Scrapbooking is too expensive...how to reply

My SIL just said something that made me wonder if maybe I am the one with the misguided perceptions of scrapbooking.

We was talking about me scrapping a book for me and then two for each of my brothers. She was like whoa that is so expensive. My book I count as "free" because I would scrap it for me anyways. My brothers books was going to be their Christmas gift but now I am not sure I would be able to wait that long if I have them done sooner than that.

She has made other comments about this being too expensive or that, like the small X Xyron sticker machine. I explained I use my Coupon s for them, she is like oh I don't care it is just far to expensive to use. When I cut her paper wrong once she was like OMG what do you think I am made of money. I was like umm sorry but thinking wow it was what $.69.

She does have a family, three girls. We do not have kids and we live in a small apartment so we probably have a little more financial freedom then they do.

But am I approaching it wrong. If I cut my paper wrong, I am upset, but well I cut more. She really made me nervous cutting anyways for fear of making a mistake in the first place.

I don't think a thing about scrapping my brothers books for them. If I had the same opportunity with hubby's families pictures I would do the same for her. Where she scraps she probably wouldn't want me to.

So do I think things wrong.

I think you have a wonderful idea to make scrapbooks for your brothers. As for the paper cut wrong....put it in the scraps box. Use them for embellishments or cards. You will use them. You are not wrong, just use your own stuff if she gets too upset. I get upset at wasted stuff too, but if you use it later on, then it isn't wasted.

Try not to let her determine your bliss. Only you can do that. Try to help her see how mistakes can lead to new adventures in scrapping.

good luck with scrappin.

Carol

I'm confused. Does your SIL scrapbook? Does she enjoy it or feel like its a chore? That could contribute to her thinking that its an expensive hobby.

It CAN be an expensive hobby. That doesn't mean it is always one though. When you hit sales, clearance, buy reuseable products (stamps, diecut machines, etc) use Coupon s, and get things in bulk (cardstock, glues, etc) you can save lots of money.

Anyway... if you love to scrapbook you shouldn't let your SIL's comments upset you. She obviously has different priorities when it comes to her time and money (and maybe you'd find some things she 'splurges' on as excessive.)

If you want to make your brothers scrapbooks for Christmas or birthdays or just because and you can afford it - do it!

I don't think you have a skewed viewpoint. I scrap and I have a family. It can be an expensive hobby, but I don't freak about a miscut sheet of paper. I'll upset for may 5 seconds and then work around it. Either buy cutting a new sheet of paper or adapting my layout to the mis cut. I'd say make you brothers their slbums for christmas (or for whenever you get them done).

I think that would be a nice gift to your brothers. Yes, it can get to be expensive depending on how much detail you put into their pages. But they will love that book forever. Not like a sweater that will go out of style by next year. I'm making 2 albums for both set's of grandparents of my daughter for their Christmas gifts this year. I've also made an album as a later wedding present to my brther-in-law. I say go with the album. Don't listen to your sister-in-law. Mine says the same thing.

I think in alot of ways I look up to my SIL. She has a beautiful family, her daughters are her pride and joy. I wish we could have kids and maybe someday still we will. But for now I absorb myself into the scrapbooking.

And when she doesn't "condone" my scrapbooking habit then I feel like I am not measuring up in her eyes.

And she does scrap actually she got me into scrapping. And her pile of supplies consists of plastic shopping bags in the corner of her living room, I think by choice not by necessity. I have evolved into a corner of our computer room and I have alot of stuff. She even mentioned that, having not been to our house in well over a year, I know my MIL/FIL had to have said something about that.

I totally enjoy scrapbooking, I get completely lost in it and is so theraputic for me. I make all kinds of stuff for people at work, just because.

I told her I bought a Cropper Hopper tote thing and that maybe I could bring stuff down and we could scrap in a couple weekends from now. I got a hmmm. So I guess not.

I guess it just hurts mostly and she makes me feel guilty, I don't know if it is on purpose, for what I have in supplies and what I do for scrapbooking.

just say this..

SO?!

haha

I don't think her issue is with scrapping. I think she is letting her feelings about something else manifest itself on your hobby.

My best friend and I have had similiar discussions about scrapping, play dates, lunches, things like that. Her issues with me are not about me or scrapping, or how much my crackers cost. They are about her feelings of frustration over her own money woes. We ended up talking about it, and now things are a little calmer.

Scrapbooking can be expensive, but what you get when you finish a lo is priceless. Enough said from me.

