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. We also love the Creative Memories Border Maker System. 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.

Q4AdvisorExclusive_OpenHouse_BeginnerProjectRecipe Download

Class Recap

3 Tips Before You Begin

When choosing your printed paper, choose one that has two sides that complement each other, preferably one that is more of a tonal design and one that has more of a statement print. When cutting your strips, be sure you pay attention to the direction of the design if applicable.
Much of the base paper for this layout is covered. You can build this layout on a page instead of a paper by either wallpapering your base paper on to the page or cut 2-1/2×12″ strips for the top and bottom of each page and save the rest of the paper. The center of the page will be covered by the 6×8″ rectangle and the photos.
This layout uses four horizontal and two vertical 4×6″ photos. Any of those designated areas can be substituted with a journaling box or decorative 4×6″ variety mat.

3 Ways to Build A Border using the 1″ x 12″ Strips

Cut a 2-1/2″ x 12″ strip of coordinating cardstock. Punch an edge-style border maker cartridge along one edge. Layer the 1″ strip on top. If desired, layer a chain-style punched border, laser border, or border sticker on the 1″ strip.
Using coordinating cardstock, cut a wave or swell edge with the 12″ Decorative Trimmer. Trim to 2″ x 12″ and layer on the 1″ strip.
Instead of cutting the strips 1″ x 12″, cut (4) 5/8″ x 12″ strips. Punch the Picket Fence Border Maker Cartridge along the edge of coordinating cardstock. Weave the 5/8″ strips through the pickets. Trim the border to desired width for layering on the layout.

Below: Sunshine Arches Border Maker Cartridge, 12″ Decorative Trimmer, and Picket Fence Border Maker Cartridge all provide options for layers to build a border using the 1′ x 12″ strip cut in this Project Recipe. Please note the strips will have to be cut to 5/8″ x 12″ to be able to weave in the Picket Fence. Adjust the cut guide accordingly if you would like to create this design.