Those who scrapbook find that their ever-growing collection of papers can become overwhelming. Makeshift storage containers can work for a while, but the serious scrapbooker will want to find the very best way to store and preserve her papers. The best scrapbook paper storage will be: a) accessible, b) ordered, and c) out of harm's way.

Accessible Paper Storage

Your paper storage should be in or near the place where you usually scrapbook.  Whether it is in a cabinet, on a craft table, or in a nearby closet, you should be able to easily access your paper storage.  One of the best ways to make your paper easy to get to at the beginning of a project is to choose all of the 12x12 sheets of paper you are going to use beforehand.  Place them in the scrapbook you have chosen, and only pull them out when you are ready to begin that new page.  Keeping them inside the protective pockets keeps them safe and having them already waiting for you in your scrapbook makes them extremely accessible.  Excess papers for later projects can wait patiently in their proscribed locations.

Cardstock that is accessed more frequently can be stored vertically in magazine files.  Because of their heavier weight, cardstock paper is less likely to bow when stored in an upright position.  Storing it vertically and within reach makes grabbing paper for punches or mattes easy.  Simply store the magazine files on your craft table, on a nearby shelf, or in a cupboard.

Ordered Paper Storage

There are a number of ways to keep your papers organized.  First, separate them by size, color, or theme.  Next, choose a storage container, file cabinet, case, or folder to keep them in.  Extravagant paper storage solutions include desks that come with built-in horizontal shelves.  Simpler storage solutions include stacking trays, file folders that fit into storage containers, paper totes, and scrapbook paper-sized storage bins.  Whatever storage solution you choose, make sure you label!  Specific labels help you quickly find what you need so that you can devote more time to creativity and less time searching for that Christmas-themed paper you bought on clearance last year.

Paper Storage that is Out of Harm's Way

Be sure to store your paper in a cool, dry place.  If your scrapbooking headquarters is in the basement, make sure to keep your paper in an air-tight storage container to keep out dampness.  Humidity will cause paper to deteriorate faster.  Excessive humidity can ruin paper by causing it to mold and mildew. 

Keep paper stored separate from other scrapbooking supplies.  Throwing other items in with delicate paper will most assuredly cause rips, holes, creases, and unwanted marks. 

Finally, keep paper stored in containers specially fitted for the size paper you have collected.  There are file folders and containers that come in 12x12, ensuring a snug fit.  Paper won't be jostled or bent if there is no room for it to go!

Get organized before you start a major scrapbooking project.  Keeping your paper safe and accessible will lead to less frustration in the long-run, guaranteeing more enjoyable scrapbooking sessions.