Chipboard is a great new versatile element that you can add to scrapbook pages.
A while ago, I got some chipboard with sayings on them which worked great on some of my layouts, but others didn't work. The colour was wrong, the words weren't right, or something just didn't fit.
Since then, they've come out with blank chipboard embellishments that you can make to fit any layout.
I love the undressed chipboard letters that I just got. They're big enough to use as a main element on your page and come just plain (or undressed) so that I can stamp on them, cover them in paper, paint them, or bedazzle them if I really wanted to.
You can use them in your house to spell out words like Welcome or Spring or any word that you may want to decorate your walls with or you can use them in your scrapbooks, on cards, or calendars.
Your sold, right??
Just wondering where you can get these amazing new embellishments?
Well, chipboard alphabets and diecuts are sold at most scrapbooking or craft stores, but you can also make your own designs, once you've got the right tools.
If you click on this article's title, you'll be forwarded to a site that gives detailed instructions on making your own chipboard alphabets.
Here are a few ideas on where to get chipboard, quoted from http://www.scrapjazz.com/topics/Techniques/Embellishments/607.php so you can make your own embellishments:
"Many scrapbook stores have sheets of chipboard that they will give away for free. Packs of paper are often sold with chipboard to keep the paper free from damage, so many stores often have extra sheets that they just discard. Simply ask, and you may find yourself with a pile of free chipboard.
If youÂ’re looking for small pieces, many companies now sell small chipboard shapes. Bazzill Basics, Heidi Swapp, Lil Davis Designs and Making Memories all carry various sizes, shapes and designs of chipboard embellishments.
Most people probably have chipboard at home and donÂ’t realize it. Most any notepad has chipboard for the back cover. The back cover of spiral-bound notebooks are essentially chipboard as well.
If you still canÂ’t find chipboard locally, try searching online at www.ebay.com, www.dickblick.com, or www.vanguardcrafts.com."
They're very versatile and fun; adding dimension and festivity to any craft I undertake.
I would highrecommendend playing with some chipboard. It's inexpensive, fun, and easy.
Saturday, April 29, 2006
Sunday, April 23, 2006
New Hang-ups
Think all you've got is glue to attach your favourite photos to a page??
Think again!
There are so many ways to attach all of your elements without even touching a glue stick or messy adhesives.
Step outside of the box and embrace all sorts of ways to hold your pages together.
Here are a few decorative tools you can use to mount your pictures or elements onto your layout:
• brads
• paper hangers
• paper clips
• hinges
• staples
• buttons
• eyelets
These elements are great because they come in an assortment of colours and designs, but if you can't find exactly what you're looking for, you can easily decorate them to fit any page layout or theme.
Simply stamp, paint, ink, or cover them in paper to get the perfect look for your scrapbook.
If that isn't enough, try using some of these fibres to tie, hang, or suspend elements on your pages:
• ribbons
• hemp
• wire
• yarn
• velvet strips
• fabric
These materials are also versatile and add texture and flair to your pages that is sure to please the eye.
Don't get stuck in a glue-stick rut. There are a million tools out there that serve the same purpose and add a unique element of design to your scrapbooks, so keep your eyes peeled.
You never know what they'll come out with next.
Think again!
There are so many ways to attach all of your elements without even touching a glue stick or messy adhesives.
Step outside of the box and embrace all sorts of ways to hold your pages together.
Here are a few decorative tools you can use to mount your pictures or elements onto your layout:
• brads
• paper hangers
• paper clips
• hinges
• staples
• buttons
• eyelets
These elements are great because they come in an assortment of colours and designs, but if you can't find exactly what you're looking for, you can easily decorate them to fit any page layout or theme.
Simply stamp, paint, ink, or cover them in paper to get the perfect look for your scrapbook.
If that isn't enough, try using some of these fibres to tie, hang, or suspend elements on your pages:
• ribbons
• hemp
• wire
• yarn
• velvet strips
• fabric
These materials are also versatile and add texture and flair to your pages that is sure to please the eye.
Don't get stuck in a glue-stick rut. There are a million tools out there that serve the same purpose and add a unique element of design to your scrapbooks, so keep your eyes peeled.
You never know what they'll come out with next.
Friday, April 21, 2006
Fun with slide mounts
Thought you finished with science projects in high school?
Think again.
Scrapbooking is taking a page from your old textbooks and turning it into a craft project.
Slide mounts are appearing in more and more scrapbooks and are catching more eyes than they would under a microscope.
A great way to accentuate the focal point of a picture, slide mounts can also be used to make 3-D embellishments, or to frame journaling or stickers.
These handy little frames highlight aspects of your layout that may otherwise slide by unnoticed and they're nice and thin, so they don't add a lot of bulk to your scrapbook.
They can be inked, stamped, painted, distressed or covered in paper or ribbon to match any layout so don't worry about them matching your layout, you can make them match.
Slide mounts don't have to be used sparingly. Use one or ten on any given page and see what kind of look you like.
Pick out your favourite elements of a photo and make sure everyone sees them the way you do with these handy little frames.
Maybe you want to cut up a few baby pictures to showcase cute fingers, toes, eyes, and ears?
Use the slide mounts to frame a few of your favourite things. Have a picture of yourself as the focal point and then have a few framed photos of scrapbooks, favourite candies, friends, etc.
Try your hand at a fun, crafty science project and see if you still feel the same way about science class.
Think again.
