Creative Scrapbook Layouts Blog

May 8, The Choubox Sketch Pad

Tue, 08 May 2012 02:58:47 GMT

The Choubox Sketch Pad... Your resource for free scrapbook layout sketches.

May 5, Handmade Greeting Cards

Sat, 05 May 2012 22:49:39 GMT

Learn how to make handmade greeting cards!

Apr 7, New Baby Scrapbook

Sat, 07 Apr 2012 15:35:31 GMT

Start Scrapbooking with a New Baby Scrapbook

Apr 7, Scraptionary: Choubox's Scrapbook Dictionary

Sat, 07 Apr 2012 14:58:05 GMT

Is scrapbooking your new hobby? Then you need a scraptionary! Your #1 source for scrapbook definitions and examples.

Apr 7, Vote for the Sketch of the Week

Sat, 07 Apr 2012 11:48:34 GMT

Just a friendly reminder that today is the last day to vote for the Sketch of the Week!! Results so far are pointing to an 8" x 8" two-page layout sketch. If you would like a different sketch, make sure to vote! The format of the sketch can change every week depending on your votes alone!

Mar 17, Three New Sketches

Sat, 17 Mar 2012 23:50:25 GMT

Watch for the new Sketch of the Week tomorrow, but in the meantime.... Happy Scrapping!

Mar 16, Choubox Scrapbook Layout Gallery

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 01:03:51 GMT

The Choubox Scrapbook Layout Gallery.... Where a Picture Can Spark a Thousand Ideas!

Mar 13, Latest Sketches

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 11:58:26 GMT

Hi! If you're wondering, "Where did the new sketches go?", they're on my blog and centered around a baby scrapbook (8.5" x 8.5" format). If you need a sketch for a specific layout format, vote for your favorite to update the Sketch of the Week. Happy Scrapping!

Feb 19, A Birthday for Two!

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 20:50:40 GMT

Have twins? Check out this birthday layout!

Feb 16, Lots of New Sketches

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 03:56:36 GMT

Thanks to all those who have voted! I'm finally caught up, after having gone on a business trip, and there are four new sketches (6 x 6 and 12 x 12). Happy Scrapping!

Jan 16, Creative Scrapbook Layouts... Made Easy!

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 15:22:42 GMT

Choubox makes preserving memories easy with ideas and inspiration for creative scrapbook layouts. All you do is add pictures!

Jan 8, A Year in the Life - Week 1

Sun, 08 Jan 2012 03:10:49 GMT

So, I'm a week into my Picture-a-Day challenge and it is well....a challenge. By the end of the day, I usually have a picture to use, but I determined very early on that it's easy to take a picture, but I'm trying to take a picture that is representative of the day....or a tradition of my family.....or something particularly striking. So far, I've taken several pictures of my boys, an incredible sunset, a thermometer and a book. As I've gone through this week, I've also made a list of those things that I could or want to take a picture of. For example, I always have a Starbucks in the morning and my current favorite is a skim cinnamon dolce latte, so I take a picture of the cup every morning....just in case I don't get anything else for the day. Of course, when that actually happens, I'll have to find a new "go to" picture. :-)

Jan 1, Happy New Year!

Sun, 01 Jan 2012 16:13:13 GMT

The new sketch of the week is up - don't forget to vote!! Happy Scrapping!!

Dec 30, 2011 Christmas Cards

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 18:25:34 GMT

I realize it's a little late to be of any help for this year, but maybe these will give you some inspiration for your 2012 cards. Happy Scrapping!!

Dec 30, A Year in the Life

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 18:25:34 GMT

I'm so excited to start my picture a day project on 1 Jan 2012!!

Dec 26, Back from....the Other Side of the World

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 22:12:47 GMT

Hi! I'm sure some of you are wondering whether I fell off the face of the Earth, but in fact, I just traveled to the other side of the Earth. Every now and then, my "real" job takes me to far away places....places I've never been and this is no different. As a result, though, my love for scrapbooking (and being able to post sketches and scrapbook ideas) takes a back seat as I rack up the frequent flyer miles. :-) In this particular instance, I spent one week in Little Rock, Arkansas and promptly turned around and spent a week in Seoul, South Korea. I had never been to Asia before and it was a great experience, so I will definitely be going back (when it's warmer)!! The good news is....the very long plane ride back allowed me to work on more sketches, so while my plan of handmade card sketches every week during the holidays kind of fell through, there will be more of those and of regular scrapbook pages coming very soon. I hope everyone has an excellent holiday season and Happy New Year!!

