Scrapbooking Supplies - Beyond the Basics

Once you've got a few scrapbook layouts under your belt, you may be ready to move on and explore some of the other fabulous scrapbooking goodies that have been catching your eye at the scrapbook store. Congratulations! There's a world of colorful, creative fun waiting for you. If you've got the basics covered - cardstock, adhesive, paper trimmer, journaling pen - then it's time to take the next step.

Here are some great additions to your scrapbook tool chest that will provide lots of versatility without breaking the bank:

Patterned paper. Patterned paper can be used in tons of ways - as backing for photos, cut into strips to create contrast on your page, trimmed into shapes to create a theme, and more! Choose a few sheets of patterned paper that work with the cardstock you already have, and you'll have a huge assortment of looks you can create. Cost: about $.75 - $1 per sheet. Buttons. Buttons add texture, color, and a hint of homemade fun to your scrapbook layouts. And the best part - you probably have a big assortment of loose buttons already on hand! If you want to purchase some in specific colors, check the fabric store before heading to a scrapbook specialty store. The cost can range from $1 - $5 for a pack of buttons. Letter stickers. When I first started scrapbooking, I often hand-drew my page titles. But now, I almost always use letter stickers. Available in every color, font, and size under the sun, letter stickers cost about $3 a sheet, plus or minus, depending on how many letters in a pack, and how large the letters are. Rub-ons. Rub-ons are transfers that you "rub on" to the page. They come in letters, flourishes, images, and more, from skulls and crossbones to lacy hearts. Their cost ranges from $2 to $7, depending on how many you receive and how large they are. Ribbon. Ribbon is a terrific way to add texture, dimension, and pizzaz to your page. You can purchase ribbon in spools or by the yard; many big-box craft stores carry tons of ribbon for $1 a yard. You can also purchase ribbon from fabric stores.