Scrapbooking is taking a page from your old textbooks and turning it into a craft project.
Slide mounts are appearing in more and more scrapbooks and are catching more eyes than they would under a microscope.
A great way to accentuate the focal point of a picture, slide mounts can also be used to make 3-D embellishments, or to frame journaling or stickers.
These handy little frames highlight aspects of your layout that may otherwise slide by unnoticed and they're nice and thin, so they don't add a lot of bulk to your scrapbook.
They can be inked, stamped, painted, distressed or covered in paper or ribbon to match any layout so don't worry about them matching your layout, you can make them match.
Slide mounts don't have to be used sparingly. Use one or ten on any given page and see what kind of look you like.
Pick out your favourite elements of a photo and make sure everyone sees them the way you do with these handy little frames.
Maybe you want to cut up a few baby pictures to showcase cute fingers, toes, eyes, and ears?
Use the slide mounts to frame a few of your favourite things. Have a picture of yourself as the focal point and then have a few framed photos of scrapbooks, favourite candies, friends, etc.
Try your hand at a fun, crafty science project and see if you still feel the same way about science class.
Jewel-Tones
Scrapbooking tends to follow trends similar to the ups and downs of fashion.
Colours, patterns, and textures used in scrapbooking follow the fashion world closely, and the trend right now is modern jewel-tones.
Deep, rich colours are appearing all over scrapbooking magazines and in craft stores. These colours are extremely versatile and are an excellent way to accentuate the rich colours in your pictures.
All shades of brown, fushia, turqoise, emerald, purple, and orange are featured prominently in scrapbooker's supplies and are breathing life into the dull pages of the past.
These colours add an element of gypsy fashion to your layouts and are excellent for shabby chic layouts.
As with anything, the guidelines for how rigidly you want to adhere to trends is quite loose. If you're not sure about jewel-tones, start small with a few embellishments. You can easily mix colours to keep your own style in the forefront while embracing new colours.
Play with a few of these colours and see how they can transform boring pages and bring them to life.
Colours, patterns, and textures used in scrapbooking follow the fashion world closely, and the trend right now is modern jewel-tones.
Deep, rich colours are appearing all over scrapbooking magazines and in craft stores. These colours are extremely versatile and are an excellent way to accentuate the rich colours in your pictures.
All shades of brown, fushia, turqoise, emerald, purple, and orange are featured prominently in scrapbooker's supplies and are breathing life into the dull pages of the past.
These colours add an element of gypsy fashion to your layouts and are excellent for shabby chic layouts.
As with anything, the guidelines for how rigidly you want to adhere to trends is quite loose. If you're not sure about jewel-tones, start small with a few embellishments. You can easily mix colours to keep your own style in the forefront while embracing new colours.
Play with a few of these colours and see how they can transform boring pages and bring them to life.
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Creating Cards
Homemade cards are a great way to show people you care.
Remember how you could give your parents anything that you'd made and they'd love it? That wasn't just parental instincts. Everyone loves a gift that comes from the heart and homemade gifts are always the best.
Making cards for those near you is not only a great way to make someone's day, it's also a great way to fine-tune your scrapbooking skills and create something other than a page layout.
Creativity needs to be challenged in order to flourish, so step away from your scrapbook for awhile and make a few cards.
The best way to make cards is to create in bulk.
Be the Costco of card-making.
Why not make a few birthday cards if you have all the supplies out for one all ready?
Think of all the birthdays coming up, mother's day, father's day, weddings, baby showers, etc.
You'll be searching for a card in the not-to-distant-future and will be grateful to find a beautiful, handcrafted card ready to be addressed.
Card-making is also a great way to use up supplies.
If you have a pile of scrap paper that you can't bring yourself to throw away (and why would you?) why not use them on your cards?
Your scraps will be perfect for embellishments, titles, or even the card itself.
If you're like me, you get a lot of scrapbooking presents from people and sometimes it's hard to find a spot for all the stickers, sayings, or other odds and ends that you've accumulated over the years.
Cards are the perfect place to use them.
Got a bunch of Christmas stickers but never seem to take any photos that time of year? Use them up on Christmas Cards. People will love them and you'll use up some supplies.
Cards are fun, fast, and meaningful.
Spend some time on those closest to you and make them a gift from the heart.
Remember how you could give your parents anything that you'd made and they'd love it? That wasn't just parental instincts. Everyone loves a gift that comes from the heart and homemade gifts are always the best.
Making cards for those near you is not only a great way to make someone's day, it's also a great way to fine-tune your scrapbooking skills and create something other than a page layout.
Creativity needs to be challenged in order to flourish, so step away from your scrapbook for awhile and make a few cards.
The best way to make cards is to create in bulk.
Be the Costco of card-making.
Why not make a few birthday cards if you have all the supplies out for one all ready?
Think of all the birthdays coming up, mother's day, father's day, weddings, baby showers, etc.
You'll be searching for a card in the not-to-distant-future and will be grateful to find a beautiful, handcrafted card ready to be addressed.
Card-making is also a great way to use up supplies.
If you have a pile of scrap paper that you can't bring yourself to throw away (and why would you?) why not use them on your cards?
Your scraps will be perfect for embellishments, titles, or even the card itself.
If you're like me, you get a lot of scrapbooking presents from people and sometimes it's hard to find a spot for all the stickers, sayings, or other odds and ends that you've accumulated over the years.
Cards are the perfect place to use them.
