A great way to document important events in your life is through scrapbooking. Instead of just placing photos on an album, a scrapbook will ignite the creativity within you as you are going to design it to make it more attractive and fun to look at. However, there may be instances where you just run out of scrapbook ideas. Some pages turn out lame.
If you are running out of ideas to help you develop well-designed pages, here are some great ideas. We have consolidated 57 scrapbook ideas that are timeless and beautiful. Most of the samples are actually affordable; you can do all these by yourself using some stuff that you can get inside your home. There are also some that require special equipment to achieve the look.
57 Amazing Scrapbook Ideas
1. Travel Stickers Scrapbook Idea
2. Travel Scrapbook
3. Stickers and Dried Leaves Scrapbook
4. Star-Shaped Scrapbook Idea
5. Spotify Playlist Scrapbook Idea
6. Simple Scrapbook Idea
7. Roll Over Post Card Scrapbook
8. Reels and Albums Scrapbook
9. Polaroid Folding Scrapbook
10. Mini Piano Scrapbook
11. Photo Album Scrapbook
12. Lettering Scrapbook
13. Modernize Scrapbook
14. Mini Shelf Scrapbook
15. Mini Scrapbook
16. Mini Envelope Scrapbook
17. Lettering Scrapbook
18. Instagram-Inspired Scrapbook
19. Heart-shaped Scrapbook
20. Folding Scrapbook
21. Folding Box Scrapbook
22. Flip and Flap Scrapbook
23. Camera Reels
24. Calendar Aesthetic Scrapbook Ideas
25. Buttons-themed Scrapbook Idea
26. Butterfly-Shaped Scrapbook
27. Bullet Scrapbook
28. Binder Scrapbook
29. Binder Calendar Scrapbook
30. Bag-inspired Scrapbook
31. 3D Embellishments
Paper embellishments are trendy materials used on scrapbooks because they are easy to make, and there are numerous designs to choose from. You can write or print on it, add more colors by cutting out different card stocks, and stick them all together using a foam double-sided tape to come up with a 3D look.
32. Calligraphy
Calligraphy, also known as decorative handwriting, is a wonderful way to add oomph to your scrapbook pages. It may not be easy, but with the help of some YouTube tutorials or basic calligraphy books, you’ll surely get to understand and master all the strokes in a jiffy. There are a lot of great calligraphy pens that you can use, such as brushes, felt tips, flexible nib pens, and many more. Some of the popular brands to choose from are Pilot and Zig.
33. Paper Punchers
Paper punchers are another helpful craft tools to help you come up with good images for your scrapbook. You don’t need to cut out the papers manually, as these will help you achieve the look. Whether you want a diamond, a flower, or a butterfly, you can definitely achieve a uniform look using paper punchers. Some of the most renowned brands are EK Tools and Recollections. These can be purchased on Amazon, eBay, or Michaels.
34. Cut-Out Papers
If you do not have paper punchers, or if you cannot find one that can achieve the look that you want, cut out the papers by yourself. You can search for patterns on Google or Pinterest, print the design and manually cut it. Make sure that you use high-quality, thick paper or cardstock so it will not get damaged easily.
35. Page Flags
Page flags, especially those made of eye-catching colors, can be used to write important information about what the page is all about. These can also be used as markers that stick out of the pages so you can easily find them, say for example, a milestone of your child or an unforgettable date you’ve had with your partner. If you will use it as a design on the page, you can choose a designed paper, cut a rectangular shape, and then cut a tiny triangle on one end. The procedure is similar if you will use it as a page marker, just make sure that you use a thick material that cannot be folded easily. You can also have it laminated for added protection. Definitely one of the most amazing scrapbook ideas that you must not miss.
36. Printed Papers for Background Layout
Although you can get printed papers on Etsy and some craft stores such as Michaels and Hobby Lobby, why not make your own? Just look for nice images on the web and print them on your own. You can use these as your page background and stick all the photos, embellishments, and stickers on top.
37. Stickers Scrapbook Idea
Stickers are really wonderful, aren’t they? There are numerous designs that are available at your nearby craft store or you can check out free printable designs on Pinterest and Etsy. Just find a good type of sticker paper, preferably matte, if you will print your own so you will get a high-definition result.
