Simplify or Step it Up

Sitting down to do a layout can be a daunting experience at times. Just picking out the photographs, deciding on the journaling, and choosing colors can be hard enough. Then, there is the matter of deciding what style and embellishments to use for a particular layout!

Whenever working on a layout, one of the most basic decisions is whether to create a basic, simple layout or an advanced one that uses more materials and techniques.

Here are some things to consider when thinking about whether to create a simple or an advanced layout:

• Time. Do you have time to devote to creating an advanced layout? Would you rather do a simpler layout in less time?
  
  
• Theme. How does the theme of your layout feel? Does the layout's subject matter have lots to do and say that could be enhanced by a more advanced layout? Would the theme be highlighted better with a more basic approach?
  
  
• Photographs. Will an advanced design hinder a good photograph? Consider how to do an advanced layout without losing the spotlight on the photograph. Would a simple design highlight your photograph better?
  
  
• Personal preference. Do you have a style preference? Does one way feel more complete or finished to you? Your decisions will always be affected ultimately by how you feel about your work.

Let's take a look at how to design two layouts, one simple and one advanced layout, from the same photographs and journaling.

For my layout, I chose to journal about how both my children love to read. I decided to title the layout, "Common Bond." Next, I found a photograph of them both reading. For colors I chose two analogous colors, blue and green. I chose to use white as an accent.

Simplified Layout

Supplies:

• 3 sheets of BasicGrey paper
• blue and green colored pencils
• black Micron pen
• rub-ons

A simplified layout can be easily done with just a few basic supplies. It's easy to do away from home, takes less time and provides a great place for highlighting photographs and journaling.

Step-It-Up Layout

Supplies:

• 3 sheets of BasicGrey paper
• computer font
• chipboard letters
• ink
• stamp
• paper flowers
• brad
• ribbon

An advanced layout incorporates more elements and visual interest. For an advanced look, add some additional supplies or techniques. In my layout, I added stamps, computer journaling, ribbon and flowers. I also inked raw chipboard to create my title.

Simple or advanced layouts both incorporate photographs and journaling to make a memory last within your scrapbooks. Whichever you chose you can't go wrong. So, get out your supplies and create.