Scrapbooking Embellishments: Cheap Ideas for Page Design

When first getting into scrapbooking, it can be hard for even the most creative person to figure out ideas for designing the pages. Before getting into page design, the first step is to choose the pictures that will be placed on the two page layout. For pictures that have a back story that needs telling, adding a place to journal on the page can be an excellent idea. If the pictures have a theme (holiday, birthday, summertime fun, etc) then the pages should have the same theme. The two pages that will be together should have a matching layout. But this doesn't mean that they have to be identical.

The hardest part in designing pages is deciding on the embellishments. While you can buy embellishments for scrapbooking in a craft store, they can be rather expensive. Here are some cheaper ideas to make your pages unique.

Sewing Ideas

I love scrapbook pages that have a hand sewn look to them (even if it was done on a sewing machine). The idea here is to sew around the mats that the photos will be placed on. Adding yarn or thread to the page adds an old style appearance. One idea is to use an eyelet setter to put eyelets into the page and then run yarn or thread through the holes. Ribbon could also be used for this too and buttons also look nice on pages.

Little pictures for the pages

Stickers aren't as cheap as they used to be especially if they are associated with scrapbooking. One idea is to do an image search with an online search engine. Then simply print off the ones you want and glue them onto the page (or print them on sticker paper). If you want them to be raised up, then buy some of those small sticky squares that come on retail embellishments.

Tags and Expressions

Tags don't have to be store bought to look professional. They can be designed in Adobe Photoshop. Once they are printed, put an eyelet on the end and cut them out. Then run a piece of ribbon through the eyelet and tie it. I've done this and they looked really nice. The same can be done for little poems and expressions. Little touches like this really make the pages special.

Other ideas

Craft stores carry all kinds of little items that can be used to design pages such as brads. But some cheaper ideas include:

- Charms meant for charm bracelets

- Pendants and gemstones meant for necklaces

- Tiny beads

- Birthday candles on birthday pages (keep the book in a cool place)

- Pieces of old baby clothes or blankets

- Safety pins (remind one of diapers used a long time ago)

- Fake candy made with paper and plastic (great for Halloween pages)