Digital Scrapbooking

Several friends have asked me how I do digital scrapbooking and where to get all of the supplies. I compiled a list for a friend a while back, and thought I would update it and post it on the blog for anyone who is interested. :)

There are so many different choices and ways to do it. I've used several methods myself, and I'm always learning new things! I'll list some options going from easiest to most involved.

Hint: Right click on each link and then choose Open in New Tab (or window) so that you don't lose this page.

EASY
Websites where you upload photos and use online software to create your pages.

1. Photo Books:
I created an 8x11 photo book for Braden's first year at Snapfish. It's the only photobook I've made, but I'd like to do more. I'll probably try Shutterfly or Adorama Pix next time based on Steph's photobook review at TheDailyDigi.com.

2. Pre-Designed Individual Page Templates:
This is what I used for Cameron's baby scrapbook (click HERE to see it). It has its limitations, but I can get the pages done quickly, and they all coordinate and look nice together in the same album. You create the pages online and order the 12x12 prints from the same site. I used How Fast Time Flies. My sister-in-law uses Smilebox.

ADVANCED
The following methods require photo editing software on your hard drive. Digital scrapbooking supplies (downloaded papers, embellishments, etc.) are also important. You have to either print the finished pages on your own printer or have them printed somewhere else (see more info below).

1. Quick Pages (also called Ploppers):
These are pre-designed pages like the ones from How Fast Time Flies, except you have to download them and open them in your photo editing software. I don't use them that much because I usually want more control over color scheme and where everything goes, but I have some I've downloaded for free here and there. I did an image search for quick page, and it came up with lots of choices. Several link to tutorials, which is nice. Quick pages usually take just a few MINUTES to complete (hence the name).

2. Layered Templates:
I have started using more of these lately. Basically, there is nothing on the page except the placeholders where your pictures and journaling will go. You add all the background papers and embellishments. Right now, this is my favorite way to scrap. It gives me a place to start and makes the design process go a lot faster, yet I still end up with something unique. I would start with the freebies on the Simply Yin blog. Scroll down, and there is a list in the right hand column of all the Templates for Download. I usually spend several HOURS working on a page made with a layered template.

3. Digital Pages from Scratch:
When I can't find a layered template I like or I already have an idea in my head, I start from scratch in my photo editing software. Sometimes I make a "sketch" of the page, starting with a blank 12x12 page and using gray boxes to map out where I want everything to go. Then I add in the papers and photos. Other times, I start with a background paper I like and just start arranging the photos and other stuff I want on the page. These layouts often take me several DAYS to complete.

TOOLS
1. Photo Editing Software:
I use Photoshop Elements. I recommend trying it free for a month. Photo editing software is not only for making your photos look better. This is what you use to actually build your pages. You don't have to use Photoshop, but you need software that will allow you to work with layers. In the past, I used Corel Paint Shop Pro. There are other options, but if you really start getting into digital scrapbooking, you'll find that most people use some version of Photoshop. Taking a beginner class online is a great way to get started.

2. Digital Scrapbooking Supplies (Papers, Embellishments, etc.):
I have downloaded a lot things for free. I have also purchased some digital kits. Here are a couple of great places to get freebies:
- Shabby Princess (Free Kits)
- Two Peas in a Bucket (Free Kits)
- Digital Daisy's Hand Picked Freebies Blog

Here are places I like to shop. Sseveral also have great tutorials and some freebies too.
- The Daily Digi
- Delicious Scraps
- Designer Digitals
- Design House Digital
- The Digi Chick
- Digital Design Essentials
- Digital Designer Shop
- Peppermint Creative
- Scrapper's Guide
- Scrap Matters
- Scrap Orchard
- The Shabby Shoppe
- Sweet Shoppe Designs

3. Fonts:
- Lettering Delights (fonts, alphas, and graphics for sale)
- Fonts for Peas
- Free Scrapbook Fonts
- Sugar Frog Fonts (free handwritten fonts)
- Typadelic Fonts (some free, some for sale)

4. Albums:
I buy 12x12 scrapbooks that are intended for traditional paper scrapbook pages (like you find at Walmart, Target, or Hobby Lobby) and just stick my printed pages in the protective sleeves. I have been thinking about switching to 8x8 albums, though, because they are easier to hold (especially for little hands).

PRINTING
If you want to do an 8x8 or 8.5x11 album, you can print your pages on your home printer. For 12x12, you either have to own a wide format printer or get the pages professionally printed (what I do). Check with local print shops or photo processing places to see if they will do 12x12 prints. You can also order prints online. The site I mentioned earlier, How Fast Time Files, will print your pages for the same price they print their own designs. You just upload your completed page like you would a photo. Other Websites offer 12x12 page printing. Some of the ones I listed above that do photo books also do 12x12 individual pages. I've had prints done by a local printer, How Fast Time Flies, Persnickety Prints, and Scrapbook Pictures. Steph at The Daily Digi wrote a great review of several different layout printers.

Have fun scrapping!