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Scrapbook Tools And Supplies

Updated on November 7, 2023
linfcor profile image

As a professional scrapbook artist, paper crafter, and author, I have taught people how to turn family memories into legacies for 20 years.

Like an artist needs a paint brush, some paints and a canvas, scrapbookers need tools to create scrapbook pages that will last the generations. There are just a few tools that you need to get started. Some of them you might just have, if you are a crafter. These are the most basic tools, every crafter should have to make the scrapbook pages you can be proud of.

  1. A Cutting Mat-keeps your surfaces clean. Makes stamping and cutting easier-non slip surface
  2. A Paper Cutter- Makes clean even cuts for your mats and embellishments, frames and more. It has some measuring features that make cutting a breeze
  3. Scissors-Large scissors for all your basic cutting needs, detail scissors for making small cuts, decorative scissors for edges and detail
  4. Adhesives- For gluing and taping of your photos and scrapbook elements
  5. Gel Pens- To journal, add titles and other décor on your scrapbook pages
  6. The rulers-the clear straight ruler enables you to see the paper underneath the ruler. Makes it much easier. The hexagon ruler is a simple start for you to enable you to make some shapes without a mechanical cutter
  7. A Bone Folder is very handy when you want crisp clean folds on journel notes and other page add-ons

There are a few other basic things that you probably already have in your house. Pencils are handy to draw with. Some regular paper to draw design outlines before you start. Some bowls and glasses to make circles with. Glue sticks are always handy to keep around too. Cookie cutters are terrific for making shapes and embellishments

Stay organized ! Find a place to keep all your scrapbook tools so that they are handy for all your hobby time. It will keep you less frustrated and give you more time for scrapbooking. Even if you don't have a craft room or space, keep you stash together in a box, basket or bin

Don't get me wrong , there are plenty more tools than I have listed here. These are the real basic scrapbook tools for anyone who is considering scrapbooking as a new hobby. Let's start filling your scrapbook toolbox !

There are a variety of craft mats available depending on your needs.
There are a variety of craft mats available depending on your needs.

Craft Mats

Is your craft space a complete room or an area on a dining room table? No matter where and how much space that you have, you need a work mat. Since your scrapbook paper is mostly 12" by 12" this larger mat is perfect for you. It functions in lots of different ways to help you on every page and layout that you do. It has measured one-inch markers that help you measure different pieces. You can draw and color on it. You can stamp on it and get even stamping every time. It is very easy to clean. And best of all, you protect your work surface every time.

Craft Sheet

Craft sheets are technically not a mat but are used the same ways as a mat would be. They are a treated kraft-colored another company does make a white one) sheet is made of a slick, non-porous material that nothing is getting through.

The original size is 15" x 18", which means your desk or craft table will have a nice big area covered from spills, stains, and any other accidents. You could trim the sheet down to any size that you would like, though there is a 9" by 9" size available.

If you do not prefer to leave them out, they can be rolled up and placed in a drawer or closet.

Glass Media Mats

Glass media mats are a wonderful addition to your craft space, especially if you are dealing with any technique that is water based.

Some measure as large as 23" x 14" with a black mat under the tempered glass. The mat usually has white grid markings.

Others are just the glass with the grid markings on the glass. Over a period of time, depending on what you use to clean them, the markings may wear off.

There is also a portable version available that has been very popular. It comes with a 10.25" x 15.75" with this little crafting sidekick that weighs just a little over 3 pounds. The nice thing about this version is that it has a pallet mixing area.

Magnetic Mats

A newer craft mat on the market is a magnetic work mat. It has a light magnetic mat with super strong magnets to hold your projects in place. It comes in two versions- a 12 " x 12" as well as a smaller version. It comes with four magnets as well as a flexible magnetic ruler. The larger mat would be perfect for a scrapbook page while the smaller mat would be best for things like stamping and embossing.

Silicone Mats

This is a versatile mat for everyday use. It will take all kinds of techniques and still hold up. They do come in lots of different sizes. One thing to keep in mind about your silicone work surface is how easily it attracts things like dust, fibers, and pet hairs. A good baby wipe or sink rinse will help you avoid too much debris from building up on the rubbery surface. One thing to note, and I speak from experience is that alcohol inks will stain these mats.

