scrapbook

A scrapbook is a bound or loose-leaf collection in which a person assembles and preserves memorabilia such as photographs, letters, newspaper clippings, tickets, artwork, and other keepsakes. Entries are often accompanied by captions, dates, journaling, and decorative elements to tell a story or record a theme.

The practice has historical antecedents in album making and commonplace books, but the modern hobby developed in the 19th and 20th centuries with affordable paper products and photography. Scrapbooks were used to catalog family history, travel experiences, and school projects, evolving from simple clippings to elaborate layouts.

Common materials include acid-free paper, adhesive, scissors, corner mounts, and decorative elements like stickers, washi tape, stamps, and patterned papers. Techniques emphasize layout balance, layering, color coordination, and legible captions. Pages may weave text and images to convey memories or events, and organizers often use dividers or pockets to separate themes.

In addition to traditional scrapbooks, digital scrapbooking uses software, digital kits, and online templates, allowing electronic layouts and easy sharing. Preservation considerations focus on archival methods to prevent deterioration, such as acid-free storage, protective sleeves, and careful handling; digital copies should be backed up and periodically migrated to new formats. Scrapbooks serve purposes ranging from family history and education to creative expression and personal storytelling.