By Creative Memories
January 23, 2025

2024 “Official Guides” Blog Post Recap

Crafty croppers, we hope 2025 is off to a great start for you and that you’re setting your scrapbooking goals for the year! If you’re new to scrapbooking or to Creative Memories, this post is going to be your BEST friend as you explore our products and find the ones that work best for YOU. If you’ve been following us for a while, consider this post a refresher!

Throughout 2024, we shared a series of “Official Guide” posts — comprehensive articles designed to educate and inspire you with everything to know about our most popular and beloved products. From the versatility of our albums and pages to the precision of our trimmers and the endless possibilities of our Border Maker Cartridges (BMCs), these guides covered it all (and there will be even more to come in 2025!).

In this special recap post, we’re bringing all of 2024’s Guide Posts together in one convenient location (with links to head back to the robust posts!). Here you’ll find valuable information on:

You’ll want to stick around to the end for a special recap quiz to test your 2024 knowledge and how much of your crafting wisdom stuck to get a chance at winning one of the two 12×12 Rose Red Be Merry Albums we’ll be giving away (perfect for your recent holiday pictures)!

— Albums  —

The Official Guide To Creative Memories Albums
Learn all there is to know about Creative Memories albums!

Renowned for their exceptional quality and durability, Creative Memories albums are built to last a lifetime. This Guide Post dives deep into the world of Creative Memories albums, exploring the various sizes and styles available. 

Key Takeaways:

  • 12×12 Albums: The classic choice, offering ample space for creativity and customization.
  • 8×8 Albums: Perfect for themed projects, portability and budget-conscious crafters.
  • 6.75×10 Albums: Ideal for smaller projects, travel journals and planners.

For Returning Crafters:

  • Refresh your knowledge of album sizes and their best uses.
  • Explore the cover colors and options for your next project.

For New Crafters:

  • Learn how to choose the right album for your memories.
  • Understand the benefits of each album size.
  • Discover the versatility and use cases of Creative Memories albums.

Ready to learn more?

Check out the full Albums Guide Blog Post here

— Pages  —

Creative Memories pages are the heart of our memory-keeping system, designed to preserve your photos for generations. This guide explores the key page types:

  • Traditional Refill Pages: The classic choice, offering a blank canvas for your creativity. Available in various sizes and colors, they allow for full customization.
  • Fast2Fab Refill Pages: Pre-designed for quick and easy layouts, perfect for beginners or those seeking a head start.
  • Top-Loading Pocket Pages: Offer flexibility and versatility, allowing you to easily rearrange your layouts.
  • Multi-Pocket Pages: Feature pre-designed pockets for a quick and easy photobook look.
  • Custom Pages: Design your own unique pages online, offering complete creative control.

Key Takeaways:

  • Quality Matters: Creative Memories pages are acid-free and lignin-free, ensuring your photos stay safe for generations.
  • Choose Your Style: Choose pages that align with your scrapbooking style: traditional, flexible, digitally designed or fast and easy.
  • Compatibility: Creative Memories pages are designed to work seamlessly with our albums.
  • Lifetime Guarantee: Our commitment to quality ensures your memories are protected.

Want to Learn More?

Check out the full Pages Guide Blog Post here

— Pockets  —

Learn all there is to know about Creative Memories pockets!

Creative Memories Pockets: the original “plug and play” for scrapbooking! If you’re new to scrapbooking and want a quick and easy way to showcase your photos, Pocket Page scrapbooking could be a great fit for you. Already love pockets, but want to explore more sizes? You’ve found the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to help you choose the perfect pockets to match your style. 

For New Crafters:

  • Discover Peekaboo Pockets: These versatile pockets add dimension and interactivity to your pages. Learn how to use them to showcase photos, journaling cards and small memorabilia.
  • Explore Pocket Pages: Discover the variety of Pocket Pages available and how they can transform your scrapbooking experience.

For Returning Crafters:

  • Refresh Your Knowledge: Review the key benefits of Peekaboo Pockets: versatility, space-saving, interactivity, repositionability and protection.
  • Explore New Possibilities: Consider combining different pocket styles to create unique and personalized layouts.

