It can be quite daunting being a beginner scrapbooker. There are so many different tools, albums, papers and general supplies, not to mention knowing how to start with your first creation.

There are plenty of essential scrapbooking tools lists out there and they do vary as each person is different with their thoughts on the 'essentials'. Below is a list of basic tools that you can use as a guideline to help you to get started on your masterpieces;

• Album - Choose what size album you would like. Most popular are 12" x 12" or if you're not confident alot of beginner scrapbookers start with a smaller album. To select the design or colour of your album, choose the one that you think most suits the person or the theme of your scrapbook. For more information on albums see our Guide to Albums.
• Album Refills - A must for keeping your layouts safe and protected. Try to purchase refills from the same manufacturer as your album as not all refills will fit all albums. 
• Paper Trimmer - There are that many out there and with so many blades for different cuts and also for scoring. As long as your trimmer will cut 12" paper this is all you should need for now and may very well be all you ever need.
• Metal Ruler - Obviously for measuring up items and also great if you need to use a craft knife.
• Journalling Pen, Pencil and Eraser - Look for acid free pens and markers. They come in a wide range of colours and thicknesses.
• Papers & Cardstock - To prevent being swamped by variety match your papers and cardstock to your photos. For more information on papers see our Guide to Papers.
• Scissors - A comfortable pair of sharp scissors are a must. Keep your scissors only for scrapbooking to make certain they stay sharp. I even have one pair for papers and one for ribbons.
• Adhesives - I find that I can't live without my Double Sided Tape. Alot of people also find a Glue Stick to be of value and also great because most of us have them around the house already (be careful when using a glue stick as they are not all safe to use in scrapbooking). If your budget permits a Liquid Glue will also come in handy.

The following items are not always a necessity for everybody when beginning scrapbooking but they are great to have;

• Craft Knife 
• Self Healing Mat
• Eyelet Setter