(NAPSA)—Trend-setting moms have been scrapbooking for years and now the trend is growing across demographics—from teens to retired professionals—to artistically preserving and sharing memories. Scrapbooking started in the late 1990’s and has grown into a phenomenon with over 2.5 billion dollars worth of related materials purchased in 2003. Scrapbooking’s popularity has spurred the growth ofcraft stores, various magazines and online sites. And one of the most enticing aspects is that there are virtually no rules and the only limit is a person’s creativity. The moments of our lives seem to drive these family keepsakes. A new baby, an anniversary, wedding gift, school play—the topies are endless. To start preserving family memories just choose a life event to capture and let the fun begin. Start with photos—either electronic or traditional—and begin to formulate a lay out. Photos are only the first layer in making a scrapbook. Creative backgrounds, textured paper and interesting layouts add to the appeal. For those new to the hobby, scrapbooking does not have to be complicated or time consuming especially with the latest tools and resources. In fact, scrapbooking may seem low-tech but it is actually the technology that can make it easier and more creative. Using technology like a digital camera, pictures can be snapped and downloaded to a computer to add fonts, borders and even enlarge or reduce. Using anall-inone inkjet printer—offering a color printer, scanner and copier you can scan in regular photos or even actual objects such as a christening gown, wedding dress or veil. Scanning in items is a great way to include these important items without fear of damage. Products such as the Lexmark Home Copier Plus are easy to use, affordable and allow you to copy prints in photo-quality—perfect for when you want to use older photos but would like to save the original for safekeeping. Another way to use technology is to scan in photos and various items and make your collages online. This is a great way to make several scrapbooks at once to be given as gifts to family members or a group of friends. Many sites such as Lexmark.com have dedicated areas for scrapbookers to help with projects, provide page templates and to suggest ideas. On these sites, you can download backgrounds, various frames and borders to keep your scrapbooks from looking ordinary. Simply scan in photos, position on a page andprint. Scrapbooking is a fun activity that creates treasures your entire family will enjoy. Today’s technology helps you make quality projects, quickly and easily. To gain more tips and to learn howyou can benefit. from scrapbooking technology, visit www.Lexmark.com.