Key Takeaways:

  • Versatility: Available in multiple sizes, you can use pockets to hold various items including photos, journaling cards and small memorabilia.
  • Space-saving: They allow you to fit more information on a page without feeling cluttered or adding an extra page.
  • Interactivity: The pockets add a fun and interactive element to your scrapbook, encouraging readers to explore.  
  • Repositionable: You can easily change the placement of your pockets if you decide to rearrange your layout.  
  • Protection: The clear pockets help protect your photos and memorabilia from damage.

Want to Learn More?

Check out the full Pockets Guide Blog Post here

— Trimmer & Photo Trimmer  —

Learn all there is to know about Creative Memories trimmers!

Creative Memories Trimmers: Cutting Edge Precision

Creative Memories has long been synonymous with innovative scrapbooking tools — and our trimmers are no exception. From the classic 12-inch Trimmer to the newly redesigned Photo Trimmer, these tools have revolutionized how we cut and prepare our photos and paper. Delve into the features and benefits of these essential trimmers, helping you choose the right one for your scrapbooking needs (or remind yourself of some of their fantastic functions!).

For New Crafters:

  • Discover the Basics: Learn about the different types of trimmers available, such as the 12-inch Trimmer and the Photo Trimmer.
  • Master Essential Cuts: Learn basic cutting techniques.
  • Explore Trimmer Accessories: Discover optional accessories to create varying effects on your designs!

For Returning Crafters:

  • Refresh Your Skills: Hone your cutting techniques and explore new cutting possibilities.
  • Discover Advanced Techniques: Learn to create intricate shapes and designs using your trimmer.
  • Explore New Trimmer Options: Consider upgrading to a more advanced trimmer or exploring specialty blades for specific needs.

Key Takeaways:

  • Precision Cutting: Trimmers ensure clean, accurate cuts for perfect photo placement and paper embellishments.
  • Versatility: From straight cuts to intricate shapes, trimmers offer a wide range of cutting possibilities.
  • Durability: Creative Memories trimmers are designed to be durable and long-lasting.
  • Safety: Trimmers feature safety guards that protect your fingers while cutting.
  • Ease of Use: Trimmers are easy to use and require minimal effort, making them ideal for crafters of all skill levels.

Want to Learn More?

Check out the full Trimmer & Photo Trimmer Guide Blog Post here

— Scissors & Corner Rounder  —

Creative Memories Corner Rounders and Scissors are essential tools for every scrapbooker! These core tools help you streamline your crafting and make your designs personal. Learn how these sharp tools and their techniques create professional-grade projects.

For New Crafters:

  • Discover the Magic of Corner Rounders:
    • Learn how to soften the edges of your photos and papers with corner rounders, creating a polished and finished look.
    • Explore different corner styles, such as rounded, notched and scalloped, to add unique flair to your projects.
  • Meet Your New Best Friends: All-Purpose and Micro-Tip Scissors:
    • Discover the importance of high-quality scissors for precise cuts.
    • Learn the difference between our All-Purpose Scissors for general cutting needs and our Micro-Tip Scissors for intricate details and delicate embellishments.

For Returning Crafters:

  • Reignite Your Creativity:
    • Rediscover the versatility of corner rounders. Experiment with different corner styles to add unique flair to your projects, from cards and tags to paper embellishments.
    • Explore advanced cutting techniques with your Micro-Tip Scissors, such as intricate paper cutting and delicate embellishment creation.
  • Sharpen Your Skills:
    • Refine your cutting techniques with our high-quality scissors, ensuring clean and precise cuts every time.

Key Takeaways:

  • Precision & Cleanliness: Corner rounders ensure clean edges on your projects, while our scissors provide precise cuts for intricate details.
  • Versatility: Corner rounders can be used on a variety of materials, including photos, paper, cardstock and more.
  • Creative Expression: These tools empower you to express your unique style and add a personal touch to all your creations.
  • Durability: Professional-grade steel and ergonomic designs, ensure years of crafting enjoyment.

Want to Learn More?

Check out the full Scissors & Corner Rounder Guide Blog Post here

— Adhesives  —

Creative Memories Adhesives are the foundation of every successful scrapbook page! Quality matters — especially when it comes to the scrapbook adhesive you use to protect your memories! If you DON’T want your photos to become discolored or stained, if you DON’T want photos to become brittle, if you DON’T want photos to become loose and/or to fall out of your albums, then you DO want to use Creative Memories adhesives, which have been trusted by scrapbookers for 30+ years.

