Scrapbooking Resources on the Web

When I first started scrapbooking, I would spend hours and hours on one page, making sure it was absolute perfection. Every page was unique, using varying colors, designs, and techniques. I was a creative machine ready to show off my handiwork to anyone and everyone who would let me.

After I had been scrapbooking for a while, I started to notice something about my pages - they were all starting to look the same. That's when I decided to seek out ideas on the Internet and broaden my scrapbooking repertoire. I was surprised at the number of websites devoted to ideas, resources, and products for scrapbookers. Many even have message boards or forums where you can post questions or ideas, or just interact with fellow scrapbookers - what a relief to find others who understand my need to sit at a table for hours fretting over whether a certain picture should have rounded edges.

THE BIG IDEA

These websites are sure to get your creative juices flowing if a lack of ideas is what you're facing.

www.scrapbook.com is the obvious first choice. This site has it all… but I am particularly addicted to the Layout Gallery, where you can get new ideas for placement of your pictures and embellishments. It was an epiphany for me to realize there is a method to the madness of page layout. The Layout Gallery is full of real layouts uploaded from real scrapbookers. When you get good enough, you can even upload your own for others to "oooh" and "ahhhh" over. Don't miss the shopping and message boards on this site, too. It's a winner all around.

www.creatingkeepsakes.com is another great all-around site. This web-version of the print magazine, Creating Keepsakes, offers the usual shopping and layout ides, but goes a step farther with inspiring ideas that encourage and challenge the scrapbooker to try new techniques. These "Scrap Challenges" offer easy-to-follow instructions and include pictures of beautifully designed pages for inspiration. The site also offers message boards and contests.

KEEPING UP WITH THE JONESES

If you're like me, you much prefer shopping for and buying scrapbooking tools, stickers and paper, than the actual making of the scrapbook. Check out these websites for cool tools, new gadgets, and embellishments for any holiday or event.

www.ebay.com is a haven for scrapbooking products, usually at a great discount. You can find everything, even those items that may be out of production. From stickers to sticker-makers, from scissors to full alphabet cutters, it can all be found at ebay.

www.scrapyourtrip.com offers a wide array of scrapbooking items for those who love to travel. Going to Disneyworld? Get Mickey ears here!! Find ideas and products for crusing, skiing, camping, and even a trip to the neighborhood zoo.

www.addictedtoscrapbooking.com touts itself as the "largest scrapbooking store on the Internet." 'Nuff said.


For more products, also check out http://www.scrapbook-creations.com and www.scrapbookexpress.com.


POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT

Sometimes it's nice to just take a break and 'talk' to others who share your addiction to turning your life into a picture book. Hey - your kids will be glad you did this one day. These websites devoted to the art of scrapbooking have forums and/or message boards where you can discuss your current projects, or take a break completely and get lost in posts discussing tattoos or your favorite soap opera.

www.scrapbook.com offers extensive an extensive community of message boards that is well worth checking out. You'll find answers to questions you didn't even know you had!

www.scraptutor.com will teach beginners the art of scrapbooking with software that can be purchased for a about $30.

http://www.bhg.com/Scrapbooking-Basics.html is also good for beginners, offering articles on how to get started, what materials you will need, picture placement, and journaling.

If these sites don't keep you busy for weeks, then you can check out www.scrapbooksites.com for links to tons of additional sites, categorized into topics such as 'journaling' and 'layouts.' While you're visiting these sites, don't forget that many offer free email newsletters. So pick a favorite site or two and let them send the inspiration directly to your in-box.

The web is a great resource for scrapbookers, so take advantage of what it has to offer. But don't forget your other opportunities. There are scrapbook shows in cities across the country where you can learn from fellow scrapbookers and manufacturers, and even go home with some creations for your book. For more information, visit www.scrapbookexpo.com. Local stores often hold classes or scrapbooking parties where you can cut and paste with others, meet new people, and steal their ideas in person!