If you have just begun creating scrapbook page layouts having the correct scrapbook supplies is really important. It is important to stick with basic items and build your stock from there. As we all know it is very easy to get carried away when purchasing scrapbook supplies and before you know it you will not only be looking for a scrapbook album but for storage to store all the extra items away!

Having the basic scrapbook supplies will not only get you off to a great start but will probably save you a heap of money later on. The most important scrapbook supplies are of course the scrapbook albums themselves.

Scrapbook albums are the foundation to scrapbooking. Once a scrapbook page layout has been made and completed you will need to place the page in a scrapbook album. Scrapbook albums come in a variety of sizes, the most common being 6 x 6 ( often referred to as a mini album and 12 x 12 which is a lot larger and better for creating scrapbook pages with larger pictures.

Because scrapbook albums are made in different ways it is important to choose a type that suits you. There are 3 main types of scrapbook albums you can buy.

Post-bound scrapbook albums - these allow the scrapbook pages to lay flat and there is no separation between the pages allowing you to create a two-page layout if desired. You can also add additional pages to a post bound scrapbook album by inserting an extension post.

Strap bound albums – these albums use a strap and a metal hinge attached to the page.  You can add additional pages by removing the straps and running them through the new pages.  Normally page protectors are purchased separately and it is always a good idea to have a few extra protectors to add to your scrapbook supplies for when the time arises. These albums also lay flat.

Three-ring scrapbooks - these are by far the easiest for new scrapbookers to use and are becoming one of the more common scrapbook albums available. The way this album is bound allows for easy movement and addition of pages. These scrapbooks come in a variety of colours and designs to suit the theme you are creating the page on.

What ever type of scrapbook album you decide to add to your scrapbook supplies make sure you take to time to shop around as not only can they vary in design but you may find the price of scrapbook albums can vary also.