For New Crafters:

  • Discover the Power of Photo-Safe Adhesives: Learn why using photo-safe adhesives is crucial for preserving your memories.
  • Explore Adhesive Options: Discover the different types of Creative Memories adhesives available, such as permanent, repositionable and specialty adhesives, and how to choose the right one for your project.
  • Master Basic Application Techniques: Learn essential techniques for applying adhesive cleanly and accurately.

For Returning Crafters:

  • Refresh Your Knowledge: Review the latest innovations in Creative Memories adhesives, such as new formulas and improved application tools.
  • Explore Advanced Techniques: Learn advanced adhesive techniques, such as creating dimensional layers and using adhesives to achieve unique effects.
  • Rediscover the Benefits: Re-evaluate the importance of using high-quality, photo-safe adhesives for long-term memory preservation.

Key Takeaways:

  • Photo-Safe: Creative Memories adhesives are specifically designed to be safe for your photos, preventing discoloration, staining and brittleness.
  • High-Quality: Our adhesives undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet the highest quality standards for strength, durability and performance.
  • Variety of Options: Choose from a wide range of adhesives to suit your specific needs and creative style, including permanent, repositionable and specialty adhesives.
  • Easy to Use: Our adhesives are designed for easy application, with tools like the Repositionable Adhesive Runner and Precision Roller making it simple to achieve clean and accurate results.
  • Long-Lasting: Trust in Creative Memories adhesives to provide a strong and lasting bond that will help your scrapbook pages withstand the test of time.

Want to Learn More?

Check out the full Adhesives Guide Blog Post here

— Original Border Maker System & BMCs —

Learn all there is to know about Creative Memories Border Maker System!

Creative Memories’ Original Border Maker System (OBMS) has been a staple in the crafting world for good reason. This iconic system offers endless possibilities for creating custom borders that will instantly add personality and flair to your layouts. This five-star tool is the ORIGINAL and the BEST! Our dedication to quality and precision led to countless hours developing and testing it to ensure excellence all around, from the iconic design to the durable construction of the system and its interchangeable cartridges. The OBMS has undergone rigorous testing to confirm it meets the highest standards of quality and reliability, including:

  • Durability Testing: To assess its resistance to wear and tear over time.
  • Precision Testing: To ensure that it creates clean, consistent borders (each tested 5x before leaving the facility so no residue or issues will arise when it lands at your door!).
  • Compatibility Testing: To verify that it works seamlessly with our wide range of BMCs.
  • User Testing: To evaluate the ease of use and functionality of the OBMS in real-world crafting scenarios.

For New Crafters:

  • Discover the Basics: Learn how to use the OBMS with ease. Master the basic techniques for creating borders with different cartridges.
  • Explore Cartridge Possibilities: Discover the wide range of cartridge options available and how to choose the right ones for your projects.
  • Create Simple and Stunning Borders: Learn how to create quick and easy borders that will add a touch of elegance to your layouts.

For Returning Crafters:

  • Rediscover Your Passion: Re-ignite your love for border making with the OBMS. Explore new techniques and discover innovative ways to use your existing cartridges.
  • Expand Your Horizons: Explore new cartridge collections and discover exciting new border designs.
  • Create Advanced Techniques: Learn advanced techniques like layering borders, creating double borders and incorporating mixed media elements.

Key Takeaways:

  • Versatility: The OBMS offers endless possibilities for creating unique and personalized borders.
  • Quality and Durability: Built to last, the system is a reliable and long-lasting investment.
  • Ease of Use: The system is easy to use and understand, making it accessible to crafters of all skill levels.
  • Precision and Consistency: The OBMS consistently produces clean, precise borders.
  • Creativity Unleashed: It empowers you to unleash your creativity and add a unique touch to your projects.

Want to Learn More?

Check out the full BMC & Border Maker System Guide Blog Post here

— Punches —

Creative Memories Punches: Punch Your Way to Creative Bliss!

Get ready to unleash your creativity with the power of Creative Memories Punches! In this section, we’ll explore the exciting world of punches and discover how they can add a unique and creative touch to your crafting projects. From whimsical shapes that bring your designs to life to intricate details that add dimension and texture, our punches offer endless possibilities to your pages.