Got a bunch of Christmas stickers but never seem to take any photos that time of year? Use them up on Christmas Cards. People will love them and you'll use up some supplies.
Cards are fun, fast, and meaningful.
Spend some time on those closest to you and make them a gift from the heart.
Monday, April 10, 2006
Can't Resist
Nobody can resist learning a new scrapbooking technique; especially when it's a relatively inexpensive, easy-to-learn technique that you can use everywhere.
Resist ink can add a unique element to your scrapbook projects.
If you don't know what resist ink is, put simply, it's anti-ink.
Confused?
Don't be. It's really simple.
You used something similar to resist ink when you were younger, decorating Easter eggs.
First, you draw on the egg with a crayon or some kind of wax, and then dip it into the dye. Everywhere around your drawing would be dyed, but the ink wouldn't stick to the wax.
Resist ink is basically the wax.
If you were to stamp a design on your page with resist ink, and then blot around it with dye, you'd be left with a white outline of the stamp.
While resist ink is great for stamping, you can still use crayons or wax to create the same look.
Try writing your page title with a crayon and then blot an ink pad over your writing. Your title will pop out like a secret message.
You can use this technique almost anywhere. Create embellishments, highlight your doodling, or make your journaling stand out with these resist techniques.
Bonus Tip: If you want to design your own paper, simply crumple a piece of wax paper and then press it between two glossy cardstock pages (glossy side facing in). Iron the paper sandwich and then remove the wax paper and ink both pieces of cardstock. The papers will be marbled and appear texturized.
Easy as pie.
Resist ink can add a unique element to your scrapbook projects.
If you don't know what resist ink is, put simply, it's anti-ink.
Confused?
Don't be. It's really simple.
You used something similar to resist ink when you were younger, decorating Easter eggs.
First, you draw on the egg with a crayon or some kind of wax, and then dip it into the dye. Everywhere around your drawing would be dyed, but the ink wouldn't stick to the wax.
Resist ink is basically the wax.
If you were to stamp a design on your page with resist ink, and then blot around it with dye, you'd be left with a white outline of the stamp.
While resist ink is great for stamping, you can still use crayons or wax to create the same look.
Try writing your page title with a crayon and then blot an ink pad over your writing. Your title will pop out like a secret message.
You can use this technique almost anywhere. Create embellishments, highlight your doodling, or make your journaling stand out with these resist techniques.
Bonus Tip: If you want to design your own paper, simply crumple a piece of wax paper and then press it between two glossy cardstock pages (glossy side facing in). Iron the paper sandwich and then remove the wax paper and ink both pieces of cardstock. The papers will be marbled and appear texturized.
Easy as pie.
Sunday, April 09, 2006
A New Twist on Stamping Basics
Stamping is a great way to add an element of design to your scrapbooks.
Stamping is such an old crafting technique, it seems like there's not really much you could do with stamps that would make your pages seem modern.
Wrong!
There are so many uses for stamps, I couldn't possibly list them all in one article.
You can use stamps to create dimension, add colour, fill a space, journal, or even as the focal point of your page.
I know you're remembering the stamps you had as a kid. Once you'd stamped everything you owned with your name, there didn't seem to be much else left to do.
Well, you're much more crafty now, and there are a ton of options to look into.
You can use a basic ink pad for your stamping or you can step it up a notch and colour your stamps with inky felts. This way your image can contain more than one colour... flowers and their stems don't have to be the same colour anymore. You can have red flowers, green stems and leavevs, and a yellow ribbon holding them all together. How nice.
You can also heat emboss your stamped images to give them a raised, smooth look that will make them pop off the page.
You can stamp a pattern all over your backround pages to make your own unique paper. (If you combine this idea with some simple heat embossing, you can make those beautiful pages with the 3-D tecture that are so expensive in craft stores).
However you use your stamps, don't get stuck in an ink pad and rubber stamp rut, there are so many options out there right now, you'd just be limiting yourself.
Stamping is such an old crafting technique, it seems like there's not really much you could do with stamps that would make your pages seem modern.
Wrong!
There are so many uses for stamps, I couldn't possibly list them all in one article.
You can use stamps to create dimension, add colour, fill a space, journal, or even as the focal point of your page.
I know you're remembering the stamps you had as a kid. Once you'd stamped everything you owned with your name, there didn't seem to be much else left to do.
Well, you're much more crafty now, and there are a ton of options to look into.
You can use a basic ink pad for your stamping or you can step it up a notch and colour your stamps with inky felts. This way your image can contain more than one colour... flowers and their stems don't have to be the same colour anymore. You can have red flowers, green stems and leavevs, and a yellow ribbon holding them all together. How nice.
You can also heat emboss your stamped images to give them a raised, smooth look that will make them pop off the page.
You can stamp a pattern all over your backround pages to make your own unique paper. (If you combine this idea with some simple heat embossing, you can make those beautiful pages with the 3-D tecture that are so expensive in craft stores).
However you use your stamps, don't get stuck in an ink pad and rubber stamp rut, there are so many options out there right now, you'd just be limiting yourself.
Friday, April 07, 2006
Fun with Titles
The best attention-getting technique in scrapbooking is a great title.
This is your chance to grab people and draw them in to your scrapbook.
Why not lure your audience in with a few juicy words about your memories.
Here are a few ideas you can use to mix it up when you're designing titles, and keep in mind, the best titles make use of more than one technique.
