Scrapbooking Planet. Scrapbooking Resources, All Things Scrapbooking

Great American Scrapbook

2008-11-10T16:28:00.004-07:00

Great American Scrapbook

We leave clues. Some are inadvertent. Some are intentional. Some revelatory. Others are insignificant

For at least 100 years, Americans have glued, taped, pasted and sewn many of those clues into scrapbooks. What they reveal — and conceal — about their owners is a story Falls Village designer Jessica Helfand tells in " Scrapbooks: An American History" (Yale University Press, $45).

"It occurred to me then that reading biographies never gives you the incredible, vivid rush that you get when holding actual letters in your hand — the postmarks, the pictures, the handwriting, the photos, the errors, the scribbles," Helfand, 48, says. "It's all so deliriously human."

Scrapbooks, Helfand writes, served as an emotional ordering of the trivial and the profound. Combining the impulse to collect, to self-narrate and to affirm, scrapbooks are both the residue of an individual and the artifacts of a civilization.

Scrapbooks, whose heyday Helfand defines as from 1900 to 1935, form a kind of visual folktale — reminding us that the trivial isn't always useless and that the common is invariably uncommon.

Despite their long popularity, "Scrapbooks" is the first book to focus close attention on the history of American scrapbooks — their origins, their makers, their diverse forms, the reasons for their popularity and their place in American cultural life. The intoxicating book, which includes more than 450 full color images, examines the scrapbooks of the ordinary and extraordinary, the celebrated and notorious and finds in them stirring human connections.

"Throughout this book, it's people grabbing what is there on their kitchen table and making sense of it," Helfand, who is a partner at Winterhouse design firm, and a senior critic at Yale University School of Art. "They grabbed gum wrappers and wrote about what was going on in their lives."

Helfand's interest in scrapbooking is a grand philosophical leap from her Yale days when the "neutral international language" was the lingua franca of the cognoscenti. In contrast, the scrapbooks that excited Helfand were those whose slapdash ordinariness was beautiful — the piece of peanut affixed to one page or the shard of a shovel to another. "It's an instant mnemonic device," says Helfand. "There is a fear that life moves very quickly. And you steel yourself against time moving quickly."

That, Helfand says, is likely why scrapbooks become particularly popular after traumatic cultural events, such as the Civil War, after which the scrapbook was largely created, or World Wars I and II. Helfand dates the more recent increase in scrapbooking to the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

"You could recognize in another person's scrapbook something you saw in your own life," says Helfand, who has looked at hundreds of scrapbooks compiled during the last 200 years. "These are universal things we all go through. You can't not look at a woman describing the birth of her first child and not see some aspect of humanity. By looking at other people's lives, I learned a lot about my own. It's humbling."

That humility would be welcome news to the hundreds of modern scrapbookers who blitzed Helfand with hundreds of e-mails three years ago when she wrote a scathing indictment of what she considered the sterility and uniformity of modern scrapbooks. After that blog entry was posted, Helfand said, "I was vilified by the scrapbookers. And the part of me that's a mother, a sister and a daughter felt really bad."

Also intrigued. Helfand wanted to get a closer look at how — and why — people kept these visual records, and how they changed over time.

"It's the decorative ornamental object that I really have an interest in," says Helfand, one of the country's leading designers, who has worked with The New Yorker magazine, filmmaker Errol Morris, Yale University, and American Masters/PBS, among others.

The scrapbook is perhaps the most mongrelized form of autobiography. It is part photo album, part diary, part cultural library, part romantic novel. Helfand's history contains color photographs from more than 200 scrapbooks; some made by private individuals and others by the famous, including: Zelda Fitzgerald, Lillian Hellman, Anne Sexton, Hilda Doolittle and Carl Van Vechten.

Helfand found most of the scrapbooks through the on-line auction site eBay. She then devised a list of five criteria the scrapbooks had to meet (See box). And she continued, in detective-cum-historian fashion, by researching census and ancestral records to find out to whom these scrapbooks belonged. "It's forensics. It's sociology. It's art history. It's genealogy. You try to figure out: Is it real or disingenuous?"

Who, in other words, were these people?

There was Charlotte Christine Dobbs, of Marietta, Ga., who annotated a scrapbook full of material from her wedding gown and traveling suit, from her 1916 wedding. Or Teresa Viele's scrupulous recording of her scandalous divorce, which including accusations of adultery, insanity and cruelty. Or Jessie Southard Parker, a 16-year-old living in Belmont, Mass., just before World War I. The 1912 scrapbook contains ephemera from receipts, poems, family crests, ink drawings, calling cards, deed and Bible records — but not a single mention of the sinking of the Titanic, which happened in April of that year.

Yet another 16-year-old girl was obsessed with the 1932 kidnapping of the Lindbergh baby. She pasted a newspaper photograph of the baby's shoes on the opposite page, in which she outlines the family tree and imagines herself in the Lindbergh's plight.

What is striking, of course, is the negative space of scrapbooks; what's omitted is nearly as significant as what's included. So, for instance, the scrapbook of Frederick G. Nixon-Nirdlinger, a theater manager from Philadelphia, who recorded his 1909 grand tour from western Europe to Egypt and Greece in a lavish scrapbook. The stunningly appointed scrapbook includes ticket stubs, Moorish lace, receipts of the purchase of a helmet in Gibraltar, graphically scintillating menus from Continental motels — and virtually no mention of his wife of 18 years, who accompanied him on the tour.

That reason for the omission becomes clear in Helfand's narrative, which explains that Nixon-Nirdlinger divorced his wife soon after the trip, took up with the fetching Charlotte Nash, 20 years his junior, moved to Paris and sired two children by her before his beautiful wife fatally shot him in the neck in their home on the French Riviera.

(Nash was acquitted by a jury of seven bachelors, but the real surprise was that Nixon-Nirdlinger had written her out of the will. All the money went to his two children.)

"All of this happens and yet his scrapbook reveals none of the emotional turbulence that must have preceded his imminent divorce," Helfand says incredulously.

But that, of course, is part of the self-narrative dimension of scrapbooks. Just as it is unclear whether they are public or private, it is equally obscure whether they are intended for full disclosure or simply to record celebratory moments. Sociologists talk about "willful episodic time" as the human tendency to skip from social celebration to social celebration when recording their lives.

And yet scrapbooks reveal that discomfiting moments are also recorded. One Southern teenager records an act of fellatio she observed on a street corner in 1922 — this in a scrapbook that otherwise recorded school dances, invitations and dance cards.

It's that dissonance and the continual juxtapositions of scrapbooks that intrigue Helfand. "Why Rudolph Valentino next to a prayer card?" she asks rhetorically. "You have to read these things like a road map."

Still, Helfand can't bring herself to warm to the "Michael's Crafts" store-bought embellishments of today's scrapbooks, which she describes as "at once playfully juvenile and strategically shrewd, steeped in memory yet inextricably bound to materiality, and seemingly devoid of any critical editorial conceit." She continues:

"Scrapbooks today tend to be overstuffed and all-inclusive — precisely the antithesis of what we have come to think of as modern. Just as the vernacular of the 21st century embraces the everyday with blind exuberance, so too does it unwittingly reinforce the value of just about everything. And yet, in a culture that celebrates the everyman (think Reality TV) and glorifies the banal (think blogs), the scrapbook takes on renewed value: everyone's opinion matters, and everyone's every waking move is important."

Nevertheless, Helfand has begun her own "scratch book," of quips, sketches and the bon mots of her two young children.

"I find it is the best therapy," Helfand said.

Republican-American news services contributed to this report.
Source: BY TRACEY O'SHAUGHNESSY REPUBLICAN-AMERICAN

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Scrapbooking. 3 Secrets to Scrapbooking

2008-11-10T16:00:00.002-07:00

Scrapbooking. 3 Secrets to Scrapbooking

There are 3 secrets to Scrapbooking: organizing your photos, planning your layouts, and claiming a workspace. If these 3 steps go smoothly, you will be able to spend more time making your scrapbooks, and less time trying to track things down.

Simple Steps to Making a Scrapbook from Existing Pictures:

Decide on your theme
Choose photos
Plan your layout
Plan and write your journaling on scrap paper
Plan your cropping to fit the theme and focus on the photo subject
Lay everything out on your page
Crop and mount
Journal
Embellish
Done!

Simple Steps for Planning a Scrapbook For Upcoming Events:

Consider the theme.
Plan your layout.
Get an idea of the types of embellishments you would like to use, and start keeping an eye out for them.
Plan the photos you would like to take and make notes
Take your photos and write something down in short form about the moments you captured for journaling later.
Exchange addresses with other people who may be attending the event so you can get copies of their photos if yours don't turn out.
Get your photos developed

Claim Your Scrapbooking Space

Once you have all of your tools and supplies to begin scrapbooking there is one more thing you have to consider before getting started, space. You need to have a table or area upon which to set up your scrapbooking stuff safely and where you will feel comfortable leaving your materials out without the risk of anything getting disturbed. You also want to be able to sit comfortably in this space for the amount of time you will be working there if you are really in the scrapbooking groove.

I feel if you have to keep setting up and taking down your materials because the space is being used for something else it will interrupt your creative flow when assembling pages. When you have played around with the layout and arranged your photos in an order that satisfies you, having to take it all apart and set it up again the next time might ruin the effect you were trying to create or worse, you might forget what you did and not be able to recreate it exactly the same the next time.

If you are unable to keep a space solely for your scrapbooking purposes, keep track of your progress in a notebook. Roughly sketching out the layout and which pictures go where in the layout is a good idea so you won't break your creative flow or lose the progress you have made.

It also helps if you have the support of your family members. Their support and consideration for what you are doing and the space you are working in will keep your scrapbooking table or area intact. Talk to them and make sure everyone will respect your space, explaining to them how important scrapbooking is to you. Explain that it is essential this area won't be disturbed because it may interrupt your creative flow.

You may also want to include your family in your scrapbooking process, especially if you are working on the family or individual children's albums. They might have some unique insights or ideas that will work perfectly with what you are working on that you might not have seen or thought of. Sometimes if you are too close to something you can't always see what is right in front of you. A fresh eye may give you a new perspective on what you could be doing with your page layouts and embellishing. You should use all the tools available to you including the Internet, fellow scrapbookers' insights and any different tools they can share with you.
Source: http://www.mycraftbook.com/The_Secret_To_Scrapbooking.asp

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Digital Scrapbook In Photoshop How-To-Video

2008-11-10T15:55:00.002-07:00

Digital Scrapbook In Photoshop How-To-Video
How-to for digital fusion scrapbook in Photoshop

This is a 6.17 minutes 'Behind the scenes' video from www.digiscrap101.com

www.digiscrap101.com

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Digital Scrapbooking Holiday Photo Card

2008-11-10T15:50:00.001-07:00

Digital Scrapbooking Holiday Photo Card

Learn how to create a digitally scrapbooked holiday photo card using ScrapSimple templates

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Scrapbook Papers. Free Printable Scrapbook Papers

2008-11-10T15:44:00.004-07:00

Scrapbook Papers. Free Printable Scrapbook Papers

Heaven Graphics
Heaven Graphics offers a small, but nice selection of free printable scrapbook papers to download for personal use. Use one scrapbook paper for that perfect page background, or download a bunch and crop them into your page layouts! Also excellent for digital scrapbooking, small gift wrap, handmade card designs and photo mats!

ScrapbookScrapbook
ScrapbookScrapbook offer a huge selection of printable pages, however the site is very busy amking hard sometimes to find the right page for your project, but it's well worth the look.

Bizous
Bizous is another great site that features printable pages and a suggested layout for that particular page. Especially handy if you can't quite figure how to create put your project together.

Creative Park
Creative Park has hundreds of nice printable scrapbook pages. Every imaginable theme at your fingetips.

Scrapbook Flair
Scrapbook Flair is continually add free layouts and downloads every month. They have a nice collection.

Family Fun
Family Fun is a nice proffessional site with a good selection, but they are mostly of layouts rather than background pages.

