* Stretch your patterned paper (for an all-over pattern):
~ Cut paper in half or thirds. Punch holes for ribbon across bottom edge, then
weave coordinating ribbon through. Mount at top or bottom of coordinating
cardstock with ribboned edge towards middle.
~ On back side of paper, use a ruler to lighly draw a 1 inch border around
perimeter of paper. Cut out carefully using an x-acto knife. Mount on
coordinating cardstock. Center the leftover piece on another piece of
coordinating cardstock or use to make coordinating mats or frames.
~ Cut paper diagonally. Mount one triangle in corner of coordinating cardstock.
Mount other triangle on another piece of cardstock in opposite corner. This is
great for a 2 page spread.
* Most paper is acid-free! Papers used in computers and copiers are, as a general rule, even if it's not labeled as such. You can always invest in an acid-testing pen for $5 or under to be sure. Construction paper can be, but look for packages that are labeled acid-free in this case. Newspapers are very acidic.
* If you are looking for plain paper without the weight of cardstock, you can find packages of 100 sheets in 5 colors at your local office supply store such as Staples, and they only cost a few bucks. You can find them in pastels and other colors.
* Use packs of computer stationery. You can find lots of nice designs in packs of 25 and more. Prices will vary on these, and you can always split the cost with others. I've gotten packs of 25 for $2-$3 and others that had 60 sheets for $2-$3, Others were $5 for 25 sheets(which still only makes it 20 cents per sheet!)
* For those who do 8 1/2 by 11 albums, make your paper purchases go farther (further??). When I find 12 by 12 paper for the same price or just a few cents more, I cut it to 8 1/2 by 11 size and use the leftover to make borders and die cuts.
* If you do 8 1/2 by 11 inch albums, don't throw away money buying your page protectors in the scrapbooking aisle! Look for acid-free ones in the office supplies (which many are now).
* Use cookie -cutters to trace for die-cuts. And if you buy seasonal ones on clearance, you can get some great designs really cheap!
* Make your die-cut dollar go further by making a template before using, so it can be re-used! Or, if it comes in a punched-out form, save the die-cut "frame" that is left over.
* The "frames" left over from puch-out die-cuts can be used for framing a photo or journaling.
* Use coffee can lids to trace on for sturdy templates for die-cuts and stencils.
* Go to the Ellison and Accucut websites and get great free die-cuts that you can make into any size you need. Just right-click and "save-as" (MSIE users).
* Use coloring books for paper-piecing patterns. Simply trace each part of the picture on the color paper you want using a lightbox (or window) and assemble with your picture for a guide..
* Make alphabet stickers work twice. After using the alphabet stickers, you can cut around the leftover, and use it again!
* Make the most of your local library. Look for books on calligraphy, stenciling and crafts and in the children's section.
* Teacher reproducible books are great for borders and coordinating die-cuts.