A picture captures a single moment, but a scrapbook captures an overarching feeling. That’s why I love to scrapbook so much – and why I’ve decided to let you in on my scrapbooking process.So, without further ado, let’s get started!

The first thing I do when I scrapbook is write down spreads I would like to scrapbook. You don’t necessarily have to know every single spread you are going to do, but having a good idea of a couple spreads is a good start.

I wanted this particular scrapbook to be a smorgasbord of everything from my childhood to adulthood. However, some people even have themes for each scrapbook they do, like a scrapbook of their wedding (I could see myself doing this down the line).

After you decide on your scrapbook spread and theme(s), you’ll want to compile photos. Look through all of the photos you already have printed out first to see if you can use any of them for your spread(s). Once you’ve done that, compile any additional photos that you might need on your laptop and get them printed out.

Tip 1: Group the photos into different folders based on which spread they are a part of. This is a good point of reference when you organize the printed photos.

Tip 2: Check the web for coupons on photos before paying full price. Shutterfly constantly sends me free photo vouchers, and there’s even apps dedicated to free photos. All you have to pay for is shipping.

While you’re waiting for your photos to be shipped, start compiling everything you need for each spread. Look through your room for anything that could enhance your spread, like old movie tickets or birthday cards. Gather or purchase stickers, markers, color pencils, construction paper, scrapbook paper, glue and/or adhesive and all of your desired scrapbook materials.

Tip 3: The Dollar Tree and the Target One Spot section have some great finds as far as scrapbooking is concerned at a budget-friendly price.

Here comes the fun part:

The Spread

While there’s no real method to laying out the pages in your scrapbook, here are a few spreads I’ve come up with to give you ideas for what you could do:

Classic SpreadPhoto SpreadLayered SpreadI hope these tips and inspo help you on your scrapbooking journey!

-Jas