Activity Village
Activity Village has lots of free printable scrapbook paper designs. Use them for scrapbook albums, kids crafts, making gift boxes and bags, or as small pieces of wrapping paper for odds and ends and matching gift tags.

Happy Scrapping and visit often. Click here now and bookmark us or join our free email newsletter for the newest links, Scrapbooking videos, scrapbooking techniques, Scrapbooking products and more!

Cutting Tools for Scrapbooking. Video Cutting Tools for Scrapbooking

2008-11-10T15:41:00.000-07:00

Cutting Tools for Scrapbooking. Video Cutting Tools for Scrapbooking

Learn about cutting tools for scrapbooking and record memories in this free video on arts and crafts. Get scrapbooking and journaling ideas.

Scrapbooking Mini Brag Book Video Instructions

2008-11-10T15:37:00.001-07:00

Scrapbooking Mini Brag Book Video Instructions.

This is a tutorial on creating a mini brag book - scrapbook album using double sided designer paper.

Top Scrapbook Tools Reviewed. Scrapbook Tools Online Video Review

2008-07-11T12:49:00.003-07:00

Top Scrapbook Tools Reviewed. Scrapbook Tools Online Video Review

Ali tells you about her four favorite scrapbook tools.

Top Scrapbook Tools Reviewed.

Scrapbook Tools Review. Scrapbooking Crock-A-Dile Tool Video

2008-07-11T12:44:00.001-07:00

Scrapbook Tools Review.
Video demonstrates the Crock-A-Dile scrapbooking tool...

How To Make Scrapbook Paper Look Aged. Make Paper Look Old

2008-07-11T12:34:00.003-07:00

How To Make Scrapbook Paper Look Aged. Various Techniques To Make Paper Look Old.

The aged look is in -- whether it's for heritage layouts, shabby chic looks, vintage designs, or to indicate distressed paper.

"How do I make paper look old?" A number of products will help you get that aged look you want -- many of which are found in your own kitchen.

You will have to experiment to get the look you are going for -- or perhaps you will inadvertently discover a look you just love! Serendipity is a big factor in making altered books.

Tips for Making Paper Look Old

Tea Bag Staining
Drag a wet (not dripping) tea bag over your paper. Weight your paper down while it dries to avoid warping. The paper will be stained a brownish color. A lingering tea-smell might remain. Tea-bag staining is not acid free, if this matters to you.

Coffee Grounds Staining
Like tea, you can use coffee grounds to make paper look old. Apply wet coffee grounds to your paper. Remove grounds. The paper will be stained brown. Dry paper under a weight to avoid warping. As above, there is likely to be a coffee odor afterwards. Coffee grounds are also not acid free.

Balsamic Vinegar Spattering
Same as above. Expect odor. Vinegar is not acid free.

Lemon Juice
Paint your paper with lemon juice, then heat with a heat gun. The paper will take on a brownish, aged look. It will continue to darken as you continue to apply heat. Lemon juice is not acid free.

Decorating Chalks
These chalks are my favorite way to make paper look old. Apply the chalk (one of the brownish colors) to the paper using a cotton ball, makeup sponge, Q-tip or swab. This is especially effective on the ripped edges of paper or vellum. Allow the chalks to set, or spray with a fixative if speed in important. Decorating chalks have many uses when making altered books. Acid free decorating chalks are available at joann.com.

Walnut Ink
Walnut ink is made from black walnuts. It is usually sold in crystallized form, and must be hydrated before using. Apply the wet walnut ink to the paper, lace, fabric or other material. You can create various effects as you strive to make paper look old. For more information about walnut ink, refer to the Definitions page of this web site.

Paper Tearing
Instead of cutting your paper neatly, tear it. Holding the paper towards you while you tear will produce one look; holding it away from you will produce another. Color the torn edges with decorative chalk, walnut ink, tea bags, or similar to give an aged appearance.

Bleaching
Apply household bleach to your paper. Apply directly with an eye-dropper, brush or sponge, or use a water-color pen. If it is available in your area, a Chlorox Bleach Pen is also a good choice. Note that some papers could contain inks that are colorfast and bleach-resistant. You will find more information about bleaching in the tip on using bleach in this section of the website.

Sanding with Sand Paper
Lightly sand shiny paper or other paper to produce "tooth" or a worn look. Sand the same way you sand wood -- in a directional move, rather than circular.

Paper Crumpling
Crumple up your paper. Flatten it out, then crumple again. Repeat as often as you wish before using the paper in your layout. Iron the finished paper if desired, for a special look, or try placing the (thickish) paper in water before crumpling for yet a different look.

Paper Burning
Another way to make paper look old is to burn the edges of the paper. For safety's sake, do this over a sink, using a candle or stick of incense. Pinch the firey edges out with your finger. If desired, wet an inner border on your paper before applying the flame. You can do the wetting with a damp Q-tip, paint brush, or your finger. This prevents the paper from burning more than you want, since the wet inner border will prevent the flame from going further.

Candle Waxing
Write over your paper with a white candle, covering as much area as you can. Crush the paper so the wax cracks. Apply paint over the surface, forming random cracks. Remove the wax by ironing your paper. Place it between two sheets of paper towels padded with newspaper on both sides and use a hot iron.

Matte Gel or Matte Medium
These products will take the shine off paper or pictures, etc.

Brown Paper Bag Scrapbook Album. Basic Brown Paper Bag Scrapbook

2008-07-11T12:27:00.003-07:00

Brown Paper Bag Scrapbook Album. Basic Brown Paper Bag Scrapbook

This brown paper bag scrapbook album is a great recycled look for your scrapbook albums and shows you how to make a basic brown paper scrapbook bag album as a base for your own designed scrapbooks.

This brown paper bag scrapbook album uses non gusseted lunch bags which can be found in supermarkets in the food packaging sections.

Brown paper bags without gussets are quite lightweight which means your album will not have the same Bulk as a traditional gusseted brown paper bag album.

Start by folding each of your bags 1 inch (2.5cm) in from the bottom. This will create a strong spine for your album.

Stack all your bags together to form the album, making sure they are aligned together.

Next mark out your holes for punching. If you use a metal hole punch that requires you to hit it with a hammer you can punch multiple bags at one time, making the process much faster.

If you want your scrapbook album to be more durable and stable you can include a cardboard front cover and back cover.

Binding your scrapbook album -
There are many different ways to bind a brown paper bag album, you can use ribbons and tie bows, cords and tie knots or you can bind it in a more traditional book binding way as we have done here.

Take your string or cord and thread it through the holes , looping under each hole to form a blanket stitch style.

To finish off the binding we simply threaded it back through each of the loops.

You can bind your scrapbook album however you want, it really is a simple method and there are no rules as such, just make sure it is loose enough to turn your pages.

Once your brown paper bag scrapbook album is bound you can begin creating your scrapbook.

While the majority of scrapbook supplies and papers are considered acid and lignin free, paper bags are not. So please make sure you use duplicate photos when making this project. Non-digital photos can easily be color copied or scanned and printed in a copy store or photo lab.

Scrapbook Brown Paper Bag Materials
Non Gusseted Lunch Bags or Brown paper bags
String or Cord
Hole Punch
Hammer

Scrapbooking As Easy As Cut and Paste

2008-07-11T12:21:00.004-07:00

Scrapbooking As Easy As Cut and Paste

Remember back in elementary school making cut-and-paste Mother's Day cards scribbled with crayon flowers and hearts? Or using bright-colored construction paper to build anything from hats to snowflakes?

The possibilities were endless, and it always felt great to finish a one-of-a-kind art project for someone special.

It might be a distant memory for many adults. But for some, those childhood crafts turned into a sophisticated hobby. They call themselves croppers, and there is no formula for their art. Just like when they were kids, they take time to assemble colorful, textured works no one can replicate.

"Forms of scrapbooking have been around for a long time," says consultant Annette Green of Close to My Heart, a direct sales company for scrapbooking materials. "Today, it's a family hobby."

It's such a big family hobby that people spend $2.6 billion on it each year, according to the Craft and Hobby Association, making it the most popular segment of the craft industry.

Green of Melbourne, Fla., says she has at least a dozen completed scrapbooks filled with pictures, cardstock, brads and other objects helping to preserve her family memories.

"I have a room to myself," she says. "It's such a good feeling to sit, remember and go through those old photos. It's an art. I try to make the prettiest pages I can, and I truly enjoy it."

Finding time

"A lot of the feedback I get is, I don't have enough time to scrapbook,' " Green says. "Everybody's busy."

To help free up time, many craft stores sell scrapbooking kits, complete with color-coordinated paper and all the materials needed to make a book.

"If you get a 12-by-12 album kit, you could literally finish it in a day," Green says.

Some scrapbookers add personal touches after the kits are complete.

"People have gone as far as the toolbox and pulled out washers to use for embellishments," Green says. "They use paper clips, ribbon. I use coasters as picture mats."

Scrap trends

Mark Twain and Thomas Jefferson often are cited as early scrapbookers, and some say the craft dates back even further. It's easy to wonder what scrapbooking pioneers would think of today's pages, which are full of glitz and glamour.

One technique that's become popular in recent years is stamping, which is exactly as it sounds. The stamps and inks are much more advanced than they used to be.

Another scrapbooking trend, says Close to My Heart consultant Laura Irsfeld, is adding lots of embellishments.

Candy Forbes, co-owner of the Craft Boutique in Indian Habour Beach, Fla., recently started designing her own line of scrapbooking materials. She says what's hot in scrapbooking depends on the time of year.

"Right now, we're doing all different kinds of flowers with leaves, balloons and ribbons," Forbes says.

Stress relief

Scrapbooking shouldn't fail to spark inner creativity, but if it does, there's another plus side to it - it's an excuse to get out of the house. At scrapbooking events, it's not really about what you're making, it's about the conversation that happens while making it.

"On an open crop night, we sit down and work on our own projects and socialize," Irsfeld says. "It's kind of like a quilting bee."

And it's not just for women. Irsfeld says scrapbooking is starting to attract men, particularly retirees.

If nothing else, scrapbooking is an avenue for escaping the day-to-day.

"It's where I find relief of stress," Irsfeld says.

Source: http://www.azcentral.com/

Speed Scrapping In 11 Steps. Organize Your Scarbook Supplies

2008-07-11T12:13:00.004-07:00

Speed Scrapping In 11 Steps. Organize Your Scarbook Supplies

Here is a way to organize your supplies for speedy scrapping even if you have no previous page kits stockpiled. You can get an album done in a week or two this way if you want to! But you need to really follow the instructions or it ends up not being so speedy! In other words, don't deviate so much from the speed scrapping instructions that you are no longer saving yourself time. After all, a finished album that highlights the photos in a creative way is the goal.

1) Plan and Do Only ONE Album at a Time. Here is what I would do for each album I wanted to speed scrap. This is speed scrapping from scratch so to speak. Being able to focus on one project at a time is vital. It is just as important to getting a finished album as good intentions or vast arrays of supplies. Don't get distracted or overwhelmed. The keyword today is FOCUS! :)
2) Get a Container or Tote. Find a big sturdy tote bag or Rubbermaid box with handles to keep your supplies in it JUST FOR THIS ALBUM! There are many great smaller totes designed for scrapping. Any of them would be wonderful. Just make sure it will allow an album and all your papers and tools to fit. However, you don't have to have a new bag for this.

Use a canvas tote bag or plastic bin if you have one. It will need to be big enough for a binder, and album, your photos, and several basic supplies. You will not need 90% of your other supplies for this job! Also try to find a large 3 ring binder for short-term storage of the speed scrapping page protectors as you work.

3) What is Your theme? Is it a specific year? vacations? a child? your heritage? sports events? holidays? Decide on whatever theme you want to put into this particular album.. Pick an album style (top loading, strap, binder, 8.5x11, 12x12) and the cover color. Try to choose this cover and color to further the theme of your album photos.