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Scrapbook Tools And Supplies

Magnetic albums contain sticky pages with clear acetate or vinyl overlays. Photos left inside non-acid free magnetic photo albums are not safe; acid is hiding in the sticky stuff they're stuck to and in the acetate overlays. The plastics used in the overlays emit harmful gasses over time. With no airflow (because of the tight bond) the gasses become trapped between the overlay and the page. The chemicals silently destroy your precious photos. You should remove your photos carefully and as soon a

Tape Adhesives

Here are a few things to consider when you are looking for adhesives on your scrapbook pages. Photos are processed with acid. When they come in contact with paper, adhesives and other products that have acid in them, a reaction occurs that will eventually cause your photos and layouts to become brittle, deteriorated and ruined.

Acid-free", "pH neutral", "Archival Safe" are the terms that you need to look for on any products that will be used on your layouts and in your scrapbooks. Always check the packaging so that you know what you are getting.

Tapes and tape runners are often referred to as dry adhesives. Additionally, adhesives can be permanent, repositionable or temporary, which means they can be permanently stuck to your layouts or temporarily adhered--until you know exactly where you want an item.

Any of these products would be right for adhering your photos onto your scrapbook page.

Tape Runners

The adhesive tape runner is the first adhesive you should consider buying when you are starting out making scrapbook pages. Yes, I also use glue sticks, but the adhesive tape runner has infinite more possibilities than my glue sticks. Not only can it adhere pictures, titles and journaling text, but it also is very economical, less time consuming and neater than a glue stick.

Not only can it adhere paper, but it can also be used with ribbon and glitter. It is a double-sided tape that is rolled out of the dispenser. You can purchase tape runners that are refillable which makes them even more economical.

Some adhesive runners are refillable. These types of adhesives are more economical in the long run. And of course, you want to use less plastic in your life, so these a green option.

The best adhesive runners offer a smooth application and a strong, even permanent, bond. The adhesive applicator should also be easy to use. Double-sided and photo-safe options are best for crafts such as scrapbooking.

Double Sided Tapes

Double sided tape rolls are not in a dispenser. They are rolls of tape that have paper coverings on both sides. The advantage to these types of tapes is that they come in different widths This makes them more adaptable to things like ribbon that may come in various widths.

Foam Tape

If you like dimension on your layouts, foam tape will be your new friend. You can raise just about anything on your pages like titles, embellishments, mats and more. Using foam tape on your page gives an element special attention.

Foam Dots

Foam dots come in so many different sizes. Basically, they are pieces of foam tape cut down into different shapes and sizes like circles, squares and rectangles. They come on sheets. The top part of the dot has a paper covering to protect the adhesive until you are ready to use it.

Xyron Machines

Xyron offers a line of machines that make stickers out of just about anything. They have an adhesive that adheres whatever you feed into them onto the sheets Once you run them through the machine. you get a sticker that you can use on your page.

Want To Be Able To Remove A Photo?

If you are thinking about the possibility of removing a photo n the future, your best bet to mount your photos would be to use removeable glue dots or photo corners. Photo corners strongly adhere to the page, providing a long-lasting adhesive, while having no negative effect on your photos.

Adhesive Tape Tips

  • Double-sided tape is the perfect adhesive for flat, larger items like photos, ephemera, stamps, postcards etc.

Scrapbook Tools And Supplies

Don't place Post-it notes directly on your photos and layouts - Don't be foiled by this seemingly harmless act. Once the note is removed, traces of acid and adhesive may be left behind to do deteriorating damage. If you must have Post-it notes for your projects, put your layout items in a page protector first and then place the note on the outside.

Using Glues In Scrapbooks

There are sometimes when you need a bit of wet adhesive on your scrapbook pages. Just like with the tapes, you need to be sure that the glue you are using is acid free. Unless it says it is on the package or description, do not use it. Down the road it will cause changes in your layouts.

