Basic Scrapbooking Terminology
11 March 2009
Author: Spotted Canary
This list includes the basic scrapbooking terms that every beginning scrapbooker should understand.
Archival – Materials that are durable, chemically inert and proven to be long lasting.
Acid-free – Products are considered acid-free if the pH level is 7.0 or higher. Materials with a lower pH level will break down over time and may cause deterioration.
Cardstock – Heavyweight paper often used for the base of a scrapbook page. Available in many colors and textures, cardstock is a scrapbooking staple.
Chipboard – A sturdy material often used for the base of scrapbooking embellishments or albums
Crop – Verb: to trim your photos for placement. Noun: an event where scrapbookers gather to scrapbook together. For example: Suzie held a crop at her house where we all created a mini book.
Embellishments – Page enhancements such as stickers, ribbons, buttons, brads, eyelets, etc.
Journaling – Written words on a scrapbook page designed to tell the story behind the photos. Journaling can use handwriting, computer fonts, or stickers and other embellishments.
Lignin – An organic substance found in the wood pulp used to make paper; lignin can become unstable and acidic over time, causing paper to yellow and deteriorate. Newspaper is a low quality paper that contains lignin. For paper to be termed lignin-free, it may contain 1% or less lignin.
Patterned Paper – Paper with a printed design for use in scrapbooking. Patterned paper is available in many designs and weights, single- or double-sided, and flat or with embellishments such as glitter or embossing.
Pigment Ink – A type of ink that is permanent and chemically stable. It is lightfast, waterproof, fade-proof, and non-bleeding. Many scrapbooking-specific pens use pigment ink.
Punches – Tools used to punch out shapes, or create decorative edge and corner effects. Also refers to the paper pieces created by punch tools.
PVC – An unstable plastic called Polyvinyl Chloride that should be avoided. The gas exuded by PVC can cause deterioration in about 5 years time. Most “magnetic albums” use PVC. Look for albums and refill kits that are PCV-free.
Shape Cutters – Tools designed to cut specific shapes, such as circles or ovals.
Now that you understand these basic scrapbooking terms, you are ready to get started! Visit our glossary for more crafting terms.