Whether there's a special event that you want to commemorate or you just need to do something with all the odds and ends that you have lying around, scrapbooking can be a great way to store your memories in an aesthetically pleasing package and let you show off your creativity to boot! Getting started with scrapbooking is easier than you think and the results can become treasured family heirlooms.

The first thing that you'll need is the album itself. While some advanced scrapbookers build their albums themselves, you can buy one ready made from just about any craft store. You can buy albums that have a set amount of pages or you can buy ones where you can add pages at a later point if you wish to. When you're getting the album, you'll also want to pick up a pair of sharp scissors and some glue. Depending on what you plan for your scrapbook, Elmer's glue can suffice, or you might want to upgrade to things like fabric glue or Mod Podge. You'll also want to get a nice pen to use in your scrapbook, or even maybe a pack of them. If you're hoping to pass your scrapbook on to future generations, look for pens that are meant for archival purposes; that way, the ink won't fade or cause the paper to deteriorate.

To get started scrapbooking, think about what your album is for. Are you commemorating a graduation? Are you making a gift for a friend who is moving away? Even if all you want to do is make something pretty, it helps to have a theme in mind. For instance, if you have decided to do a scrapbook for your youngest child's first year of school, you'll have a good place to start in terms of collecting materials and achieving a certain feel. If you are a planner by nature and have an idea of what materials you are going to be using, try doing a few rough sketches on scrap paper to plan your layout. If you're more spontaneous, don't be afraid just to dive in and do what you think looks best. Many people scrapbook with their children and the colorful collage style of scrapbook can be extremely charming.

Keep an eye out for materials that will go into your scrapbook. Go through old photos, check your desk and junk drawers for things like old invitations and letters. Craft stores also have ready-made paper-cutouts and items that can enhance your scrapbook. Above all, don't stress out about it! Some of the best scrapbooks were works in progress for years and as with many things, scrapbooking is a journey as much as it is a destination.