• use die-cut letters
• throw in some tiny alphabet stickers
• heat emboss your title to make it 3-D
• print it out in a unique font on your computer
• use your own handwriting
• use stencils
• use the negative left over from a die-cut letter
• emboss it with a stylus
There are so many options and the best part is the more creative you get with your titles, the better the outcome.
Grab a scrap piece of paper and design your title keeping in mind the room you have available and the colour scheme you'd like to use.
Once you like your design, make it happen.
Let your creativity inspire you and you'll love the finished project.
This is your chance to grab people and draw them in to your scrapbook.
Why not lure your audience in with a few juicy words about your memories.
Here are a few ideas you can use to mix it up when you're designing titles, and keep in mind, the best titles make use of more than one technique.
• use die-cut letters
• throw in some tiny alphabet stickers
• heat emboss your title to make it 3-D
• print it out in a unique font on your computer
• use your own handwriting
• use stencils
• use the negative left over from a die-cut letter
• emboss it with a stylus
There are so many options and the best part is the more creative you get with your titles, the better the outcome.
Grab a scrap piece of paper and design your title keeping in mind the room you have available and the colour scheme you'd like to use.
Once you like your design, make it happen.
Let your creativity inspire you and you'll love the finished project.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Using up old Supplies
There's nothing more incriminating for a scrapbooker than a huge stash of supplies.
If you've ever declared, "It's just a hobby, I swear," you know where I'm coming from.
You can't pass your addiction off as a hobby if your house is full of paper, stamps, scissors, stickers, and all the other stuff that scrapbookers love to accumulate.
The best way to thin out your hordings is to do a little spring cleaning.
Get rid of those funky papers you've had forever and that stamp that got stuck years ago, you're never going to use them.
Why not thin out your supplies and make room for all the cool new stuff coming out daily?
A great idea to get rid of some of your unwanted supplies is to hold a scrap n' swap. It's just like a rummage sale held for you and your fellow scrappers.
Scrapbooking is very personal. While you may favour browns and greens, someone else loves the look of pastels. Why not trade so you can both go home with new supplies? You never know which one of your friends may find your discards a treasure.
Another idea for old supplies is to sell them on eBay.
You can buy anything online now, why not add your discards to the melting pot? They're cluttering up your precious scrapping space, so get rid of them and make some money.
If this sounds like too much hassle, and you're the kind of spring cleaner who just wants to get rid of their discards and be done with it, why not donate your supplies to a school, church, after school program, or a shelter that offers classes for kids?
Make your discards disappear and come home feeling warm and fuzzy. What a great way to help out in your community.
These are just a few ideas for all of you thinking of cleaning up your supplies and making those incriminating piles shrink.
Spring cleaning will help organize your workspace and reduce clutter saving you time and energy so you can enjoy your 'hobby'.
If you've ever declared, "It's just a hobby, I swear," you know where I'm coming from.
You can't pass your addiction off as a hobby if your house is full of paper, stamps, scissors, stickers, and all the other stuff that scrapbookers love to accumulate.
The best way to thin out your hordings is to do a little spring cleaning.
Get rid of those funky papers you've had forever and that stamp that got stuck years ago, you're never going to use them.
Why not thin out your supplies and make room for all the cool new stuff coming out daily?
A great idea to get rid of some of your unwanted supplies is to hold a scrap n' swap. It's just like a rummage sale held for you and your fellow scrappers.
Scrapbooking is very personal. While you may favour browns and greens, someone else loves the look of pastels. Why not trade so you can both go home with new supplies? You never know which one of your friends may find your discards a treasure.
Another idea for old supplies is to sell them on eBay.
You can buy anything online now, why not add your discards to the melting pot? They're cluttering up your precious scrapping space, so get rid of them and make some money.
If this sounds like too much hassle, and you're the kind of spring cleaner who just wants to get rid of their discards and be done with it, why not donate your supplies to a school, church, after school program, or a shelter that offers classes for kids?
Make your discards disappear and come home feeling warm and fuzzy. What a great way to help out in your community.
These are just a few ideas for all of you thinking of cleaning up your supplies and making those incriminating piles shrink.
Spring cleaning will help organize your workspace and reduce clutter saving you time and energy so you can enjoy your 'hobby'.
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
Scrappin' With Kids
One of the best ways to spend time with your kids is doing something you both enjoy.
Why not steer your kids away from the television and get their creativity pumping by introducing them to the wonderful world of scrapbooking??
Just think of all the great things that can come from this....
First, as I mentioned earlier, you're inspiring creativity.
What a great facet for those creative juices that all kids have.
Second, it's a great way to spend time together.
Sometimes, things get so hectic, we forget about the precious things in life, why not bump them up on your list of priorities?
Third, what a great way to use all those old papers and scraps that you've had forever.
Can't find a use for a crazy set of stickers you bought on sale? Looking for a use for that neon pink paper you bought ten years ago? Kids love wild colours and outlandish elements.
Fourth, what a great way to gain some insight into your children's lives?
Learn their favourite colours, laugh at their stories, and enjoy their youthful approach to scrapbooking. Maybe you'll even learn a thing or two.
What can it hurt?
If you have kids, great, get them involved. If not, why not see about teaching a class in your community? You will not only learn things about them, but about yourself as well.
Why not steer your kids away from the television and get their creativity pumping by introducing them to the wonderful world of scrapbooking??