Everyone has/does something that other people would never do. For instance, my best friend loves $200 handbags and shoes, while I think more than $30 or $40 is a big splurge! But it's her money and it makes her happy, so who cares? IMHO, I think your SIL is being a bit rude. Don't let her take the joy out of it!! To me, the only bad thing about cutting paper wrong is if it's the last sheet I had and I can't find any more of it.

I am sorry your sil is making you feel that way. As everyone prior said, yes it CAN be an expensive habit, but then so can gambling, smoking, drinking, all of which leave you with nothing to show for where the money went. Scrapbooking preserves your memories and opens a window into the past or soon to be past. The others can not.

Enjoy your scrapbooking and when she says something rude to you, tell her, well it is your fault and thank you for getting me hooked, now I have something special to spend my money on.
Hugs

To me it sounds like maybe she is a bit jealous of you having so much time and supplies to do your hobby. I get a little jealous of my friends (none of them have families like me) because they are always shopping or scrapping. I know you said you look up to her, but she may feel embarrassed about NOT having what you have. So it may just be a vicious cycle. I HAD to go digital because we just couldn't afford supplies anymore. This is just my opinion since I don't know her or the situation other than what I read. Have fun making those scrapbooks for your brothers!

First off, it's kinda rude to comment to anyone how much money they spend on anything, don't you think? I also agree that the issue is not you, it's something she's feeling but won't tell you for whatever reason. You do what you like to do, the way you like to do it, and enjoy it. Have fun making those albums! Tell your SIL, if she wants to help, you'd be happy for her to help.....if she's feeling like she can't afford to contribute, tell her that's ok, that you'll provide the supplies anyway.
Love,
Theresa

I think about scrapbooking as an investment in history. How will your childrens children know who you were or even who they are if you dont document. Also everyone needs something for themselves. If you enjoy it then that is your thing. So not only are you investing in history but you are investing in yourself by allowing yourself something to relax and destress with. None of us can live without an outlet.
Rache

Ya know what? My mother and sister both say the same thing to me- like how can I dare to spend so much on this hobby. Particularly when I only go stateside once a year and go plum crazy in the stores. I politely tell them that it is none of their business. My hubby and I both work and I am going to spend my money as I choose. As long as your man is ok with it- I wouldn't worry about anyone else. They have their avenues of spending money ... to each their own.

Just keep cropping....its your passion- live it!

I have a "friend" like that. So she tells me you spend so much, must be nice to have all the extra money. And I tell her, I probably spend less than you, I just spend wiser, I catch sales, I will go to the dollar tree or biglots and I will use a 50% Coupon and check the sales basket.

It bothered me, until I realized that she was envious of what she preceived my life to be, not what it actually was.

So maybe your sister is envious of you
Weither is material items, time alone with your husband or the freedom to leave your items out. Others life always looks easier than our on.

So the next time she says this stuff. You should say, you know I would trade it all to have 2 wonderful healthy kids such as yours. Material things come and go...but the joy we get from our children those are the memories of a life time.

Scrapbooking is an expensive hobby. I agree. But then I ask you this, What hobby isnt?? Can you name a REAL hobby that isnt expensive? My DH is all about the new video games that come out. He'll buy two or three at a time, totalling 150+. Now that'll last him a while true. But I dont spend half of that in a month on my hobby. And hobbies are just that, things for a person to do to express themselves in a positive manner.
If you enjoy it, then do it. Providing you wont go in debt because of it.

If you think you're brothers will like the gift, then go for it. As long as it'll make you happy in return.

Sometimes people look at hobbies differently. Dh has a friend who doesnt believe in them. But thats only because he has no extra time for them.
I'd say, go for what you want. Its your life, live it up. Cause you dont get to press the reset button years from now and start over. Except your SIL's outlook as being her outlook, which she is entitled too. And if she comments, simply say that you agree but your happier this way. And in the end thats whats important.

And mistakes are natural. Its a normal hman response. I dont think there's a scrapbooker alive (or person for that matter) who hasnt made a mistake. So you miscut the paper. You can use it to make cards, page accents, mats for something else. So its not wasted, just given new purpose. And without mistakes, we cant learn.

So scrap away my friend and enjoy life!!

i look at it this way...if you see fit to spend money on scrapbook stuff then so be it..and if the stuff is going in a book for your two brothers...thats your choice....you do what makes you happy.

