By Brandon Hill on April 29, 2025 • ( Leave a comment )

How to Purge and Refresh Your Scrapbooking Stash

Scrapbooking is a creative and fulfilling hobby, but over time, it’s easy for your stash to become overwhelming. Between papers, stickers, embellishments, and tools, you might find yourself buried under supplies you no longer use. When we moved recently I decided to gift my collection of over 10,000 stickers to my sister as she is still using them, but I have found that I don’t use stickers as much any more.

Purging and refreshing your scrapbooking stash not only clears space but also sparks creativity by focusing on what truly inspires you. Here’s a guide to help you streamline your supplies and breathe new life into your craft.

1. Set Your Goals and Intentions

Before diving into your stash, take a moment to define your goals:

Are you looking to declutter your space?
Do you want to make room for new supplies?
Are you aiming to refocus on your current style and projects?

Having a clear purpose will keep you motivated throughout the process.

2. Sort Your Supplies by Category

Organize your stash into categories such as:

Papers (patterned and solid)
Stickers and embellishments
Tools (punches, scissors, stamps, etc.)
Adhesives
Miscellaneous items (washi tape, ribbons, brads, etc.)

This sorting process helps you see what you have and identify duplicates or items you rarely use.

3. Evaluate Each Item

For each category, ask yourself:

Do I love this? If it no longer excites you, it’s time to let it go.
Have I used this recently? Supplies that have been untouched for years are prime candidates for purging.
Does this fit my current style? Our tastes evolve over time. If an item feels outdated or doesn’t align with your projects, it’s okay to part with it.

4. Create Keep, Donate, and Toss Piles

As you evaluate your items, sort them into three piles:

Keep: Supplies you love and use frequently.
Donate: Items in good condition that no longer suit your needs. Consider donating to schools, community centers, or fellow crafters.
Toss: Damaged or unusable items that can’t be repurposed.

5. Organize Your Keepers

Once you’ve purged, it’s time to refresh your organization. Arrange your supplies in a way that’s:

Accessible: Keep frequently used items within easy reach.
Visible: Use clear bins, labels, or open shelving to see what you have.
Categorized: Group similar items together for quick access.

6. Repurpose or Reimagine Unused Supplies

Before tossing or donating, consider creative ways to use items you’ve overlooked:

Turn leftover paper scraps into embellishments or tags.
Use old stickers in journaling or as placeholders for practice layouts.
Combine mismatched items to create unique mixed-media projects.

7. Refresh with Purpose

Now that you’ve cleared space, you can refresh your stash with intention:

Invest in essentials: Stock up on tools and supplies you use regularly, like quality adhesives or basic cardstock.
Try something new: Experiment with trending techniques or materials, such as foil accents or digital elements.
Set a budget: Avoid overfilling your space by shopping mindfully.

8. Adopt a One-In-One-Out Rule

To maintain a streamlined stash, adopt a simple rule: For every new item you bring in, let go of something you no longer need. This keeps your collection manageable and ensures everything has a purpose.

9. Involve Friends or Host a Swap

Decluttering doesn’t have to be a solo activity. Invite friends over for a crafting day or organize a supply swap. It’s a fun way to share resources and discover new treasures.

10. Set a Regular Purge Schedule

Make purging and refreshing a regular habit. Whether it’s quarterly or annually, set aside time to review your stash and keep it inspiring and functional.

Final Thoughts

A well-curated scrapbooking stash isn’t just about reducing clutter; it’s about making space for creativity and joy. By purging what no longer serves you and thoughtfully refreshing your supplies, you can create a workspace that fuels your passion. So roll up your sleeves, sort through your treasures, and let your refreshed stash inspire your next masterpiece!