How to organize scrapbook paper
Walking down the scrapbook paper aisle at any craft store is like walking down the candy-per-pound aisle at a candy store. You’re attracted by the different colors and textures of the papers, and feel the need to touch and buy every design you see.
For all of you who end up buying stacks of sparkly and patterned paper, this article will show you six ways to organize the untamed beast that is: your scrapbook paper collection.

Target.com
Expanding File
- Pros: Expanding files are great because they usually have a toggle clasp, are waterproof, have a handle, and take up very little space. They also come in a variety of sizes (8.5”x11” or 12”x12”) and pockets (7, 13, 26).
- Cons: They offer very limited space for large collections, can easily break when too much paper is stored in it, and small scraps of paper can get lost among the full-sized sheets of paper.

Target.com
Open Satchel ArtBin
- Pros: Great for paper scraps because it is shallow and wide which is great for fast and easy viewing. You can throw all of your scraps in one container, or buy several of them and organize your scraps by color
- Cons: Not ideal for full sheets of paper, because you will have to thumb through the stack of large sheets. The container has no dividers.

Staples.com
Mesh Magazine File
- Pros: Perfect for paper or cardstock colors you on a regular basis, like cream, black, white, or brown. They are in easy reach and will save space in your paper files.
- Cons: Not great for papers of multiple designs or scraps.

Walmart.com
Stackable File Crates for Hanging Folders
- Pros: The best option for easy access to your paper collection with the open top hanging folders. These particular crates are both stackable and have handles for easy transport. You can have an unlimited number of hanging folders for each type of paper and color.
- Cons: Can take up a lot of precious space, and can get dusty after a while.

Target.com
Two-Tier Cube System
- Pros: Comes with wheels and a dust cover. Great for large quantities of the same type of papers or colors.
- Cons: Limited storage space for a paper collection with a wide variety of designs.

MagazineRacks.com
Wall-mounted Magazine Racks
- Pros: Made of steel mesh for sturdy storage and easy viewing. Great for scrapbookers with lots of wall space and lots of paper in large quantities.
- Cons: A bit expensive and a large undertaking.
Eileen’s Tips:
Try to find containers that either clear or white. This will help you see and find your paper easier.
Get a label maker to make sure your organization looks especially crisp and professional.
There are many ways to organize your paper collection: color, type, pattern, theme, and size. Know which way you wish to organize your paper so you can easily gauge what method of organization works best for you.