5 Super TIPS from each of our Staff

JodyTips from Jody:
1. An easy, quick storage tip: I use 12 x 12 plastic pouches for storing "themes"- in the pouches are patterned papers, stickers, quotes, and embellishments. This way whenever I leave the house to scrap I can just grab the pouch needed for whatever I am working on.
2. I keep my paper scraps in large Ziploc bags according to colors- again making it easy to grab what I need.
3. Keeping all magazines takes up alot of space. So, I tear out what I like and store in a 3 ring binder. Also, adding in anything I find on the net or class instructions that I want to keep too.
4. Use your children's artwork, homework, or report cards on their school pages. You can scan them and use as backgrounds or use as an added touch. What a great way to display some of their own "art" as a child.
5. Remember when grandma covered everything with patterned contact paper? Well, the hottest thing in scrapbooking is to "alter" things. Don't be afraid to try it! Tins, clipboards, folders, notebooks, cans, address books, bottles and the list goes on........ Add patterned paper, ribbons, flowers or whatever embellishments you have! Still useful but very cute!

TrishaTips from Trisha:
1. Choose your photos carefully. Enlarge a great photo and give it it's own page Be watchful of using too many photos on one page.
2. Copy good layouts! Don't be afraid to copy a layout. If you see one you love, duplicate it!
3.Journal! Include the date and event. Our pages will be viewed years for years to come, so say something!
4.If you have 1 or 2 sheets of paper that you love, cut them in half or thirds to stretch the use over two sheets of coordinating solid cardstock.
5.Go out on a limb. There are no rules in scrapping. Try something different!

KathyTips from Kathy:
1. Don't forget your ancestors! Many times we get so caught up in keeping up with current photos we forget to do our heritage albums. And if we don't get to them, who will?
2. Mix your medias. Layouts can be a 3-D blend of paper, fiber, metal, acrylics, rub-ons and whatever else is in your stash!
3. Don't forget your favorite snacks, I like to have honeycrisp apples, licorice or a regular Coke!
4. Shop locally. I love VIP's inventory and the people here are fun.
5. Believe in yourself and don’t fret. JUST DO IT! Tell your story, enjoy the friendships, and enjoy the hobby.

DevonTips from Devon:
1. If you are scrapping for teens, use lots of bright colors, stripes and polka dots.
2. Use lots of layers of paper! It just adds texture to the page.
3. Come in and check out the Cricut die cutter. It cuts out awesome letters of any size and incredible shapes!
4. Use bling, glitter, brads, stickles and chalk.
5. Don't forget to mat your photos and chalk those edges. It really makes a photo pop!

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ElaineTips from Elaine:
1.Don't be overwhelmed. Take it slow.
2.Invite your friends. Scrapbooking is a great way to spend time with your friends.
3.Enjoy what you are doing. It is supposed to be fun. :)
4.If you are stuck, ask for help.
5.Don't glue anything down until you have everything in place!