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Albums are more than a pretty package for your scrapbook pages. They provide protection, storage and a viewable format to share and showcase your works of heart. Many options are available-both functional and attractive. But before making a choice, consider the following factors, functions and features. Then pick the album that is right
for you.
consider purpose, then size
Tailor your choice of album to its purpose and the subject it will include. Basic purposes include general, theme or gift albums. Mini albums such as 8 x 8", 6 x 6" and smaller are perfect for gift albums. Smaller pages are convenient and often take less time to complete.
To include many photos a 12 x 15", 12 x 12" or an 81/2 x 11" page
format might be a better choice.
what's your type
The way pages and page protectors are bound can categorize the types of albums available. The binding type affects how both the pages and page protectors are loaded. Page protectors are side-loading, top-loading or slip-on depending on which type of album you use. Some page protectors are more readily available than others and many albums come prepackaged with only a few, so make sure you can find refills before you commit to purchase. If it is an album you will be adding to and/or rearranging pages, the ease of use will be important so consider the following binding types to decide which works best.
3-ring binding
Like school binders, metal rings hold 3-hole page protectors. Easily add, remove or rearrange pages by pulling apart the rings. The number of pages you can insert depends on the size of the rings. This flexible system is ideal when scrapbooking out of chronological order. Be aware that rings cause a considerable gap of space down the middle, making it less ideal for spreads.
strap-hinge binding
These albums have flexible straps threaded through wire loops or sliding staples. Page protectors can then slide over finished pages. If you scrapbook directly onto a page, pre-planning for spreads or a series of pages is a must, because you will be creating on both the front and back of the pages.
Gaps between spreads are kept to a minimum with this system. Inserting and rearranging pages takes more effort, but scrapbooking out of chronological order is possible by keeping the album disassembled until it is complete. Be cognizant of the direction the pages will bind before creating.
Covers tend to lay unevenly when albums are full so even it out with spacers between every page or so.
spiral binding
A metal or plastic coil holds pages together much like notebook paper binders. Generally the most permanent type of binding system, layouts are adhered to or created directly on the existing page inserts. These albums usually do not come with page protectors. However, it may be possible to purchase slipcover protectors that slide sideways onto pages. These are a popular and stylish choice for gift albums. Untreated or undecorated covers are ready to be altered and personalized.
post-bound binding
Screw-like metal posts connect album cover to page protectors. This method usually requires a screwdriver to tighten posts. The Book Look Binders by Karen Foster are the exception with easy pull-up posts.
Like strap hinge systems, gaps are minimal with post-bound albums. Post extenders allow for additional pages, and spacers help album pages lay flatter. You can slide out the stock paper to scrapbook directly onto it or swap it out for a page made on paper of your choice.
specialty albums
Specialty scrapbooks are unique in their format such as in size, binding, cover and purpose. Some are tailored to a specific purpose such as for computer-generated pages or tag pockets to keep memorabilia. For example, a dual binding album accommodates two different themes or sets of pages and a mini or wearable scrapbook would make a fun
gift album.
Need more recommendations? Talk to other scrapbookers about what works for them. Everyone has a favorite. Albums are a personal decision and a wonderful opportunity to express your unique style, so enjoy taking your pick.
