Create Mini Albums Fast With These Simple Solutions!

Joannie McBride, online editor

If you’ve been scrapbooking for more than a month or so, you probably have an impressive collection of scraps—too small for a full-sized layout, but too large (and too pretty!) to throw away. A photo album scrapbook is the perfect place to put those assorted pieces to use. From 4″ x 6″ panels to narrow strips, scraps of any size and shape can take a starring role in your photo album design.

Summer 2009 by Laina Lamb, as seen in Fast & Fresh Scrapbooks

Fresh Tip: When working with patterns of differing colors and themes, stick to a basic design plan to keep the project from looking chaotic. Laina’s repetition of simple shapes and consistent use of pages from a single journaling pad gives her album a neat, unified look.

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Disney 2009 by Gretchen McElveen, as seen in Fast & Fresh Scrapbooks

Pack an entire trip into a manageable-sized album. A frequent visitor to Disney World, Gretchen took steps to make this trip as low-stress as possible—and she wanted her scrapbook to be just as carefree as her vacation. By sticking to just one photo per spread and a consistent page design, she created this album in just a few hours, rather than weeks or months.

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Tuscany by Piradee Talvanna, as seen in Fast & Fresh Scrapbooks

A scrapbook-sized album gives you room to play—and that’s just what Piradee did with these colorful, diverse accents. To keep embellishments from overwhelming your design, keep a few simple tips in mind:

* Group accents for maximum effect, minimum clutter. Rather than scattering embellishments across each layout, Piradee arranged them in tidy clusters that draw the eye without disrupting the page’s flow.

* Repeat like elements. The chipboard circles, envelope closures, and sequined flower centers Piradee used form a pleasing rhythm. Another example: the soft yellow hue of the chipboard label holders, rick-rack trim, and edged circles.

Fresh Tip: Corral your keepsakes with envelopes or other clever hideaways. Piradee tucked itineraries, maps, tickets, and more into the envelopes featured on each spread. Her design remains uncluttered, and her memorabilia is easy to access whenever she likes.

For more ideas on how to create fast simple albums, check out Fast & Fresh Scrapbooks, on sale now!

Thanks for stopping by.
-Joannie