Fancy making your memories even more special? Scrapbooking lets you turn your photos into unique creations, easily and with just a few materials. Find out the basics to get you started.
Published on Jun 16,2026 at 4:22 PM | Updated on Jun 18,2026 at 8:13 AM

Getting started with scrapbooking: a guide to getting off to a good start

Fancy giving scrapbooking a go but not sure where to start? This creative hobby involves transforming simple photo albums into genuine decorative items through layout design, patterned paper, masking tape and a few well-chosen decorative elements. With a bit of scrapbooking supplies, a few pieces of paper and a pair of scissors, you can easily create unique pages that tell the story of your memories. Here are all the basics for scrapbooking and bringing your first creative projects to life.

What is scrapbooking?

Scrapbooking is a creative hobby that involves arranging photos, paper and decorations in an album to tell a story or preserve precious memories.

Unlike a simple photo album, each page becomes a visual composition: you can add text, colours, scraps of paper, travel tickets or even mementos. The aim is not simply to keep pictures, but to create a personal narrative around those moments in one’s life.

It is this creative and emotional aspect that explains the success of scrapbooking in the world of DIY and arts and crafts.

Essential scrapbooking supplies for beginners

Good news: to get started with scrapbooking, you don’t need a workshop full of tools. All you need are a few essentials to create your first few pages.

Here are the basic scrapbooking materials:

  • a pair of scissors for cutting out photos and decorations
  • some sheets of paper or card for the base
  • patterned paper to add a splash of colour
  • a double-sided adhesive tape for sticking up photos without them curling up
  • a pencil and a ruler to prepare the composition


These simple tools are already enough to create well-balanced pages. Double-sided adhesive tape, for example, is particularly popular for sticking photos down neatly and avoiding marks left by liquid glue.

Over time, you’ll be able to add to your collection with hole punches, stamps and decorative stickers.

The basics of scrapbooking layout

Layout is one of the key elements in creating a successful scrapbook.

To start with, here are a few simple principles:

  • Select a main photo: the photo should be the focal point of the page.
  • Creating a balanced layout: position the photo, text and decorative elements in such a way as to guide the eye.
  • Add a title or a date: scrapbooking pages often feature a title or a short piece of text known as ‘journaling’ that tells the story behind the image.
  • Playing with volumes: layer sheets of paper, add frames or cut-outs to create depth.


If you’re stuck for inspiration, you can follow a sketch – that is, a layout diagram showing where to place the various elements.

Choosing patterned paper and decorative elements

Scrapbooking relies heavily on the choice of materials and decorations.

The most commonly used are:

  • patterned paper (floral, geometric, vintage, etc.)
  • pieces of paper cut out to make frames
  • masking tape, a decorative adhesive tape widely used in DIY projects
  • decorative elements such as stickers, stamps or labels

Paper, in fact, forms the basis of most of the creations: it is used as a page background or to frame the photos.

The key is to stay consistent: choose a colour scheme and a theme to avoid cluttering your page.

Our tips for getting started with scrapbooking

To help you get started easily, here are a few accessible projects:

  • create a mini holiday photo album
  • create a weekend memory book
  • personalise a baby album
  • make a souvenir card for an event
To find out more, take a look at our DIY ideas:

FAQ

What is scrapbooking?

Scrapbooking is a creative hobby that involves putting together photos, paper and decorations to create a personalised album that tells a story or captures a memory. (Alboomeo)

What equipment do you need to get started with scrapbooking?

A pair of scissors, some sheets of paper, patterned paper, double-sided tape and a few decorative elements are all you need to get started.

What are the common mistakes in scrapbooking?

Beginners tend to overload their pages or use too many colours. It is best to opt for a simple, balanced composition.

What are the basics of scrapbooking?

Choose a central photo, organise the layout, add a title or some text, and use a few decorative elements to finish off the page.

What is the difference between journaling and scrapbooking?

Journaling involves writing down your thoughts or memories in a notebook, whilst scrapbooking combines writing, photos and decoration.

What is the appeal of scrapbooking?

It allows you to preserve your memories in a creative and personal way, whilst developing your imagination.

Is scrapbooking still in fashion?

Yes. With the rise of DIY and handmade crafts, scrapbooking is making a strong comeback among craft enthusiasts.