I am one who scraps on a VERY small budget...so i skimp on some stuff like i dont have every size of the sticker maker...or i dont have a sizzix machine...i just cut things by hand takes a little bit more time but all works the same in the long run.


i say do what you want to do...its your money...you and your husband work for it. and if she doesnt like it then to bad. shes not the one paying your bills.

Yes scrapbooking can be expensive...but it's what is important to her - maybe she would rather spend her "extra" cash on something besides that...who knows.

Different Strokes for different folks - I would continue doing what you do, let her have an opinion - it's what you do and love!

First of all, i think the albums for your brothers is great gift idea!

Now, I agree that everyone has their own vice, mine is scrapbook supplies, i catch the clearance and sales and use my Coupon s as much as i can to save money so I could spend a LOT more then I actually do. My husband doesnt mind, he says its my thing and to have fun, i dont get on him about buying things for his camera or the garage.

Maybe she's concerened about the money she spends on it, maybe they need to watch their pennies, who knows, but I do think it's an issue with her that she unfortunatelly is taking out on you and your hobby.

If she really enjoys scrapping, then maybe let her know of any upcoming sales or clearances that you find that she can get a few little things here and there that wont make a big dent in her checkbook, you can get paper pretty inexpensive too (just got some 12" paper for 5/$1), I keep all my scraps, never know when you can reuse them and usually only buy embellishemnts on sale or clearance or something i can reuse (monograms i can trace and make my own etc.)

There is that bargain shopper thread around here somewhere that has lots of great ideas on how to scrap inexpensivly, maybe you can point her in that direction or get some ideas together and have a little scrap day with her and share your cost saving ideas so she can see that it's only an expensive hobby if you want it to be.

I just think that not everyone has the same budget for scrapping. That's all, simple as that.

I scrap and I think that it IS expensive so she's not wrong about that. Some people are more frugal then others and don't like to waste.

So I don't think either of you are wrong, everyone has different viewpoints on issues and that's ok.

Say for example skiing as a hobby, it's very expensive and I know someone who skiis every year with her three children. I personally think it's too expensive but she doesn't. I would never get my children into a sport like that because of the money, but she doesn't think twice about it. So no big deal.

Why let it affect your hobby? Just enjoy it.

I think everyone has different perceptions of money, what's valuable, what's not, etc. And I think it is your perogative to spend $$ how you want. For example, I know a person who constantly complains about not having enough money, but then puts hardwood floors throughout her whole house. So, her complaints about no money mean nothing, really and people have stopped listening to her complain.

The only people (in my opinion) who have to have similar values and perceptions about money are husband and wife (or have some workable agreement so money doesn't become a source of arguments).

I say... MAKE those books for your brothers. Yes, scrapping can be expensive, but so can traveling, owning a home or whatever your SIL has chosen to do with her money. My questions for you to ask her are:

... within reason, can you really put a price tag on happiness? (I mean if you budget it right and FOR that purpose, what gives?)
... can you put a price on family history and the preservation of memories?

Scrapping keeps me sane. I feel like I have very little control in what happens to me, but I have control over that computer screen, piece of paper, pictures etc. Creating is an outlet for me (as well as everyone else on this board I'm sure). And like someone else said... if you and your DH has no problem with it, then don't worry about others. That is your money and what you 2 decide to do with it is your own business.

1. Don't ever cut her paper for her again
2. She sounds jealous and mean spirited
3. I would be willing to bet her three girls aren't clothed & shoed at thrift stores, and that she spends a lot of time ferrying them to whatever activities they want to be involved in.
4. Maybe that's really it -- she spends all her money on her children and secretly resents it

While scrapping can become expensive, I think that the expense lies in buying the items and not using them. But if you buy the items, use them and not let them sit, then it's ok.

There are items that can be pricey, but that's what Coupon s are for

Some people don't see this hobby/craft as artistic or anything like that. Maybe they just don't understand that we are leaving behind wonderful memories and documenting our lives for future generations, rather then a box of photos.

If you enjoy it and are comfortable with what you are spending then go ahead!!! There are soooooo many other hobbies that are expensive, and I don't think that scrapping is one of them

• PixieMegh Said:

So funny! My DBF was in and out all day Sunday and every time he came and went, I was scrapping. When he finally got home from work at 10:30 p.m., he laughed and said "You still scrapping?" I just smiled and said "Be thankful I do it -- it keeps me sane!"

Scrapping isn't an expensive hobby. Tennis, golf, skiing, woodworking, dolls & their houses....those are expensive hobbies. Every scrap thing I own wouldn't add up to buy a decent lathe. The only part of scrapping that seems like a money pit to me is die cut systems. I figure I can buy alphabets and monagram sheets with wild abandon for the rest of my life and still not spend $450, so I don't buy one. I do use the one at my lss but that's free.

