Scrapbookers often use chipboard to embellish their projects. Chipboard, sometimes known as paperboard, is a thick paper or cardboard that can be decorated to add depth and dimension to a project. It works well on many different styles of scrapbook layouts, from casual and whimsical to sophisticated and elegant. Chipboard elements do add bulk to a scrapbook layout, however, so they are best used sparingly in order to keep the album from becoming too heavy.

The easiest way to use chipboard on your scrapbook layout is to purchase a package of pre-made chipboard embellishments. In most craft stores, chipboard embellishments are sold near the stickers, scrapbooking paper, or paper crafting supplies. Alphabet letters are the most commonly available design, although you can also find a number of geometric shapes or accents to fit popular scrapbooking themes such as travel, family, children, and romance.

If you're on a tight budget, or simply feeling the urge to be more creative, you can make your chipboard elements from scratch. Purchase blank chipboard sheets, then cut with a craft knife or a scrapbooking die cut machine. Use paint, ink, or markers to decorate the cut out shape. You can also try covering the shape with scraps of patterned paper, then adding buttons, glitter, small charms, ribbon, or other accents as desired. If you're having trouble finding blank chipboard sheets at your local craft store, try using the cardboard on the back of a cereal box. However, keep in mind that projects made from this material will not be acid-free and may damage photos on your scrapbook layout.

Because of its weight, chipboard can't be adhered with the same glue stick you'd use for attaching other elements to a scrapbook layout. To add chipboard to a project, you'll need to use either a strong double-sided tape or glue dots. However, some pre-made chipboard embellishments do come with adhesive already applied. In this case, simply peel off the backing and use the chipboard just like any other scrapbooking sticker.

Aside from creating scrapbook layouts, chipboard embellishments can also be used to add interest to handmade greeting cards or home décor projects. For example, you can try making your own refrigerator magnets by adhering a magnetic strip to the back of your favorite chipboard accent. Chipboard embellishments can also be glued to a painted canvas to make customized wall art or added to the edges of a plain wooden picture frame to create a one-of-kind accent piece for a room.