1. Why should I scrapbook my photos?
Scrapbooking your photos will help protect and preserve your memories. Old photo storage items (magnetic albums, cardboard boxes) contain acids and lignin that can cause photos to fade and deteriorate quicker than they normally would. Photos are like anything and they will eventually fade but today's technology had shown us how to prolong the life of photos. Scrapbooking is one way that prolongs the life of your photos by protecting them from dust, fingerprints and harmful agents.
2. What is acid-free and Lignin-free?
Acid is an agent that is used during the manufacturing of paper. Lignin is an agent naturally found in wood that holds fibers together. Both of these agents can speed up the fading and deterioration of your photos. But, both acid and lignin can be removed from paper and other products used in scrapbooking. This is why it is important that products used are acid-free and lignin-free.
3. Okay I'm interested, now what?
Contact me via email or phone, we will schedule an initial consultation. The initial consultation is free and last one to two hours. This meeting is done in person at a place of your choice (generally at your home). At this meeting we will review your photos, discuss designs and styles you like. Based on the number of photos and designs you like, I will be able to give you an estimate on the cost of your album as well as a completion date. Once I have taken your photos I will wait three days before I actually begin scrapbooking them in case you change your mind.
4. What if I'm not in the Northern Virginia area?
Not a problem. We can do everything we need to over the phone or through email. I will mail you a packet that you can complete and mail back to me with your photos. I do require you to mail your photos insured and certified.
5. Can I see some pages before my album is complete?
Yes. I will send you a copy of the first few pages via email for your review. This will allow me to make sure we have the same vision in mind for your project.
6. How long does it take to complete an album?
All projects take approximately 4-6 weeks to complete based on the level of detail and size of the album.
7. What forms of payment are accepted?
We accept cash, check, money order and paypal.
8. What is a Custom Scrapbook?
A custom scrapbook is a wonderful and unique way to hold on to your treasured memories. Scrapbooks allow you to show special relationships in your life and preserve the moments you've shared. It's also a great way to share the everyday part of your life. Time goes so quickly and it's easy to forget the little things that mean so much to you right now. Not to mention that these are great keepsakes for future generations to learn about their families history. As a Custom Scrapbook Artist (or Scrapper for hire), I will combine your treasured photos with an array of papers and accents to create a beautiful one of a kind scrapbook.
9. What if I don't have the photos or want to give it as a gift?
Custom Scrapbooks are wonderful gifts and keepsakes for your friends and loved ones. Pre-made Albums and pre-made pages allow you to give a beautiful custom gift even if you don't have the photos. Pre-made albums are completed albums and all the recipient needs to do is add their photos. Pre-made albums come with photo safe adhesive and a permanent ink pen for journaling. Wedding Albums, Baby Albums, Heritage Albums, Anniversaries, Teachers, Group Events are great times to give a special one of a kind gift. Keep in mind that we can ship your gift directly to that special someone if desired (even if they are not in the Northern Virginia area).
10. What other things can I do to protect my photos?
Photo preservation is really important these days. We've seen our parent's old photos that have faded and turned orange. Generally photo deterioration is due to two things; the chemicals of the photo itself and the environment in which it is stored. We can't do anything about the chemical make up of a photo but we can change the way we store our photos. Other than scrapbooks, photos need to be stored in acid-free/ lignin-free containers and in cool environments. You can easily find photo safe storage boxes and albums these days at any number of retailers. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the thought of reorganizing your photos then contact us and we can take care of it for you.
