Do I Need It?

Scrapbook supplies are attractive and fun but they can also be expensive. Even small items combined with other small items can quickly lead to a large scrapbook store bill. While supplies are necessary it is also necessary to consider which items to buy. To decide if you should add an item to your supply collection, consider the following questions:

Is this a staple item that needs replacing? Some items are absolutely necessary for scrapbooking like adhesive and paper. These items are staples of your collection but they are also items that need to be replaced because they are consumed. Consider whether the item is a product that you need to replace because it is being used consistently. Staples are one thing that will at some time be necessary to replace.

Will the item be used often? Is the item reusable? Consider whether the item is something that can be used over and over again.  The more you use it the more it will be worth purchasing. If it does cost a lot can you justify the cost versus the amount of use you will get out of owning the item? If you can only think of a few layouts you would use it on, then it really isn't worth the cost. If it will be used over and over again, it may be worth the expense.

Can the item be borrowed? Think about who else you know that owns the item. If there is someone who owns it, ask if you can borrow it. This especially works for a larger or expensive item like a paper cutter or die-cut machine. If you can borrow it for a short time you can determine how much you used it and if you really need to purchase your own. You may even discover that borrowing the item gives you enough time with it to avoid purchasing it yourself.

Does the item fit your style? Some of the most tempting items are new items. These may be items that are a new design or type than you've used beforehand or it could be something that you've never used at all. Before purchasing an item consider how you will use it on your scrapbook pages. Can you see the item being used on your pages? For example a person with a simple style could pass up a distressing kit because it doesn't fit their style but they may find alphabet chipboard a better fit for their style. Pass on things that don't work for your style.

Do I have room for it? Before purchasing an item, especially a large tool, consider whether you have storage space for the item. Where will you put it when you get home? Do you have a spot or will you have to make one? Will that spot be accessible? I love some of my bigger tools, but storing them in the garage means I just don't use them as much as I should. Think about these things before purchasing.

Does it cost too much? Finally, yes, you also need to consider the cost. What is your budget? If the item is on sale, is it worth it? If the item isn't on sale, can you wait for a sale? Your personal budget and desires make the question of cost a personal one.

Curb your urge to buy, but make sure you keep well supplied for your style and with items that you truly need.