The album type should be one that allows you to move pages. I prefer binder or post bound for this. They usually come with 10 pages of page protectors. (This means 20 ages for photos if you count both sides. ) I automatically add another set of ten page protectors in the same style/manufacturer. Now you know you will have 40 pages to create for this specific album. Spiral bound albums are a hard one to use for speed scrapping but if you really want to, it can be done! You will need to REALLY plan out the layouts of the pages a little more thoroughly using a spiral bound album.

4) Plan for the Inside of the Album. Based on the album theme and perhaps the color of the outside cover of the album, decide on the album's interior. This is where we keep it harmonious, SIMPLE, and focused!

A) Choose two colors of solid cardstock that are coordinating and harmonious with the cover. Buy at least ten to twelve sheets of these two colors of cardstock. And if you want all the background paper to be identical, buy 40-45 sheets of one color.

B) Choose two kinds of patterned papers that coordinate in color with the two colors of cardstock already chosen in step A.

C) Pick two template shapes for photos to be cut into. Keep it simple. Squares, rectangle, oval or circle. Don't choose cutesy pillow shapes or intricate stars. If using a cutting device, put this in the speed scrapping tote now. If you are doing heritage work and do not want to cut the photos, skip this one step. I kept my shapes very basic... rectangles with some corners rounded and one or two pages with ovals.

D) Select two types of corner treatments . Photo corners come in many styles (corner punches, stickers, laser cut, clear plastic, black, gold, white, etc) . But pick just two that coordinate. You can also decide not to include photo corners at all. Just mat the pictures. For heritage work, I say use corners. Someday a great-great grandchild will have to redo your work-- so use corners and make it easy on them! No adhesives go directly on heritage photos. Save the adhesives for mats and other embellishments.

E) Pick two pen colors to use for journaling. These pens should show well on both solid cardstocks in Step A. Many speed scrappers choose black and white. Put all the other pens away except the pens you choose here. If you like to journal ion matted squares of paper, cut about 10 pieces of each color solid cardstock measuring 2 inches by 3 inches. Use a paper trimmer or see scissors tips in Step G. When it comes time to actually journal, keep it simple. Who, What, When, and Where. Never just put the title "Grandpa". Make sure that three generations from now, they will know his full name, date, and location! Speed scrapping doesn't mean being incomplete!

F) Embellishments should be kept simple. Only use the colors you have already chosen in Step A to create the borders, punch art, paper piecing, etc. Don't get too carried away on embellishments. The same simple flower or two or border throughout a whole album looks elegant and classic and harmonious. AND it saves you time! After you get this far, you might take a look through your sticker binder or punch art stash and be surprised how many things do coordinate with the colors you have chosen. Try to use what you have. If you have to make something extra, keep it simple.

Designate just a couple of pages for being extra-artistic. Do those time-consuming technique pages at the end of the speed scrapping process. You can certainly do a page or two or three that can be time intensive and 'artistic' within each speed scrapped album. Those can take longer and have pop ups, lovely punch art or paper piecing, etc. No problem. . What I refer to here as speed scrapping is for the BULK of the album. That means get 34 pages done in the speed scrapping style and then go back to do about 4 to 6 later in a more 'artistic" way.

G) Chose one Decorative Scissors that You Love. Or perhaps the same scissors in regular and jumbo cut--like deckle regular and deckle jumbo. This keeps the eye from registering the cuts used as too "busy". Using straight edge scissors on some pics and mats and one decorative scissors on others is enough variety in the scissor dept. I chose the mini postage stamp to echo the Norwegian postagestamps on my title page.

5) Clear the Floor! Now for the fun!! Clear the kitchen table or your scrapping desk! Get rid of the family! You will need lots of space for this. Pets and small children love to "help" so this may be a good time for them to be out of the house. :)

6) Lay Out the Page Protectors on the Floor. Place two pieces of cardstock or pattern paper in each protector to be the background. Hurray! You are making progress!

7) Get Out Your Photos. Whether in a box or an old album, bring it to the work area. Arrange them in the sequence you want to use. Most albums are chronological within the event theme. Start taking out 4-6 photos to go into each page protector. How many will fit on each page depends on the size of the photos. Keep it as an estimate for now. You don't have toactually lay them out on the backgrounds exactly yet. Just loosely place them in the protectors. Poor pictures can be weeded out at this time. Keep going until you have all the photos divided up.

8) Use that Binder! Now put the page protectors with the background paper and the photos into a large 3 ring binder if possible. Don't put them into the final album until the END of the scrapping process. This will give you flexibility to move them easily or work with them more than once until you get the page sin a 'final' sequence that you like. The 3 ring binder is only a temporary sequencing aid to a quicker final album.

9) Tuck Your Simple Embellishments into the Page Protectors. This includes any poems, stickers, die cuts, pre-made page toppers or other additions you already have on hand. Save the time intense embellishments for other albums or do a minimum of them when speed scrapping. Need something? Make a master shopping list. Go for the quicker embellishments. Shop for only the items on the master list. You have not actually started scrapping pages yet but you are getting ready.

10) Now Pack Up that Tote. Pack your bag, box, or tote (chosen in number 1) with the adhesive of your choice, scissors, binder of photos and papers, pens, journal squares, extra corners, and the extras of the papers you chose to coordinate in step A and step B. Add your photo corners to the tote. Terrific! You are ready for cropping either at home or at a cropping party!! Put everything else away for a while! Your speed scrapping kit is ready to go!

11) Set Aside Some Time and Enjoy Your Speed Scrapping! Now you know that you are focused. You have all your supplies together. You have a goal in mind. Go Girl! Have fun with it! As you work, keep in mind that you want to FINISH this album. Focus, Focus, Focus! Set aside time to work on it on a regular basis. :) With a start like this, your album will be done in no time!

Source: http://organizedscrapbooks.com/

Scrapbooking Page Layout Beginners Tips

2008-06-26T12:36:00.001-07:00

Scrapbooking Page Layout Beginners Tips

If you are creating a scrapbook page for a magazine cover, then that's one thing, but, if you are interested in organizing a bunch of photos into meaningful scrapbook pages keep this in mind:

KISS--Keep It Simple Sweetie--KISS

The scrapbooking magazines are full of scrapbook layouts that look great and take several hours each to complete. And if you'll notice, they often have only one or two photos per page. Most of us have way too many photos we want to include to take that approach.
So here is a compromise; why not make an elaborate 'cover' page that only has one or two photos & describes the events and behind it include several very simple pages of many more photos and maybe a sticker or two. If you use the same colored background for all these pages it would 'group' them nicely. Or just include plastic sleeves of photos after the cover page if it is a big trip and you have lots of photos.

Scrapbook Layouts

Generally, I find that I can cut (crop) alot of boring or repetitive background off of photos without loosing any of the impact of the picture. In fact, it is just the opposite. Good cropping makes a photo look better. This also lets me get more photos on my page. Generally photos look best with straight edges and a narrow colored mat that 'picks up' one of the colors in the photo. Save the fancy edged scissors for decorative borders or the mat around the photo.

I find rectangular photos lend themselves to a page arrangement with the corners of some pictures overlapping another photo. I can hide clutter or unsightly background and give a movement to the layout with a path for the eye to follow.

Scrapbook Page Titles

I find it easiest to make my title cut-out letters or title box a separate piece of paper that I attach to my layout. That way, I can move it around and see where it looks and fits best and if I goof-up, it is easier to fix. If I'm using alphabet letters I printed from my sets, and it looks a bit too big, I can print another sheet at 75% size. You can use my Free Instant Scrapbook Page Title Maker.

Scrapbook Journaling

This is 'scrapbook talk' for the text or writing that you put on the page to describe the event. It is easiest by far to do this on a separate piece of paper and attach to the layout than writing directly onto the page. You can draw light lines to guide you or use a light-box with a piece of lined paper underneath. I love using a glass topped table with a lamp sitting on the floor underneath for a BIG light-box. A sunny window works too but you'll have to write upright like a teacher on a blackboard !! Many of my sets include text boxes made especially for journaling with light lines on them. Remember that you can print them in different sizes to suit your page. One of our sets is all journaling boxes in lots of colors and sizes. Remember you can always print them in pastels by using your printer's 'draft' or 'economy' setting.

You can also do your journaling on a computer or typewriter and cut out the text to attach to your layout. There are a gazillion free fonts on the internet that you can download & install on your computer, just go to www.Google.com and do a search for 'free fonts' and spend 5 days looking at the results!! Your computer probably already has fonts that would be fine.

Scrapbook Ideas for Your Baby Album

2008-06-26T12:23:00.003-07:00

Scrapbook Ideas for Your Baby Album

A scrapbook album of your babys first year is one of the most special albums youll ever complete. There are so many magical memories, beginning with the pregnancy itself and continuing right through your babys first birthday. Below are a number of scrapbook page ideas to help you capture those precious moments.

Title Page

A great way to start the album is by matting a 5x7 or 8x10 of your babys hospital photo on the first page. Then add the babys name and birthdate as the title and subtitle respectively. This makes a very simple yet very beautiful page.

Baby on the Way

How did you celebrate the news that your baby was on the way? Maybe it was a quiet dinner just for you and your husband or a gathering with family and friends. Either way, remember to include some pictures of the celebration. Capture peoples reactions to the annoucement in photos. In addition, you may even want to take a picture of the pregnancy test showing the positive results.

The Ultrasound

If you had multiple ultrasounds during your pregnancy, include pictures from different points in time so you can see how your baby was growing. You may also want to include one that shows the graph of the heartbeat. In addition to journaling about the ultrasound pictures, this is a great place to journal about any nicknames you may have had for your baby before it was born.

The Belly

Starting at three months, when the pregnancy bulge is just barely noticeable, have someone take a monthly side-view picture of you. Pose in front of the same background each time so that the pictures are consistent. Try to fit all of the photos on one page (or a two-page spread), so you can really appreciate the month-by-month progression.

The Nursery

Include photos of the nursery all ready and waiting for baby; take pictures from different angles to show everything in the room. Be sure to include pictures of anything that has special meaning such as a bassinet that has been in the family for multiple generations, a special blanket made by Grandma, etc. Also, if you have one, include a photo to show what the room was before it became a nursery.

Welcome Baby

Those first pictures taken of your baby after the birth are some of the most precious ones youll ever have. Rememer to include your baby being weighed, having his/her footprints done, being examined, getting a bath, etc. You can put memorabilia such as the footprint card, bassinet name tag and baby id bracelet on these pages. Include key information/statistics in your journaling babys full name, date, day, time, weight, length, details about your labor, name of the doctor/midwife, etc.

Mom, Dad and Baby

Its wonderful to have a page with pictures of just the three of you Mom, Dad and Baby and then include siblings, grandparents, etc. on other pages. Journal about how you felt upon meeting your baby for the first time, whether your baby resembled anyone in the family, how your baby reacted to hearing your voice, etc.

The Rest of the Clan

Once you have a page or two of Mom, Dad and Baby photos, its time to include the siblings if your baby has any. Capture how excited they are to meet their new baby brother/sister and how proud they are to be big brothers/big sisters. This is also a great page to put any little cards, drawings, etc. that siblings may have made to welcome your new baby.

Visitors at the Hospital

Your new baby is sure to have many visitors at the hospital such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and more. Include a picture of each one holding the baby and write an interesting fact and/or anecdote about each person in your journaling. Also, you may want to include pictures of the doctor/midwife who delivered your baby, the labor nurse and/or the doula.

Going Home

Going home from the hospital is a big event! On this page you can include pictures of leaving the hospital, a photo of the outside of the hospital, and the birth announcement. Journal about who took you and the baby home, what the weather was like for your babys first time ever outside, what he/she was wearing for a "going home" outfit, and what he/she did during the car ride home.

The New Family

Its nice to have a couple of pages showing the new family settling in at home over those first few days. Be sure to include a picture of everyone (Mom, Dad, siblings) with the new baby, plus a picture of the whole family. Put some of the flowers and balloons received as gifts in the background of the pictures to add a special touch. This is a great place to journal about how the family dynamic changes when the new little one joins the clan.

Visitors at Home

In addition to having photos of the visitors that came to meet your baby at the hospital, youll also want to have pictures of the visitors at your home. Again, include a picture of each one holding the baby and write an interesting fact and/or anecdote about each person in your journaling.