Popular Glues For Scrapbook Pages

Zip Dry

This is a glue that dries quickly and does not wrinkle your paper. It dries super-fast, so you need to be quick with this one. You also need to keep the nozzle clean by wiping it periodically.

Glossy Accents

Most often used to adhere heavier embellishments to scrapbook pages. Use just a bit as it can cause some wrinkling.

Zig Two Way Glues

These go on blue, but dry clear.


Glue Tips

  • Avoid rubber cement. Even if it says it is acid free, do not use it. It is a messy glue and will cause paper rippling. (Lumps and bumps on your layout.)
  • Avoid over gluing. You do not need a lot of glue. Use sparingly for better results. Thin layers of glue work just fine.
  • Adhesive sprays can be used for larger items. Make sure to use them in well ventilated rooms.
  • Embellishments that have lots of dimension like charms are best adhered with craft glue.
  • Never use a glue gun to adhere anything to a scrapbook page. The heat and acidity can spoil the elements on your page.

Markers-Start With A pack Of Many Colors

Markers make your pages uniquely your very own artwork. Here is where you can shine as a scrapbook artist. You can create your own colors, do art journals, and color stamps that will make your pages shine. These are not the markers that your kids play with ! These are artist markers that you will find so many uses for as you start to create the story of your life

An Acrylic Ruler-Why I would Not Be Without One

I have quite a few rulers in my craft room, but if there is only one that I would chose as an absolute must have, it would be my acrylic ruler. Especially for scrapbook pages and paper crafts, this is a must have tool that you will go to over and over again. The main feature of the acrylic ruler is simply the fact that you can see right through it. That one feature makes the cost of the ruler worth every penny. You can mark and draw lines and still see the paper underneath. You can place the ruler on your scrapbook page to keep all your elements straight. You can set letters on the edge of the ruler and ease them off to make a very clean look ! This is one tool that you cannot live without.

Craft Knives And Mats

You need to have at least one general purpose craft knife in your scrapbook tool kit. They can be purchased as a single knife or as a kit with different interchangeable handles and blades. For the most part, you will only need one really good craft knife.

Self Healing Mat

A self-heal mat is used to protect any type of surface where you are cutting paper or other materials with things like craft knives or rotary cutters.

The material in the mat separates slightly as you cut into it. Then goes back together into its shape when you are finished cutting. Not only does the mat protect your surface, but it also keeps your project from sliding around while you are cutting.

They also have grid marks on them that help you get precise measurements.

They are not heat resistant. Heat will actually cause damage to the mats since they are generally made of rubber or plastic.

If you take care of your mat, it should last you for years.


Cricut TrueControl Knife Kit - For Use As a Precision Knife, Craft knife, Carving Knife and Hobby Knife - For Art, Scrapbooking, Stencils, and DIY Projects - Comes With 5 Spare Blades - [Blue]
Cricut TrueControl Knife Kit - For Use As a Precision Knife, Craft knife, Carving Knife and Hobby Knife - For Art, Scrapbooking, Stencils, and DIY Projects - Comes With 5 Spare Blades - [Blue]
In my book, this is the knife that every paper crafter should have. In this kit, you get the knife already loaded with the blade as well as 5 additional blades, so it is a real bargain. Those blades will last you for quite some time. The special blade lock system means that your hands never touch a sharp edge when you need to change the blade. There are also additional safety features to keep you and those around you safe. There is a cushion grip so that the blade will not sli storage cartridge to track and dispose of used blades p from your hand, a protective cap as well as anti-roll features. You can use storage cartridge to track and dispose of used blades You can use this craft knife to cut through a variety of different materials.
 

Paper Cutter- Multitask Tool For Scrapbooking And Paper Crafting

Paper trimmers are a must have tool for anyone who is creating scrapbook pages or other paper crafts.
Paper trimmers are a must have tool for anyone who is creating scrapbook pages or other paper crafts. | Source

I could not live without my paper cutter. From the very small portable ones to a full-size office type paper cutter. You can decide what size and cost meets your individual needs. If you are just getting started, I suggest getting a small portable cutter with replaceable blades. It is easy to store and can be taken to classes. The blades are economical to replace. You can cut mats, borders, titles and more.