First off - make the albums for your brothers! If you're anything like my family, you will have a great time creating them and your brothers will treasure them!

Secondly, yes, scrapping can be expensive if you let it. But as you said, use Coupon s, use tools at stores and shop wisely. As far as cutting the paper wrong and freaking out about it Now I love my paper and try to make the most of it, but if I mess up I just make it work or as others said use it for a card or a scrap for a later lo.

It does sound like there is another issue behind this, whether it be her $$ issues or envious of your time without children??

I wouldn't let it bother you, I know that is easier said than done.
JMO.... happy scrapping!

Yes, scrapbooking CAN be expensive, if you let it. You do not have to buy every gadget that walks across your path. Maybe she is just trying to get out of doing any scrapping? Are they having financial difficulties? Don't let her rain on your parade. You're not doing anything wrong.

I think that as with anything... You determine what you spend. There are plenty of economical ways to scrap and/or create books. Each person must determine his own budget. You could easily go to Big Lots buy a $5 Perfect Scrapbook by Colorbok for each brother and pick up a Stack at J's for $10 with a Coupon or on sale.... That would provide plenty to create 2 or more scrapbooks with... at a cost of $10 per book... That is not expensive... Now of course you could spend more... I buy plenty of designer paper for anywhere from $.10 + There is no reason to lose sleep over a miscut...I think your SIL may just be in a funk/bad mood and just being negative... Don't let it affect you...

Thanks for all your comments. I thought about this alot today. And you all are right, I do need to just enjoy my hobby and not let her steal the wind from my sails.

Ironically if someone said give me all your scrapbooking supplies and you may never scrap again for these three (or even one child) beautiful children I would give the supplies/scrapping up in a heart beat. I want nothing more than to have children.

I am so envious of that aspect of her life. I have poured myself into scrapping, as an outlet of that source of pain. I take lots of pictures of the girls when we are there. Heck I even went to taking pictures of my parents neighbor kids, just to have kids to scrap and I have never met them other than seeing them play in the back yard.

I think part of it is I have been feeling guilty about how much I have spent on supplies myself lately, hubby is in total support of me and in most cases encourages it. I stopped to look at the Xyron Design Runner over Memorial Weekend at Michaels. We ended up buying it with the 50% off Coupon . The thought hadn't crossed my mind to even really buy it, I was thinking a Xyron refill or another blade for my cutter!

I was also really hurt when she didn't want to scrap with me. She had suggested it a couple of months ago herself. But now she doesn't want to and I am not sure why.

I am feeling really lonely lately, and tired of scrapping by myself. That is why I bought the tote I was thinking of braving the waters of a crop just to get out and be around other people.

Clearly I have rambled and vented long enough. Thanks again for all your comments. I am glad to know I wasn't skewed in my perspectives. And I fully admit I am at times more of a scrapbook supply collector than a scrapbooker. But I have definately gotten the desire to scrap with all these pictures I have to do for my brothers.

i just want to give you a big hug

It's cheaper than therapy. LOL!

I think you should make the gifts for your brothers. What a priceless gift that will be to them.
I think sbing is expensive, but, I think it is a great way to spend money too. You are preserving memories.
I have 2 dd's and I am a SAHM. I wish that I could spend more on my hobby, but can't justify that.

As for your SIL, don't worry about what she said. You keep doing what you love. I have seen your gallery. You are very talented. She could learn a lot from you if she WANTED to.

I know how you feel about the feeling lonely scrapping. I don't have any friends who scrap either. I haven't gotten up the nerve yet to go to a crop by myself, but I've started taking classes. There's a few people who always take the same monthly class, and I'm starting to get to know them. At first, I was nervous going to classes, but now I really enjoy it. I think I'm going to be brave enough to go to the scrapbook expo when it comes to Austin - I was too chicken last year!

Go make new friends!! You'll feel better. And you'll have people around who understand and share your love for this fabulous hobby. Good luck!

Since there is no wrong way to scrapbook, she can choose to make it as expensive or inexpensive as she wants. I think I like some of my plainest pages the best....the ones just using cardstock.

If she wants to scrapbook, you might consider giving her a "starter" gift for her birthday or Christmas. A trimmer, some cardstock, printed paper and adhesive. That should be a good start for anyone.....if they want to scrap,