Armed and Ready with "MSA" or Mobile Scrapbooking Artillery

September 21, 2012

To say that I am passionate about paper is like saying I like breathing oxygen. It keeps me alive! And scrapbooking keeps memories and creativity alive. Here at the Midwest Genealogy Center, we have a scrapbooking class that has a unique perspective—heritage preservation. I recently had the pleasure of assisting in the direction of one of these classes, and let me tell you how AMAZING it was to see all the different folks who attended.

Two women came in armed and ready with their "MSA" or Mobile Scrapbooking Artillery. Another woman came just to get some ideas on preserving old photos for her future scrapbooking endeavors. And, a couple with a bag full of photos hoped to get some direction on creating FIVE of the same scrapbooks! I was a little out of my element because, while I enjoy scrapbooking, I enjoy it in a "non-traditional" way. I prefer mixed media art using scrapbooking materials like framed art with that one special photo, embellished gift boxes, or handcrafted greeting cards. So, I was able to lend some "out of the booking" ideas to our attendees.

For instance, instead of pitching those old photos of nothing but trees you took (because at the time you thought they were pretty), use it as a mount or background for another photo you ARE using. Don't have photo corners to match your paper? Use coordinating scraps from your other scrapbooks to make some! Do you have to use the photo as is? NO! Cut those people out and make them do something on paper. Cut objects out and use them as embellishments. Make your own scrapbook background with black and white photos using collage techniques in a photo editing software. What about utilizing ephemera to add that extra oomph to your project?

Your creativity is only limited by YOU! Break out of the book and come scrap with us on Saturday, October 6, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. at the Midwest Genealogy Center. Classes are free, but registration is required. Bring your own "MSA" and be prepared for two hours of kooky, crafty, creative fun!

Cynthia S.
Midwest Genealogy Center