5 Supplies You Need to Start Scrapbooking

Whether you’re just starting out scrapbooking (or getting back into it after a break), there’s something incredibly empowering about keeping it simple. Let’s face it: sometimes less is more, especially when we’re feeling overwhelmed. If you’ve got a million supplies but minimal mojo, or if you’re brand new and want to keep things low-key, these five supplies are all you need to kickstart (or rekindle) your creative journey.

You probably already have most of these lying around, and if you don’t, they’re super easy to find wherever you like to shop—from big box craft stores to your favorite indie shop. The best part? These supplies come in all kinds of varieties, and the key is to find what works best for you, not necessarily the trendy stuff everyone else is hyping. Scrapbooking is about telling your story, so let’s make sure the tools help you do just that.

1. Scissors

Grab any pair of scissors you’ve got around. Seriously, it doesn’t matter if they’re the fancy kind with ergonomic handles or the small ones you use for gift wrap. What matters is they’re going to cut paper, photos, or whatever else you want to add to your page.

You don’t need to overthink it—no one is grading your cuts here! If they’re wonky or uneven, that’s totally okay. A pair of everyday scissors is often all you need. Branch out when you find you need something specific.

2. Black Pen

Listen, if you want to get the most joy out of journaling, you need to grab your favorite pen—you know, the one that just feels right when you write with it. The simple truth is that you’re going to enjoy journaling so much more when you love the pen you’re using. It’ll make everything—your handwriting, your thoughts, and even those little doodles—look better and more you.

And if you’re like me, you might need to buy an extra or two—because losing your favorite pen is a tragedy no scrapbooker wants to endure.

3. Adhesive

Here’s the thing about scrapbooking—you’re going to do a lot of sticking. And for that, you need adhesive. I always recommend having two types: a wet adhesive (like a glue stick or liquid glue) and a dry adhesive (tape runners, double-sided tape, or adhesive tabs).

Dry adhesive is ideal for most of your sticking because it’s quick, clean, and doesn’t leave your pages all warped and wavy. A little goes a long way, and it keeps everything neat and tidy. Wet adhesive, on the other hand, is great when you need extra sticking power or for those tricky little embellishments. Experiment a bit and see which ones you love—scrapbooking is all about finding the tools that make your creative process easier and more enjoyable.

4. Notebook or Album

Alright, this is where the magic happens—you need something to scrap in. Whether it’s a traditional scrapbook album with page protectors to keep everything pristine, or a simple notebook that you can collage right into, this is where your stories will live.

Personally, I love using small notebooks for my Daily Pages. They’re compact, low-pressure, and perfect for experimenting. But if a larger album with page protectors makes your heart sing, go for it! The point is to find something you’re comfortable with, something that fits you. Whether it’s an old journal or a brand new sketchbook, this is where you’ll bring your stories to life.

5. Scraps

Now we get to the fun part—scraps! These are the bits and pieces that turn a blank page into something that feels totally unique. Pictures, pretty paper, memes you’ve printed, stickers, washi tape, mail you’ve saved, or even those fun little doodads you picked up on vacation—all of that is fair game.

You don’t need to start with a lot. Just pick a few things that feel meaningful to you. Feeling overwhelmed? Start with photos and a bit of colorful paper—it’s an easy, no-fail combination that always looks great. These scraps are what make your scrapbook yours; they’re pieces of your life that remind you of your stories, and that’s what makes them powerful.

Your Feminist Lens

Of course, the most essential piece of feminist scrapbooking isn’t a physical supply—it’s you and your stories. It’s the lens through which you see the world, the small yet significant experiences you’re preserving. It’s about how, as a feminist, you see your story and the world around you. Ask yourself: How do I see my story as a feminist? That’s your lens. That’s the perspective that’s going to make your scrapbook uniquely yours.

So there you have it—five simple supplies that can get you scrapping today. No fancy tools, no trendy products, no breaking the bank. Just you, some scissors, a black pen, adhesive, a notebook, and whatever scraps you’ve got around. Scrapbooking is a reminder that creativity doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about telling your stories in a way that feels right for you.

Ready to get started? Grab those supplies, take a deep breath, and start where you are. There’s no wrong way to tell your story—and I can’t wait to see what you create.