Scrapbook Pages

Scrapbook pages have evolved over time. http://www.pagesoftheheart.net/artman/publish/article_727.shtmlPages that used to be a place to keep odds and ends, keepsakes and photos, have developed into pages featuring bold color, intricate design elements and embellishments.http://www.pagesoftheheart.net/artman/publish/article_727.shtmlThe common thread in all well-designed pages is planning. The smart use of photos, a well-thought out theme, complementary color scheme and embellishments lead to good scrapbook pages.http://www.scrapjazz.com/topics/Scrapbook_Basics/Getting_Started/419.php Photos that best represent mood and theme of the page should be chosen. The concept is an individual decision and will ultimately be the subject of the page. Themes can be holiday, new addition to the family, love, or journaling. Think of a title for the page as the conceptualization process unfolds.http://www.scrapjazz.com/topics/Scrapbook_Basics/Getting_Started/419.php

Choosing the right background paper can be overwhelming. Take the color cue from the photo. http://www.scrapjazz.com/topics/Scrapbook_Basics/Getting_Started/419.phpLook closely at the picture and find colored paper that will complement those colors. However, if there is a theme, like the beach, use colors found in nature. Consider the mood of the photo as well. http://www.scrapjazz.com/topics/Scrapbook_Basics/Getting_Started/419.phpMore somber photos will require like colors. Embellishments like stickers, charms, die cuts and ribbons, can help unify the photos, paper and journaling. They can be simple or elaborate. Take hints from the photos and concept for inspiration.http://www.scrapjazz.com/topics/Scrapbook_Basics/Getting_Started/419.php Pulling it all together is the final process in completing a scrapbook page. Use pre-printed pages or templates if laying out the page is difficult. Templates have basic design principles such as focal point, repetition, balance and unity, already worked out.

Focal Point: The viewer should know what the most important thing is on the page. This is called the focal point photo. Add emphasis to this photo by enlarging it, matting it, leaving a border or adding color that stands out on the page.

Repetition: Move the viewer’s eye around the page in an orderly fashion. Think about what elements will be repeated. Use odd numbers. They are easier to place on the page than even numbers.

Balance: The Rule of Thirds is a principle that divides the layout or photo into nine equal parts. The intersecting points on the grid represent the best places to place the focal point picture/element. Avoid placing the photo directly in the center of the layout, as it causes the layout to lack impact. Use the rule of thirds when composing the photo in the viewfinder before taking the picture.

Unity: Try using only one or two different font types and embellishments. Repeat certain shapes, colors or textures to bring consistency to the layout. The goal is to reinforce the theme with everything added to the page. After everything is in place, adhere each item with acid-free adhesive. Slip the final layout into a page protector.

Scrapbook.com offers tips on color selection when designing scrapbook pages. Choosing the appropriate color for scrapbook pages can make the page pop and add excitement.

• Choose colors based on the mood you want to create. Christmas themes are usually red and green, while romance brings thoughts of red, like a heart, to mind. Baby-themed pages are usually an array of pastels.

• Choose colors using color schemes: monochromatic, complementary, triad, split-complement and analogous.

• Use a color wheel. A color wheel is useful when picking color schemes.