Scrapbook paper, even more than your photos, is the foundation of your layout.
Everything else is adhered on top of the paper, so it makes sense to put some thought into choosing what paper you are going to use on your page.
If you make the wrong choice here, the rest of the page may not look the way you had hoped.
Here are a few guides to use when selecting scrapbook paper for your scrapbook layouts and projects: 1.
Don't let the paper compete with your photos.
Even though the paper is the foundation of your scrapbook page, it shouldn't overshadow the photos, which should receive the viewer's attention.
Think of the paper as the stage and the photos as the stars; the stage is there to support the actors and actresses, not drown them out.
This means paper with large patterns and bright colors should be used sparingly, more as an accent.
Cut the paper up and use smaller pieces rather than using it whole.
2.
Don't choose colors that clash with your photos.
You don't have to take all your photos to the scrapbook store with you to color-match each and every one, but you should pay attention to the colors in your photos and work with them, instead of against them.
For instance, if your daughter is wearing a bright pink sweatshirt, you might choose a paler shade of pink or a neutral shade for your paper, rather than a bright green or orange.
3.
Don't choose cheap paper just because you got it on sale.
You know that blouse that is sitting in your closet, unworn? You know, the one you bought a couple of years ago because it was on sale, but you've never worn because it doesn't match anything else in your wardrobe? Don't let your scrapbook paper be that blouse.
Just because it was on sale, you don't have to buy it.
And even if you already bought it doesn't mean you have to use it.
Remember, these pages are going to be in your scrapbook for a very long time.
If you don't like them now, you're not going to like them any better six months or six years from now.