Some ideas

Let’s face it. Hobbies are great fun and sometimes can be expensive. I admit that I am an avid scrapbooking fan. Since, I am not alone in this love of scrapbooking. Making scrapbook pages is a rapidly growing hobby. Just take a look in any craft store such as Michael’s or JoAnn’s and you’ll be amazed at row after row of supplies, some of which carry rather high price tags. It can become a very costly hobby and with our economy the way it is, we better find a way to save some pennies.

I’ve found several frugal methods for purchasing scrapbooking supplies so I can still enjoy my hobby and not pay a fortune for it! Here are some places for finding scrapbooking supplies that won’t break the bank:


1. Ebay. I have not found a “scrapbooker” going out of business at a garage sale, but I have seen items listed on ebay for just that reason. Sometimes stores just close their doors or someone who is a scrapbook consultant decides to get out of the business. If you search on ebay, you can find many great deals on scrapbook items. Specifically, look for a “lot” of scrapbook items where you can pick up a supply of papers, ribbons, and embellishments for very little money.


2. Store Clearance. I also hunt for supplies on clearance at Target or Walmart. Periodically, Target will do a reset of their scrapbooking department, and any seasonal products or products not moving well will be discounted. I’ve found tags and stickers at 50% or 75% off. Especially check the clearance aisles after a holiday - seasonal items will eventually be clearanced.


3. Garage Sales. Sometimes you can find some great items. I have gotten punchers, glitters and so on.

4. 50% Off Coupons. Both of my local craft stores, Michael’s and JoAnn’s, periodically feature coupons in the weekend newspaper. If there is a particular item that I am looking for, I watch for the 50% off coupons which usually allow the purchase of one item (that is not on sale) for 50% off. I’ve purchased some of the nicer albums in this manner.

5. Dollar Store. My local dollar store has a rather nice selection of scrapbooking supplies. All are acid free and archival quality too. I’ve seen wonderful seasonal papers, stickers, and even embellishments.