Let's Talk about Smaller Scrapbooks

My creations on Retreat this month were in 8.5 x 11 albums. I really enjoy this break from the norm, and the chance to work with rectangular pages rather than our usual large format 12 x 12 squares. 

It can be fun to switch it up every once in awhile!  Somehow, for me, these smaller binders are less intimidating and faster to complete. 

Now, personally, I find I need a 12 x 12 (or larger) album for documenting our family history and adventures. But the small ones are fantastic for other projects!

Here's what I like to use a traditional letter paper size album for: 

- baby books 

- portraits through the years 

- school pictures

- certificates and achievements

- ancestry & family heritage

Be careful, though!

It can be tempting to grab a "photo album" that you can find on Amazon or locally in big box stores, but you'll want to be very careful with this. 

During my projects this weekend, I sadly discovered that a popular photo album brand I thought was trustworthy is already starting to yellow. My Pioneer Photo album came with page protectors and white cardstock page bases that seemed to be good enough quality for my backgrounds.  Unfortunately, all of the white cardstock included with the binder is already starting to really yellow, unevenly, especially along the top of the pocket where the paper is exposed to air.  So sad!  I will be keeping an eye on this, and may have to recreate my entire album.  

It's not worth the risk! When you purchase albums of any size, simply put, it is worth the extra dollars to get something from a company like ours, Stampin' Up, or other proven memory keeping sellers. 

My recommendations when buying paper and albums from your scrapbooks:

- don't try to save a few bucks. It's never worth it, after all the time and resources investment you will put into curating and preserving your memories. 

- if you do use a store-bought brand, at least change out the background paper so you can be sure your bases are archival, acid and lignin free. Here's what I recommend for your base pages. 

- page protectors are another area where I wouldn't skimp. You'll regret it. For 8.5 x 11, I personally research the best quality protectors and buy them in bulk to save myself a lot of trouble and bring the cost per sleeve down.  This is what I have been using lately, and I'm very pleased with the thickness, clarity, and durability.

(Please note: If you purchase these through the links shared above, you can help support my small business!)

See you in the next one!

- Rebecca

SU Demonstrator, Bronze Elite