My photos are definitely the focus of my designs! Since I have a photography background, I always start with the photo. I try to decide what the photo is conveying to the viewer. I will then try to bring in products, colours and embellishments that support that message.
I think its better to draw inspiration from non-scrapbooking sources. I find inspiration everywhere - from advertisements to clothing. I can take one basic element of a object, like an embroidered flower on a sweater and incorporate it on a layout and feel that it is my own creation and that I have stayed true to my own style.
That doesn't stop me reading scrapbook magazines though. They get my creative juices flowing. I am a scrapbook magazine junkie and read them cover to cover. I love to create scrapbook pages. It is a perfect creative outlet for me, it's like family + art = scrapbooking. I really enjoy the process of creating, so how long a page takes me isn't important.
You never know when inspiration will strike! I carry a sketch book with me everywhere I go. If I have an idea for a layout or title I can jot it down. If I see a cute colour combination I can make a note, or if my kids say something cute I have a place to write it down and not lose the paper or forget it later on. When I sit down to scrapbook, it saves time since I have some sketch ideas and ideas for journaling all ready to go!
One distinguishing element of my pages is detail. I love to use embellishments - yet try to keep the layout from feeling cluttered. I like to add detail in subtle ways like stitching or beads, incorporating many different elements that compliment each other.
I love using mini brads - I use them on every single layout. Not only are they a great embellishment, but they are also functional at attaching something to your layout securely. My favourite way to use mini brads would be as a design element - just to add colour or interest to a part of a layout that 'just needs something'. |