We believe that quality is essential for achieving stunning results, and we go to great lengths to ensure that our punches meet the highest standards.

Our rigorous testing process includes:

  • Cutting Life-cycle Tests: To evaluate the durability and longevity of our punches, we subject them to extensive cutting cycles. This ensures that they can withstand repeated use without compromising performance.
  • Burr Inspection: We meticulously check for burrs (aka rough edges) on our punches. This ensures that your paper remains smooth and free from damage during the punching process.
  • Material Compatibility: Our punches are designed to work seamlessly with a variety of crafting materials, including our cardstock and paper. We test them with different materials to ensure their compatibility and versatility.
  • Functionality and User Testing: We conduct thorough testing to assess the ease of use and performance of our punches. This includes evaluating their precision, alignment and overall user experience.

For New Crafters:

  • Discover the Versatility: Explore how punches can be used to create a wide range of decorative elements, including shapes, borders, frames and embellishments.
  • Easy to Use: Learn the simple techniques for using punches safely and effectively, ensuring clean cuts and precise results every time.
  • Endless Inspiration: Find inspiration in our gallery of projects featuring various punch styles and discover how to incorporate them into your own creations.

For Returning Crafters:

  • Rediscover Favorites: Revisit your collection of punches and explore new ways to use them in your projects.
  • Explore New Additions: Discover the latest additions to our punch line.
  • Elevate Your Techniques: Learn advanced techniques, such as layering and combining punches to create unique and intricate designs.

Key Takeaways:

  • Precision and Quality: Experience the superior quality and precision of Creative Memories punches, designed to deliver clean cuts and consistent results.
  • Durability and Longevity: Our punches are built to last, ensuring years of creative enjoyment.
  • Versatility: From simple shapes to intricate details, our wide range of punches offers endless creative possibilities.
  • Ease of Use: Our punches are designed with user-friendliness in mind, making them easy to use for crafters of all skill levels.

Want to Learn More?

Check out the full Punches Guide Blog Post here

— Custom Cutting System  —

In this post, we explore the beloved world of Creative Memories Custom Cutting System (CCS). From the versatile CCS Patterns that bring your designs to life to the precision of CCS Blades, we’ll cover the various components and their endless possibilities. Whether you’re looking to create stunning shapes or unique scrapbook layouts, our patented and ergonomically built CCS has you covered.

For New Crafters:

  • Discover the Versatility: Explore the wide range of CCS Patterns available, from basic circles to intricate gemstones. Learn how to use them to create unique mats, layouts and more.
  • Master the Basics: Get comfortable with the basic cutting techniques.
  • Experience the Precision: Discover how the CCS Blades deliver clean, accurate cuts every time, ensuring your projects look their best.

For Returning Crafters:

  • Rediscover Your Creativity: Explore new and exciting ways to use your CCS.
  • Expand Your Collection: Discover the full range of CCS patterns and accessories to add to your collection.
  • Refine Your Techniques: Ensure you are familiar with the scope of the system and how to keep your tools in top shape!

Key Takeaways:

  • Versatility: The CCS offers endless possibilities for creating unique and personalized projects.
  • Precision: The system delivers clean, accurate cuts, ensuring professional-looking results.
  • Durability: The CCS is built to last, with durable patterns and long-lasting blades.
  • Ease of Use: The system is easy to learn and use, making it accessible to crafters of all skill levels.
  • Creativity Unleashed: The CCS empowers you to bring your creative visions to life with ease and precision.

Want to Learn More?

Check out the full CCS Guide Blog Post here

— Power Storage  —

Get ready to organize your memories with power! These are a collection of innovative products designed to keep your photos, memorabilia and crafting supplies neatly organized and easily accessible. From the versatile Power Sort Box to the protective Power Sleeves and Project Folders. Explore the various components of this durable system and how these items can help you be as efficient and organized as possible. So, let’s get organized!

We understand that your memories deserve the best protection. That’s why we’re committed to producing a line that’s not only functional but also durable and reliable. We believe that quality is essential for preserving your photos and memorabilia for generations to come, and we go to great lengths to ensure that our products meet the highest standards.

