Scrapbook Page Layout & Design

For the beginner Scrapbooker designing your first page can be scary. I know that sounds crazy, but you are looking at all the new supplies that you have purchased and thinking to yourself what happens if I mess up, I just wasted all this money on supplies. Always remember that your scrapbook pages do not have to look like anyone else’s. They can be really simple, just a picture and some journaling on a page or you can make them full of embellishments. It’s all up to you.

A lot of Scrapbookers like to start out by at least having some kind of idea of how there page is going to look like when completed. If you are not that creative you can pickup a Scrapbooking magazine and find a layout that you would like to try or there is a great book written by Becky Higgins called Creative Companion. This is a book that is filled with sample page layouts. Find one that works with the number of photographs you have, and has a design that works with your style. I refer to this book a lot when I am having a scrappers block.

Now that you have the idea it is time to gather all of the supplies you will need to get your scrapbook page looking like the sample that you have chosen. Remember, just because the sample layout that you found is all in blue and green tones, you don’t have to use them, especially is your pictures are geared towards the colors of red and yellows. Use your imagination and you will make a beautiful masterpiece that you can call your own.

Have a Great Day and don’t forget to leave time to Craft!

Join Other Scrapbookers

Now that you are a Scrapbooker a great thing to do is meet other people who share in your passion. And believe me there are tons out there. A good way is to check with your local Scrapbooking store or craft store. They usually offer classes for all levels of Scrapbooking, and as a new Scrapbooker, you will be able to see in person the experienced Scrapbookers and learn some really great tips from them. And I guaranteed that you will make a some new friend along the way that share your passion of Scrapbooking.

As I mentioned earlier, Scrapbooking classes and weekend crops are a great way to get connected with all levels of Scrapbookers. Most of your local Scrapbooking stores offer classes. They are taught by experienced Scrapbookers that have either been Scrapbooking for years or they may have a degree in Scrapbooking. That’s right, now day you can even get a Bachelor of Scrapbooking Degree from Scrapbook Design University. I have one hanging on my wall in my craft room, along with my College degrees, but the Scrapbooking one is the one that really puts a smile on my face. Anyway, the classes are not typically very expensive (and worth every penny that you spend), and in some cases your supplies will be included in the class fee, or you will get a percentage off of the materials used in that class. Classes are great because you will receive a live demonstration of the craft, and have the opportunity to learn directly from experienced Scrapbookers.

If it is hard for you to attend one of these classes, check out some of the classes that they offer online. You will be able to get all the same information and learn the newest and greatest techniques also from experienced Scrapbookers all from the comfort of your own craft room. They often have live chats, so you will be able to ask questions too!

Have a Great Day and don’t forget to leave time to Craft!

Supplies Essential to Scrapbooking:

1. Album: There must be thousands of albums available today it may seem overwhelming at first but before your purchase one think about the kind of album that you want to create.
For example, if you are creating a gift album, consider quick and convenient 6×6 or 8×8 albums. For larger projects, ones that will have a lot of pictures try an expandable 12×12 album.
Look at what albums are out there, and decide which will fit your need and personal style. Also notice the different link of binding styles. There are post bound, strap hinge, and 3-ring. All of these albums usually come with page protectors which are a MUST! and make sure that they are expandable.

2. Paper: You can choose from countless patterns and colors of cardstock and papers. This will be your scrapbook page canvas so choose wisely. Be creative when using patter paper, some of the paper companies put patterns together for you so it takes the guess work out of it, just let your creativity run wild! The most popular size papers is 12×12, but remember even if you are making a 6×6 scrapbook, you can use the other half for more pages or you can use the leftover to make borders, or just use it on other layouts when needed.

3. Paper Trimmers: Get perfect cuts with this easy-to-use tool. Your best bet would be to purchase a large trimmer. This way you will be able to cut 12×12 papers, or crop your photos. I personally have a 12×12 along with a small photo cropper trimmer. It is totally up to you but if you are just starting out and are on a budget get the large one for now, its like two tools in one!

4. Scissors: Always have a good pair of sharp scissors around just for Scrapbooking. EKSuccess makes a Teflon-coated scissors that are fantastic; adhesive from stickers won’t stick to them!

5. Pens: My favorite pens are from Zig Memory System. These pens come in hundreds of colors and also different writing tips, such as Fine & Chisel, Writers, Scroll &Brush, Calligraphy and even photo coloring. Personalize your page with handwritten messaging. Whatever pen that you choose make sure that it is pigment ink, Acid-free and archival quality, waterproof and fade resistant..

6. Adhesive: There are many different kinds of adhesives out there. You will need to test them out for yourself, and find the one that feels right for you. Some come in plastic containers that run across your page, some come on sheets, and you need to find what is comfortable for your needs. Just make sure to select an acid-free adhesive.

Have a Great Day and don’t forget to leave time to Craft!