Protecting Your Memories

“Archival” is a word that’s being thrown around a lot these days in the scrapbook world. Generally it refers to papers, inks and other media that won’t fade or corrode other materials. But there are no regulations or industry standards, so caveat emptor. Ask the shop owner if you’re not sure about a product.

“Acid-free” refers to materials that have a pH above 7. Acids in paper will eventually cause damage, turning them brown and brittle. Lignin is an organic material that binds cellulose fibers and is found in wood and some plants. But when it’s in paper, it reacts with light and heat to deteriorate it, so look for paper products marked “lignin-free.”

Even if all the products used are archival, paper and photos can still be damaged by light, heat, humidity and various other substances. Keep albums and supplies away from harmful elements as much as possible. If you want to include documents such as letters, postcards or newspaper clippings, consider copying them onto archival paper before placing them in the album.