I started scrapbooking when I was in high school. At first, it was just a bunch of pictures and stickers randomly placed on a 12×12 page, but it soon evolved into a full blown obsession. One of the earliest albums I remember making was for my high school boyfriend. I wish I had a picture to you show you guys, it was really cute.
Over the years, I have tried multiple scrapbooking systems – including traditional layout, mini albums, travelers’ notebooks, and Project Life. Some of you may know about this last style of scrapbooking and may have a couple of albums already done. But if not, Project Life is a memory keeping system which was developed by Becky Higgins and it is meant to simplify the process of documenting your everyday life.
I know, genius!
Except that I have tried to start a project life album multiple times over the years, but have failed miserably. I think it’s because I tend to overcomplicate things and have been known to sacrifice progress for perfection. I know; I’m working on it!
This time, my goal is to keep it simple and get the stories down on paper, just like the project is intended to be. It doesn’t have to be perfect. It doesn’t have to be complicated. It just has to work for me and my schedule.
Simplicity is key.
Last week I looked through all of my tools and supplies and pulled out the ones I use most regularly when doing paper crafts. I’ve also collected a ton of project life cards over the years and plan to dig in to my stash.
Here is my list:
- Paper Trimmer – I got this Fiskars paper trimmer a long time ago at Michaels, but you can find them anywhere. I like it because it has a size guide, making it really easy to cut pictures.
- Canon Selphy CP900 – This photo printer is amazing! It is super simple to use and I can print the photos straight from my phone. Mine is a bit old, but still works great.
- iPhone – I plan on taking all of my photos with my phone. I have a nicer camera, but it’s too bulky to carry around with me. Again, trying to simplify the process.
- Stamps and Ink – The date stamp is from my local office supply store and it was very inexpensive. I know Becky Higgins has one which I’ve seen at my local Michaels, but this one works great for me. The other stamp came with a past Studio Calico kit. I really like it because it’s small and it will allow me to document a simple thing like the weather.
- Tools – My Tim Holtz tiny attacher is a must. I hate glue and the small staples allow me to get embellishment on a page without making a mess (trust me, I’m very messy). The corner rounder is also a fun tool to have. I may not always use it, but I have it just in case.
- Pens – I am extremely picky when it comes to pens. I recently found this Sharpie at the drug store and the fine tip is great for journaling. Micron pens are also really good and will not bleed-through your paper.
And that’s it! Again, I am keeping it simple!
I worked on a couple of weekly spreads this past weekend and will share them later this week.
Hope you like it!