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151 Scrapbooking Tips...
To Save Time, Money And Boost
Your Creativity!
©Scrapbooking Coach 2012
This document is the sole property of ScrapbookingCoach.com. It may not be shared, copied, or re-produced in any way or form without express permission of ScrapbookingCoach.com
Hi,
Anna Lyons here from ScrapbookingCoach.com!
I hope you enjoy these 151 scrapbooking tips and they inspire you and fill your head with FRESH ideas :-)
For more great tips and interaction with a lovely community of scrappers check out the Scrapbooking Coach Facebook page by clicking here.
Be inspired to creatively preserve your most precious memories, now and always,
Anna
©Scrapbooking Coach 2012
©Scrapbooking Coach 2012
1. Make an ink ring by stamping an ink on small cards and then punching a hole in each card then threading the cards through a key ring. This way, you can browse through your ink colors quickly and easily, and hold each one to your page to know which will fit best!
2. Arrange your photos, journaling and patterned paper in a grid to create a simple but stylish look.
3. Pull out only 5 items from your stash and create a page. Its amazing how creative you can be.
4. If you are struggling with a layout, take a photo to help you see it through new eyes!
5. Use striped paper to tie in different colors on your page.
6. To create a fun look round and ink the corners of your large patterned paper block.
7. Matt part of your title with patterned paper to make it stand out more.
8. When using multiple patterned paper on a layout, make sure you include some block color strips to break it up .
9. To enhance a button on a page, mount it on a slightly larger patterned paper circle.
10. If you have a long title that could overwhelm your layout - make the title and the background card the same color to help it blend in with the page.
©Scrapbooking Coach 2012
11. Netting or Tulle on a dark background looks great for textured look.
12. Spend a day at an art gallery to be inspired by the variety and colors on show!
13. Use a date stamp to record the date and even incorporate it into your journalling.
14. When you are using a dramatic photo use simple and bold embellishments to accentuate it (sometimes complex embellishments are a distraction!)
15. When using glue directly from the tube onto delicate pieces always start glueing on a scrap to get the glue 'flow' even.
16. If you are lifting layouts, don't try and use too many concepts as this can become too busy.
17. Trust your own intuition whilst creating your layout.
18. Use embellishments to break up long journal pieces on your layout.
19. Don't forget to pop into your local office supply stores for cheap and fun embellishments such as colored paperclips, staples ink etc. (sometimes small can have a BIG impact)
20. Use multiple prints of the same photo to create an impacting layout. This looks great with black and white or sepia photos.
21. If you can't find card-stock that matches your colors, create your own using sprays inks (mists), chalk, and or paint.
22. For a dynamic layout, add a splash of bright contrasting color to your page.
23. To give your letters more dimension outline them with a thin pen.
24. Twine and hessian are great for creating rustic layouts.
25. An old atlas looks perfect for your travel pages!
©Scrapbooking Coach 2012
26. Cut a window into any paper or cardstock to make a custom frame. This works great for photos or even embellishments.
27. Save your birthday cards to cut up and re-purpose for future layouts.
28. Press a stamp onto chipboard whilst the paint is drying to create texture and depth.
29. Never cut your fingernails too short - its a nightmare trying to pick up card and paper off your desk
30. Make sure you have good lighting in your workspace. It helps to see the finer details! Use lamps as well as overhead lighting. (a page can look VERY different in low light).
31. Keep your utensils clean (including your fingers) to avoid smudges or marks on your pages.
32. Rafia is great for rustic layouts and it looks wonderful tied in a bow.
33. Did you know the back of notebooks, scrapbooking supply packages, old folders and dry food packages are great to use for chipboard lettering?
34. To clean adhesive off your scissors, use orange oil or eucalyptus essential oil on a cotton ball and rub off.
35. Poems can be used to create your journalling.
36. When spraying a doily with either glimmer mist or another wet spray, press a dry iron over the doily first to stop it curling up.
©Scrapbooking Coach 2012
37. When creating your layout, turn your page around to give you different view points and ideas will flow. Make sure you do this before sticking things down :)
38. Ideas for hidden journalling - Homemade tags, envelopes, flaps, pockets or fold outs.
39. If you are using spray paints, use an old cardboard box to create a spray booth.
40. If you don't want to get the sewing machine out to attach an embellishment with stitching, use simple hand running stitch to create an easy and effective homemade look.
41. When stitching paper, use a paper piecing too first, this helps creative clean lines and avoids crumpling your paper.
42. If you can't improve the quality of your digital photos, print them out smaller. It helps hide the imperfections.
43. When using waved edges on your cardstock, use your fingers to roll them up (similar to finishing pastry on a pie) it creates dimension on your page.
44. Store your paper scraps in accordion folders. Use each section for different colors.
45. Use a small alphabet stamp for a quick and easy title.
46. Cut old paper scraps into triangles and use them as photo corners. Only use Acid Free paper for this.
47. Convert your photos to black and white if you want to use a different color scheme to the one in the photo.
48. When printing out your photos write the date and memory on the back so you don't forget the details. This is especially useful if you are not scrapbooking the photo straight away.
