In this blog post and video, we are going to create a basic scrapbooking layout using three sheets of paper and a 12″ Trimmer. In the video, we discuss ways to expand the design a bit further with additional elements.

Basic Scrapbooking Definitions

Sketch: a black/white/gray blueprint to give you a general idea of where to place papers and photos.

Layout: a one or two page scrapbook design.

Cut Guide: a blueprint with measurements for cutting a piece of paper for a layout.

Cropping Photos: trimming a photo down from the original size.

Essential Scrapbooking Tools

Having a 12″ Trimmer is a must-have for scrapbooking. Here is a video how to use it. Shopping links are the bottom of the post.

Beginning Scrapbook Handout

For this basic layout, you will need 3 sheets of paper and a 12″ Trimmer. Refer to the printable handout and the video for all the details.

Q2AdvisorExclusive_BakedWithLove_BeginnerProjectRecipe Download

Class Recap

3 Tips Before You Begin

If new to printing photos, get familiar with a photo processor convenient to you. Be aware that photos taken with a phone camera are often a different ratio than 4×6″ and will need adjusted before printing. Walmart has good quality prints for 12 cents. Creative Memories also offers photo printing.
If you are unsure about which photos to use for a layout, print a few more than you think you want to use. As you create your layout, it’s easier to narrow them down as you see where they fit and what feels duplicative. Trimming your photos can allow for more photos to fit on a layout. It’s often pretty easy to trim a 4×6″ down to 4×5″.
You can either choose paper based on the theme of your layout or the colors in your photos. When you feel overwhelmed by paper options, start with a selection of possibilities then use a process of elimination to narrow them down one by one. The best paper to choose is the one you like!