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Scrapbooking was a popular pastime in Victorian times for both children and adults. Creating a scrapbook was not only a craft project, it was also a way of preserving memories. Victorians bought their scrapbooks with already created covers, but this one uses a popular Victorian design technique – decoupage - the art of decorating by gluing paper cutouts onto each other.

• Topic: Gift
• Difficulty: Easy
• Time: 2 days

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Step 1: Design the front cover with cut out images

Lay out your design

Create the decoupage cover by cutting out and laying out scraps on to a piece of card. We have provided some you may like to use. You can also cut out any images you like from magazines and cards. Decoratively arrange the scraps, making sure they overlap.

Step 2: Stick all the images onto the card with glue

Glue scraps

Once you are happy with your design, you can start to glue the scraps onto the card. Some glues will have a varnish effect if you dip the whole piece in. This should be tested on a scrap and left to dry before you proceed with the whole cover. Leave to dry overnight. Once dry, place under several heavy books to flatten.

Step 3: Make holes in one side and tie the book together

Make holes in one side

Make holes down the side of the scrapbook cover and the cardboard back. Be careful not to punch the holes too close to the edge as they can tear easily. Put holes in some paper, making sure they line up with the holes in the front cover. This paper will be used for the inside so you can use as much or as little as you like. Place the paper in between the front and back covers, then tie together with ribbon.

Varnish the cover with glue

Varnish the front cover with glue once more, and leave to dry.

The scrapbook is then ready to give as gift for someone to put photos, memories and gifts inside.