A technique which is used by copywriter's is called a "swipe file". This is a collection of their favorite ads, sales letters and advertising which they have seen. It is kept in a file and used as inspiration when they need to write an ad.

If some advertising has resulted in you buying something and you were impressed positively by it- the idea is that you would keep all these in a file.

They can then get ideas and inspiration for the next ad they sit down to write. If so, you would adapt an ad that impressed you so that you aren't copying it but deriving ideas that you can put your own stamp on.

This is a great idea to use for scrapbooking. It's particularly helpful if you feel you lack ideas or could do with some creative input.

I bought an album with black pages and I use it as my swipe file. I put a bit of double-sided tape to stick in any examples of scrapbook pages that I like the look of from magazines etc. If you don't want to tear the magazine or it belongs to someone else you can scan it and then stick it in your swipe file.

I 'm not suggesting copying them but they are great for getting ideas and formulating your own likes and dislikes. What I really like about this is the way you have an opportunity to give time and attention to things you really like. You're making a collection of what makes you happy, inspired, refreshed and brings joy into your life. You will enjoy spending time on this.

In particular try to make notes about what it is you like about each one. This helps to fix it in your mind for future page ideas.

Another idea to get your scrapbooking under control is storyboarding. This is an idea borrowed from movie and film makers. The idea is to start each scene by drawing it on paper. You can do the same for your scrapbooking. I could see this coming in handy for people who can only do scrapooking intermittently with gaps of time in between.

You could have a notebook with photos and make notes for each of the pages that you will eventually do. This way names, dates, places etc are noted at the time and you have a blueprint for the pages when you are able to give it the time.

I have photos from years ago and sadly I can not remember some of the names or places where the photos were taken although I can remember the occasions with a lot of happiness.

The important things to make a note of in your storyboard are the 5 W's. These will be what you want to remember: Who, What, When, Where and Why. These are the important details about any event but be sure to make a note of anything else you need to remember.

The most important thing with any hobby is to really love the time you spend on it. Whatever makes it easier for you is going to be important. If you get into a routine that makes it a good experience you'll get the most joy out of creating a treasure for your family.

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