Siblings

If your baby has siblings, you can make a separate page for each sibling with lots of photos of the big brother/big sister with the new baby. Depending on how old the sibling is, he/she may be able to help you create the album page by arranging photos, picking out embellishments and providing input for the journaling (e.g., what is the best thing about being a big brother/big sister).

Heritage

If your baby is lucky enough to meet his/her great-grandparents, have a page or two with pictures of them holding the baby. Ask the great-grandparents to share some of their most cherished childhood memories so you can include them in your journaling. When your baby is older, he/she can read their stories to get a glimpse of childhoods long ago.

Source: Author Lisa Fleming is an avid scrapbooker and the owner of Scrapbook Town, LLC

How Can I Crop Interesting Scrapbooking Shapes

2008-05-01T20:19:00.001-07:00

CIRCLE CUTTER
Scrapbook tool used to create circles from photos and mounting paper. Circle cutters vary in type from tower to template style, fixed blade to separate knife systems. Different circle cutters suit different people so it is best to try a few before you commit to one.

TEMPLATE
Plastic or card sheet with punched out shapes that can be used to crop photos and photo mounting paper into shapes. Some templates are suitable for drawing outlines or journaling lines.

Birthday Guest Balloons
When it comes to a small kid´s party, it is sometimes impossible to get a decent group shot. Instead, try photographing all the children in small groups. Later, crop the processed photos into balloon shaped head shots. Silhouette a photo of the Birthday Child which can then "hold" the balloons and there you have all the party attendees nicely accounted for on your layout.

Group Layout Idea
Next time you´re at a function, instead of getting a standard group shot of the guests, photograph each individually from the torso up. Ask for double sized prints and then silhouette each one. Placed around the side and bottom of a scrapbook layout these make an interesting border and you´ll have a nice close up of each guest.

How Can I Plan A Scrapbook Album

2008-05-01T20:15:00.002-07:00

Planning a scrapbook album - Pencil titles on pages
When planning a theme album you need to think about where in the album your groups of photos will go and what decorations and title you should use. I find the easiest way to remember my choices is to write them in light pencil directly onto the album page. For example - Title Baby´s first bath - lemon and sky blue card, CM girl first years´ bath stickers. Once the page is assembled the pencil writing can be erased. It is a good idea to write the title on the outside of the photo packet as well.

Tribute Scrapbook Albums
Tribute albums can be created to celebrate a birthday, engagement, anniversary or just because you care about someone. If the tribute album is to be presented at a special gathering ensure that you leave a page decorated only at the margins for all guests to sign. Tribute albums lend themselves very well for showcasing something special about the recipient or for adding that extra special touch using journalling, exceptional photos and tribute letters from friends and relatives. At a 40th birthday recently I put together an album for a friend. His wife chose a beautiful baby photo of him holding a toy lamb to use on the title page. At the celebration my friend´s mother presented him with the same toy lamb (still in one piece after 40 years). A perfect photo opportunity to complete the album.

This Is Your Life Scrapbook Album
Whereas a tribute album can concentrate on a certain area of an individual´s life or hobbies a "This is Your Life" album is usually restricted to chronological order starting at birth (or even before if you wish to include pictures of the individual´s parents and continuing to the present. Choose the size of album to suit the number of photos you have. A few photos suit a small album while more will mean a larger album. If there are photo gaps fill in with journalling even if it is only anecdotal. Stories from special friends are also nice to include. Don´t forget that there is also a place for school reports, certificates, resumes and dreadful driving licence photos and a sense of humour in a This Is Your Life album.

12 by 15 inch scrapbook albums
Finding border embellishments for this size album can be difficult as standard album size is 12" by 12". Thinking laterally you can make your album easier to decorate by turning it sideways. Yes it makes them more awkward to read but the landscape pages are wonderful to work on and you will not have to search for extra length borders. A sideways 12" x 15" album page is perfect for the display of panoramic photos.

ABC SCRAPBOOK ALBUM
An album assembled using layouts representing each letter of the alphabet. For example: the A layout would have a large A and photographs, stickers and diecuts along with journalling and labelling highlighting the letter A.

What Scrapbooking Plastics Are Safe?

2008-05-01T20:12:00.001-07:00

POLYETHYLENE
A chemically stable, transparent, food safe plastic used in photographic preservation materials.

PVC (POLYVINYL CHLORIDE)
PVC is a common plastic which because it is chemically unstable releases a chlorine gas. When this gas settles onto a surface it turns into hydrochloric acid. This acid will cause photographs to fade and discolor.

PAGE PROTECTOR
These are protective plastic sleeves which cover your scrapbook pages. They are available in a variety of sizes and can be side-loading to cover scrapbook pages that are bound or top loading which means that the protectors themselves are usually incorporated into the binding and require that the scrapbook pages be slipped into them. Polypropylene and Mylar are two of the most highly recommended plastics for protectors.

Showcasing Your Scrapbook Albums

2008-05-01T20:06:00.002-07:00

Where are your scrapbooks? Often they are lying in our scrapbook rooms (if the pages are even put away) and not immediately accessible. We have finished the pages, but have we finished the album? Have we made it available for others to peruse? After taking so much time and effort creating our scrapbook albums, we should take equal care to display them. Here are a few ideas of how to display your scrapbook albums, pages and mini-books.

Shelves. The most common way of displaying scrapbook albums is to store them on shelves. Remember to store them upright and side-by-side. Do not squish them, which will avoid causing the embellishments to press into the pages. If you have the luxury of purchasing new bookshelves, measure your albums before choosing your shelves. Deeper shelves are best for 12" X 12" albums. If you do not have room for an entire bookcase consider single shelving units. These are single shelves that are attached to the wall with metal brackets.

For children's albums consider putting them on a lower shelf so they can have easy access to them.

Many of my albums are arranged on a bookshelf. I arrange my family albums by date and then I have miscellaneous albums in another section. I add albums, even if they are not completed yet.

The visual look of albums together can be striking and it will show off your efforts. For a fun look intersperse mini-albums on the shelves as well.

Tables. Coffee table books are common so why not add your scrapbook albums to the mix? This is particularly attractive for albums with striking covers or albums that cover a single subject or event. Arrange the albums nicely and keep the table as uncluttered as possible. Add mini-albums to the table display if desired.

Display Stands. Do you ever have to prop up books or special framed photos? When I'm cooking, I often have a cookbook open on a stand. In the same way, you can display your scrapbook albums. Use picture frame holders, cookbook holders, etc. They come in wood or metal and can hold various sizes. Chose a size that fits your album when open. It should rest comfortably without any tipping. Leave it open to a special page or one you particularly enjoy.

Page Frames. Page frames are acrylic holders for individual scrapbook pages. Some manufacturers such as Clear Scraps have acrylic page displays which allow you to display one scrapbook page. You can place several next to each other for a two-page layout or artistic design. The acrylic displays can be put in a stand or hung on the wall. They are available in various sizes. While a page frame will not display an entire album, it will allow a few of your pages to be displayed. Consider different spots in the house where they can be displayed. Also consider different locations such as a work place.

Alternatively, you can get a custom-made frame for your scrapbook page.

I have three page frames in the kitchen. They are on an otherwise bare wall. Whenever we have visitors they always see it as they pass through the kitchen! Narrow hallways also make great display areas.

Baskets. Empty shelves, tables, windowsills, etc. are all great places to tuck an attractive little basket. In the basket, arrange several mini-albums. Larger baskets can be purchased and set on the floor for larger-sized albums.

Here are a few more hints on how to make the most of displaying your albums, mini-books and pages:

Keep Things Clean. Before displaying an album make sure it is clean. Wipe any dust or dirt off the album. Periodically, check the albums and clean them as necessary to keep them in good condition.
Finish the Album. Before displaying an album, finish it as much as possible. While you may be waiting for photographs or for a page to be finished, go ahead and display it. Just don't forget to add the pages you may have done already. If the album has a window display on the cover, remember to take out the manufacturer's picture and add your own.
Match the Décor. If you are unsure of which album to display, consider the décor of your room. Will it match the color and/or pattern scheme? Will it fit the mood of the room?
Change Albums and Pages Regularly. For albums in a stand or pages in a frame, consider changing the albums and pages on a regular basis. You could change them monthly or seasonally.

Look around your house. Find those spots where you could put some shelving, display stand or a basket. Maybe you have a great spot for hanging a page frame. Find that space and get your scrapbook albums displayed.

While I do not have a traditional coffee table I am still able to use an old family cedar chest that is located in the family room. Use whatever flat, uncluttered surface that would make a good display area.

Wall-hanging display shelf - I've found this is a great way to display mini albums or smaller themed albums.
Podium - I'm still on the lookout for one of these, either desktop or full standing podium, but wouldn't that be a great way to display your albums? Use the lower shelves to store them, and then the top can display a most recent album in a place where people can easily flip through them. You could even add a stool for your album viewers.
Plate rack - I don't collect plates, but I love to put framed photographs into plate racks on the wall. As I was contemplating what photographs to put into this plate rack, it dawned on me that an album might just fit. It has to be a thin one, but this theme album from a close friend of mine fits and looks great!

Lower shelf of a console table- My entryway is screaming for a console table, where I would store a row of my larger albums in the bottom shelf. Then perhaps I could find a desktop podium to put on top of it for easy viewing...

Slowly, I'm finding places for all my albums. The sheer number of them has required some creative displays. But in the end, it's been nice to have them displayed in different rooms, in unique ways. Then they're looked at and enjoyed more frequently-like they should be!

Video Scrapbook Lessons - Scrapbook Classes at Home

2008-05-01T15:44:00.003-07:00

Scrap Tutor - Scrapbook Classes at Home

Are You...
too busy to attend scrapbook classes?
too far from a local scrapbook store to attend classes?
too distracted in a traditional class setting?
Now you can take scrapbook classes on your computer!
Scrap Tutor lets you learn at a pace and place that's comfortable for you.

Thousands of people have taken our scrapbook classes, and like them you won't find a better price—about $1 per class! Click here to learn more about online scrapbooking classes

We offer an alternative to costly classes at local scrapbook stores and conventions. Our 28 classes teach you techniques and concepts that are useful in any scrapbook.

Our Teaching Method

Scrap Tutor is a collection of lessons about scrapbooking that you take using your computer. Each lesson uses a variety of teaching methods. These methods have been combined to help you learn (and retain) the design principles we teach for life.

Video Scrapbook Lessons

These step-by-step videos show you how each technique or concept is used in your scrapbooks. You'll actually watch someone scrapbook in front of you, with the ability to watch the videos over and over again.

Example Layouts from Top Artists

These quality, larger-than-life layouts come complete with the artist's comments so you hear directly from the creator of each layout. They also provide a supply list for the layouts, tell you how they did each one.

Printable Scrapbook Lessons with Examples

We've gathered some of the best scrapbook teachers together to create extensive yet easy-to-understand lessons. You can read them using your computer or print them off for a handy reference.

Tips and Tricks

Each lesson contains helpful "tips and tricks" that will give you extra pointers beyond the core lesson.

Online Message Boards

The learning doesn't stop at home. You'll get access to the Scrap Tutor message boards. There you can ask questions directly to our teachers and other scrappers.

These lessons include:

45 Minutes of Video Instruction
125+ Layouts from Top Artists
14 Printable Step by Step Lessons
Access to the Scrap Tutor Message Boards

Chalking - Chalks are a great way to add subtle dimension to page embellishments. We'll show you how to create shadows and highlights using chalks to enhance your designs.
Color Blocking - Simple color blocking is a classic way to design your pages. Our lesson and pages examples will show how to create the many different variations of color blocking.

Dry Embossing - Discover tips and tricks for dry embossing. The subtle raised design is a fantastic way to embellish and decorate a page.

Embellishments - We'll tell you all about the different types of embellishments that are available and show you how to use them on your pages.

Eyelets - Eyelets are great fasteners and design elements. Learn how to set them and see how to use them as accents on your page.

