Scrapbooking for a Time Capsule

Time capsule: a container holding historical records or objects representative of current culture that is deposited (as in a cornerstone) for preservation until discovery by some future age.

Merriam-Webster, Incorporated

Often scrapbookers are interested in history and preserving memories of the current time for the future generations. So, it makes sense for scrapbookers to also create time capsules. Using supplies already available for scrapbooking purposes, you can create a beautiful time capsule.

Time Capsule Subject. What will be the subject of the time capsule? A time capsule will record current history, but there are many possible subjects. The subject of the time capsule could be a family, a certain person, a place or a current fad or invention.

Time Capsule Contents. What should you include in your time capsule? Here are a few things that could be placed in a time capsule.

• Mini-Album. Create a mini-album with journaling and photographs. The topic of the mini-album could be a holiday, a person, important events or a vacation. I created two albums perfect for inclusion in a time capsule. In my "30 Days" mini-album, designed by Melodee Langworthy, I created one page for each day of one month. Each page included a photo or piece of memorabilia representing that day and journaling for that day.
• Another mini-album to remember Christmas could be added to my time capsule. My "Daily Christmas Journal" contains thoughts about several Christmas-related topics such as music, shopping, and a wish list. The mini-album includes recipes and a newsletter.
  
  
  
  
• Media. Include different types of media, which relate to your subject. These materials could include DVDs and books. If your subject has a blog, print out pages of the blog and include them in the time capsule.
• Memorabilia. Remember to include items that detail the daily life of your subject. Articles of common use such as a debit card, clothing, a cell phone, CD-ROMs, maps, tickets, coins, a fork, a children's toy, and food wrappers can leave information about your subject.
• Folder. Envelopes can be decorated and flat objects stored inside. Objects to include in a folder include a diploma, newspaper clippings, student artwork, brochures, newsletters and homework. I created a folder by covering a manila envelope with patterned paper, gaffer tape and stickers. The folder stores stories handwritten by my daughter.

Time Capsule Container. Where should you put your historical records and objects? The size of the time capsule will depend on what you want to put in your time capsule. If you use folders or common items, it will depend on the size of your largest item. Be creative when designing your container. Any box, either chipboard or plastic , would make a durable container. If you use a box, line it in plastic to protect it from moisture. Decorate the outside of your container. For my time capsule, I chose a priority postal box and decorated it with scrapbook supplies.

Spend some time collecting items for a time capsule. Be sure to include a mini-album to reflect on your subject. Then, when you have a good collection, create a capsule container . It's work but it is well worth it.

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