38. Buttons Scrapbook Layout Ideas
Got some old shirts that you no longer want to use? Get the buttons before you throw them away. These can serve as great embellishments on your scrapbook pages and definitely save you a lot of money! Use a glue stick so that they won’t be detached easily.
39. Dried Leaves as Scrapbook Design
Dried leaves are great embellishments on your scrapbook layout. Some may think, it will just ruin the page especially when it starts to wither. However, there are some ways to keep it intact. One method is through preservation using Glycerin. Mix one part glycerin with two parts water. Completely soak the leaves in the mixture for 2 to 6 days. Carefully dry it using a paper towel. Through this method, the leaves will not lose their flexibility as the natural moisture is replaced by glycerin. Spray paint it to add a distinct look.
40. Journaling Cards
Journal cards are popular scrapbook materials that come in different brands, but the most popular ones were created by Becky Higgins – the Project Life Cards. There are different lines available, each can be used according to your scrapbook’s theme. It may be a bit pricey but because the designs are breathtakingly amazing, you’ll surely get your money’s worth. If you do not have the budget yet to purchase Project Life, you can check out free printables on Pinterest and other crafting sites. Just choose a design that will complement your entire scrapbook layout.
41. Splitting Photos into Strips
Splitting photos into strips is yet another one of the greatest scrapbook ideas. Just cut the photos in different sizes and shapes, and stick them using glue to create a special effect. Accentuate the design using beads and ribbons just like what the creator did on her/his scrapbook layout.
42. Washi Tapes Scrapbook Idea
Washi tapes are made of natural fibers, usually hemp or bamboo, and are almost similar to masking tapes. You must have probably seen them on different scrapbooks since it really provides beautiful designs to the layouts. You can follow the image above where the user has placed different washi tape designs diagonally or you can place these on the sides where it will serve as a frame on the entire page.
43. Origami – Japanese Art
Origami is a type of Japanese art wherein you fold papers in order for you to form a particular image such as a flower, a bow, a boat, and so on and so forth. Because of its design, a lot of craft enthusiasts use it on their scrapbook pages using high-quality printed papers. There are a lot of tutorials on YouTube that will teach you how to achieve a certain image. To stick it on your page, you can use glue or double adhesive tape. Just make sure that it is secured so it will not fall off.
44. Doilies – Not just Used for Serving Cakes and Teas!
“Doily? The one used to serve teas, coffees, and cupcakes? Can you really use it for scrapbooking?” I am sure you got confused. Yea, I am referring to the doily that you know, and yes, you can use it on your scrapbook! It is usually placed on the background to accentuate the photo that will be placed on top! The lace patterns that you usually see on it are definitely a great reason why craft enthusiasts have decided to use it in their work.
45. Foiling using the Heidi Swapp Minc Machine
Okay, here’s probably one of the few expensive scrapbook ideas as you will be required to purchase the Minc Foil Applicator from Heidi Swapp. It’s cool equipment that lets you come up with “foiled” designs on your pages by applying heat on the surface. Basically, you will also need to have a good paper with “toner” from Amazon, or you can print your own using laser printers and copiers. The foil will stick on the toner to create that eye-catching print. Here’s a YouTube video where Jennifer McGuire Ink has explained how the applicator works.
46. Quotations as a Design on Your Scrapbook Pages
One way to sum up your emotions on your scrapbook pages is by adding quotes. In the sample above, the quotes were stitched using different yarns. A picture was placed on the letter O with a chipboard frame around it.
47. Framed Photos Scrapbook Idea
Use card stocks as frames on your photos to add oomph and style. Instead of buying ready-made frames, card stocks are great materials that you can buy at very affordable prices at Target’s dollar store.
48. Envelopes
Scrapbooks are not just for pictures and important tiny items that you get from different events. It can also be used to keep important letters that you received from special people in your life. Instead of sticking them on each page, you can place envelopes on pages where you can place the letters inside, especially those private ones.
49. Sticky Notes Scrapbook
Sticky notes are not just to remind you of the important tasks that are needed to be accomplished. It can also be used on scrapbooks where descriptions can be written. What is nicer about it is you can always take it off and replace it with a new one in case you made an error. It will never ruin your layout and theme.
