Scrapbooking is a beautiful way to preserve memories, celebrate special moments, and express your creativity. If you’re excited to start but feel overwhelmed by all the supplies and ideas out there, don’t worry — this beginner-friendly, step-by-step guide will help you confidently create your very first scrapbook page.
Step-by-Step Guide on how to make a First scrapbook page
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, gather these basic materials:
✅ A scrapbook album (or a loose sheet of scrapbook paper if you want to start small)
✅ Acid-free patterned or solid-colored papers
✅ Photographs you want to showcase
✅ Scissors or a paper trimmer
✅ Adhesive (glue stick, double-sided tape, or photo corners)
✅ Pens for journaling
✅ Optional: stickers, embellishments, washi tape, stamps
Tip: Don’t stress about having everything perfect on day one — you can build your stash over time.
Step 2: Choose Your Photos
Select 1–3 photos for your first page. Focusing on a single event or theme (like a birthday, vacation, or family picnic) makes designing easier and more cohesive.
Step 3: Pick a Theme or Color Palette
Decide on a theme or a color scheme that matches your photos. For example, use bright, fun colors for a kids’ birthday page or muted tones for a heritage family page. A consistent color palette will tie your scrapbook together beautifully.
Step 4: Plan Your Layout
Before sticking anything down, lay out your photos and papers. Experiment with:
✔ Photo placement (centered, in a row, overlapping, etc.)
✔ Where your title or journaling will go
✔ Any embellishments or decorative items
This dry run helps you avoid mistakes and gives you confidence before you commit.
Step 5: Add Background Paper
Choose a background paper that complements your photos and theme. You can also layer a smaller mat behind your photos to help them stand out against the page.
Step 6: Adhere Your Photos
Once you’re satisfied with your layout, carefully glue down your photos. Use acid-free adhesives to protect your pictures over time.
Step 7: Journal Your Memories
Include a few sentences about the photos. Who is in them? When and where were they taken? How did you feel at that moment? This storytelling element makes your scrapbook even more meaningful.
Step 8: Decorate with Embellishments
Now for the fun part! Add stickers, die-cuts, buttons, or washi tape to enhance your page. Be careful not to overcrowd — let your photos remain the star of the show.
Step 9: Add a Title
Give your page a title, like “Beach Day 2025” or “Graduation Memories.” Titles help capture the theme at a glance and add a professional touch to your layout.
Step 10: Slide into Your Album
Finally, place your finished page into your scrapbook album’s protective sleeve. Congratulations — you’ve completed your first scrapbook page!
Final Thoughts
Your first scrapbook page doesn’t need to be perfect — the most important thing is that it reflects your story and your heart. As you keep going, you’ll develop your own style and confidence. Scrapbooking is a wonderful journey of creativity and memory-keeping — so enjoy every moment!
Ready to get started? Check out our Scrapbooking Starter Checklist, browse Essential Tools Every Traditional Scrapbooker Should Own, or read How to Scrapbook on a Budget! What memories will you preserve first? Share in the comments below!
