In a digital age where photos are stored on cloud drives and moments are shared in fleeting Instagram stories, scrapbooking remains a heartfelt, tactile way to preserve memories.
Nelmari Oosthysen, owner of A Peace of Art, says, “It’s more than just a craft, it’s a personal art form that combines photographs, mementos, and written reflections to tell a story. Whether you’re documenting a milestone, a holiday, or everyday joys, scrapbooking allows you to transform simple memories into lasting keepsakes.”
Brief History
Early versions of scrapbooking date back to the 15th century when people collected poems, letters, and notes in “commonplace books’’. By the 19th century, it had evolved into the kind of memory-keeping we recognize today, with printed photos and newspaper clippings pasted into decorative albums. The modern scrapbooking movement gained momentum in the 1980s and 1990s, especially in the United States, when companies began producing supplies specifically for this hobby — from patterned papers and stickers to stamps and die cuts.
Why People Scrapbook
At its core, scrapbooking is about connection — to the past, to loved ones, and to yourself. “For many, it’s a form of emotional expression and storytelling. It offers a way to relive and celebrate life’s moments, and every page is a snapshot of time frozen in a frame of colour, texture, and words,” adds Nelmari.
Scrapbooking also has therapeutic benefits. It encourages mindfulness, helping individuals slow down and reflect. The creative process can be soothing, and the result provides a sense of accomplishment. For some, it’s even a shared activity, passed down from parent to child or enjoyed in clubs and workshops with others who share the same passion.
The Basics to start Scrapbooking
Nelmari says, “Starting a scrapbook may seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. At its simplest, it requires just a few materials: a photo album, some photographs, glue or tape, and paper. But from there, it can become as intricate and personalized as you want.”
Here are some basic elements and tools used in scrapbooking:
- Photos: The heart of any scrapbook. Print your favourites or include polaroids for a vintage feel.
- Paper: Backgrounds can be plain, patterned, or textured. Choose colours and styles that complement your theme.
- Embellishments: Stickers, buttons, ribbon, and other decorations add flair and personality.
- Journaling: Write captions, dates, anecdotes, or longer reflections. This adds emotional depth and context to your pages.
- Tools: Scissors, glue, stamps, stencils, and pens are all helpful for crafting your layouts.
- Preserving Your Scrapbook: You can use acid-free materials to protect photos, and store your final masterpiece in a cool, dry places away from direct sunlight to ensure the longevity of your scrapbook. And just handling the final pages with care when flipping through the book—especially ones with embellishments.
Finding Your Style
The best part about scrapbooking is that there is no right or wrong way to do it. Some people prefer a clean and minimalist approach, others love a more eclectic and layered look. Some scrapbooks follow chronological order, while others are thematic or random. The key is to make it your own, don’t aim for perfection—just start!
If you’re not sure where to begin? Here are some popular scrapbook themes to get you inspired:
- Travel: Document trips with photos, tickets, maps, and handwritten notes.
- Weddings: Capture the magic of the day, from preparations to vows to celebrations.
- Family Heritage: Create a genealogy album with vintage photos and stories from relatives.
- Daily Life: Celebrate the little things — your morning coffee, your pet’s antics, your favourite bookstore.
- Growth: Make a scrapbook that follows a child’s development, your own personal achievements, or even a creative journey.
“A scrapbook becomes more than a personal project — it’s a legacy. It’s something you can pass down, a tangible piece of your history that others can hold, flip through, and feel connected to,” says Nelmari.
Unlike digital folders that can get lost in the shuffle, a scrapbook is a physical, beautiful reminder of the life you’ve lived and the love you’ve shared.
Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a beginner curious to start, scrapbooking is a deeply rewarding way to honour the past and celebrate the present. All it takes is a little time, some glue, and a lot of heart.
Contact and follow A Peace of Art
Facebook: @apeaceofartcreativeartsandcraftsworkshops
Instagram: @apeaceofart
Port Elizabeth: 85 Main Road, Walmer. Tel: 072 304 0797
Bloemfontein: 7 Avenham Street, Avenham. Tel: 076 192 1637
