Scrapbooking supplies for the digital scrapbooker

Use our shopping list to get you started with digital scrapbooking.

What do you need to get started? I am going explain how I do it. I am not suggesting this is the only way, or the best way. But, it is my way, and I have been very happy with the results.

Basic supplies

One sided 8 ½” x 11” photo paper
They do make double sided photo paper, but I prefer one sided. This allows me more flexibility in organizing my albums. Choosing your paper, such as weight, price, gloss or matte finish – it is all personal preference. Yet, I strongly advise using photo finish paper, and not a paper used for color flyers. Since you will be spending the money on ink, don’t waste it on inferior paper.

Presentation Sheet Protectors
These fit into 3 ring binders, and hold 8 ½” x 11” paper size. They look and feel like plastic. Make sure they are acid-free, archival safe, and state they will not lift the print. You will want to choose the clear. Prices vary, so shop around. I found the same brand at a well known office supply store, and also at a well known discount department store. They were about half the price at the department store.

3-ring binder album
3 ring Binder         Usually you can find these in the photo album section of the department store. Normally they will already have pages (similar to those sticky pages I described that were in my original photo albums). I remove the pages, and use them for other projects.
         You can also use a 3-ring binder, yet look for one a little larger than the traditional school binder. If the cover of the binder is less than 10” wide, the edges of the sheet protector will stick out. Another option is to customize a binder, covering it with fabric or other embellishments.
         But my favorite 3-ring binder album was found at one of the discount department stores. It looks like a large, old fashioned, leather, bound book. I have about a dozen, and they are quite impressive lined up on the bookshelf. I purchased gold sticker lettering and added titles to the spines, which makes it easier to identify each book