13 of 24: Record Album Scrapbook

by Kathy Cano-Murillo - Jul. 17, 2004 12:00 AM
The Arizona Republic

Aside from oversize bad hair and ultra-synthesized pop songs, the '80s showcased some great musical memories, such as the record album covers. It's a crime to let such visual nuggets of pleasure as those from Devo, Culture Club, Roxy Music and the Motels, for example, go unnoticed in the thrift store bargain bins. So I'm spreading the word to rescue these fabulous pieces of art and convert them into functional desk accessories.

The album covers make great scrapbooks to hold all your concert memorabilia such as ticket stubs, cocktail napkins, swizzle sticks, matchbox covers, autographs and photos. The records can be trimmed to make a handsome journal cover. Not impressed yet? Try using black duct tape to connect two 45s to create a totally rad greeting card. Boy George would be so proud!

You can also cut them up to make small note pads, or fun price tags or business labels, etc!

'80s-themed record album scrapbook

Supplies
1 record album cover
Glue stick, scissors, pencil
Hole punch
Small binder rings
Stack of scrapbook paper, 12 by 12 inches

Directions: Cut along the top and bottom seam of the album cover (not the spine), so it opens like a book. If the cover has a cool inner sleeve, remove it and cut apart the two sides and use the glue stick to affix them to the inside of each cover, to serve as a lining for your scrapbook. Punch three holes evenly along the left side of the cover. Place the stack of scrapbook paper underneath the cover so the left-hand side edges are lined up. Use a pencil to mark a spot through the holes onto the paper so you will know where to punch the holes. Remove the album cover and set aside. Punch the holes in the stack of paper where you made the marks. Place the stack of paper inside the cover so it is flush with the left side. Hold it in place so the holes line up and attach the binder rings. Decorate as desired.

Directions for record version: Use a utility knife to score a line down the side or center of the record. Place it along a sharp edge of a counter and snap off the edge. Drill three holes along the side. Cut a stack of paper and punch holes along the side to fit within the record. Insert binder rings. Decorate the outside if desired.

Variations: For a more polished look, laminate the album cover. If you don't want to use the actual cover, make a color copy and decoupage it to thin wood or foam board. On the record itself, if you have jagged edges, use a pair of flat pliers to remove them or use a nail file.
Peace, love, and glitter!
Kathy :-)

P.S. Check out my new book and product line!