Mar 6, 2023

Scrapbooking for a New Parent: Documenting Your Baby's First Years

As a new parent, it can be overwhelming to try to keep track of all the milestones, memories, and special moments that come with having a baby. Between feedings, diaper changes, and just trying to get some rest, it can feel like there's not enough time in the day to document everything. But scrapbooking is a wonderful way to preserve these precious memories and create a keepsake that you and your little one will treasure for years to come.


I know what you're thinking: "Scrapbooking? Are you kidding me? I don't have the time, energy, or money for that." Trust me, I've been there. But with a little creativity and a lot of heart, you can create beautiful scrapbook pages that capture the joy and wonder of your baby's first years, without breaking the bank or sacrificing precious sleep.


Here are some practical tips for new parents who want to start scrapbooking:

Keep it simple: Don't feel like you have to create elaborate, Pinterest-perfect pages. Simple, straightforward pages with a few photos, some journaling, and a few embellishments are just as meaningful, and they're a lot easier to complete.



Use what you have: You don't need a lot of expensive tools and supplies to start scrapbooking. Use what you already have on hand – old magazines, scrap paper, stickers, washi tape – to create your pages.


Take advantage of technology: You don't have to spend hours cutting, pasting, and printing. There are plenty of digital scrapbooking tools and apps that make it easy to create pages from your phone or tablet. I make mine on the Canva phone app, but your can also access it on your desktop, laptop, or tablet. Try it for free!


Make it a family affair: Involve your partner or other family members in your scrapbooking. Let them choose photos, add their own journaling, or even create pages of their own.


Document the little moments: It's easy to focus on the big milestones – first smile, first tooth, first step – but it's the little moments that make up the fabric of your baby's life. Take photos of everyday activities like bath time, playtime, and bedtime, and include them in your scrapbook. Here's a spread I made about the benefits of a car ride - peace and quiet!



Take advantage of downtime: If you're a stay-at-home parent, take advantage of nap time or quiet moments to work on your scrapbook. If you're a working parent, set aside some time in the evenings or on weekends to work on your pages. For me, nursing time means Canva time!


Be flexible: If you're feeling too tired or overwhelmed to work on your scrapbook one day, don't beat yourself up. Take a break and come back to it when you're feeling more refreshed. This also goes for getting stuck or hitting a wall while making a page. Take a break and come back to it another day. You will see.it with fresh eyes and know exactly what to do.


Don't be afraid to ask for help: If you're feeling stuck or need some inspiration, reach out to other scrapbookers, join online forums, or attend scrapbooking workshops or classes. Feel free to reach out on Instagram (@CaliforniaLucky). I'm always happy to help or just give some support! You'll find a supportive community of people who love to scrapbook as much as you do.


As a new parent, it can be tough to find the time and energy to scrapbook. But with these tips, you'll be able to create beautiful pages that document your baby's first years, without sacrificing too much of your precious time or energy. And in the end, you'll have a keepsake that you and your little one will cherish for years to come.


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