The last thing as a scrapbooker or crafter that you want to see happen is for your hard work and effort to be ruined. Scrapbooking and crafting involves many hours, time, energy and money to put together a work of art and cherished memories. So, safety is key! There are numerous ways that your scrapbook can get ruined., but with a few simple precautions, you can make sure that your scrapbook will be kept safe for years to come and for your family to continue to enjoy. Here are five ways to keep it safe.
Five Ways to Protect Your Scrapbook and Craft Supplies
(1) Liquids are a key danger to your book. Anything wet can destroy your papers, photographs, ribbons, fabric, etc. And water can get into you supplies and book unexpectedly from things like burst pipes, or overflowing toilets (I once had a toilet overflow that managed to leak through the floor to the room below). To avoid problems, store your scrapbook supplies, albums, photographs and other scrapbook materials in a dry, cool place where water cannot reach them. Also, keep food and drinks out of your craft area. Consider storing your books in protective sleeves or plastic bags.
(2) Plan your storage. Store your scrapbook materials carefully. Improper storage is the primary cause of scratches, tears, and bends. Store your items in a sturdy container, in plastic sleeves that fit into a 3-ring binder, or in acid-free envelopes. But, also keep in mind that not all plastics are alike. Some items such as sheet protectors, photo corners, photo enclosures, and binders can actually cause damage. Avoid buying materials containing PVC or PVA and look for acrylic or polyester materials as an alternative. Buy your materials from reputable scrapbook or craft stores or from trusted sources, such as through reading Amazon reviews. The cost is a bit more for quality items, but your scrapbook will be better protected.
(3) Extreme temperatures can damage your books and materials as well. Always store all items in an area where temperature is regulated and there is low humidity. Exposure to sunlight can also fade items, especially papers, fabrics, and photos, so keep all of your supplies and your finished scrapbooks out of direct sunlight.
(5) Check that your paper and cardstock are acid-free. If it doesn’t say so on the packaging, it probably isn’t. Also just because a manufacturer’s lighter colored paper is acid-free does not necessary mean that the darker colors are also acid free.
(4) While it is not usually immediately noticed, fingerprints on some materials, especially photos, become visible over time. Oil from skin is the culprit. To prevent deterioration from fingerprints, handle photos carefully, by touching only the outer edges. Wash your hands frequently and/or use acid neutralizing wipes, while also ensuring that your hands are dry before handling your materials. Lightweight cotton gloves are also a good item to use when working with photos. Place photos in books under protective clear sheeting when possible.
With these steps you can better protect your scrapbooks and scrapbooking materials.
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