Have you wanted to dip your toes into scrapbooking? For the beginner it could be confusing on how to get started. Many terms can get thrown around. Post bound. Folio. Smash Book. Junk-Journaling. Layouts. Spreads. Embellishments. Don't worry, getting started with scrapbooking couldn't be easier. It is not about creating a prize worthy scrapbook. It is about preserving precious family memories in a unique creative way. 

There are a variety of different ways to bind a scrapbook. Formatting a scrapbook page and binding method aren't necessarily synonyms. Although the terms for a scrapbooking format and binding method can be used interchangeably in the community. Keep in mind that all scrapbooks come in different sizes. The most common sizes are 12 x 12 and 6 x 6. We are going to break down the most common ways to bind scrapbooks.

Traditional

A post-bound scrapbook album is very traditional. It is held together by three posts that screw together allowing you to add more pages to your album. Each page protector holds your scrapbook page in place. Many scrapbookers use a D-Ring album instead of post binding. It also holds your pages in place with sheet protectors. 

Folio

A folio style album is created from scratch. Scrapbookers will create the album using chipboard and stiff cardstock. Pockets, tags, and interactive elements are made to creatively display photos and memorabilia throughout the album. Folio style scrapbooks are very dimensional and include a variety of textures and embellishments. They are versatile because they can be made to a custom dimension.

Book Binding

Creating a traditionally bound book is also a very popular method of scrapbooking. Signatures are created from folded sheets of paper. The signatures are then sewn together to create a text block. The cover is then attached to the textblock. The best example of this is junk journaling. Like the folio, pockets, tags, and interactive elements are made to creatively display photos and memorabilia throughout the album. Both are versatile because they can be made to custom dimensions.

The most important thing to remember is to create in a style that speaks to you. Scrapbooking is about preserving memories in a creative way. Don’t be afraid to experiment with more than one style. Mix and match until you find a method that speaks to you. Whatever binding you choose, it should help you cultivate your creativity. We have a design team that can help you along your journey. They have many project ideas and examples of different styles of scrapbooks to aid you in your creative journey.