Which Scrapbooking Tote Is Right For You?

Even if you have the perfect craft room at home, there may be times when you want to take your scrapbooking hobby on the go. Enjoying this hobby with others not only is a social event, it teaches you new techniques and brings inspiration to your page layouts. An essential tool for attending crops and workshops is a scrapbooking tote. There are many options for containers to hold your tools, paper and embellishments, but the more items you want to bring with you, the more you need an organized tote rather than a box or plastic container. The craft industry offers many choices for totes. Before you make your purchase, determine what your needs and your goals are.

How Much Do You Want to Spend on a Scrapbooking Tote?

Cropper Hopper, Making Memories and Crop In Style are just a few of the companies that make scrapbooking totes. The prices vary considerably. The larger totes and ones made by specialized scrapbooking manufacturers are more expensive. If you choose a tote made for one of the national craft stores, like Joann's, you will pay much less. Depending on the size and quality of the tote, expect to pay from $20 to $150.

What Size Scrapbooking Tote Do You Need?

Totes come in a variety of sizes and styles. Some are small shoulder bags, and others are large luggage pieces with wheels. Deciding which is best for you depends on how you scrapbook on the go. If you need to have all your tools with you or you like to bring several projects to work on, you'll need a larger tote. Some scrapbookers make page kits to work on at crops. They contain everything they need to complete their page layouts. They just add some basic tools and adhesive. This type of scrapbooker many only need a small tote. Also, remember that you must consider the size of your albums. The 12x12 album is very popular, and often will dictate your need for a larger tote.

What Color and Style Tote Is Best for You?

When scrapbooking totes first hit the market, the most common color available was black. Now they come in an assortment of colors and even some patterns. Color choice isn't just about taste though. Consider what type of materials you use on your pages. If you really enjoy using chalk, ink and paint, you may not want a pastel tote. Examine the durability of the material on each tote. For a scrapbooker who attends a crop or workshop once a week, a high-quality, well-built tote is a better investment.

What Type of Pockets and Compartments Will You Need in Your Tote?

Each scrapbooking tote is organized differently. Some have large open compartments that have a lot of flexibility for storing supplies. Others have small compartments to hold pens, scissors and even rubber stamps. Look closely at the tote before you buy it. Consider what supplies you want to take with you and if that tote will hold them.

Will You Need to Expand Your Scrapbooking Tote?

Many scrapbooking totes come with additional attachments that you can purchase separately. For example, there may be a storage case for pens that you could add. Some will have a smaller tote available that coordinates with a larger one. These appeal to scrapbookers who like to be color coordinated and fashionable. If you think you may wish to add to your tote, you may want to stay with a manufacturer that offers this option.

Should Your Scrapbooking Tote Have Wheels?

Larger totes have wheels on the bottom to make it easier for you to manage the weight of the tote once it is packed with supplies. Deciding whether or not you want wheels on your tote really depends on how much of your supplies you take with you. Weight and size are both a consideration. If you travel lightly with your supplies, a simple, over-the-shoulder bag may be all you need.

Buying a scrapbooking tote should not be a quick decision. The cost of a tote makes it one of the most expensive purchases you will make for your scrapbooking hobby. Consider your needs and purpose for buying a tote before you make your final selection. Don't forget to shop around. Scrapbooking totes are available at craft stores, scrapbooking stores and even large discount stores like Target and Walmart. Online stores offer many choices as well. Whether you choose a large or small, elaborate or simple, pink or black scrapbooking tote, it will provide you with many years of supply storage while attending crops and workshops.

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