Just think of all the great things that can come from this....
First, as I mentioned earlier, you're inspiring creativity.
What a great facet for those creative juices that all kids have.
Second, it's a great way to spend time together.
Sometimes, things get so hectic, we forget about the precious things in life, why not bump them up on your list of priorities?
Third, what a great way to use all those old papers and scraps that you've had forever.
Can't find a use for a crazy set of stickers you bought on sale? Looking for a use for that neon pink paper you bought ten years ago? Kids love wild colours and outlandish elements.
Fourth, what a great way to gain some insight into your children's lives?
Learn their favourite colours, laugh at their stories, and enjoy their youthful approach to scrapbooking. Maybe you'll even learn a thing or two.
What can it hurt?
If you have kids, great, get them involved. If not, why not see about teaching a class in your community? You will not only learn things about them, but about yourself as well.
Monday, April 03, 2006
archival safe scrapbooking
Scrapbooking can be a time consuming, expensive hobby.
The mementos that you have when you're finished make up for any time or money you may have spent, but you want to ensure that these keepsakes can be treasured for years.
By using only archival safe products, you can ensure the safety of your scrapbooks.
The key is to use lignin-free and acid-free products.
These products are the most commonly advertised products fro scrapbooking, but there are other things to keep in mind.
Ensure that your page protectors are PVC-free; PVC releases fumes that can destroy pictures and even paper that you use in scrapbooking.
Use ink that is permanent and safe, gel pens are a good option.
Also keep in mind where your photos were stored before you put them in your scrapbook.
Magnetic albums, or the albums with tacky pages and plastic overlays, have been proven to be harmful to your pictures. Your photos may begin to discolor or become brittle in time if stored in a magnetic album.
Even if you remove the photos and there's some tacky residue left on the back of the photo, it could ruin your page layout as well as your picture.
By keeping these things in mind when you're scrapbooking, you can help ensure that your keepsakes last.
The mementos that you have when you're finished make up for any time or money you may have spent, but you want to ensure that these keepsakes can be treasured for years.
By using only archival safe products, you can ensure the safety of your scrapbooks.
The key is to use lignin-free and acid-free products.
These products are the most commonly advertised products fro scrapbooking, but there are other things to keep in mind.
Ensure that your page protectors are PVC-free; PVC releases fumes that can destroy pictures and even paper that you use in scrapbooking.
Use ink that is permanent and safe, gel pens are a good option.
Also keep in mind where your photos were stored before you put them in your scrapbook.
Magnetic albums, or the albums with tacky pages and plastic overlays, have been proven to be harmful to your pictures. Your photos may begin to discolor or become brittle in time if stored in a magnetic album.
Even if you remove the photos and there's some tacky residue left on the back of the photo, it could ruin your page layout as well as your picture.
By keeping these things in mind when you're scrapbooking, you can help ensure that your keepsakes last.
Thursday, March 23, 2006
Tip #9
I always look forward to looking through scrapbooking books for new ideas.
It is so easy to pique your creativity by looking at other people's page layouts.
I have read a lot of books and almost all of them will leave you with at least one idea that you can't wait to try on your next page layout, but my all time favourites are the Creating Keepsakes books.
The books are a collection of the best layouts from the Creating Keepsakes magazine and are full of inspiring ideas.
Everytime I get a new one, I go through a whole pad of paper making bookmarks for all of the great tips and techniques on every page.
My favourites so far are Scrapbook Tips and Techniques and Award-Winning Scrapbook Pages.
Check them out, you'll love them.
It is so easy to pique your creativity by looking at other people's page layouts.
I have read a lot of books and almost all of them will leave you with at least one idea that you can't wait to try on your next page layout, but my all time favourites are the Creating Keepsakes books.
The books are a collection of the best layouts from the Creating Keepsakes magazine and are full of inspiring ideas.
Everytime I get a new one, I go through a whole pad of paper making bookmarks for all of the great tips and techniques on every page.
My favourites so far are Scrapbook Tips and Techniques and Award-Winning Scrapbook Pages.
Check them out, you'll love them.
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
Scrapbook Themes
There are so many things going on in your life that could easily become a scrapbook.
Everyone has seen the traditional scrapbooks. Pages of photos, colourful papers, and beautiful embellishments. Why not try to expand your horizons. Scrapbook everything in your life, your mind, and your heart.
I recently read a few pages from an expectant mother who scrapbooked the changes and excitement of pregnancy. She hardly used any pictures, just journaling, a few images, and embellishments, and that was it.
While it was relatively simple, what a keepsake it would be for her child.
Most of my scrapbooks are daily life events: hikes, trips, friends, nature, etc. Things that I take pictures of to remember.
Why not leave your pictures for a while and explore other areas of scrapbooking?
Scrapbook your goals, your hopes, or make a scrapbook with a message to give to someone else.
These scrapbooks don't have to be 12 x 12, why not use up some of those tags that you have lying around and make a tiny tag book?
This doesn't have to be a project that you show everyone, as they come through the door. Not all scrapbooks have to be on display for everyone to see.
Scrapbooking can be therapeutic, so why not create an album that allows you a chance for release?
There are many ways to capture a moment, a memory, or even a feeling. Why not do your best to treasure everything about yourself, the good, the bad, and the photogenic?
Everyone has seen the traditional scrapbooks. Pages of photos, colourful papers, and beautiful embellishments. Why not try to expand your horizons. Scrapbook everything in your life, your mind, and your heart.
