[ Home ] [ SHOP! ] [ Scrapbook Gear! ] [ layout gallery ] [ FORUM ] [ beginner's guide ] [ what's new? ] [ HOW-TO'S ] [ journaling ] [ photography ] [ travel ] [ wedding albums ] [ book shoppe ] [ BasicGrey ] [ heritage albums ] [ EMBELLISHMENTS! ] [ workspace solutions ] [ baby scrapbooks ] [ kids scrapbooks ] [ Disney ] [ military ] [ retreats ] [ home parties ] [ conventions ] [ Blinkies ] [ design team ] [ LINKS ]

Considering creating a heritage album? 
 Well, be prepared.  A lot of time and research will go into this, but it is worth it.  Something that everyone will appreciate and will be enjoyed for years to come.  Here are some tips for creating a Heritage album that I learned from creating my first heritage album. 

First, you must do your homework, so to speak.  Keep a journal of family member's names, phone numbers, and address'.  
Next compile all that you know about your family and ancestors.  Decide how far you want to go.  Great-Great Grandma and Grandpa? Once you start finding information about them, you may find earlier photos, records and memorabilia that you didn't know still existed (Grandma Betty forgot that they were in the attic). 
Interview relatives and possibly family friends who may remember people, places, and the like (keep notes in your journal).  Ask for photos from everyone and make high quality copies using the Kodak Picture Maker for about 6.99/sheet.
Or, family and friends may allow you to keep them to preserve for everyone to share.  Keep all photos, records, memorabilia, and your journal in a safe place.  You will need to also keep them well organized.  You can do this chronologically, by family, or by individual (if you have enough information).  You can use manila envelopes and plastic bins.  Don't forget to label them.
 Next, I would transfer the notes from your journal to large lined index cards. Attach these cards to each folder.  When storing, make sure that if they are moved or shifted, that items inside will not be bent, etc...

As always, it is very important to use acid free and photo safe scrapbooking supplies on this project.  Also, try not to make your pages too flashy or cluttered. Simple pages with all of the right information will work best for years to come.