Oct 8, Wedding Vow Layout

Sat, 08 Oct 2011 16:06:55 GMT

One of the most common wedding pictures is of the bride and groom's hands, intertwined, with shiny new wedding bands. It's a simple, yet, powerful picture symbolizing their love and new life together. The vows spoken during the ceremony are equally powerful and the perfect journaling to accompany the "ring" picture, especially if the vows were written by the bride and groom.

The layout itself can be simple....no need for a huge title or lots of embellishments....the image will "do the talking" with the vows serving as an appropriate complement. The colors you use are up to you....you can use "traditional" wedding scrapbook paper in black and white, go metallic to match your rings (with brads and eyelets to match) or use paper that matches your exact wedding colors. You may even want to frame the end product and put it on permanent display in your house as an ever-present reminder of your love for each other. Happy Scrapping!

Oct 4, A Twist on The Clothes Pin Game

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 02:14:30 GMT

We've all played it....whether at a baby or bridal shower. Everyone is handed a clothes pin and you get to take others' when they say the "secret" word. The person with the most clothes pins at the end of event wins. Pretty simple, right? Well, let's kick the "baby shower" version up a notch and make it something you can put in a scrapbook. In my twist, everyone at the shower gets a large tag with a ribbon that they can wear like a lanyard. The tag has the baby's name or baby related words on it. Instead of starting out with a clothes pin, everyone starts out with one or two letters on their tag (attached using repositionable adhesive tabs). As you've probably figured out, the goal is to get other people's letters to complete your tag...if they say the "secret" word, you get to take one of their letters. The first person to fill up their tag WINS!! The great thing about this version is that everyone gets to take their tag home to scrapbook as a remembrance of the event. Have fun and Happy Scrapping!!

Oct 2, Scrapbook Consistency

Sun, 02 Oct 2011 22:23:08 GMT

I was asked the other day whether a themed scrapbook has to be consistent from page-to-page. As with all things scrapbook, I truly believe there is no right answer, but here are some guidelines that I go by..... Page layouts, with the exception of the Title and Closing pages, should be two-page layouts. This gives you maximum space for pictures and journaling, while focusing on a single topic that allows for a smooth flow in your visual space. Single page layouts are still doable, but, to me, limit what you can put on a page....usually just a few pictures and a title. Colors should be as consistent as possible, but it also depends on your pictures. If your pictures allow for the use of a few main colors, with coordinating patterned paper for accent, that will allow for a nice color scheme throughout the scrapbook. As for page order, chronological order fits most themes, but you can always mix it up if you think certain items are more important than time-based order. Happy Scrapping!!

Jul 2, Breast Cancer Scrapbooking on FB

Sat, 02 Jul 2011 14:11:57 GMT

There's a great new page on Facebook about Breast Cancer Scrapbooking. Check it out!!

Jan 10, Scrapbook Challenges: Using Lyrics in Scrapbook Layouts

Sun, 10 Jan 2010 22:35:04 GMT

It's a Challenge...Using Lyrics in Scrapbook Layouts!

Oct 8, 7 Oct - Sketch of the Week

Mon, 08 Oct 2007 15:47:03 GMT

Just wanted to let you all know that I haven't forgotten about this week's sketch. I just got back from a family wedding and am trying to get back up to speed. This week's sketch will be on the site by this afternoon (oh...and the 12x12 Doubles won the vote this week). Happy Scrapping!!

Sep 5, Halloween Scrapbook Layout Colors

Wed, 05 Sep 2007 00:23:03 GMT

Halloween Scrapbook Layout Colors...Are you a traditionalist or a costume coordinator?

Aug 8, KI Memories Scrapbook Supplies

Wed, 08 Aug 2007 18:00:15 GMT

KI Memories Scrapbook Supplies....Coordinated with Bazzill Basics cardstock for your convenience.

