Create Your Scrapbook

Helpful tips to help you create your first scrapbook pages !!

Choose your photos.
The number of pictures you use will depend on the page size, size of the photos, and how much you want to “crop” them. Decide your “focal point” photo.

Decide on a theme or concept.
You may want to consider that your layout reflect a feeling, emotion, or perhaps tell a story. By doing so, you will be more easily able to decide on colors and
embellishments that match your theme. (ie: masculine, feminine, whimsical, contemporary, etc.)

Select your color scheme.
Selecting a color scheme will enable you to blend complementing colors and designs that help illustrate the theme of your layout and photos.

Crop pictures if necessary/desired.
This technique should be used to enhance the photo and focus on the main subject. Never crop the only copy of a heritage photo! Never cut out anything of historical importance (ie cars, buildings in the background, etc.) It is suggested that you make a color copy of of those kinds of photos first.

Mat photos.
Matting your photo for a scrapbook is like framing a painting before you hang it on a wall. Not every photo has to be matted but remember that though it’s beautiful “as is” matting will draw attention to your picture and help it stand out on the page.

Decide on a title and journaling.
At the very least, your journaling should include the 5-W’s (who, what, where, when, why or how) At its best, journaling should be heartfelt and tell the story
of your photos. For a personal touch, journaling can be done in your own handwriting. If you don’t like your handwriting, don’t fret, create your journaling block on the computer.

Practice your page layout.
Before you add any adhesive, play with the elements of your layout until you are happy with the look. Move the elements around till you find the “look” you are hoping to achieve. Consider the following design principles:
• Rule of thirds
• Visual triangles
• Balance
• Repetition
For layout inspiration, feel free to “scraplift” ideas from
magazines and books.

Use Acid Free Adhesive.
Adhere papers, photos, journaling block and title once you are pleased with your layout.

Add embellishments.
Embellishments are a nice way to add texture and dimension to your layouts. Pre-made products will help you decide more easily what fits best on your
pages. Consider the fact that you don’t have to use too many embellishments to ensure a great page. Use embellishments that “add” to your layout, not clutter or
take away from the photography.

Store your Layout.
Put your layout in an album or frame for safe-keeping.

Congratulations on your new scrapbook!!

Learn more about scrapbooking supplies and terminology.

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