page.

4. Cake Decorations/Toys:

I was looking for a good football once for a page and had some cupcakes with little, flat football rings. I snapped off the ring portion and had a great item to add some depth to the page. Toys that can be flattened or even displayed in little scrapbook display cases can really add a lot of history to your pages. Also things like poker ships or game pieces can be used for a little added punch.

Scrapbooking can be a lot of fun, but doesn't need to empty your pocket. Just take a moment to look around you at some of the items you have already. Pencils, pins, bookmarks, you name it, you can use it. So no need to go for broke to get the look your going for. Just use a little imagination, some tacky glue, and you're good to go.