Articles : Tutorials - Scrapbooking

Scrapbook Tips for Pages with No Pictures

Although photos are typically the centerpiece of most scrapbook layouts, there are occasions where you may find yourself in search of scrapbook tips for pages with no pictures. If a memory is important to you, don’t leave it out of your scrapbook just because you’re not sure how to make a layout with no pictures.

Finding Alternative Image Sources

Whether the reason you have no photos for your scrapbook layout is due to a computer malfunction, a lost roll of film, or simply forgetting to bring your camera to an important event, you may be able to come up with alternative image sources for your project. Here are a few ideas to consider:

• When you’re working on a page detailing a recent vacation or a visit to a special landmark, you may be able to find photos online. Most tourist destinations have Web sites featuring extensive online photo galleries.
• If you have friends or family members that also attended the event you want to scrapbook, see if they have any photos you can copy. Just remember to return the pictures to their rightful owners as soon as possible.
• Memorabilia can often be used as a great source of images for your scrapbooking projects. Brochures, maps, concert tickets, and postcards can all be used to help add pizzazz to your layout. If you’re worried about items that may not be acid-free, spray your memorabilia with a product such as Archival Mist. 

Embellishments that support the theme of your project, such as wedding stickers or sports die cuts, can also help compensate for scrapbook layouts with no pictures. For maximum impact, create a collage of themed embellishments to use as a decorative border for your layout.

Making Journaling Your Focal Point

When you simply can’t find any suitable images for your scrapbook layout, think of the project as an opportunity to flex your creative muscles. If your layout has no pictures, this is a great chance to let your journaling take center stage. Try one of the following techniques to give your scrapbook journaling top billing:

• Incorporate several different styles of alphabet embellishments into your journaling. Mix letter stickers, chipboard alphabets, ABC brads, and your favorite style of rub-ons for a fun “ransom note” effect.
• Use alphabet stamps on an old fabric swatch to create a journaling block with lots of textural appeal. Accent with coordinating ribbon bows for the perfect finishing touch.
• Cut your journaling into strips. Ink the edges for added definition, then attach the strips to your layout with foam adhesive squares to make journaling that seems to “pop” off your layout.
• Print your journaling on vellum to layer over pretty patterned paper.
• Add a large monogram embellishment at the beginning of your journaling for a drop cap.
• Print your journaling on a transparency, then highlight important words with colorful swatches of acrylic paint brushed onto the backside.
• Use the Word Art feature in Microsoft Word to create a journaling block in an eye-catching circular shape.