Scrapbooking Book Reviews!

Getting Started With Scrapbooking: How to Create Your First Scrapbook by Phyllis Matthews
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have tried to scrapbook once, and failed. Well not so much failed as I wasn't properly equipped or prepared for the project. Had I had a copy of this book, I would have probably made a better first scrapbook! Phyllis Matthews has put together a simple yet informative book on the basics of scrapbooking. Instead of feeling like a strict instructor is giving you step by step instructions, Phyllis's tone is more of a friend teaching you her favorite hobby.

I pulled two important lessons from this book; one I knew and one I wish I had known before. First, Phyllis reminds the reader that scrapbooks don't have to be filled with just pictures. Tickets, maps, information pamphlets and the like are perfect fillers for a scrapbook. I knew this going into my attempt and used post cards and other materials from my trip.

The second lesson is the plan your scrapbook before you start the actual work. Phyllis includes a sample plan that she used for one of her own scrapbooks. I wish I had known or even thought to have done something like this, it's a perfect planning idea. As an author I would never start a story without even the simplest of outlines, why would I go into a craft project without a plan. (I do plan my craft projects now, but when I did my scrapbook attempt I wasn't yet as crafty as I am now!)

Budget Scrapbooking For Beginners by Phyllis Matthews
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I'm always looking for a deal and Phyllis follows up her Getting Started book with a wonderful book on how to save money. If you have taken a walk down aisles dedicated to scrapbook in any craft store you may have seen those high prices. Well really any aisle at a craft store. Yes there are sales and coupons, but sometimes even those don't really cut the cost significantly. Phyllis gives a number of really good ideas on where to buy supplies and how to use things you may never have thought to use in a scrapbook (or any craft).

One place she suggests (and one of my favorite craft shopping locations) is a dollar store. While the quality of supplies isn't up to par with that found in craft stores, that isn't always an issue when dealing with crafts. A sticker is a sticker no matter the cost and ribbon and bows are basically all the same.

I think both books go great together!

I received copies of the e-books for my honest reviews.

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