Have you ever considered journaling your life's pages and transforming an ordinary collection of photographs into a vibrant and visual storyboard? Telling the stories behind the pictures and revealing hidden memories and emotions through the creation of a scrapbook can be a wonderful experience that you will admire in years to come as it will make you smile while looking at your past adventures. But most importantly, creating your scrapbook from scratch will give a unique and intimate feel, as a personal touch will turn your albums into something very special. That is the power behind journaling a scrapbook and this cherished feeling is one of the most important elements of different types of scrapbooks.



The best thing about creating a journaling scrapbook is that although there is a plethora of scrapbooking supplies available on the market, you actually do not need much to make your own version and personalizing it according to your imagination. In fact, all you need to create your own scrapbook is an empty album, glue, a pair of scissors, and your collection of photographs, stickers, tickets and newspaper clippings. Additionally, any fabric, ribbon, or bits of leftovers from other projects can be used to embellish your personal journaling scrapbook. Have in mind that as you become more familiar with scrapbooking, you will find products that will save you time and frustration. Although these are somewhat more expensive they are well worth the extra cost. The most usual "investment" is that of an exacto knife. Its strong and versatile blade allows you to cut almost anything into any shape and when the blade is dull, you can simply brake off the end to reveal another sharp tip. But remember to place the object you plan to cut onto a mat or wad or newspaper before using the exacto knife, since it will cut right through your picture and into your scrapbook page or dining room table if you are not careful or exercise more power than needed. Moreover, you should buy a pair of tweezers as trying to pick up and place small gluey pieces can be a hassle. Tweezers, however, will allow you to move pieces without touching them and getting glue all over your fingers. At this point you should know that there are various glues and affixing options available at your local supplies store. Some of these quick and less messy options include glue dots, two-sided tape, Xyron, acid free photo tabs and polypropylene corners. Also, remember that you should purchase acid and lignin free albums will increase the preservation of your scrapbook and your paper treasures intact. You can find lignin and acid free pages and albums in virtually any color and texture.

Finally, when your journaling scrapbook is ready it is time to add its content. First, think about the people who will read it in the future. If they were not part of the activity you are about to describe you should give them as many details as possible so they can relive your memories and stories for themselves. The 5 W's method is usually the best strategy. Name the people appearing in the photo, and describe who took it and who else was present. Then state the purpose of the photograph. Describing what was happening can help the reader understand the circumstances that prevailed and feel part of the story. Of course, you should state where the event your photo illustrates was and it is always good to give some background information. Remember to tell to the reader when the photograph was taken and add the specific date including the year if possible. In addition you should state why this photograph was used. What makes it so important?

You should not be afraid of scrapbook journaling. Just remember that all stories have a beginning, middle and an end. Ask yourself, "What would I want to tell future generations about the photos on my page?" and this should be more than enough to help you write down your stories. A title page or famous sayings, quotes or a special poem you wrote for the occasion can gradually lead the reader to the end of your story.