©Scrapbooking Coach 2012
49. Surround yourself with beautiful things whilst you create your pages. It helps with your creativity. Try paintings, art, flowers, lovely scents (oil burners, candles etc) and even inspiring music!
50. Book time in your diary for scrapbooking and make sure you keep to it!
51. Adhere ribbon to your page for a splash a color as you would washi tape
52. When using rub ons always cut them out individually first whilst the backing paper is still attached.
53. When creating a double layout add patterned paper across both pages to draw them together.
54. To create a simple but effective page that includes lots of photos divide your page into a grid. Add your embellishments and photos into the grid.
55. If typing your journalling, select typewriter font for a funky clean look.
56. Create photo mats from various different coloured and patterned paper to really help your photo stand out.
57. Keep your journalling close to the photo so its not lost.
58. An easy and effective way to get lots of photos on one page is to present them in a film strips. Black and white photos work best for this.
59. To create maximum 'white space' for a modern look. Keep your photos and embellishments small.
60. Cover your cardstock with material to create an original background with texture and dimension!
©Scrapbooking Coach 2012
61. Try and ground your embellishments with a strip of paper or other embellishment.
62. Use a plate, cup or compass from your kids school bag to draw the perfect circle.
63. Use peg or clothes pin to attach your photos or journaling for fun summer look.
64. If you are worried about using bright colors, start with white or a very light background and stick to multiple shades of the one color.
65. Don't save your best paper for a rainy day, treat every page as a master piece.
66. Match the size of your embellishments with the images in the photo. Try and make them smaller than the image in the photo so not to lose anything in the photo.
67. Clear a space around your page when taken a step back to 'analyze' You can see better without the clutter.
68. If you are unsure whether to cut something away use scrap paper to block it out so you can see what it will look like without actually cutting it away.
69. Sometimes it’s the background paper that isn't quite right. Try changing this if you can't get the page work for you.
70. Have a waste paper basket by your desk so you can sort scraps and rubbish as you go .
71. Store your stamp pads level and upside down. This ensures you have even ink distribution and keeps the surface nicely inked at all times.
72. Turn your old scraps into journal tags.
73. To remove glitter that has become stuck in your rubber stamps, use a piece of cellophane tape to remove it.
©Scrapbooking Coach 2012
74. If your punch is sticking punch through wax paper several times to add lubrication.
75. To help tell your story, present your pages chronologically in your album.
76. To create an ageless photo change it to black and white or sepia.
77. Don't listen to negative internal dialogue. Scrap with confidence! Negative thoughts and mood has a DIRECT connection to your creativity!
78. Always plan your page before hitting the shops. Better still, build up your stash on sale days and make use of existing supplies.
79. If you have trouble keeping your stencil still whilst drawing, attach it to your paper in the desired position with small pieces of masking tape or other low-tack tape.
80. Want to create a unique title? Handwrite with wide enough space between each letter. Cut out each handwritten letter and mat it on a cardstock.
81. Old scrabble pieces are great for a title on a retro page.
82. Go to a scrapbooking store with a friend so you can share items in packs.
83. Don't feel you have to scrap EVERY photo....
84. Fingerprint smudges on your photographs can be removed by rubbing the fingerprints with a piece of flannel or a dry baby wipe.
85. To create a smooth solid coat when embossing, use at least 3 coats of embossing powder.
86. Use spray adhesives when attaching delicate cut outs or lettering.
87. Spray mist, glitter, stamp, sponge paint masking tape if you don't have washi tape.
©Scrapbooking Coach 2012
88. When working on a double layout, use low tack tape to hold the two pages in place whilst you work.
89. If you can't find an image that works for your page, search on the internet for more variety then print, cut and ink the edges to match your page.
90. Create a mood board to get inspired
91. To clear my mind and get inspired go into nature. The best lines, colors and shades are found in nature.
92. Paper Storage boxes keep cardstock easily accessible with no bent corners or piles to dig through.
93. If stuck on color matching head to your local paint shop and grab a color chart - its great for inspiration
94. To create old time look on your photos Put the photo onto ivory cardstock, creating a small, white border. Cut the edges of the border with deckle decorative-edged scissors - it works a treat
95. To prevent messy splatter with your embossing powder - heat your embossing powder from UNDER the card stock. It will still melt it, but without the wind created by the heat gun. Unless of course you want the spatter look!
96. If you are stuck halfway through your layout design move away and look at it from different angles. And always remember to go away from it for 5 mins and return.
©Scrapbooking Coach 2012
97. As we read from left to right, the top-left hand corner is an excellent point for your focal-point photo when you have several photos you want to use on your layout.
98. Add on a plain envelope to include your extra journaling. Give your envelope a unique look by customizing it to your own preference. Simple but affective!
99. If you are having trouble coming up with your page title, put everything together on the page (don’t stick down) and let the title come to you.
100. No inking stamp pad? Need your edges defined? Simply use a fine-tip black pen and draw lightly on the edges to create an inked look.
101. Go to your local op shop and sift through their old music sheets and books for background paper. Its looks beautiful on vintage layouts.