Heat Embossing - We'll take you step by step through the process of heat embossing and tell you all about the different techniques and variations of using heat embossing on your pages.

Mats and Frames - Framing your photographs is a great way to draw attention to them. Learn some design tricks for highlighting your photos with mats and frames.

Mosaic - Mosaics add an artistic element to photos and paper designs. We'll demonstrate how to create various styles of mosaics and discuss when to use them effectively.

Paper Tearing - Paper tearing is a simple technique that adds wonderful texture to a page. We'll show you how easy it is and give some handy tips to make every tear come out just right.

Quilling - Quilling uses rolled papers strips to create wonderful and intricate designs. We'll show you the tools and the tricks to easily create quilled designs.

Shabby Chic - Learn the aging and weathering techniques associated with the Shabby Chic style.

Stitching - Stitching isn't just for fabric anymore. We'll give you ideas for using hand stitched and machine stitching in your scrapbook pages.

Template Lettering - Discover template lettering techniques and learn ways to use your templates more effectively.

Wire - Find out how to twist and bend wire to create titles and embellishments. Learn about the tools and tips that make wire-working easy.

Borders - See how a border can be an excellent design feature for your layouts. We'll demonstrate a variety of techniques used to create unique borders.
Journaling Design - We'll help make your journaling unique and exciting to read by giving multiple ideas for how to format and display your words.

Photo Corners - Whether you're creating functional or decorative photo corners, we'll give you some great ideas for designing photo corners that help to enhance and protect your photographs.

Pockets - Learn to create pockets to hold precious memorabilia. We'll show you many styles and functionalities of pockets used on scrapbook pages.

Shakers - Shakers add excitement to your pages. We'll spark your imagination with ideas to design, create and fill fantastic shaker boxes.

Tags - Tags are popular page embellishments. We'll help you discover the versatility of using tags in all kinds of ways on your layouts.

Title Design - Designing an appealing title is often overlooked when creating a layout. We'll teach many variations of lettering and design ideas to help you create better titles.

Color Coordinating - Learn more about color combinations that work, how to pick the right colors for your layout, and how specific colors can evoke different moods and emotions.
Composition - Creating balance and unity in a layout isn't always easy. We'll teach you easy principles that help create balanced layouts every time.

Focal Point - A focal point tells what a page is about at a quick glance. We'll give you ideas to make the focal point shine on your scrapbook pages.

Negative Space - Even the space is empty on a layout is an important part of the overall look. Learn how to use the negative space of a page in an effective way.

Photo Cropping - We'll teach you multiple photo cropping techniques to draw focus and add artistic appeal to your photographs.

Photo Editing - Just because you don't have the perfect picture, doesn't mean you can't create it with some creative editing. Learn techniques to alter your photos to enhance and add interest to them.

Typeface - Fonts and lettering make all the difference in the look and feel of a layout. We'll show you how to pick and choose fonts, which type of fonts look best together, and how to use typeface to enhance your pages.

Click here to learn more about online scrapbooking classes

Printing Digital Scrapbook Layouts

2008-04-30T15:16:00.001-07:00

Printing Your Digital Scrapbook Layouts

Digital scrapbooking layouts can either be printed at home on a photo printer or you can have them printed at the photo lab. If you print them at home, you need to make sure you have a quality photo printer and the capacity to print the size you want. Not all printers can print the 12 x 12 page size. Since photo printers are fairly inexpensive, purchasing a printer for home use might be a wise investment. Even with the cost of ink, you can typically print a digital scrapbooking layout for under $1.

Be sure to tell your printer the paper size and what type of paper before you start to print. When the printer is not in use, it is a good idea to keep it off; this will help your ink last a little longer. Remember to frequently clean printer heads and run a nozzle check periodically before you print to make sure your ink colors are flowing properly.

If you decide to take your digital scrapbooking layouts to the lab, you should first make sure your layouts are sized properly. If you layout is not a size that the photo lab offers you will have resize it. Always save your pages in the .jpg format. Sometimes the lab will crop the page a bit so you should make sure you keep your text at least ¼ “away from the edge. A 12 x 12 layout will be printed at a 12 x 18 size, so you can add smaller layouts, like 6 x 6, to fill in the extra space.

Whether you choose to do your digital printing at home or in a photo lab, the digital scrapbooking pages will be ready for display in a short time and you can share your memories with everyone.

Digital Scrapbook Pages from Scratch

2008-04-30T15:13:00.001-07:00

How to Create a Digital Scrapbook Pages from Scratch

Creating your own digital scrapbooking page from scratch doesn’t have to be difficult. Computer scrapbooking is cost-effective and mess-free. Just follow this simple step-by-step process and you will be on your way to designing your own digital scrapbook layouts in no time.

First, open the digital scrapbook program you will be using and set your page size. Traditionally 12 x 12, 9 x 9 and 6 x 6 sizes are used for scrapbook pages. If you don’t know how to run the basics of your program, be sure to use the tutorial or have the instruction manual handy while you create your digital page layout.

Second, you should select your background design and color fill for the page from your digital scrapbooking graphics. You can do this by opening the background papers and adding the desired background to your page.

The third step is to locate your photos, copy and paste them to your layout, then resize them and rotate them into the right position.

Now, use the text options to select a font and add a title to your page. Then using the text tool, insert some journaling on your layout.

You are almost finished. Next, add some embellishments to the page. You can do this by using the embellishment files in your specialty digital scrapbook software or downloading digital scrapbooking graphics from another source and dragging and dropping the embellishments on to your page.

Once your have completed your page and everything looks fabulous, save your work and get ready to print.

It’s that easy. Use your photo-friendly printer to print out the beautiful digitally-enhanced page you just created and add it to your book of memories.

Scrapbooking Free Online Video. Using Non-Traditional Items For Scrapbooks

2008-04-29T14:40:00.001-07:00

Learn how to add non-traditional items to scrapbooks and record memories in this free video series on scrapbooking and collecting.

Srapbooking Ideas That Are Cheap. Scrapbooking Free Online Video

2008-04-29T14:39:00.001-07:00

Srapbooking Ideas That Are Cheap

Watch the pros do their scrapbooking

Scrapbooking Online Videos. Watch and Learn Scrapbooking

2008-04-29T14:36:00.001-07:00

Scrapbooking Online Videos. Watch and Learn Scrapbooking

Cool scrapbooking video. Watch scrapbooking techniques

Basic Scrapbooking Tips

2008-04-29T14:31:00.002-07:00

Basic Scrapbooking Tips

Scrapbooking has become one of the most popular crafts in the country as it is both creative and practical. It is both easy and fun for anyone to create exciting, artistic pages to enhance their photos. In addition this rewarding hobby provides a family treasure that will endure for countless generations. To get you started try to think of planning a scrapbook page or layout like planning a greeting card. All this craft requires is a theme, a bit of time, and your creative ideas. So if you are looking to get started on creating your own beautiful album here are some basic scrapbooking tips-

•It all starts with organization! The first thing you need to do is get those pictures out of shoeboxes and onto the coffee table where they can be enjoyed. Begin by organizing and sorting your photos by subjects, such as Activities, Events, People, Places, Things, Time, etc. Then move on to sort each category into chronological order. Many people begin with a memory book for each child, a Christmas book, a birthday book or a vacation book. After your photos are organized then gather your decorating materials. This can be as simple as gathering some basic tools and supplies around your house or a visit to your local craft store can show you everything you need. Just remember that everything that touches your photos should be of archival quality and photo safe.

•Create your pages-Since you have decided what your theme will be you want to make sure that you select photos that reflect that theme for your page. If needed or desired, crop photos to desired shapes, using die cut templates, scissors, corner borders, craft punches, etc. Then you can select enhancing papers or stickers, or create a background with rubber stamps. Make sure that before adhering anything to your page you experiment with the layout by moving things around until you are satisfied with the results. After you are fully satisfied then assemble and glue the page.

•Now is the time to assemble your finished pages into your scrapbook. Make sure that you assemble your finished pages in chronological order to tell the story. Then it is fun to add memorabilia to facing pages, such as letters, awards, programs, tickets, etc. in order to more fully tell your story. Just make sure that you leave room for journaling. Be sure to add information and details that will enhance your pictures.

Now that you know the basics of assembling your pictures here are some tips to help you with the composition of the pages in your scrapbook.

•Color is the basic premise of any scrapbook. So be sure to keep your eyes open to look all around you for great color palettes and colors that work well together. Be sure to pay close attention to advertisements, nature and even interior decorating samples and clothing combinations; this can give you great ideas for you scrapbooks.

•It may be helpful to keep an "Idea Journal". Many scrappers find it useful to keep a small notebook in their purse or bag and jot down ideas as they see them. You can even sketch a layout and then use colored pencils to convey what you would like the color palette to look like when finished in your scrapbook. This works well when you are stuck for ideas; you can just pull out your idea journal and get to work.

•Remember the feelings and emotions you felt during whatever you are scrapbooking. Be sure to pay special attention to your color choices so that you give off correct emotions.

•Keep in mind that busy isn't better. You may want to avoid busy background papers with lots of colors and objects scattered all over them. Remember that the key is to keep the focus on the pictures, and when you use distracting colors and objects, you lose sight of what the main intent of the layout is.
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Paper Bag Scrapbook. How To Make A paper Bag Scrapbook

2008-04-29T14:26:00.003-07:00

Paper Bag Scrapbook. 3 Tips Unique to the Paper Bag Scrapbook

Can you guess the best way to make a scrap book? Out of scrap, of course! I’ve been enamored with paper bag scrapbooks ever since my son’s pre-school teacher made one for each of her students a couple of years ago. Such a great use of materials and the results are a weight and feel that I just love. Surprisingly, we don’t see very many of the around so I thought I’d try to spread paper bag scrapbook love by offering some simple instructions.

Making a paper bag scrapbook is very easy and would make a great project to do with your children on a rainy day. They generally make a good project for just about anyone!

Simple Instructions:

Place a few paper bags – no more than 4 or 5 – on top of each other in alternating directions (alternating open ends and closed bottoms).

Fold your stack of paper bags in half.

Staple along the fold about ½” from the crease – this creates the spine of your paper bag scrapbook.

Embellish the spine to hide the staples – options:
Cover the staples with a strip of ribbon, paper, cardstock, fiber or other embellishment that you think suites the theme of the paper bag scrapbook you are creating.

Punch holes along the spine and run with ribbon or fibers – tying knots and/or weaving in and out of the punched holes.

Sew a line through the fold in the paper bags (note: this is my favorite way to bind a paper bag scrapbook)

Be creative – eyelets, snaps, rivets and other scrapbooking tricks can be used to make an excellent binding for your paper bag scrapbook.

Once you have embellished your spine, you’ll want to get creative with the use of your scrapbooking skills. Photo treatment, journaling, embellishments including decorative papers, borders, rub-ons, paints, fibers, ribbons and fabrics can all be used just as with a traditional scrapbook project – to create lasting memories in a unique presentation.

3 Tips Unique to the Paper Bag Scrapbook:

Most importantly, remember that a paper bag scrapbook is essentially made of very cheap paper that is not acid free. So this will not be an archival quality project. Be sure to use copies of your original photographs or inkjet prints on photo paper.

The open end of each paper bag ‘page’ can be used as a unique pocket space for journaling, photos, slide out cardstock pages and other dimensional items.

The closed end of each paper bag ‘page’ can be utilized in much the same way by lifting the folded flap to reveal your additional journaling, photo, etc. You could also trim the closed end of the paper bag ‘page’ to make another open end

Scrapbooking Journals. Jumpstart Your Journal

2008-04-24T14:22:00.003-07:00

A Dozen Ways to Jumpstart Your Journal Ideas to help you get writing in your journal.

Keeping a journal is a great way to gather your thoughts, capture creative ideas and also to release stress by expressing your emotions. But sometimes when keeping a journal, you can wind up coming to the page feeling like you have nothing to say at that moment. You really have a lot to say, deep inside of you, all of the time. Lots of dreams, daydreams, memories and goals that you want to achieve are inside of you - that you can put in your journal. People keep journals for different reasons, at different times in their lives. Sometimes using a "jumpstart" can help you get to a deeper issue, or to a creative brainstorm that is just waiting to happen. Whether you already keep a journal, or are interested in starting one, here are a dozen ways to "jumpstart" your journal writing.