I recently read a few pages from an expectant mother who scrapbooked the changes and excitement of pregnancy. She hardly used any pictures, just journaling, a few images, and embellishments, and that was it.
While it was relatively simple, what a keepsake it would be for her child.
Most of my scrapbooks are daily life events: hikes, trips, friends, nature, etc. Things that I take pictures of to remember.
Why not leave your pictures for a while and explore other areas of scrapbooking?
Scrapbook your goals, your hopes, or make a scrapbook with a message to give to someone else.
These scrapbooks don't have to be 12 x 12, why not use up some of those tags that you have lying around and make a tiny tag book?
This doesn't have to be a project that you show everyone, as they come through the door. Not all scrapbooks have to be on display for everyone to see.
Scrapbooking can be therapeutic, so why not create an album that allows you a chance for release?
There are many ways to capture a moment, a memory, or even a feeling. Why not do your best to treasure everything about yourself, the good, the bad, and the photogenic?
Digital Scrapbooking
While some people love the sensory experiences involved in creating a scrapbook, some bypass the clutter and embrace the simplicity of digital scrapbooking.
There are a number of websites that sell digital embellishments, papers, fonts, and anything else you may need to create the perfect layout.
The process is similar to traditional scrapbooking in that you pick a background paper and build up with any embellishments you wish to add.
Here are a few sites that seel digital scrapping materials:
http://www.twopeasinabucket.com/digitalKits.asp
http://www.twopeasinabucket.com/shopFonts.asp
http://www.macscrapbook.com/indexgoogle.html
While there are many programs specifically designed for scrapbooking, many page layout programs have similar capabilities. Check out the programs you have on your computer before you invest a lot of money in software.
If you decide to make an investment, make sure you look around before you purchase.
One of the best sites for digital scrapbooking beginners is http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/
They have great freebies to give away, as well as tutorials, tips, and reviews.
Check them out before you go anywhere else for your digital needs.
Digital scrapping is a great way to keep yourself organized and once you get the hang of it, it's faster than traditional scrapbooking.
If you still like the look of layered scrapbook pages, you can start slow, and add a few digital elements to your page to create a mix between digital and traditional methods.
The thing to rememeber is that there are no rules.
Make sure that you're still enjoying yourself, whichever method you favour. This is still your hobby so make it fun.
There are a number of websites that sell digital embellishments, papers, fonts, and anything else you may need to create the perfect layout.
The process is similar to traditional scrapbooking in that you pick a background paper and build up with any embellishments you wish to add.
Here are a few sites that seel digital scrapping materials:
http://www.twopeasinabucket.com/digitalKits.asp
http://www.twopeasinabucket.com/shopFonts.asp
http://www.macscrapbook.com/indexgoogle.html
While there are many programs specifically designed for scrapbooking, many page layout programs have similar capabilities. Check out the programs you have on your computer before you invest a lot of money in software.
If you decide to make an investment, make sure you look around before you purchase.
One of the best sites for digital scrapbooking beginners is http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/
They have great freebies to give away, as well as tutorials, tips, and reviews.
Check them out before you go anywhere else for your digital needs.
Digital scrapping is a great way to keep yourself organized and once you get the hang of it, it's faster than traditional scrapbooking.
If you still like the look of layered scrapbook pages, you can start slow, and add a few digital elements to your page to create a mix between digital and traditional methods.
The thing to rememeber is that there are no rules.
Make sure that you're still enjoying yourself, whichever method you favour. This is still your hobby so make it fun.
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
Scrapbook Kaleidoscopes
Scrapbook Kaleidoscopes are a great way to add interest and creativity to a page layout.
Such a unique look can be completed using any picture with a single, predominant subject.
It can either be created as the focal point of the page, or as a beautiful, intricate embellishment.
It's easiest to get a pattern for photo kaleidoscopes, before you begin, to learn proper placement.
Depending on the look you want, you will have to determine how many 'spokes' you want on your kaleidoscope wheel. This will in turn, determine how many copies of the picture you need to make.
Another thing to keep in mind are the edges that you cut. You must be very precise to ensure that the photos line up, without gaps.
There is a simple solution, if you're willing to wait a while for your kaleidoscope.
If you visit http://www.lotusflowerimaging.com/kaleidoscopes.htm
and send them your pictures, they will make the kaleidoscope for you, complete with special effects.
There is also software that you can purchase for your computer that will complete the kaleidoscope for you. This way, you can easily make small embellishments, without all the time and effort. Visit http://www.scrampingcentral.com/product-review/july2005-Kreative%20Kaleidoscopes/kreative-kaleidoscopes-scrapooking.html for more details.
Such a unique look can be completed using any picture with a single, predominant subject.
It can either be created as the focal point of the page, or as a beautiful, intricate embellishment.
It's easiest to get a pattern for photo kaleidoscopes, before you begin, to learn proper placement.
Depending on the look you want, you will have to determine how many 'spokes' you want on your kaleidoscope wheel. This will in turn, determine how many copies of the picture you need to make.
Another thing to keep in mind are the edges that you cut. You must be very precise to ensure that the photos line up, without gaps.
There is a simple solution, if you're willing to wait a while for your kaleidoscope.
If you visit http://www.lotusflowerimaging.com/kaleidoscopes.htm
and send them your pictures, they will make the kaleidoscope for you, complete with special effects.