102. Are you having trouble with your background washing out your photos? Simply lay a piece of vellum over the background to fade the background colors.
103. If you are trying to create movement or energy (great for pet pages) tilt your photos slightly.
104. Don’t be afraid of having white space on your page - its great for creating a clean modern look.
105. Use a large circle cut from pattern papers as a background to showcase your photos.
106. Find free clip-art to use as templates at the following sites: hasslefreeclipart.com, free-clipart.net.
107. Cut a fringe border from patterned paper to add fun texture to your layout.
108. Use a soft simple ribbon to wrap a cluster of embellishments or photos to add depth and dimension to your page.
©Scrapbooking Coach 2012
109. To create a patchwork look - alternate photos with stitched pattern paper (make sure you keep the patches the same size)
110. To ensure your focal photo stands out amongst other photos use decorative photo corners around it.
111. Place double-sided tape 1cm away from the edge of your photo so that when adhered, you can still tuck elements under it.
112. To create a scalloped edge cut or punch circles and overlap them behind your panels.
113. Outline your alphabet stickers to give a little bit of definition and depth to your title.
114. Make your Dymo labels easier to handle by adhering them to cardstock
115. Buy small spray bottles to create your own mists. Shake up paint and water to create your perfect color.
116. When your photo doesn't match the colors you want to use for a layout convert to black and white to make it work for your design.
117. If the embellishments you want to use aren't quite right don't be afraid to take them apart and adapt them to suit your needs.
118. Use paper pockets to fill with memorable items, like tickets or other memorabilia, by folding and taping two pieces of paper to secure.
119. For an interesting way to adhere word definition sticker or word accent to your page, use a paper clip.
120. Struggling to get the position of your text perfectly on your layout? Print your text on transparency and you can easily position it wherever you want it to go.
121. Add a different look to your layout by using vertical orientation of your journaling and title once once in awhile. It helps to add variety to your pages.
©Scrapbooking Coach 2012
122. You can make fun titles for your pages by punching photographs of letters or using chipboard letters.
123. Try crumpling up your cardstock, it adds interest and dimension to your page.
124. To give your pages an antique feel, rub a piece of sand paper to the edge of the cardstock.
125. Glitter Glue Tip - Make sure you leave your glitter gluing till last as it takes a long to dry and can be easily smeared.
126. Make sure you use a spray adhesive for attaching delicate die cuts - its saves so much fiddling around.
127. If using brighter colors in the foreground picture try and to use a more plain background to balance it out.
128. When using tags you can include more photos and journaling can be hidden from view.
129. Walnut Stain Distress Ink is great to add some definition to your page. (experiment on backgrounds and edges first!)
130. Adhere ribbon to paper using glue dots to create a pleated look.
131. To create a shabby-chic look cluster buttons and flowers around the corner of your photo
132. To bring a double layout together use large elements such as a circle or swirl directly in the middle of the layout, overlapping both pages.
133. If using a variety of photo sizes, make sure you 'frame' the smaller ones, either with decorated border or purchased frames
134. Use your paper scraps for punching a variety of shapes for your next project.
135. To give your page movement include background swirls/brushwork either free hand or with materials such as string or ribbon.
©Scrapbooking Coach 2012
136. Use a variety of patterned paper to create an illusion of multiple textures without the bulkiness.
137. Attaching twine to your page creates a fun and playful look.
138. If you have black and white patterned paper that needs sprucing up - color the pattern in with crayons.
139. If you are using heavily patterned paper make sure you mount on a large white background to avoid your page looking over crowded.
140. Use spray ink on white or cream card-stock to coordinate colors with patterned paper.
141. If you have a group of photos taken at different times print them in black and white so they look uniformed on your page.
142. Add rivets to your your photos or embellishments so you can thread either twine or ribbon through them.
143. Wait for 'big sale days' at your local stores to stock up on basic equipment such as glue and ink, allowing you to spend your budget all year round on those beautiful papers.
144. Present your embellishments in 3's and 5's for maximum effect
145. If you are unsure if your stamp fits where you want to put it, stamp onto a clear sheet (lots of bought goods come in clear packaging) and place it on your page first to test it.
146. Use the tab from the top of your drink cans and turn them into a buckle for your ribbon. If its a bit rough be sure to sand it down.
©Scrapbooking Coach 2012
147. Use a brad in the centre of your flowers they look great and can also be used to adhere your flower to your page.
148. Display your pages as a calendar by adhering a small flip calendar pad somewhere on your page.
149. If you don't have an inking stamp pad you can always use a fine black pen and draw lightly on the edges to achieve the same look.
150. Make your own kits. Select matching card stock, borders, matching paper and embellishments, and store them in a folder, so you are ready to scrap when inspiration strikes!
151. Shop for your supplies online! A click of a mouse is much better than a drive in the car leaving you a lot more time to scrap!
Here’s some places I recommend (they always have great sales and clearance items):
Blue Moon Scrapbooking.comJoann.comMichaels.comPaperWishes.comScrapbooking-Warehouse.comStuff4Scrapbooking.com
©Scrapbooking Coach 2012