What's in there? -- What has been catching your eye over and over? What song can't you get out of your head? We all pick up on outside images and words around us. Explore why you are focusing on something in your world at this time, what it could mean to you, or what you already are aware that it means to you.

What trend do you love? -- What new style, technology or entertainment trend appeals to you? Is there an object that you would love to own, something that you are saving up for? Is there a television show, or technology that fascinates you?

Envision your future -- What will your life be like five years from now. What will it be like a year from now? Be as descriptive as possible, using words and images to picture your family, career, hobbies and personal goals. What issues or goals does this future vision bring to your present day for you?

Childhood lessons -- Not all of our lessons come from a classroom. What did you learn as a child? Who motivated and inspired you? Who challenged you to do things differently -- and made your life better for it? What talents developed during your youth? Delve into your childhood and explore its gifts.

The season -- Fall/Winter/Spring/Summer... the seasons are always changing, always subtle shifts around us. Each has its gifts and its challenges. What has the current season brought to you? What have you treasured from other years from the same season? What do you love about this season, and what rituals do you return to each year for this season (apple picking in the fall, building a snowman in the winter, planting new bulbs in the spring, going to the beach in the summer).

Presents and Presence -- What was the best gift you were ever given? Who gave it to you and why? What was the most memorable gift you received? What gifts have you given that were special?

Home Sweet Home -- How do you feel about your home? If the rooms could speak, what would they say to you? What would you say to them? What would you like to change about your home? What is the most powerful memory that occured in your home?

Pages and Screens -- What books and movies have motivated you to think differently, or inspired you to take action? What are you reading or viewing now and how does it make you feel? What books or movies would you give a child? An adult?

Beautiful Music -- What songs did you love as a child? As a teenager - what songs remind you the most of this time? What songs have great meaning from your adult life?

Dreams -- What are your dreams telling you? Dreams are full of their own language, imagery and words and sensations. The more you practice remembering your dreams, the more you are able to remember them.

Clothing & Jewelry -- What clothing and jewelry remind you of important times in your life? What did your mother wear for a special occasion? What did your sister wear? What was the first piece of clothing that was bought for you that meant you were "growing up"? What clothing did you like the most from your teen years?

Planes, trains and automobiles -- Write about memorable trips you have taken -- whether by car, air or rails. Where did you go? What was unexpected about the trip? What did you love/hate about travel? Where do you want to go in the future?

Source: Abigail Amy Beal is a journal writer and publishes the ezine Capture Memories Create Treasures, an ezine for scrapbooking, journal writing and memory crafts. Each monthly issue features projects and ideas to capture memories and create treasures. Contact: capturememoriescreatetreasures@yahoo.com. To subscribe: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/capturememoriescreatetreasures/

Scrapbook Journaling . Stress-Free Scrapbook Journaling Ideas

2008-04-24T14:17:00.002-07:00

Adding journaling to your scrapbook pages doesn't have to be a cause for writer's block. Use these helpful tips.

Do you find it intimidating when you come to journal your scrapbook pages?

You are not alone! Many scrapbookers find it hard to get started when it comes to adding journaling to their scrapbooking layouts.

If you are one of those people who go blank at the thought of having to journal, don’t worry. Here are some stress-free scrapbooking journaling ideas to help you write the right words whatever your page theme.

Make a list
This is a fairly simple journaling technique that is suitable for use with any type of page theme, for example:

Doing a friendship page - list how you met, where you met, how long you have known each other, include what you like about your friend and why you are both pals.

Doing a recipe scrapbook page - then make a personal top 10 list of reasons why you like Grandma’s chocolate cake so much.

Doing a baby layout - do a list of baby’s favorite foods, you can even do one for the foods they don’t like!

A variation of this technique is to use bullet points to mark each line on your list, giving you an opportunity to empathise each item of your journaling:

Anguilla
April 2004
My first trip to the Caribbean
This is the view from my hotel balcony overlooking the cove – I can’t wait to go swimming the sea looks so nice!

Make sure you have fun experimenting with all the different kinds of embellishments that you can use as your bullet points!

Another bonus with using the list technique is that you do not need to worry about the structure of your sentences or that your journaling makes sense because the list breaks down what you want to say into it’s basic readable form.

Write a Letter

This is one of those great scrapbook journaling ideas that’s fairly simple to do and it’s also a lovely, personal way to journal your layouts too.

All you have to do is pretend you’re writing to a friend telling them what is happening in your photographs and including the “Dear ….” at the beginning of your writing will give your journaling an intimate feel.

Sent any emails lately? Like letters, emails are also a good source of journaling material that you can use for your layouts.

If you are unsure of your own journaling then doing it in a letter format could help your writing flow more easily, as you describe the people and the events taking place, letting you tell the story naturally and in your own words.

Ask a question

If you are completely stuck and cannot think of anything to write this can be a good quick fix technique to use. Just ask some simple questions like, “What was your favorite part of..?” or “Did anything funny or embarrassing happen?”.

This technique can be very effective when used for a special occasion layout, like a bridal shower, where you can ask each of the guests to tell you about their favorite memory of the bride-to-be.

Why not take it a stage further? Give each shower guest some suitable decorative paper and let them write down their own memories rather than journal all of them yourself.

For an extra special touch, you could get the guests to bring with them their favorite photo of the bride-to-be. Ask them to journal why they picked that particular picture and then do a separate layout for each individual photo.

This is an effective way to make a wonderful and unique scrapbook that is quick, simple and full of memorable pieces of journaling that add a very personal feel to the album.

If you are one of those people who find it difficult to begin the journaling process these fun scrapbook journaling ideas will provide you with some basic tips and techniques to help make it easier.

So go on, try out the scrapbook journaling ideas above for yourself and add some stress-free journaling to your pages... Once you’ve finished you’ll see that it’s been well worth the effort.

Source: Elaine Clay is the owner of Online-Scrapbooking-Guide.com - your one-stop online scrapbooking resource. Find inspiration, increase your creativity and have fun with our helpful tips, ideas, articles and much more.

Chemicals That Can Destroy Your Scrapbook

2008-04-24T14:12:00.002-07:00

Various chemicals in your scrapbook materials that can damage your scrapbooks over time

Once you spend your precious time and energy creating a scrapbook, make sure it lasts! There are a few simple things you can easily do to ensure that your scrapbooks look just as good as the day you finished them, for years to come.

The first thing to avoid is paper that is not lignin-free. You've probably heard that before, and it is true, but what is lignin anyways? Lignin is a stiff component of a plant that quite literally holds it together. Although lignin is necessary for plants and trees, you want nothing to do with it! After a while, lignin will cause photos, fabrics and other paper that touch it to turn brown. Yes, lignin-free paper does cost more, but it is a vital part of preserving your cherished scrapbooks.

If the paper is not lignin-free, it will eventually discolor your photos and other materials touching it. So when buying paper for your scrapbooking projects, be sure to look for packages that say "lignin-free," because if it doesn't say it, then it most likely isn't.

Fabric is a big concern for preserving your scrapbooks, but unfortunately it is often overlooked. Many people assume that all fabrics are acid-free, but they aren't. Silk actually goes through an acid bath during the manufacturing process, as well as many tie-dyed fabrics. This isn't to discourage you from using it, not all. Just try to make sure that no photos directly touch fabric, and if you need them to overlap, make sure there is a layer of paper between the two.

Another consideration when using fabrics is if the color will bleed off onto your page and other things touching it. To test for this, cut a square inch off and soak it in a glass of water over night. If there is no color bleeding from it the next day, then there isn't any risk to your scrapbook. But if you do see color in the water, or collecting at the bottom of the glass then don't use that fabric in your scrapbook at all.

When using glitter, be sure there is a top layer of spray adhesive to lock them down, or better yet use special glitter glue where the glitter is mixed right in. If this is not done right the glitter will slowly fall off, and loose glitter means scratched photos.

After you have planned the layout for your photos, be sure that you are using the right kind of mounting tape for them! Regular mounting tape is fine for buttons and bottle caps, but when it come to mounting photos you need to use special photo mounting tape which is completely acid-free. If you don't, your photos will slowly discolor. The tape should say "acid-free" right on the packaging.

These are just a few simple things you can do to ensure that your scrapbooks last and last.

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Scrapbooking Tools for Beginners. Cropping Corner Tips

2008-04-24T14:06:00.002-07:00

Cropping Corner Tip: Scrapbooking Tools for Beginners

If you are new to scrapbooking or just have not done many pages you are considered a beginner. To begin your scrapbook regimen you should be armed with some essential scrapbook supplies before you get started.

1. Eyelet setter--eyelets are common embellishments and you cannot use them with your an eyelet setter tool. They are fairly inexpensive an entire set that includes a hammer will probably cost you around $20.

2. Decorative scissors. These scissors can be used for many purposes. They can be used to cut photo mats, pictures, etc. The scissors can be purchased at any scrapbook supplier or craft store. They cost about $3-$5.

3. Paper Trimmer. This is essential for anyone attempting to scrapbook. A personal paper trimmer will help you cut straight and make square mats for your page layouts. Paper trimmer are available wherever scrapbooking supplies are sold. A quality paper trimmer will probably cost $15-$20.

There are so many scrapbooking products to choose from. As you become familiar with the products and get a feel for what you want to use you can buy more tools. The products mentioned above are some suggested scrapbooking starter tools.

Easy Page Layouts for Scrapbooking Beginners

2008-04-24T14:01:00.002-07:00

Easy Page Layouts for Scrapbooking Beginners
Scrapbooking for beginners should include simple page layouts.

Here are step-by-step instructions for constructing an easy scrapbooking page layout.

· Select 1 or 2 pictures for your page.
· Pick out 2 or 3 colors of scrapbooking paper that match and accent each other and your photos.
· Plan your page by using elements that balance each other.
· Add your “Title” or “Header” to your page.
· Now crop your photos, by removing unwanted backgrounds and unnecessary space.
· Create photo mats and choose your embellishments.
· Use your adhesive to glue your photos and accents on your page.
· Leave room for journaling.
· Finally do your journaling. Record your feelings and tell your story.

Creating a simple, yet appealing page layouts will assist beginners in starting out on “the right foot.” As you become more experienced you can attempt to create more complex designs.

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2008-04-24T11:42:00.000-07:00

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Scrapbooking Layouts. Aging Paper for Scrapbook Layouts

2008-04-23T13:54:00.002-07:00

Scrapbooking Layouts. Aging Paper for Scrapbook Layouts

Making your paper look aged or weathered is becoming a popular technique for scrapbookers. There are several ways you can make your cardstock or scrapbook paper look "aged".

One techique is to wad the paper into a ball and make it wrinkled. You can do this with dry paper or for a bolder impession mist your paper first. After you have wadded the paper in a ball unwrinkle the paper, let it dry and sand the inside with a fine grained sand paper. If you are using damp paper then you can iron the paper by covering it with towel and using the heat from the iron to dry your paper. This technique will set your creases and give the paper a sort of "weathered" look.

Sand paper can be used alone to sand off some of the color of on your paper, which will make it look "aged".

Texturizing your paper with dry embossing or other methods and then sanding the images can also give that "aged" image on your layouts.

Scrapbooking With Paper Bag Albums. Paper Bag Mini Scrapbooks

2008-04-23T13:48:00.002-07:00

Paper Bag Scrapbook Albums. Paper Bag Mini Scrapbooking Technique

Paper bag albums are little books that make wonderful mini scrapbooks. They can be assembled in a limited amount of time. Did you know you could use plain brown bags to make an appealing little scrapbook album?

Typical brown or white lunch bags can be folded into a small memory book that you can use for gifts, school memories, brag books, etc.

