Many people purchase plain albums and make decorating and personalizing the album part of the project. Others prefer to purchase albums already decorated with cloth or ornaments. In addition to the aesthetic considerations, look at the inside of the album for layout and compare it to the plans you have for your scrapbook. Some albums are paper-based, meaning you will glue your scrapbook elements in place. Some scrapbooks use plastic sleeves for holding photographs and other scrapbook elements. Size and binding are other considerations. Scrapbook albums come in a variety of sizes 2 inches by 2 inches up to to 12 inches by 15 inches, with three-ring binding, spiral binding, or glued or sewn binding.
Personal scrap elements will go into your scrapbook. This includes everything from photographs of family and friends to notes you've written or notes written to you. Journal entries can also be a part of your scrapbook. Besides these flat elements, many scrapbook enthusiasts glue in pieces of jewelry and other items that refer to specific memories.
Glue, tape and paper are the basic supplies you'll need to assemble a personal scrapbook. A variety of paper to fit your scrapbook is also a basic supply. Consider keeping several colors and textures on hand.
A supply of decorative elements is essential for giving your scrapbooks color and personality. Gems, beads, ribbons and stickers are some of the most essential, useful decorative supplies to have. Spend an hour or two in a hobby shop and you will come away with a number of decorative elements to help spruce up your scrapbook.