There is also software that you can purchase for your computer that will complete the kaleidoscope for you. This way, you can easily make small embellishments, without all the time and effort. Visit http://www.scrampingcentral.com/product-review/july2005-Kreative%20Kaleidoscopes/kreative-kaleidoscopes-scrapooking.html for more details.
Saturday, March 18, 2006
Tip # 22
I love ribbons.
They are my favourite new toy to play with when designing my scrapbook pages.
Got a blank spot?
Attach a ribbon with a brad or a staple.
Need a border quick?
Glue a ribbon down flat across one side of your page.
They're so easy to use and are often exactly what the page was lacking.
My favourite new tip is to use your printer to print words on your ribbon.
Personalized ribbons. What a great idea, right?
The best part is that it's SIMPLE.
Step 1: Simply type whatever you'd like to appear on your ribbon in a basic Word, Works, or Appleworks program and save it. Keep in mind the width and colour of your ribbon while you're typing.
Step 2: Print the file and make sure the words will fit nicely on your ribbon.
Step 3: Tape your ribbon directly over the printed words, with the side of the ribbon you'd like embellished facing up. Make sure that you place the tape only on the sides of the ribbon, so that it doesn't get in the way of the printing process.
Step 4: Hit print again, running the same piece of paper through the printer, and voila, your own, personalized scrapbook embellishment.
They are my favourite new toy to play with when designing my scrapbook pages.
Got a blank spot?
Attach a ribbon with a brad or a staple.
Need a border quick?
Glue a ribbon down flat across one side of your page.
They're so easy to use and are often exactly what the page was lacking.
My favourite new tip is to use your printer to print words on your ribbon.
Personalized ribbons. What a great idea, right?
The best part is that it's SIMPLE.
Step 1: Simply type whatever you'd like to appear on your ribbon in a basic Word, Works, or Appleworks program and save it. Keep in mind the width and colour of your ribbon while you're typing.
Step 2: Print the file and make sure the words will fit nicely on your ribbon.
Step 3: Tape your ribbon directly over the printed words, with the side of the ribbon you'd like embellished facing up. Make sure that you place the tape only on the sides of the ribbon, so that it doesn't get in the way of the printing process.
Step 4: Hit print again, running the same piece of paper through the printer, and voila, your own, personalized scrapbook embellishment.
Friday, March 17, 2006
Cardstock 101
Cardstock is a staple to most scrapbookers.
A heavy-weight paper that can be used to mat photos or create embellishments, cardstock is perfect for those jobs that need to be sturdy.
Most often used in card-making, because of it's strength, cardtsock is a terrific medium to work with.
It is easy to bend, fold, curl, or cut cardstock without worrying about tearing or damaging the paper.
Simply tearing cardstock is an excellent way to showcase the strength and versatility of this paper.
Tearing cardstock is also a great framing technique as torn cardstock is the same colour, top and bottom, and will not leave you with a white edge, as patterned paper will.
These exposed raw edges can be chalked or antiquated, using distressed ink to accentuate the roughness and dimension.
Cardstock is also a perfect medium for stamping, painting, or embossing, as the density of the paper stops warping.
These are simple and fun ways to make your own patterns on plain cardstock.
Cardstock can be bought in a variety of sizes, but only comes in solid colours, there are no patterns available.
While there are no patterns available in cardstock weight paper, there are a wide variety of colours. Finding a cardstock colour to coordinate with any patterned paper you may be using is quite easy.
The combination of heavy and light weight paper make the finished layout a thing of beauty.
A heavy-weight paper that can be used to mat photos or create embellishments, cardstock is perfect for those jobs that need to be sturdy.
Most often used in card-making, because of it's strength, cardtsock is a terrific medium to work with.
It is easy to bend, fold, curl, or cut cardstock without worrying about tearing or damaging the paper.
Simply tearing cardstock is an excellent way to showcase the strength and versatility of this paper.
Tearing cardstock is also a great framing technique as torn cardstock is the same colour, top and bottom, and will not leave you with a white edge, as patterned paper will.
These exposed raw edges can be chalked or antiquated, using distressed ink to accentuate the roughness and dimension.
Cardstock is also a perfect medium for stamping, painting, or embossing, as the density of the paper stops warping.
These are simple and fun ways to make your own patterns on plain cardstock.
Cardstock can be bought in a variety of sizes, but only comes in solid colours, there are no patterns available.
While there are no patterns available in cardstock weight paper, there are a wide variety of colours. Finding a cardstock colour to coordinate with any patterned paper you may be using is quite easy.
The combination of heavy and light weight paper make the finished layout a thing of beauty.
Thursday, March 16, 2006
Adding Texture With Acrylic Paint
I'm a big fan of dimension.
If page layouts are layered, they look so much fuller.
Somehow, the layers make the pages pop.
Acrylic paint is a great way to add dimension to your pages without taking up your precious time and money.
Some simple tips:
• A simple swipe across a page with a foam brush provides you with a great spot for journaling.
• Use acrylic paint and foam stamps to make your background more interesting (you ccan even stamp right over top of your pictures, they're safe).
• Paint freehand on backgrounds, embellishments, or photo mats to create a more unique design.
However you decide to apply acrylic paint, the finished product will be sure to impress.
Acrylic paint can be found at craft stores, scrapbooking stores, and even sometimes dollar stores. It costs as little as $0.99 and will last for years, if properly stored.