Different Types Of Paper Cutters

Every scrapbook artist has their own specific favorite type of paper trimmer. In fact, many of us have two or more different types. The decision on which type is right for you depends on the amount of space that you have in your craft space area as well as your craft budget. Here are some of the options:

Guillotine Paper Cutter

This model cuts through several pieces of paper at the same time, so it is a real time saver. A guillotine paper cutter works like a big cutting blade that is pulled down to slice through the paper. As a result, it can handle larger volumes of paper. It can also handle cutting stiff construction paper, cardboard boxes, or poster board with ease

Rotary Paper Cutters

Rotary trimmers have a round cutting blade that glides along a rail, providing clean and accurate cuts with little effort needed. They can usually cut several sheets of paper at the same time. The rotary trimmers blade can cut in either direction and some cutters have replaceable blades. The base on rotary trimmers has a measuring grid on the majority of cutters. It is good for making precision straight lines, especially on softer paper.

Handheld Rotary Cutter

This tool uses a circular blade that cuts as it's rolled along with the paper, with the blade attached to a handle that fits comfortably in your hand.

Electronic Paper Cutters

Electric trimmers allow you to cut out intricate details and any shape that the machine can easily follow.

They can cut shapes, letters as well as words.

These are the most expensive cutters of the group. They operate off a computer program that allows you to cut paper in dozens of different ways. They also allow you to add foil, add text and layers to all kinds of projects.





Invest In A Quality Pair Of Scissors

A good quality pair of scissors will take you a long way towards creating scrapbook pages that you will be proud to share. There are lots of different types of scissors that you will want to invest in as time gores by, but to start with, invest in a good pair of straight scissors. Later on, you will want to add a pair of tiny detail scissors and some decorative scissors. The tiny scissors are used to cut into small and detailed pieces. The decorative scissors add fancy edges that can be used for titles, borders and other elements of your scrapbook pages

Increasing Your Stash-More Scrapbook Tools

As time goes on and you learn more techniques , you will find that your toolbox will grow larger. As you learn more ideas, think about what you would like to have a make a wish list for all the things that you might like to have. As long as I have scrapped, I still have a wish list of new products that my heart yearns for. Then I watch the sales and check my coupons for the best times to think about purchasing them. One o the best ways to test a tool, is to go to a class that uses that tool. You might also consider searching for the technique that uses that tool or a video that uses that tool to check it out. Always carry a notebook with a list of what you have so that you don't buy the same thing twice. It should have a list of all the tools and supplies that you have so you can check out what you have verses what you need

Ink Pads And Stamps-So Many colors and choices

Ink pads are an essential tool in your toolbox. They can be used in so many ways. You can of course stamp letters and images for your pages. You can also create a distressed look on your paper by edging them with ink. There are lots of different kinds of ink pads and you should become very familiar with the basics. Start by buying a black ink pad. You might also consider a brown, a red and some of the metallic which are my very favorites. Always whenever possible buy ink pads that can be refilled. This will save you a lot of money. Make sure to store your pads upside down and secure the lids with rubber bands to keep the ink from drying out.

Stamps are an essential tool in scrapbooks. You can stamp a plain piece of scrapbook paper to make it custom. You can make little embellishments from stamped images that you can cut out once they are stamped and colored. There are so many options ! When you first set out to buy stamps, start with very basic stamps that you will use over and over again. Think about things like birthday, holiday, saying stamps and alphabets. Then gradually add more stamps as time and your budget allows. Once you get the stamping bug, you may find out that you want to branch out and make greeting cards, You will basically have all the supplies in your craft area.

Paper Punches

These are delightful paper cutters that can make your scrapbook pages oh so very wonderful. They cover the spectrum of just about anything you can think of. Flowers, butterflies, birds, animal, edging punches that make shapes in all kinds of sizes. When you start with punches, buy some basic punches and then add on as time goes along.

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