2nd Saturday Recap

Keep it Simple

Sometimes scrapbooking can seem a little overwhelming, especially if you are just beginning. Here are some ideas to simplify the process:

1. Create simple layouts. You don't need to spend hours on each layout or feel like you need the latest and greatest scrapbooking products on every page. Sometimes minimal embellishments or just using cardstock will do.
   
2. Use products that speed up the process such as pre-cut papers, rub-on stitches (instead of actually dragging out your sewing machine), and pre-made titles.
   
3. If you don't have time to create a whole layout in one sitting, don't worry! Take advantage of little bits of time you have throughout your week to create parts of a layout, such as the journaling block, the title, or to cut photo mattes.
4. Don't forget to use "white space." White space doesn't refer to the color white; instead, it's the idea that the eye needs a resting space within a layout. In other words, you don't have to fill up the whole page. Leave some areas empty, giving the eye a chance to slow down.

If you are overwhelmed with the amount of photos you have, try scrapping some of the more important events and leave the rest for another time. Some of the "important" photos might include:

• Life Milestones
• Annual celebrations
• Extraordinary events
• Family History
• All About Me
• School years
• Friends

Here are some layout ideas for "Keeping it Simple" (all designs are by Candi McFadden unless otherwise noted):

A family photo placed on a pretty pre-cut paper background makes a fast and beautiful layout.

On this layout, the pictures tell the main story and the few simple embellishments finish it off.

(Designed by Emily McFadden)
Pre-designed paper may say it all. Just simply add photos.

(Designed by Tara Lehmann)
This layout is a great use of white space. It allows the photo to take center stage.

If the photos and background paper are busy, keep the design simple so it doesn't distract from the feeling you want to portray.

(Design by Emily McFadden)
This class photo explains itself. Simply matte the photo and place it on paper that has pre-printed embellishments. Fast and easy!

There might not be a story behind a photo, but if it marks a period of time then scrap it!

You might have lots of pictures from one event. Sometimes it's okay to just choose the best one and then use the rest of your space to document the story behind it. A quick way to journal is to list words that have a feeling behind them instead of writing in full sentences. If you have a lot of text on a layout, it's not a bad idea to keep your background simple. (Notice the "white space" between the columns of text? It helps lead the eye from one thought to the next).

So the next time you are feeling like you will never get caught up on your scrapbooks, try one of these ideas and keep it simple!