The best part is that once you have some you'll be so impressed you'll want to use it in all of your crafts.
Happy painting!
If page layouts are layered, they look so much fuller.
Somehow, the layers make the pages pop.
Acrylic paint is a great way to add dimension to your pages without taking up your precious time and money.
Some simple tips:
• A simple swipe across a page with a foam brush provides you with a great spot for journaling.
• Use acrylic paint and foam stamps to make your background more interesting (you ccan even stamp right over top of your pictures, they're safe).
• Paint freehand on backgrounds, embellishments, or photo mats to create a more unique design.
However you decide to apply acrylic paint, the finished product will be sure to impress.
Acrylic paint can be found at craft stores, scrapbooking stores, and even sometimes dollar stores. It costs as little as $0.99 and will last for years, if properly stored.
The best part is that once you have some you'll be so impressed you'll want to use it in all of your crafts.
Happy painting!
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
Get Creative With Photo Corners
Scrapbooking has long since evolved above and beyond the days of adhering photos to black paper with black photo corners and a few words written in gold or silver gel pens.
There are so many new options in the world of scrapbooking, that page layouts are fast evolving into an artform.
The more creative the better.
So why would I suggest a return to photo corners??
Well, like scrapbooking, photo corners have come along way.
You can now buy different colours of the classic photo corners, as well as corner stickers with all kinds of designs and textures to use in place of the classic, somewhat dated, black photo corners.
Not only are there lots of options on the market, there are plenty of ways to make your own unique corner embellishments.
• cut some of your own paper into even triangles to use as corners (extra tip: tearing the longest edge of the triangle gives a little extra dimension to your corners)
• embellish corners with die-cut shapes or punches
• stamp directly onto the corners of your photos (extra tip: add embossing powder for a really dramatic look)
• embellish those basic black photo corners you have on hand with stamps, punches, gel pens, or embossing ink
• use the corners to do one word journaling (use gel pens or computer software to do the writing)
• use brads, buttons, or eyelets as photo corners
The possibilities really are endless. Why not explore a few options and see how you can add colour and dimension to your scrapbook pages by simply expanding upon an old favourite?
Note: If you click on this article's title, you will be taken to an Adobe document that explains how to create digital photo corners. This allows you to design photo corners that will perfectly match your page layout, be it digital or otherwise.
There are so many new options in the world of scrapbooking, that page layouts are fast evolving into an artform.
The more creative the better.
So why would I suggest a return to photo corners??
Well, like scrapbooking, photo corners have come along way.
You can now buy different colours of the classic photo corners, as well as corner stickers with all kinds of designs and textures to use in place of the classic, somewhat dated, black photo corners.
Not only are there lots of options on the market, there are plenty of ways to make your own unique corner embellishments.
• cut some of your own paper into even triangles to use as corners (extra tip: tearing the longest edge of the triangle gives a little extra dimension to your corners)
• embellish corners with die-cut shapes or punches
• stamp directly onto the corners of your photos (extra tip: add embossing powder for a really dramatic look)
• embellish those basic black photo corners you have on hand with stamps, punches, gel pens, or embossing ink
• use the corners to do one word journaling (use gel pens or computer software to do the writing)
• use brads, buttons, or eyelets as photo corners
The possibilities really are endless. Why not explore a few options and see how you can add colour and dimension to your scrapbook pages by simply expanding upon an old favourite?
Note: If you click on this article's title, you will be taken to an Adobe document that explains how to create digital photo corners. This allows you to design photo corners that will perfectly match your page layout, be it digital or otherwise.
Monday, March 13, 2006
The Wonders of Distressing Ink
Distressing ink is a wonderful tool to add character and depth to your page layouts.
Great for old time photos or collage pages, this technique accentuates layered pages, giving your layouts a much more dimensional appearance, with hardly any work.
The new distressing inks are so easy to use, you don't even need an applicator. Simply turn the ink pad upside down and blot it on any element you choose.
Use it on:
• the edges of pages
• each different layer of a tag or embellishment
• edges of photos
• your entire layout for an all over antique look
If you're looking for a stronger technique than just blotting, try incorporating other elements.
• stamp designs onto your background or directly onto your photos
• ink over a strip of mesh, then peal off for a unique grid design
• crumple a pice of paper into a ball (careful not to rip it) and then roll the ball over the ink pad pressing gently (the finished, uncrumpled product will have jagged ink lines crisscrossing it's surface).
If any one of these method appeals to you, make sure you encorporate this great tool into your scrapbooking repertoire. You'll love what distressing ink can do for your layouts.
Great for old time photos or collage pages, this technique accentuates layered pages, giving your layouts a much more dimensional appearance, with hardly any work.
The new distressing inks are so easy to use, you don't even need an applicator. Simply turn the ink pad upside down and blot it on any element you choose.
Use it on:
• the edges of pages
• each different layer of a tag or embellishment
• edges of photos
• your entire layout for an all over antique look
If you're looking for a stronger technique than just blotting, try incorporating other elements.
• stamp designs onto your background or directly onto your photos
• ink over a strip of mesh, then peal off for a unique grid design
• crumple a pice of paper into a ball (careful not to rip it) and then roll the ball over the ink pad pressing gently (the finished, uncrumpled product will have jagged ink lines crisscrossing it's surface).
If any one of these method appeals to you, make sure you encorporate this great tool into your scrapbooking repertoire. You'll love what distressing ink can do for your layouts.
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