I would say, to get Photoshop Elements. I am a digi scrap designer and although I have 2 of the professional versions of Photoshop, I do 90% of my designing and layout creating in Photoshop Elements 5, which is now old. They are up to Elements 8, which I also have, but prefer 5 which is a lot easier for adding styles and things to.
All you really need to use any of the kits out there that are free or available for purchase/download [no shipping required], is a software program that will accept both the .jpg and .png formats.
There is a wonderful site, Scrapper's Guide [which recently announced they will be changing their name]. This is a fantastic site for beginners [and those that are advanced as well]. There are 2 different types of memberships, free with limited tutorials [but they are always willing to help anyone], and a paid membership with phenomenal, easy to understand video tutorials that are of high quality and top-notch expertise. This site is where I learned from the very beginning. [and by the way, I am not in any way affiliated with this site in a professional manner - so this recommendation comes strictly from experience].
Digi scrapping will save you a ton of money, space and time. If you do purchase a "digi-kit", and you make an error in "cutting" or erasing, it's not a problem, just "undo" and retry. You can use digital scrap supplies limitlessly.
Just remember, when you buy a kit, or collect a freebie [and there are tons out there], ALWAYS back up your zip files to disc. Back up your layouts/pages as well.
You will never regret the decision to go digital.
If you have any further questions, just drop me a line....
Lisa/Rebel Without A Pause Designs
