Let us make those stagnant creative juices flow to start our scrapbook layouts.
Here is our Scrapbook Layout #1
This is a layout I made for Scraptivity Forum. Scrapbook Layout Idea: Create a layout with clean and simple look on it
What is a clean and simple scrapbook layout?
One of the attributes of the word simple is "straightforward". Another term is classic. Meaning, simple scrapbooking layouts must contain this characteristics to be considered simple. How do we incorporate straightforward and classic elements to our scrapbook page layouts? The answer is simple.
Scrapbooking, in its straightforward and absolute definition is a way of preserving life moments in your scrapbook layouts. So prime object is the life moment which is represented by your photo. Hence you need a photo and your memory to journal the thoughts you want to preserve. This is the basis of all scrapbooking layout ideas and techniques.
Now, lets go deeper on the aspect of straightforward and classic. You can make a scrapbook page with a photo, journaling paper, a pattern paper and a cardstock. Simple tools like your favorite scissors and adhesives are the things you only need. With this in mind, you can make a scrapbook layout. A best example is this;
For simpler and classic look, I directly type the journalling in my page. Handwritten journalling is a good option too. It will give your layout a more classic and personal touch. I hate my handwriting most of the time though.lol!Creating simple and clean layouts dsnt mean that you are not allowed to use any embellishments or design elements. When you want a simple look, what is the first thing that comes in your mind? You think of ways on how to simplify it right? Meaning, you dont eliminate all of the design aspect. Note, I mention all. Simple is your personal style or definition of creating in a simple way. You dont want to create your baby scrapbook layouts with no design at all. Yet you want to create a page with mild and manageable design elements.
Now lets go back to our first layout. I consider this a simple layout because my design elements are controlled in a way that when you look at the same layout you will feel the smooth and clean theme it likes to convey.
There are ways on how you can implement simplicity on your layouts. Scrapbookers have different scrapbooking style. But these personal styles and techniques can still be simple once you intended to apply the concept with your page. Going back on my first layout, I did layering and pleating techniques with it. I also use my favorite handstitching technique, yet I ensure that the layout in overall aspect should look and convey the word "simple". Here are some close-up views;
Look how I place my elements in my page. The butterflies and the layering of papers are cut outs from 1 pattern paper. Yes I only used 1 pattern paper here. The buttons are from Such Sweet Tierney Buttons.I made this layout with a sketch I draw in paper. As I am eager to share free scrapbook layouts with all of you, feel free to apply the same sketch and placement in your layout.
Useful Tips to Consider;
1. Challenge yourself by using one cardstock, one pattern paper and few embellishments for your design elements.
2. Choos a photo that will match your color scheme. Try image tweaking teachniue to blend it with your paper. Or simply convert it in black and white photo.
3. Once decided on your materials, lay it in front of you and convince yourself that these are the only things you can use.
4. You can use my sketch and design element placement as a guide.
5. Put your journalling in the simplest way you can.
I hope you are inspired to start your scrapbook layouts today. Please feel free to leave me your comments if you want to play along and join us with our weekly scrapbook layout ideas . I would also love to see your past scrapbook layouts with simple concept in it.
XOXO!
