Scrapbook Pages in just 7 Quick Steps using Scrapbook Paper, Stickers ,Embellishments, and Tools available in our Ebay Store Simply Scrapping.

Scrapbook Pages in 7 Quick & Easy  Steps

1. Sort your photos and organize in themes. A photo box makes a great place to store them in date order. For instance, August 2005; Granddaughter Gracie's Birthday August 26th Party. I selected 5 no more than 7 photos to complete a two-page spread.  If you are doing a single page, no more than 4 photos works best. Only select the best photos to highlight the event.

2. If you don't have a color wheel, it may be a great item to purchase. Choose 2-3 colors of Scrapbook Paper that will complement the colors found in your photograph. Experience with different color combinations and/or shades to enhance the backgrounds, clothing, eye color. etc.

3. Next choose the Photo you would like as your focal point. A rule of thumb is choosing a photo that is sharp, clear, vivid colors and well-lit subjects.  Keep in mind size and proportion. In general, large photos make great focal points because they catch the eye first. If you have a photo you especially like, and it is not the right size, you may want to enlarge it .Make sure that the story your layout tells is the story you want to tell.  To check yourself, quickly look at a layout, then ask, "What's the first thing I see on this page?"   Photo-imaging machines, like Kodak's Picture Maker and SnapFish, are wonderful options. These allow you to enlarge in a matter of minutes

4. Mat your photos to add extra prominence to your focal point. Matting with a wider border, even double or triple matting it will give dimension and focus on your primary photo. Try not to cut away your background, as it is filled with things that bring to mind a flood of memories about the event.

5. Journal--- No page is complete without journaling.  Take out a piece of paper or use your computer and journal your thoughts, feelings, and experience. Remember the "Who," "Why," and also the "What," Experiment before you adhere it to your page.

6. Arrange your photos and titles in the direction the eye moves. It is left to right like the letter Z. Also check balance, if one page tips the scale and seems to heavy on one side, then rearrange.  If you need assistance with layout design, Becky Higgins Books are a great place to start. If you have access go on line to Creative Keepsakes Web site and each month they feature one of her layout designs. Use your own technique but use it as a guideline for your layouts.  Scraplifting is another way to get ideas. Build yourself a recipe file with some of your favorite layouts.  Choose a recipe card and draw the layout using the shapes on a page and file in your recipe box or better yet, copy the picture and staple it to your card. You will be surprised how fast your "Recipe Layout File" will grow. I document paper brands, styles, embellishments used, etc., on the back of the card. When you go shopping you will have a list already prepared for your shopping trip. 

7. Try adding extras to your layouts. Embellishments are a great place to start. Stickers, eyelets, ribbon, pockets, fibers, stamps, brads, and more. Use them sparingly. You do not want to overpower your page.

These steps are the foundation to a scrapbook pages. Soon you will have your own style.