Cheap Thrills

Picture this: Your teen gets to use all those photos you've taken of her over the years -- or maybe the ones she snapped with her own camera -- and create a unique book that she designs herself. The newest trend in crafting, scrapbooking, not only makes for an independent creative outlet, but one that can be done with friends, too.

Your Happy Place in East Northport has been hosting scrapbooking birthday parties since it first opened its doors in November 2005.While packages are available for ages four and up, owner Donna Feehan says parties for tweens and teens have become particularly popular.

"They want a cool and different type of party," she says.

"Everyone leaves the party with a personalized project that expresses their own individuality." Most parties at YHP last about 90 to 150 minutes, depending on the age of the children and the complexity of the project. Current offerings include making an 8 x 8 scrapbook, a treasure/trinket box, a decorative lunch box or a personalized journal. An average party ranges from $18 to $26 per guest, with a minimum of 10 guests (and a maximum of 40). Invitations and project supplies are included.

Feehan says parents are welcome to bring a birthday cake or have a pizza delivered. She advises guests to come into the store a few weeks in advance of the party to pick a date and a project. -- Pamela Brill

Pictured above: A paint chip scrapbook designed by Jessica Allen for www.kadyhope.etsy.com. Photo courtesy of Jessica Allen, see more on her blog: KadyHope.