Jul 31, Valley Forge Review

Tue, 31 Jul 2007 00:09:19 GMT

Let me just get this off my chest, and I promise I won't mention it again, but next time I consider driving up I-95 in the summer - on a weekend - please stop me. I spent more than eight hours getting to and from Valley Forge. So, you're wondering, how was it?... Overall, I'd rate it a B. I could never rate (1) an opportunity for "me" time or (2) the opportunity to scrap or shop for scrapbook supplies in peace badly. But, while I made some really great layouts and bought A LOT of really cool scrapbook supplies, I was disappointed that I didn't learn more technique-wise, though it does harden my determination to go to CKU next year for sure! Here's a review of the clases: A Thing or Two about Boys - This was sponsored by QuikQuotes. This was simply a process of building layouts based on their kits. The one thing that I did get reinforced is a neat way to make slide mounts match your layout. LuCKy Girl - This was sponsored by CK and taught by Creating Keepsakes, Managing Editor, Brittany Beattie. We made a little scrapbook of the things were are most grateful for that fit in a little tin. Definitely very cool scrapbook...I see Christmas presents. All About Heritage - This was also sponsored by QuikQuotes. Again, it was simply a process of creating layouts. Neat way to do photo corners out of vellum. Boys Go Zoom! - This was a class on board books, which I wasn't quite expecting. The board book was made with glossy chipboard - I had been thinking of natural chipboard. But...I did learn a cool way to make photo corners with ribbon. You've Been Framed! - This was a class on creating unique frames with your scrapbook supplies. Nothing fancy or complicated, but a super-cool idea! 10 Things Every Scrapbooker Should Know - This too was taught by Brittany Beattie and was full of great little tips that "every scrapbooker should know," such as...it's OK to scraplift, it's OK to take LOTs of pictures and more! Keep it Simple, Make it Quick, Get it Done with Metropolis - It's a really long title and was set as a two-hour class, but as the title states, it was simple. In fact, too simple for my liking at the time. I wanted to be challenged, but instead I was given a pack of Scenic Route scrapbook supplies with instructions to make four two-page layouts. Now, don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining about great supplies, but I wanted to learn something different and quickly realized that wasn't going to happen. So, about an hour in, I decided to pack up and hit the road. Another year is done and I look forward to what next year will bring in my scrapbook education!

Jul 26, Valley Forge (Part Deux)

Thu, 26 Jul 2007 15:16:34 GMT

I'm heading out this afternoon for my second Creating Keepsakes Convention. Much like last year, I've loaded up on classes (I've always liked school). To be specific, I'm taking the following: A Thing or Two about Boys
LuCKy Girl
All About Heritage
Boys Go Zoom!
You’ve Been Framed!
10 Things Every Scrapbooker Should Know
Keep it Simple, Make it Quick, Get it Done with Metropolis
While my true goal is to make it to CKU one day, my experience last year was incredible and I learned so much (and came back with so many scrapbook supplies...I'm still digging out of that pile). Just keep your fingers crossed that the power doesn't go out!! I will report back as soon as I get home on Saturday evening and share with all of you what I've learned. Happy Scrapping!

Jul 24, Chou Store: Quality Scrapbook Supplies

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:00:46 GMT

Welcome to The Chou Store!! Your source for quality scrapbook supplies.

Jul 22, Chou Store: We R Memory Keepers Scrapbook Paper

Sun, 22 Jul 2007 17:38:00 GMT

Add a new dimension to your layouts with We R Memory Keepers Scrapbook Paper.

Jul 22, Chou Store: We R Memory Keepers Embellishments

Sun, 22 Jul 2007 17:36:49 GMT

The frosting for your "scrapbook" cake...We R Memory Keepers Embellishments

Jul 18, Choubox Articles: Digital Scrapbook Layout Templates

Wed, 18 Jul 2007 19:42:43 GMT

Looking to simplify your digital scrapping life?... Try your hand at digital scrapbook layout templates.

Jul 15, Chou Store: Choubox Digital Scrapbook Layout Templates

Sun, 15 Jul 2007 19:34:51 GMT

Digital scrapbooking is a breeze with Choubox Digital Scrapbook layout Templates!!

Jul 11, Choubox Articles: How to Use a Digital Scrapbook Template

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 23:54:00 GMT

A quick an easy guide for how to use a digital scrapbook template!

