How to Start Scrapbooking: A Beginner's Guide

Why Scrapbooking?

Obviously, scrapbooking is one of the most meaningful ways to preserve the moments that matter most. A scrapbook turns photos and memories into a keepsake you can hold, share, and pass down for generations. 

But, in my opinion, scrapbooking is one of the best creative outlets because there are no rules. You can scrapbook alone or on a girls night. You can scrapbook a big event or some little moments from your day-to-day life. Plus it is the year of the analog hobby! What better time than now to put the phone down and start a new creative hobby?!

If you've been curious about starting but aren't sure where to begin, this guide is for you.

Step 1: Choose Your Album

Your album is the foundation of your scrapbook. Look for one that feels sturdy, beautiful, and built to last. The faye scrapbook album is a favorite starting point — it's designed with memory-keeping in mind, with a timeless aesthetic that grows with your story.

Consider the size you want to work with. Larger albums give you more creative space per page; smaller ones are easier to fill and feel less overwhelming for beginners.

Step 2: Gather Your Supplies

You don't need much to get started. Here's a simple beginner supply list:

• An album — your home base
• Paper packs — patterned and solid papers set the mood for each page. The Important Moments paper pack is a great first choice with its warm, versatile palette.
• Page protectors — keep your finished pages safe inside the album with page protectors.
• Stickers and embellishments — add personality and detail. The Important Moments sticker sheet pairs beautifully with the paper pack.
• Washi tape — great for borders, accents, and holding things in place. Try the Important Moments washi tape for a cohesive look.
• Journal cards — write captions, dates, and little notes with journal cards
• Scissors and adhesive — basic tools you likely already have at home.

To make things simple, I created cohesive scrapbook kits that include all of those supplies! 

Step 3: Pick a Theme or Time Period

Trying to scrapbook "everything" at once is the fastest way to feel overwhelmed. Instead, start with one focused theme:

• A single trip or vacation
• One year of your child's life
• A wedding or special event
• A season — summer, fall, the holidays

Having a clear scope makes it easier to gather your photos and choose supplies that feel cohesive.

Step 4: Lay Out Before You Glue

Before committing anything to the page, arrange your photos, paper, and embellishments loosely. Play with placement. Overlap elements. Try different combinations. This is the fun part — and it's much easier to adjust before anything is stuck down.

A good rule of thumb: anchor your layout with two or three photos, then build around them with paper layers, journaling, small embellishments, or other photos.

Step 5: Add Your Story

The words are just as important as the photos. Use journal cards or write directly on your pages to capture the who, what, where, and, most importantly, the feeling of the moment. Future you (and future generations) will be so glad you did.

Step 6: Protect and Preserve

Once your pages are complete, slide them into page protectors before placing them in your album. This keeps them safe from dust, fingerprints, and wear over time. A Faye Scrapbook album comes with 20 page protectors, but you can add more if you have more pictures to scrapbook! 

Ready to Start?

The best scrapbook is the one you actually make. Start simple, start small, and let the process be joyful. Your memories deserve a beautiful home — and you're the perfect person to create it.

Browse our full collection to find everything you need to begin your memory-keeping journey.