Our rigorous testing process includes:

  • Material Durability: We test the durability of our materials, such as the polypropylene used in our sleeves and pockets, to ensure they can withstand the test of time. We also test the strength of the seams and welds to ensure they’re secure and won’t tear or rip.
  • Photo Safety: Our products are tested to ensure they are photo-safe and acid-free, meaning they won’t damage your photos or documents. We also test the darkness of our storage solutions to ensure they minimize light exposure and prevent fading.
  • Organizational Efficiency: We design our products to be highly functional and easy to use. We test the organization and accessibility of our storage solutions to ensure they help keep your memories organized and easily retrievable.
  • User Experience: We conduct thorough testing to assess the ease of use and performance of our Power storage products. This includes evaluating their durability, functionality and overall user experience.

By subjecting our Power storage line to these rigorous tests, we provide you with peace of mind knowing that your memories are safe and secure.

For New Crafters:

  • Discover the Storage Boxes and Kits: Ditch the shoe box and get on the path to complete photo organization with the Power Sort Box. This handy magical box is the key to preparing your photos for scrapbook pages or photo albums the right way. Includes six compartment boxes and six dividers for easy sorting and labeling. Consider this box a totally organized security guard for your photos. 
  • Explore the Folders, Sleeves & Pockets: The durable box and 15 included Power Layout Guides offer a comprehensive solution for inspiration, organization and safekeeping of your projects. Simply place your photos, papers and embellishments between the guides ahead of your next crop time, slide them into the box and you’re ready to create stunning layouts or transport your supplies with ease.

For Returning Crafters:

  • Rediscover the Versatility: Explore new ways to utilize the Power Sort Box, such as organizing embellishments, journaling cards or even small craft supplies.
  • Enhance Your Workflow: Utilize the Power Layouts Kit to streamline your scrapbooking process and save valuable time during your crafting sessions.

Key Takeaways:

  • Organization: Power storage products provide a system for organizing photos, memorabilia and crafting supplies, making it easy to find what you need when you need it.
  • Durability: Built to last, these products are designed to protect your memories for years to come.
  • Efficiency: Streamline your scrapbooking workflow with tools that simplify organization and project preparation.
  • Peace of Mind: Know your memories are safely stored and easily accessible.

Want to Learn More?

Check out the full Power Storage Guide Blog Post here

— Storage  —

Get ready to organize your creative space with Creative Memories’ storage solutions! In this blog post, we’ll dive into a world of high-quality storage products designed to keep your crafting supplies and memories protected and organized. From decorative and tool storage to travel solutions, we’ll explore a range of options to help you stay efficient and inspired.

For New Crafters:

  • Discover the Importance of Storage: Learn why proper storage is crucial for protecting your valuable crafting supplies and preserving your memories.
  • Explore Essential Storage Solutions: Discover the must-have storage items for every beginner, such as tool caddies, project boxes and photo storage albums.
  • Find Your Style: Explore the diverse range of stylish storage options available to match your personal aesthetic and create a beautiful and inspiring crafting space.

For Returning Crafters:

  • Upgrade Your Storage: Discover the latest innovations in Creative Memories storage, including new designs, materials and features.
  • Revamp Your Workspace: Reimagine your crafting space with new storage solutions that improve efficiency and enhance your creative flow.
  • Find Solutions for Specific Needs: Explore specialized storage options for specific crafting needs, such as travel-friendly storage for on-the-go projects or archival-quality storage for preserving keepsakes.

Key Takeaways:

  • Protection: Our high-quality storage solutions safeguard your tools and memories from damage.
  • Organization: Keep your crafting supplies neatly organized and accessible, saving yourself time and frustration.
  • Inspiration: A well-organized workspace can boost your creativity and make crafting more enjoyable.
  • Durability: Our storage products are built to last, using high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship.
  • Versatility: Find storage solutions to fit various needs and spaces, from small apartments to dedicated craft rooms.

Want to Learn More?

Check out the full Storage Guide Blog Post here

— Cardstock & Paper  —

Ever wondered what goes into the beautiful papers and cardstock that form the foundation of your scrapbook pages? At Creative Memories, we know that the right paper can elevate your scrapbook pages from good to great. That’s why we take such care in crafting our paper products, ensuring they’re not only aesthetically pleasing but also safe for your photos and memorabilia.

