My Scrapbook Haven

The longer I am a scrapbooker, the more blessed I feel to have my own space to create. Many people manage on a little table here or there, but I am engulfed in a 10’ by 12’ playroom. This converted bedroom, in our daylight basement, has become my 'Secret Garden.' Within these four walls, I am able to free my creative spirit and express who I am as a person and an artist.

I am the kind of scrapbooker who cleans up after every page, who has a place for everything and who likes to be organized when sitting down to design. Most of the things that I use over and over are within reach on my desktop, such as glue, photos, pens, and a wire basket containing my latest projects. The deep drawers of my desk hold my papers, paint and embellishments, while the things that do not fit (or that I use occasionally) find their spot in a dresser located behind me.

An upright magazine file (rescued from a remodeling dental office) holds many idea books and periodicals in the corner of my room. My most inspiring publications sit in a desktop organizer next to my Bazzill cardstock. I keep all of my Creating Keepsakes issues together in magazine files on the bottom shelf of my antique armoire. The upper shelf contains miscellaneous journals, a dictionary and a three-drawer mini cabinet. The two middle shelves are home to my albums.

Beside my computer desk is a stack of wire cubes that hold my 12x12 papers. Some of them lay flat on shelves and the others are in an accordion file. I have them all separated by manufacturer. Also in the cubes are my photo boxes, ribbon box, and a blue binder containing all of my letter stickers. The rest of my sticker collection is in a dresser drawer, along with my rubber stamps, punches, chalk, embossing supplies, and fibers.

My room would not be complete without my sewing machine. I love to make quilts and costumes, and I really love sewing on my layouts. Having it accessible encourages me to use it more.

I think the main reason this is my scrapbook haven is because I feel so happy when I am inside. This room gets the best sunlight of my whole house. I get to display my prized possessions and photographs. I am surrounded by those I love and the things that I love. Even the paint color, Rejuvenate (Glidden), is inspiring.

All of these things, combined with my passion for scrapbooking, is what makes this room so special to me.