Not everybody knows that Mark Twain, known for both his wit and sarcasm, was one of history’s most iconic scrapbook enthusiasts. He went so far as to invent self-sticking paper to make every scrapbooker’s life easier. Now that everybody’s twiddling their thumbs while finding something worthwhile to do, why not give crafting a shot? Get to know how scrapbooks are part history and part art and why they are deeply therapeutic.
The Timeless Appeal of Crafting a Journal of Mementos
Crafting scrapbooks is one of the most therapeutic hobbies that anyone can do-it’s hailed as “radical” self-care. It’s better than mindlessly binge-watching shows, which sometimes leave you drained. (Don’t worry, you can still drink that glass of red wine while working on your own piece of tangible art.)
Contrary to popular opinion,scrapbooking is more than just a stereotypical middle-aged suburban mom’s pastime. Famous scrapbookers consist of some of the world’s beloved historical icons. They all dabbled in creating mementos in the most original ways.
Some of the most notable scrapbooks were:
–18th-century journals with important historical artifacts
–Queen Victoria’s scrapbook of childhood keepsakes
–Jacqueline Kennedy’s personal notes on the installation of the WhiteHouse’s famed Rose Garden
Today’s scrapbooks are no longer the stuff of childhood fancy. There are digital templates for those who don’t want to deal with a messy desk. Another popular scrapbook iteration is the scrapbook subscription box.It lets you craft a project using a curated set of materials that come in different themes every month.
Scrapbooks are more engaging because they’re multidimensional compared to other adult art hobbies like adult coloring books. Plus, they offer a way for everybody to bond. You can even invite friends or your kids to work on a project, just like everyone would enjoy completing those huge 1000-piece puzzles.
Uncommon Scrapbook Themes That PushThe Envelop
If you want to go beyond the usual baby or travel theme, you can tackle an unusual one that strikes a deep chord:
1. Document Causes You Care Deeply About
Some current events are just too much for our psyche to ignore. Try making a scrapbook about issues that have stirred you to take a stand. While this may sound”out there,”this kind of theme has been popular since the 18th century. People then had so many profound thoughts about the Civil war that there was a slew of historical scrapbooks in that era. Upgrade that boring photo album and bring your own perspective on current events.
2. Do a Tribute to Personal Heroes
Why not pay homage to the people you look up to or your favorite person? Imagine yourself watching the Oscars, and your scrapbook is the moving montage highlighting your hero’s lifetime achievements. These personal heroes are people YOU would thank if you ever do get to win an Oscar. Show how they represent the values that helped shape you into who you are today.Your layout could include interview snippets about their best quotes.
3. Journal Your Bucket List
Nothing’s more exciting than putting together your own vision board in scrapbook form.
In the film “Last Holiday,” a department store clerk finds out she only has three weeks to live. She then decides to do everything on her bucket list. With the help of her “possibilities into realities” themed scrapbook, the woman goes on a quest to fulfill her lifelong dreams. This feel-good movie demonstrates what the power of manifesting can do to change your life.Make your layout as interactive as possible: use maps, trinkets, or pull-out cards to mimic an experience.
Why Setting Aside Time to “Create” Matters
When everybody is spending more and more free time on screens, finding a refreshing hobby is a lifesaver.Studies have shown how scrapbooking can be used to encourage positive emotions.
Commonly used as art therapy,crafting activities offer a way for people to indulge in nostalgia. Projects like these make us look for the good in everything so that we feel more connected.
Another mental health benefit of making scrapbooks is that it helps us find a way to express ourselves. You not only literally frame thoughts and feelings-the very act helps you recognize and name them. This could help you deal with them better.
If you don’t want to ruminate about anything, you can also use a scrapbook as your own vision board for the future. Setting goals in a more creative medium could motivate you better. So use that scrapbook to manifest those dreams away. See how you can start living them out for real.