Here is what you will need to make your Scrapbook Paper Bag Album:

Paper bags (brown or white)
Heavy-duty hole punch or eyelet punch
Stamps, stickers or die cuts
Scissors
Adhesive
Embellishments (ribbons, eyelets, brads, tags, etc)
Cardstock and background paper (variety of matching colors)

The first step is to fold your paper bags into a book shape. You can use as many bags as you would like but three to five is recommended. Lay out your bags alternating the flaps so all the thickness doesn't end up on one side. Now, put them on top of each other and fold them into an album. You might want to sew down the middle of the book in order to keep the bags in place and prevent them from shifting and tearing your binding. Next, punch holes down the folds (binding) and use ribbons or other materials to bind the book together.

Cut your papers into squares that will fit the size of your album and adhere them to your pages. Decorate your pages just like you would a typical scrapbook. Make photo mats for your pictures, use background papers, etc. You could dress up your pages with stamps, stickers; die cuts and other scrapbooking embellishments.

These books are great for kids to experiment with, too. Paper bags are not memory safe so you might want to treat the paper with an acid reducing spray in order to protect your pictures and preserve your album.

Originality in Scrapbooking. Including Quotes on Your Scrapbook Pages.

2008-04-23T13:44:00.002-07:00

Originality in Scrapbooking. Including Quotes on Your Scrapbook Pages.

Originality in scrapbooking is essential. You can create original pages with exclusive ideas. Including journaling on your layouts is one way to tell about the photographs and help you remember what was going on during that time period.

Srapbooking quotes for your pages are a wonderful way to add some "elegance" to your page layouts. Famous quotes for your era are fun to have in your books. You can also include quotes from family members about the people in the pictures.

For baby books you can quote your child or record "first words" and funny sayings and phrases.

Including quotes in on your pages will make them unique but make them interesting for others to view.

Create a Digital Scrapbook Pages from Scratch

2008-04-23T13:39:00.001-07:00

How to Create a Digital Scrapbook Pages from Scratch

Creating your own digital scrapbooking page from scratch doesn’t have to be difficult. Computer scrapbooking is cost-effective and mess-free. Just follow this simple step-by-step process and you will be on your way to designing your own digital scrapbook layouts in no time.

First, open the digital scrapbook program you will be using and set your page size. Traditionally 12 x 12, 9 x 9 and 6 x 6 sizes are used for scrapbook pages. If you don’t know how to run the basics of your program, be sure to use the tutorial or have the instruction manual handy while you create your digital page layout.

Second, you should select your background design and color fill for the page from your digital scrapbooking graphics. You can do this by opening the background papers and adding the desired background to your page.

The third step is to locate your photos, copy and paste them to your layout, then resize them and rotate them into the right position.

Now, use the text options to select a font and add a title to your page. Then using the text tool, insert some journaling on your layout.

You are almost finished. Next, add some embellishments to the page. You can do this by using the embellishment files in your specialty digital scrapbook software or downloading digital scrapbooking graphics from another source and dragging and dropping the embellishments on to your page.

Once your have completed your page and everything looks fabulous, save your work and get ready to print.

It’s that easy. Use your photo-friendly printer to print out the beautiful digitally-enhanced page you just created and add it to your book of memories.

Scrapbooking Growing in Popularity

2008-04-21T10:55:00.002-07:00

A colourful book of memories; Scrapbooking growing in popularity

If you know a Cuttlebug, a Cricut and a Crop-o-dile are neither insects nor reptiles, then you've either done some scrapbooking or know someone who has.

Scrapbooking is the craft of placing stickers, fabric, die-cuts, embossed letters and other embellishments onto decorative paper-covered pages that highlight treasured photographs, mementoes and souvenirs. The pages are then either placed into a plastic sleeve or simply placed into an decorated album.

Laurie Hucal took up the hobby in 1999 after the birth of her husband's nephew, Adrian.

Hucal, a local real estate agent, says the craft is a good hobby for those who enjoy working with their hands.

"I've always loved putting anything together," she says. "I'm really detail oriented, so when there was a craft that could combine creativity, colour and detail with family, friends and memories, it was the perfect hobby for me."

Scrapbooking is popular in the United States and is growing swiftly in Canada.

Scrapbooks are usually based on a theme that reflects not only the subject, but the creator, as well.

Hucal completed a second book detailing a real-estate convention she attended in Nova Scotia. It's filled with colour, smiling faces, unique cut-outs and plenty of lobsters.

"I've got to get into it again," she says, her enthusiasm growing with each turn of the page. "I used to do this on a regular basis. I got away from it, but it is so important.

"Some people are just as happy to let the memories go," she adds. "I remember when I showed (Adrian's book) to my sister-in-law, his mother. She almost cried.

"It ties memories together and it's a recognition of a life. It's something anyone can do and can be as easy or as difficult at you make it. Another bonus is that it's portable."

Support workers at Community Living Greater Sudbury assist its members in making personalized scrapbooks. The non-profit organization provides services to individuals with developmental disabilities.

"The individuals get to choose the colour, theme, format and style of their pages and they work at their own pace," says Dorice Dusty, family home program and public relations spokesperson.

"The organization's members do not always know their natural families or their own siblings," she says. "Having a photo of the home and the family with whom they now share a home helps them to process some of their loss. It helps them to belong somewhere.

"We've had positive results from those in our special population who have taken part. They're so proud of their completed albums."

The hobby has a growing fanbase in Sudbury, says Patsy Bell, store manager of Michael's Arts and Crafts on Marcus Drive.

The store offers free "Make it and Take it" days once a month and also provides free demos on the use of various cutting machines.

Bell says scrapbooking is showing no signs of slowing down. "It's more popular than ever," she says.

Michael's, Linda's Photography in Lively and Sandy's Scrapbooking on Durham Street keep up with the latest trends and sell equipment, decorative papers, materials and tools specific to the scrapbooker.

Both Sandy's and Linda's offer classes for beginners and often holds "crop nights" - social gatherings where crafters spend a few hours enjoying each other's company as they work on their albums. Cropping sessions are also held occasionally at the Valley East library branch.

Linda Kluke, owner of Linda's Photography, has a suggestion for rookie scrapbookers.

"They can bring in their materials, with no obligation to buy anything, and I would show them how to use all the tools and equipment," Kluke says. "Don't buy anything until you've come in and shown me your pictures. The materials you choose have to match the style of your pictures."

Aside from specialty stores, you can also find basic scrapbooking supplies at local dollar stores.

A local school has caught the scrapbooking bug.

Lise Orsini, an educational assistant at Northeastern Elementary School in Garson, founded a scrapbooking club for children from grades three to eight. An avid scrapbooker, Orsini says the club meets weekly and is in its fourth year.

She says the craft helps to foster children's creativity, to let them develop skills and to share ideas with others.

And the craft isn't exclusive to women and girls: there are stickers, decorative papers and other materials with "masculine"-themed designs, such as fishing gear, NASCAR racing and tools.

Source: http://www.thesudburystar.com/

Inking Scrapbooking Techniques. Inking Scrapbooking Hints

2008-04-21T10:46:00.002-07:00

Inking Scrapbooking Techniques

Inking is a scapbooking technique that offers lots of variety. There is no specific way to ink your pages or images. You can't use as little or as much ink as you would like for your project. The creativity is up do you. Ink as much as desired.

You will need:

· Scrapbooking paper (cardstock, B&T paper, vellum, etc.)
· Sponge (dry and clean)
· Ink pads (your choice of colors)
· Other scrapbook supplies of your choice such as stamps, scrapbooking die cuts, stickers, scrapbooking templates, etc.

First, cut out your desired mattes and papers.

Then, dab the paper onto the inkpad turning it in various directions. You will have smudged color on your paper. You can use a sponge to fill in the color in uneven areas if you would like. The easiest route is to rub the edges of your paper against your ink pad, this will make a border around the image or your entire page.

Inking is used to add depth to your pages. It also gives it an "antique" or "weathered" look. It enhances your paper and adds color to the overall layout.

Inking Scrapbooking Hints:

You want to make sure you lightly dab the paper onto the pad and don't press too hard or you might get a large, dark ink spot in one isolated area.

Lightly brush the ink across corners and edges of paper. You can also use a stipple brush for a different type of "inking effect".

This technique works best with non-glossy papers.

You can softly ink around your photo mats to give them texture and make them stand out behind your photograph.

Inking your pages or card creations can add a unique twist to your scrapbooking creations. Instead of coloring your images dab them in a little ink for shading and your done.

11 Scapbooking Beginner Tips. Getting Started With Scapbooking

2008-04-21T10:39:00.002-07:00

Scapbooking Beginner Tips. Getting Started With Scapbooking

Scrapper Block
You know what this is, kind of like writers block. The best solution for this is to pick up a Scrap booking magazine or go online and search for page layouts. My e-Book also has some very creative ideas.

Storage Idea
With Scrap booking, you will have small craft items such as eyelets, ribbons, buttons or glitter Try storing them in your empty film canisters.

Picture Placement
Always make sure that all your pictures and stickers fit onto your page and are placed exactly where you like them best. Some types of glue are very adhesive and you may have a hard time pulling them up once they have been
glued down.

Cheap Embellishments
Check out the gift-wrap department at your local Target or Wal-Mart store. You can find some really cute die cuts with sticky foam already attached in may themes and colors.

Duplicate
If you are nervous about cropping your original pictures, an easy solution is to always get duplicates when developing your pictures or copy them on a color copier.

Postcards
When traveling, record your experiences by mailing yourself postcards that detail your trip that can be used later in your album or store them in a minialbum with a picture from your trip.

Information
Always use a photo-safe marker to record who, what, where and when onto the back of each photo.

Rubber Stamps
When using a new rubber stamp, always test it 3 or 4 times on a scrap piece of paper to ensure even distribution of ink.

Titles
Your title should immediately identify the subject of the page or of you book. They can be done freehand or you can use stickers or letter templates to add texture and color to your title.

Journaling
Journaling brings your album to life. Your journaling piece should include who’s in your photo, what they are doing and when it happened. It should tell a story that will bring back your memories for years to come.

Storage
Never store your photo or memorabilia in a cardboard box. They are not good for photos. Always store these precious items in archival-safe photo boxes or page protectors.

Scrapbooking Sticker Placement

2008-04-19T11:51:00.001-07:00

Scrapbooking Sticker Placement

Scrapbooking stickers can either make a page or ruin it visually. Sticker placement can be tricky and if you put a sticker in the wrong place it may be hard to move it once it is stuck to your paper. When using small stickers you want to refrain from using a large amount. This prevents the page from looking cluttered. You can make a large sticker look neat and more noticeable by outlining it with a solid color of paper that matches your original scrapbooking paper (this can also be done when using letter stickers).

Another sticker placement solution you can try is to cover strip of cardboard with waxed paper. Arrange stickers or letters on it and place it on page to see how it would look and/or fit. Stickers and letters can be easily removed from waxed paper.

Also, with your sticker sheet you can cut each section apart, keeping your backing intact and rearrange the pieces until your get them where you want them. Then, peel off the backing and adhere the sticker to your page layout.

Fast, Easy Page Layouts for Scrapbooking Beginners

2008-04-19T11:40:00.003-07:00

Fast, Easy Page Layouts for Scrapbooking Beginners
Scrapbooking for beginners should include simple page layouts.

Here are step-by-step instructions for constructing an easy scrapbooking page layout.

· Select 1 or 2 pictures for your page.
· Pick out 2 or 3 colors of scrapbooking paper that match and accent each other and your photos.
· Plan your page by using elements that balance each other.
· Add your “Title” or “Header” to your page.
· Now crop your photos, by removing unwanted backgrounds and unnecessary space.
· Create photo mats and choose your embellishments.
· Use your adhesive to glue your photos and accents on your page.
· Leave room for journaling.
· Finally do your journaling. Record your feelings and tell your story.

Creating a simple, yet appealing page layouts will assist beginners in starting out on “the right foot.” As you become more experienced you can attempt to create more complex designs.

Digital Scrapbooking.