50. Vintage Scrapbook
Got some old photos? Match the vintage look using brown papers, both plain and printed. Using brown instead of colored paper will not take away the attention from the main focus of your scrapbook page.
51. Stamps – Rubber and Clear
Don’t know how to draw? Rubber and clear stamps are now available! Some of the popular brands that you can purchase to accentuate your scrapbook pages are Heidi Swapp, Santoro, Mommy Lhey, and Studio Calico. You can also create your own if you know how to carve using a rubber block. Just draw the layout and carefully carve the rubber to augment the design.
52. Printable Scrapbook Layouts
Sometimes, it’s kind of hard to figure out what type of design must be incorporated into your scrapbook design. Thus, you kinda run out of ideas. Good thing there are some free printables online from amazing designers, or you can also purchase some from Etsy. Try these out so you won’t have to use a lot of materials without sacrificing the overall look of your scrapbook.
53. Maps as Background
Record the places you have visited by using a map as a background! You can add a small envelope or a post-it beside your photo to provide some information such as when you visited the place or what activities you have done there!
54. Colorful Pens Scrapbook Idea
Aside from washi tapes and colorful papers, one great way to add color to your scrapbook layout is through colorful pens. Sharpies, Stabilo Fine Markers, and Pilot Juice pens are just among the most popular choices.
55. Plastics
Sands, beads, stones – if you want to keep these little items, you can place them on small plastics and securely tape them on your scrapbook pages!
56. Drawing your Own Layout
Draw as much as you want – definitely one of the best scrapbook ideas you will get from this post. You can doodle on your pages and add important keepsakes to your scrapbook to make it more attractive.
57. Ribbon Weaving Scrapbook
The ribbon is another popular material used on scrapbook layouts. It’s affordable and has a lot of color variations; it can efficiently add oomph to your overall theme. Just make sure that your chosen shade matches the other materials that you used, like what has been shown above.
How Do You Make a Good Scrapbook?
Brainstorm a theme
The theme of your scrapbook is the basis from which you’ll start, so take your time and make it good. There are many themes you can consider, for example, your grandson’s graduation album, your baby’s first year, your wedding, and so on. Otherwise, if you want a more general album, just think about the major visual elements and start from there without sitting too much on a single idea.
List all the stories that you want to tell.
Think of all the stories that you plan on telling in your scrapbook. Make a list of them and set them in corresponding order. As an example, if you’re planning a scrapbook about your baby’s first year, you can divide the scrapbook into 12 specific sections, with each section representing one month of your baby’s first year of life.
Select great photos
We tend to take lots of pictures, especially now with the advancement of smartphones and practically unlimited storage. Don’t just put anything up there; take your time and select the ones that truly stand out and that look good. You don’t want to show a scrapbook with pictures that aren’t all that great, do you?
Plan out the placement of elements
You’ll want to be as specific as possible. Depending on your theme, you might have other elements in there alongside photos. Take your time to measure everything and make it look decent within a page. Don’t post stuff until you’re not absolutely certain that you want your scrapbook to look in that particular way.
Crop, mat, and adhere your photos
Finally, it’s time to place your photos in the scrapbook. Make sure to crop them out properly so that they fit inside the guidelines that you’ve placed. Use a cutter and some measuring tape to perform the best possible cropping. Afterward, matting will make your photos stand out more, draw your eyes to the focal photo, and add a pretty border around the photos, so don’t forgo this step.
Save Memories through these Scrapbook Ideas
These scrapbook ideas are definitely timeless and amazing; these will surely bring out the creativity within you. No need to copy all the layouts provided; you can surely come up with a design that will complement the entire scrapbook you are trying to make. You can purchase the suggested materials, but of course, you can also settle on the DIY in order for you to maximize what you have inside your home and save a bunch of money in the long run by making handmade designs.
Aitir Prince C. Achivida is a Filipino from Butuan City in the Philippines. He has been a graphic designer for five years, and a content writer for 2 years, and will continue to be so in the future. He loved and enjoyed doing his passions, which included not only creating graphics and writing articles to share with all of you but also having a heart for music. He is a musician and singer who uses his talent in ministry to serve the Lord.
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