We’ll take you behind the scenes to explore the world of Creative Memories’ paper and cardstock, from the weight and materials we use to the rigorous testing procedures that guarantee archival quality. So, get ready to discover what makes our paper products truly special!

— Why Choose Creative Memories’ Cardstock and Paper? —

At Creative Memories, we take pride in crafting high-quality papers and cardstock that are not only beautiful, but also designed to last. We put our paper products through rigorous testing to ensure they meet our strict standards for archival quality:

  • PAT Testing and pH Testing: We ensure all our paper and cardstock are photo-safe through rigorous Photographic Activity Test (PAT) and pH testing. This guarantees they won’t off-gas harmful chemicals that can damage your photos over time.
  • Bleed-through Testing: No one wants ink or marker bleeding through their carefully crafted scrapbook pages. That’s why we conduct extensive bleed testing to ensure our papers can handle various writing instruments without smudging or migrating.

Our papers and cardstock are also acid-free, meaning they’re chemically balanced and won’t break down photos that come in contact with the paper. Our papers are treated with calcium carbonate to neutralize harmful acids. We carefully monitor our paper’s quality, ensuring it’s free of impurities and will not yellow or become brittle over time.

Additionally, the products boast a premium feel. We use a high-grade paper base so the fibers are tighter together, giving you a smoother texture compared to what you would find elsewhere (think school supplies).

For New Crafters:

  • Understand the Importance of Quality: Learn why choosing archival-quality paper is crucial for preserving your memories for generations.
  • Explore Different Paper Weights: Discover the difference between cardstock and text weight paper and how to choose the right option for your projects.
  • Discover Designer Paper: Explore the world of Creative Memories designer paper and how it can add creativity and visual interest to your layouts.

For Returning Crafters:

  • Rediscover the Benefits: Review the key features of Creative Memories cardstock and paper, including archival quality, vibrant colors and professional finish.
  • Explore New Possibilities: Discover the latest designer paper collections and find inspiration for new and exciting layout ideas.
  • Elevate Your Projects: Learn how to use different paper techniques, such as layering, distressing and embellishing, to create stunning scrapbook pages.

Key Takeaways:

  • Archival Quality: Our papers are designed to protect your photos from fading and damage.
  • Vibrant Colors: We offer a wide range of colors and finishes to suit any creative vision.
  • Premium Feel: The smooth, high-grade paper base creates a professional look and feel.
  • Photo-Safe: Our papers are acid-free and lignin-free, ensuring your photos stay safe for generations.
  • Extensive Selection: We offer a vast assortment of designer papers, including specialty options for every occasion.

Want to learn more?

  • Download the flyer here

Check out the full Cardstock & Paper Guide Blog Post here

— Think you’ve got all the facts about Creative Memories products tucked in your brain? —

Try your hand at our recap quiz for the chance to win one of two 12×12 Rose Red Be Merry Albums!

19 responses to “2024 “Official Guides” Blog Post Recap”

  1. Bring back old cartridges for the boarder maker system. Was at crop the lady that had it had some interesting punches. Ones now are sucky

  2. I would also love to see older punches (city skyline, gifts) and border maker cartridges come back, as was done for some last fall (thank you!).

  3. I would love to see craft room storage ideas for border punches to display them so I can see what I have.

  4. Please- Bringing back retired punches and BMS cartridges so new customers and advisors have the opportunity to get some of the older ones. Maybe have the advisors vote on what ones we think should come back.

  5. I would love to see the 8.5×11 cover set again! Really miss it! Thanks for a great update – and thanks for many years of fun scrapbooking ideas and help.

  6. I wish they would put the official color of an album on the inside cover some where. Would help when wanting to buy imprinted spines.

  7. I think we would sell more of the “Buy it all bundle” if it came with a bonus physical product (for example: a bonus sticker page, 5 embossed elements, 4 embossed pre-cut borders) I think it would be much more appreciated by customers than the Free Downloadable Decorative Ideas PDF. Everybody can find thousands of ideas online, so this PDF is not an added value.

  8. Is there a compilation of border ideas for each year? Having to search through the blogs is time consuming and kinda the *last* thing on my list. I’d love to see each year’s blogs on border ideas in a coil bound book, or pdf to download.

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