What is the process of the creative idea service?
Our initial consultation will be conducted over the telephone or in person depending on your location and preference. We will discuss several creative ideas – scrapbooks, cards, invitations, pre-made items, scrap art – to determine your need. Then we will discuss theme, colors, design style, timeline, and any other specialties to turn this idea into a reality.
What is a scrapbook? Pre-made item? Scrap art?
A scrapbook is simply a collection of photographs, memorabilia, and journaling bound together.
Pre-made items are great gifts for weddings, birthdays, showers, graduations, etc.
A pre-made scrapbook is decorated without the photographs, memorabilia, or journaling so someone else can insert those items as they please.
A pre-made layout is a single page (or two page layout) that again has no photographs, memorabilia, or journaling.
A pre-made recipe album is similar to a scrapbook in design, but instead of photographs and memorabilia, you would add your family recipes
Scrap Art is a personalized one page layout of any size made specifically for framing
How long does it take to complete an album or project? What if I need it rushed?
The completion time depends on the size and detail of the album or project. For instance, a 20-page, 12×12 album will usually take between four and six weeks. During the initial consultation, we will determine a deadline and I am flexible, so I will do everything to accommodate your needs.
If you need the order rushed, there will be an additional fee added on to the project total, which will be discussed during our initial consultation.
How many photographs do I need?
A 12×12 page will usually hold between 1-6 photographs depending on the style and size of photographs. A smaller album will usually hold between 1-3 photographs per page. Cards tend to use 1-2 photographs.
What if I don’t want a photograph permanently mounted?
Not a problem at all. We will discuss which photographs you would like not mounted permanently and there are several options: photo corners, clear or pockets, or make a copy of the photograph.
What is journaling?
Journaling is one of the most important parts of a scrapbook. Journaling tells a story and describes the photograph. Journaling can consist of a simple description of the who, when, and where to a more in depth story of why. The two most common ways to journal are to print the journaling out on the computer or to hand-write the journaling on the page. I strongly suggest hand-writing your journaling for future generations to come. Even if you don’t like your hand-writing, your great, great grandkids just might find it fascinating.
It is best for you to do the journaling yourself, but we can discuss assistance for an additional fee.
What does acid- and lignin-free mean?
Everyday papers contain acid, which can cause your pictures to turn yellow and fade over time. Lignin is a by-product of the paper-making process, and it can also damage your photos. In order to insure the longevity of your photos, all the materials I use are acid- and lignin-free.
What if some of my items are acidic?
Acidic items, such as newspaper articles, are harmful to photographs. There are several options to avoid deterioration and be able to include them in the project: make a copy of the items onto acid-free cardstock, place it in an acid free pocket, or spray it with a special archival spray. We will discuss any items that may come into question and determine the method and additional cost.
What if I already have some supplies?
If you already have some supplies that you would like me to use, we can discuss them at the initial consultation to be sure they are acid-free and appropriate for the theme and style of project you choose. If so, I will gladly use them in your project and deduct a percentage from your cost.