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.