Jul 5, Choubox Sketch Pad: 8x8 Scrapbook Layout Sketches

Thu, 05 Jul 2007 16:22:04 GMT

8x8 Scrapbook Layout Sketches... Perfect for Beginner Scrappers

Jun 27, Wizard Scrapbook Layout Paper Packs

Wed, 27 Jun 2007 01:40:39 GMT

Wizard Scrapbook Layout Paper Packs... Made only with high quality Bazzill Basics Cardstock!

Jun 21, Choubox Articles: Organizing Your Scrapbook Magazines

Thu, 21 Jun 2007 02:15:18 GMT

Ready to take on the challenge of organizing your scrapbook magazines?

Jun 12, Get Involved!...Scrapbooking for Charity

Tue, 12 Jun 2007 00:31:16 GMT

Are you thinking of hosting a crop and scrapbooking for charity? Need a sponsor...fill out the form below and let's get started!

Jun 9, Choubox Scrapbook Layout Sketches (6x6)Double

Sat, 09 Jun 2007 18:50:35 GMT

6x6 Double Scrapbook Layout Sketches in pdf format

Jun 9, Choubox Scrapbook Layout Sketches (6x6)

Sat, 09 Jun 2007 18:28:26 GMT

6x6 Scrapbook Layout Sketches in pdf format

Jun 9, Choubox Sketch Pad: 6x6 Scrapbook Layout Sketches

Sat, 09 Jun 2007 17:28:58 GMT

6x6 Scrapbook Layout Sketches...Who Says Size Matters?

Jun 3, Need Sketches?

Sun, 03 Jun 2007 16:29:33 GMT

Recently, as part of the voting for the Sketch of the Week, I've noticed that a lot of you are looking for a variety of sketch sizes, from 6 x 6 to 8.5 x 11 to 8 x 8, yet the 12 x 12 typically wins out in the voting. So...I'd ask that you take a minute and fill out this little survey to see if we can make everyone happy. I'd love to hear from you. Happy Scrapping!

May 16, Choubox Articles: How To Ink Paper Edges

Wed, 16 May 2007 15:19:39 GMT

Junk up your layouts...Learn how to ink paper edges!

May 8, CKC Valley Forge

Tue, 08 May 2007 14:20:30 GMT

Are you going to CKC Valley Forge? I'd love to meet up with some fellow scrappers, so I can put a face with a name to my visitors. :-) Check my calendar for details on when I'll be in class and when we can get together and chat!! If you'd like to meet up, just drop me a line. Hope to see you there!

May 7, Choubox Articles: How to Use Eyelets

Mon, 07 May 2007 16:05:14 GMT

Hammers Optional...Learning how to use eyelets.

Apr 25, Choubox Articles: Layouts for Formal Prom Photos

Wed, 25 Apr 2007 01:16:09 GMT

Tips and ideas on how to scrap your formal prom photos!

Apr 23, Scrapbook Layout Challenges

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 01:35:11 GMT

Learn to think outside the box with scrapbook layout challenges!

Apr 18, Choubox Articles: How to Host a Crop

Wed, 18 Apr 2007 02:43:08 GMT

Ready...Set...Crop. Tips on how to host a crop!

Apr 12, Choubox Scrapbook Article Index

Thu, 12 Apr 2007 11:08:03 GMT

Find your answers fast with the Choubox Scrapbook Article Index!

Apr 10, College Scrapbook Ideas

Tue, 10 Apr 2007 10:23:53 GMT

I received a request for a "college scrapbook" yesterday and wanted to share this link with everyone, in case you hadn't seen it before. I also have an entire section devoted to graduation scrapbook layouts (CLICK HERE). If you ever need ideas for a specific topic, please don't ever hesitate to send me a message.

Apr 5, Planning a Layout

Thu, 05 Apr 2007 17:56:30 GMT

I first want to thank all of you who have submitted article requests, whether they are for tips and techniques or general content. I am posting them as quickly as my little fingers can type along with articles I already had in the queue. But, over the past several weeks, several of you have requested articles that all revolve around the same theme, planning layouts. So, in the coming weeks, I will be making these articles my priority as, in the end, the basics of designing layouts are at the heart of scrapbooking. Thank you again for all your input and Happy Scrapping!

Apr 1, All About Me Series: Scrapbooking Your Favorite Music

Sun, 01 Apr 2007 13:55:15 GMT

All About Me Series: Scrapbooking Your Favorite Music