2008-04-19T11:24:00.003-07:00

Digital Scrapbooking

The advent of scanners, desktop publishing, page layout programs, and advanced printing options make it relatively easy to create professional-looking layouts in digital form. The internet allows scrapbookers to self-publish their work. Scrapbooks that exist completely in digital image form are referred to as "digital scrapbooks" or "computer scrapbooks."

While some people prefer the physicality of the actual artifacts they paste onto the pages of books, the digital scrapbooking hobby has grown in popularity in recent years. Some of the advantages include a greater diversity of materials, less environmental impact, cost savings, the ability to share finished pages more readily on the internet, and the use of image editing software to experiment with manipulating page elements in multiple ways without making permanent adjustments. A traditional scrapbook layout may employ a background paper with a torn edge. While a physical page can only be torn once and never restored, a digital paper can be torn and untorn with ease, allowing the scrapbooker to try out different looks without wasting supplies. When you create a digital layout, you do it in much the same way that you would a traditional layout, in that you layer papers and elements on top of one another. Each paper, photo, or embellishment exists on its own layer in your document, and you can reposition them at your discretion.

Furthermore, digital scrapbooking is not limited to digital storage and display. Many digital scrappers print their finished layouts to be stored in scrapbook albums. Others have books professionally printed in hard bound books to be saved as keepsakes. Professional printing- and binding-services offer free software to create scrapbooks with professional layouts and individual layouting capabilities. Because of the integrated design and order workflow, real hardcover bounded books can be produced cost effectively.

Scrapbooking Materials. Most Important Scrapbooking Materials

2008-04-19T11:23:00.002-07:00

Scrapbooking Materials. Most Important Scrapbooking Materials

The most important scrapbooking supply is the album itself, which can be permanently bound, or allow for insertion of pages. There are other formats, such as mini albums and accordion-style fold-out albums. Some of these are adhered to various containers, such as matchbooks, CD cases, or other small holders.

Modern scrapbooking is done largely on 12 inch square or 8½×11 inch pages. More recently smaller albums have become very popular. The most common new formats are 6, 7, or 8-inch square.

Basic materials include background papers (including printed and cardstock paper), photo corner mounts (or other means of mounting photos such as adhesive dots, photo mounting tape, or acid-free glue), scissors, a paper trimmer, art pens, archival pens for journaling, and mounting glues (like thermo-tac). More elaborate designs require more specialized tools such as die cut templates, rubber stamps, craft punches,stencils, inking tools, eyelet setters, heat embossing tools and personal die cut machines. No you dont need all of this, a simple book and picture wouls work lovely.

Various accessories, referred to as "embellishments," are used to decorate scrapbook pages. Embellishments include stickers,rub-ons, stamps, eyelets, brads, chipboard elements in various shapes, alphabet letters and ribbon. The use of die cut machines is also increasingly popular; in recent years an electronic die-cutting machine, similar to a printer, can be connected to one's computer to cut any shape or font.

One of the key components of modern scrapbooking is the archival quality of the supplies. Designed to preserve photographs and journaling in their original state, materials encouraged by most serious scrapbookers are of a higher quality than those of many typical photo albums commercially available. Scrappers insist on acid-free, lignin-free papers, stamp ink, and embossing powder, and pigment based inks, which are fade resistant, colorfast, and often waterproof. Older "magnetic" albums were not acid-free and thus caused damage to the photos and memorabilia included in them.

Modern Day Scrapbooking. Hobby Of Scrapbooking

2008-04-19T11:18:00.003-07:00

Modern Day Scrapbooking

Marielen Christensen of Spanish Fork, Utah is often credited with reviving interest in scrapbooking in the United States. She began designing creative pages for her family's photo memories, inserting the completed pages into sheet protectors collected in 3-ring binders. By 1980, she had assembled over fifty volumes and was invited to display them at the World Conference on Records in Salt Lake City. Marielen and her husband AJ authored and published a how-to book, Keeping Memories Alive, and opened a scrapbook store in 1981 that remains open today.

In addition to preserving memories, the hobby is popular for the strong social network that scrapbooking can provide. Hobbyists, known as "scrappers" or "scrapbookers," get together and scrapbook at each other's homes, local scrapbook stores[5], scrapbooking conventions, retreat centers, and even on cruises. The attendees share tips and ideas as well as enjoying a social outlet. The term "crop," a reference to cropping or trimming printed photographs, was coined to describe these events.

In the late 1990s, many scrappers in the US opened stores to turn their hobby into a business. Within approximately 5 years, many of those stores were forced to close due to a downturn in the economy and the fact that many store owners mistakenly assumed that loving to scrap was enough to run a retail store. Many owners simply didn't know how to run their stores. During this time, more multi-level direct sales companies were formed. Several were closed due to mismanagement, while others weathered the tough times. It also gave rise to a new breed of business - the home-based retailer. Companies arrived to provide information for individuals who wanted to break out of the direct sales mold and go out on their own. While vendors had traditionally stayed away from the home-based market due to fraud, they began to warm to the idea of the non-traditional sales channels as a way to get their products in front of more consumers through home parties and workshops. Working with a company like this enabled them to tap into legitimate home-based retailers.

The scrapbooking industry doubled in size between 2001 and 2004 to $2.5 billion with over 1,600 companies creating scrapbooking products by 2003[4]. Creative Memories, a home-based retailer of scrapbooking supplies founded in 1987, saw $425 million in retail sales in 2004. This hobby has in the US surpassed golf in popularity: one in four households has someone playing golf; one in three has someone involved in scrapbooking.

Scrapbooking History

2008-04-19T11:12:00.004-07:00

Scrapbooking History

Scrapbooking is a method for preserving personal and family history in the form of photographs, printed media, and memorabilia contained in decorated albums, or scrapbooks. The idea of keeping printed materials of personal interest probably dates to shortly after the invention of printing. This trend is probably similar for photographs. Historically, scrapbooking was a tradition similar to storytelling, but with a visual and tactile, rather than oral, focus.

In ancient Greece hypomnemata were a form of notebook for recording one's own copies of what one had heard, read, or thought that might be worth remembering. There is little evidence in the archaeological and historical record that this practice was undertaken anywhere else previously. That one had to make one's own hand-written copies of what someone else had written reflected the expense of hiring a scribe to do so. More recently commonplace books reflected the same practice. Only with the availability of abundant printed material is it likely that the content of such books shifted away from one's own hand-writing or drawings or those of one's family members toward commercially available printed material.

Scrapbooking in its earliest form was a way to blend ephemera, memorabilia collections and journaling.[citation needed] People have been scrapbooking since printed material became available to the average person. Some of the earliest and most famous American scrapbookers include Thomas Jefferson and Mark Twain

Scrapbooking with photographs has been around since photos became available to ordinary people. Old scrapbooks tended to have photos mounted with photomount corners and perhaps notations of who was in a photo or where and when it was taken. They often included bits of memorabilia like newspaper clippings, letters, etc. Modern scrapbooking has evolved into creating attractive displays of photos, text, journaling and memorabilia.

I. BEGINNINGS OF SCRAPBOOKING: THE EARLIEST HISTORY
The earliest known reference to what we would now call a scrapbook is from 1598, but the use of notebooks to collect information started much earlier during the time of Aristotle and Cicero. These men, and their pupils, used this earliest form of the scrapbook for philosophical, religious, and rhetorical discussions. The word 'album,' in fact, comes from Greco-Roman times when a praetor's public notices were recorded on paper tablets or white tables.

During the Renaissance, which took place between the fourteenth and sixteenth centuries, the soon-to-be termed commonplace book came into its own as the period's overflow of information and culture needed a place to reside. An intense renewal of popularity in the study of Greek and Roman culture as well as the rise of libraries and philosophical schools such as Humanism provided the perfect opportunity for the creation of commonplace books as scholars and other literary-minded people copied their favorite passages or poems into blank books to create personal anthologies of works that had inspired or touched them.

In addition, Giorgio Vasari, an Italian author in the sixteenth century, advocated in his book of Italian artists the saving of prints and drawings by placing them in albums, a recommendation that influenced the creation of museums and libraries during that time period and a practice that continued to be popular in Europe up until the 1900s. The philosopher John Locke focused enough attention on the commonplace book in his 'New Method of Making Common-place Books' manual, published in 1706, to create a new and separate genre. His book discussed the proper technique for the preservation of proverbs, quotations, ideas, speeches, and other forms of written or spoken word that paved the way for the modern day idea of journaling.

In 1769, one of the direct predecessors to our modern day scrapbook was created when William Granger published a history of England with extra illustrations of his text as an appendix. Later, he expanded on his idea by including blank pages which readers could use to add in their own illustrations or prints as desired. This process, known as grangerizing, came to mean any book that was rebound into a different edition with new additional prints, letters, or other memorabilia. These types of books were also known as extra-illustrated books and achieved the most popularity during the 1800s.

Our third president, Thomas Jefferson, was one of the first well-known American scrappers, in a manner of speaking, as he saved newspaper clippings from and during his presidency into a series of albums for future reference. Other people during this time period saved notes, news articles and other clippings, illustrations, craft instructions, and even diary entries into homemade albums with wallpaper and cardboard covers. Some folks who could afford to 'waste' books in their collections actually pasted their ephemera, printed paper memorabilia like tickets or playbills, onto old book or catalog pages.

By the early 1800s, albums had evolved into ones resembling those of today with embossed covers, engraved clasps, and locks. Along with Granger books and commonplace books, people in the 1800s kept diaries, journals, and friendship albums. Friendship albums were almost exclusively owned by women and kept a lady's favorite quotes, poems, calling cards, and hair weavings in one place. Hair weavings, which started in Germany, were intricate weavings of pressed ribbons and flowers into a friend's cut strands of hair to display in an album along with a poem or remembrance of that friend.

II. EVOLUTION OF SCRAPBOOKING: IMPROVEMENTS IN TECHNOLOGY
In 1826, the scrapbooking craze really took off with the publication of John Poole's 'Manuscript Gleanings and Literary Scrapbook while the year previous had seen the publication of a serial titled 'The Scrapbook' which defined a scrapbook as a blank book which held newspaper articles and pictures for preservation. The actual term 'scrapbook' had been coined just a few years earlier because of the bright pieces of paper left over from a printing job, or scrap, that people had begun to paste into their albums for decorative purposes.

Scrapbooks of this time period would have included calling cards, the decorated name cards men and women left at their friends' homes at the start of their visits or to indicate they had stopped by with the intention to visit, national advertising trade cards, religious cards with Biblical inscriptions, rewards of merit for good grades and good behavior for schoolchildren, and carte-de-visite photographs which are better known to us as postcards.

Surprisingly, one of the biggest supporters of scrapbooking during the late 1800s was the author Mark Twain! He loved the hobby so much that he devoted entire Sundays to the creation of his personal scrapbooks and even patented a series of scrapbooks in 1872 to be sold by Brentano's Literary Emporium in NYC as well as through the Montgomery Ward catalog. His scrapbooks contained alternating gummed and non-gummed pages with perforations on the non-gummed pages for easy removal. An article from the St. Louis Dispatch in June 1885 states that Twain made about $50,000 on his scrapbooks. In comparison, the sale of all his novels combined had netted him about $200,000.

The invention of photography, and its direct ancestors, obviously changed the art of scrapbooking forever as scrappers now had the means to capture scenes of their lives in a way that wasn't possible before with only printed media. Louis-Jacques Daguerre invented the daguerreotype in 1837, but it wasn't until 1839 that this process was made public, so the latter date is often given for the birth of photography. Others quickly refined and added to the evolution of photography with the invention of halftone plates and photo engraving in the last half of the nineteenth century until George Eastman marketed his Kodak camera and photographic rolled film in 1888 and completely revolutionized the entire photographic industry up to that point.

There was a sharp decline in scrapbook popularity around 1940 as photo albums were being mass produced and people began to focus on photography as a hobby, but luckily for us, the publication of Alex Haley's 'Roots,' a story which alleged to tell his family's history and autobiography back to eighteenth century Africa, in the mid-1970s as well as a surge in genealogical research gave rise to a renewed interest in scrapbooking and preserving family history in such a fashion.