There Are So Many Choices: Which Scrapbook Products Do I Use

When you look at old photos what do you usually see?  The reddish cast of the photos?  The yellowing of newspaper clippings? 

In the past, products used for scrapbooks were not safe for photo preservation.  Manufacturers didn't put much research into the products they sold.  They had no idea what kind of damage their products would do years down the line.  How do you prevent this from happening to your photos? 

Knowing a few basic things about photo preservation is the key!

The number one enemy of a photo is acid.  When a product containing acid comes in contact with photos it migrates.  This causes permanent damage and decay to the photo.  So the first thing you need to look for are acid free products.

Newspaper clippings contain a high amount of lignin.  This causes yellowing and discoloration.  Lignin free products, including buffered pages neutralize the lignin and make it safe to include newspaper clippings in your scrapbooks.

If you use acid and lignin-free products you prevent the damage.  And believe me; it is worth purchasing these products.  Trying to repair or correct photos damaged from acid and lignin can be costly.  And in most cases, the damage is irreversible.

Where do you find these types of products?  That is the beauty of it!  They are readily available anywhere scrapbook products can be purchased.  It is actually harder to find products that are not acid and lignin free. 

Are they affordable?  Definitely.  Making a scrapbook that is safe for your photos does not have to cost a fortune.  And, the choices are endless no matter if you use average or high priced products.   

Your memories are important.  A quick look at what you are purchasing makes all the difference.  Help ensure the safety and longevity of your photos for generations to come.

Journaling In Your Scrapbooks: Is It Really Important?

Looking through my grandma's scrapbooks I always had to ask "Who is this?"  She shared the information proudly.  But, over the years, some of the details became foggy.  After she passed away there was no one left to ask. By journaling in your scrapbooks, you can make sure your story is told.  It only takes a few minutes and can be inexpensive.  

The only tool you really need for this project is an acid free journaling pen.  You can pick these up at any craft store for a few dollars.  Once you have this, you are ready to start.

There are three simple steps to journaling in your scrapbook.    

Who is in the photo?  This is the first question that you need to answer.  Be as complete as you can.  If you know the person's full name, write it down.  You can write Mom under the photo, but I usually put the person's given name on the first page.  This is good for Family Tree information later down the road.

When was the photo taken?  Even if you don't know the exact date, if you know what year the photo was taken in you are all set.  You can even put a time frame, for example, 1999-2000.  

What is happening in the photo?  It could be a vacation, a family reunion, a trip to the zoo, a baptism, etc.  If you took the photo it was a memorable event.  So, make sure you write it down.  If you aren't sure what is happening you can always share a story about the person in the photo.

Where did this occur?  This is not as important as the name and date of the photo, but I like to add this when I can.  If a photo is taken  in front of your house, write that down.  Some people look at the faces in a photo.  Other people focus on the surroundings.  

No matter how much information you have you should include it in your scrapbooks.  You may not have every piece of the puzzle, but you may come across someone in your family that can fill in the blanks.

It is important to share your story.  Telling someone the story as they look through your photos doesn't guarantee they will remember.  In a few minutes you can journal the story and be sure it is told for generations!

The Best Tip To Make Your Scrapbooks Beautiful Everytime!

What is the sure way to make every scrapbook a masterpiece?

More coming soon!

About Vanessa: Tricks and Tips

When it comes to scrapbooking there really are no hidden tips and tricks.  But there are things you can do to ensure that you have fun, preserve your memories and keep your photos safe!

The tips given here are what work for me.  You will find certain things that work for you.  Try something new.  Explore.  By doing this you will find your niche!

Scrapbooking should be fun!  So just go with it!

Vanessa

Need More Tips?

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Vanessa Calleja is a freelance writer specializing in scrapbooking, pets, family relationships, & health and wellness topics.

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