Scrapbooking Layout - Keeping it Fun

Whether traditional or digital, scrapbooking layout is key to an attractive scrapbook. There is not necessarily a right or wrong way to do scrapbooking layout. The more creative and resourceful you are, the more likely you are to produce a better page. What you produce, though, is your personal layout.

Definition of Scrapbooking Layout

Think of scrapbooking layout as the way you “lay out” your photographs, tickets, postcards, and other memorabilia on a scrapbook page.

Each page is like an artist’s canvas on which you will create a work of art that ties together your photos and memorabilia with personal notes, i.e., journaling.

Scrapbooking Layout - A Priority

Scrapbooking layout should be considered at the outset of each page. Know where you are going before you begin. If you are completely at a loss…

* Browse layout ideas online.

Several scrapbooking sites offer thousands of layout ideas. Browse through them and you’re sure to see something that gets you started.

* Browse scrapbooking magazines.

Scrapbooking has become a very popular hobby, with its own magazines and stores. Scrapbooking magazines such as Ivy Cottage and Memory Makers have examples of great layouts.

* Take lessons on scrapbooking layout.

Scrapbooking lessons, including those on layout, are available online. Videos guide you through the process, step-by-step, and can cost as little as $1 per lesson.

* Use the trial and error method.

Just begin arranging photos and other elements on a page to get a feel for it. When things begin to look right, fine-tune your layout and add small touches of color, torn paper, etc.

Scrapbooking Layout Elements

Most scrapbook pages include some or all of the following elements.

* Journaling: This is the scrapbooker’s word for captions on photos and notes added to a page. These may be hand-written or computer printed.

* Photos: Scrapbooking layout may include one photo or as many as will fit. A two-page spread allows for more photos.

* Mementoes: Add ticket stubs from a train ride you took together, or from a concert you attended. Include love notes and dried flowers.

* Embellishments: Torn paper, stickers, ribbon, colored paper mountings for photos, and flat trinkets can be artistic additions.

Whatever you include in your Scrapbooking Layouts, be sure your photos or items such as a love letter or other important object are the main focus on each page.

Scrapbooking layout is not difficult. Use your personality and creativity to make a page that looks good to you, and scrapbooking layout will be fun.