Getting Started with Scrapbooking – Simple Scrapper https://www.simplescrapper.com Scrapbook Ideas Thu, 19 Jul 2012 19:37:11 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 https://www.simplescrapper.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/cropped-favicon-1080-v5-150x150.png Getting Started with Scrapbooking – Simple Scrapper https://www.simplescrapper.com 32 32 A Newbie’s Perspective on Scrapbooking https://www.simplescrapper.com/2011/08/a-newbies-perspective-on-scrapbooking/ https://www.simplescrapper.com/2011/08/a-newbies-perspective-on-scrapbooking/#comments Tue, 16 Aug 2011 14:00:44 +0000 http://www.simplescrapper.com/2011/08/16/a-newbies-perspective-on-scrapbooking/ Diane Caldwell shares her journey from novice to experienced digital scrapbooker.

The post A Newbie’s Perspective on Scrapbooking appeared first on Simple Scrapper.

]]>
Next month I will celebrate my one year scrapping digiversary, something I didn’t even know existed until recently. A year ago I would have said, “Huh? A digi-what?” And scrapbooking? Don’t even get me started. Scrapbooking was something for those women with perfect lives and perfect children. They scrapped in their beautifully decorated craft rooms in their picture perfect houses.

Diane Caldwell

I had met some of these women-at church, at PTA or while doing volunteer work. For fun, these chicks took pictures of every move their families made. Then they went to a hotel for the weekend, leaving their children with their husbands, while they would cut, paste and crop until the wee hours.

When they came back, they would go on and on about crops and scrapping with an almost religious zeal. Weird, I thought, and so totally NOT me.

My husband was away on a business trip that September day and our only son had just left for college. I was cleaning out desk drawers when I happened upon a “Learn Digital Scrapbooking” CD by Linda Sattgast. It had come free in the box with PSE 8 when I purchased it at Costco a year earlier. Given my disdain for paper scrapping, I don’t even know why this would interest me.

I have never been sentimental about the past. I have a great memory and just figured that I would remember all the important stuff in life.

As for passing it along to my son and any future generations—please! My life is just not that interesting or important. I am a lousy photographer but I would take the obligatory snapshots on vacations or special occasions. I know this sounds strange, but I didn’t even OWN any photo albums! Other than our wedding album and my son’s baby book, all my pictures were in shoe boxes (not sorted or organized) or living on the hard drive of my computer.

I still don’t know what kept me from tossing that disk into the trash. I must have REALLY been looking for an excuse to escape the boredom of cleaning out the office! But something spoke to me that day and I popped the CD into the tray and hit play.

I was fascinated from the very start. I have always been good on the computer and had edited the employee newsletter at my old job. This looked like so much fun! I liked the idea of limitless creative options and the fact that I could always fix mistakes by clicking undo. Best of all there was NO MESS! And if I hated my original (lousy) photo, I could crop, change to black & white or zoom in to emphasize something other than the main subject.

Digi-scrapping seemed like a much less expensive hobby than regular scrapping but as someone with two sets of golf clubs gathering dust in the garage, a like-new sewing machine that I sold at a yard sale a year ago and drawers full of fabric, notions and yarn-I KNEW my tendency to go whole hog on a new hobby only to abandon it later could end up costing me big bucks in the end.

As I began researching digiscrapping on the internet, Simple Scrapper was the first site I found. I loved that it was so straightforward and well, simple! I was so hooked on this new hobby that I needed advice-and Simple Scrapper was great in directing me to invaluable resources and inspiration from some of the best folks in the business.

Determined that I could do this new hobby almost entirely free, I began by using freebies and printing on my home printer. I quickly found that trolling for freebies on a daily basis was eating up huge chunks of time and I had begun to subscribe to the mindset of “if it’s free, I must need it!” As soon as I realized how much time I was wasting when I could be scrapping, my addiction to freebie-hunting was cured.

My Lessons Learned

I learned that a couple of subscriptions were my best investment. I currently subscribe to The Digi Files and Scrapper’s Guide. Both provide tons of digital product as well as fantastic training videos and articles every month.

A Seagate 1TB external hard drive was also money well spent. Kind of an unglamorous purchase but one I am glad I made. All my scrap stuff is in one place and accessible on my home network and if one of our computers were to crash, I am safe. Of course if my house burns down or a tornado strikes, the EHD is gone along with the computers so my next investment will be an on line backup service.

The idea of home printing was a bust. My printer is not large format and the cost of the HP ink alone is a deal breaker. There are many great printing services available but I tried Persnickety Prints first and see no reason to switch.

I am proud to report that I did finish a year in review album for 2010. I sent it off to Persnickety Prints and got the pages back in just 3 days. I was so excited that my hands were shaking as I opened the package. My handiwork was all there in gorgeous living color—with staples the size of a small country and journaling fonts that could double as the top line on an eye chart! OK, so I still had a lot to learn about perspective and how some things may look fine on the screen but not so much on the 12×12 printed page.

Yet something strange happened as I gazed at those first printed pages. I realized that I loved scrapping the everyday moments. Yes, we had a family reunion and a vacation and Thanksgiving and Christmas to scrap. But those were not my favorite pages.

The turtle we found on our dog walk one day is one of my faves.



A page about my in-laws first house is another.

Cute Shoes and a Good Hair Day sums up my feelings after a long Chicago winter.

My perception of scrapping being for sappy sentimentalists was quickly changing. I realized that I love doing this FOR ME. Yes, I am documenting our family history, but mostly I am expressing myself through a hobby that I truly love. Is that really any different than the woman who golfs, plays tennis, paints or sews as a hobby?

I assembled that 2010 album using archival quality sleeves and taking great care to put the whole year in chronological order. After dinner, I brought it out and showed it proudly to my husband and son, who both said, “Oh that’s nice” and quickly turned their attention back to whatever sporting event was on ESPN at that moment.

The old me would have cried and quit. The new me took it in stride and kept right on scrapping her imperfect life.

I am a wife, mother and daughter who VERY occasionally blogs at http://travelinggazette.blogspot.com. When I emailed Simple Scrapper about doing a guest post from a newbie’s perspective, my intent was to write a review of essential products for the new scrapper. As I began to write, I realized that while those things were important, what was more important was finally finding a hobby I totally love and how my perceptions of scrapbooking and memory keeping had dramatically changed.

The post A Newbie’s Perspective on Scrapbooking appeared first on Simple Scrapper.

]]>
https://www.simplescrapper.com/2011/08/a-newbies-perspective-on-scrapbooking/feed/ 26
How not to use a layered template https://www.simplescrapper.com/2011/03/how-not-to-use-a-layered-template/ https://www.simplescrapper.com/2011/03/how-not-to-use-a-layered-template/#comments Tue, 08 Mar 2011 14:22:21 +0000 http://www.simplescrapper.com/?p=14414 Find out how one small step can affect whether your templates open or not... and how to fix it.

The post How not to use a layered template appeared first on Simple Scrapper.

]]>

A dear reader had been struggling for some time with a very confusing problem. You see, when she opened a layered digital template, it appeared to have all the layers merged and locked. This problem boggled my mind as well as that of a few other industry educators.

Then, at last night’s chat on templates, this reader joined us and we finally figured it out. We jumped on the teleconference service DimDim and we were able to see exactly how this reader’s computer was handling the file.

A Lightbulb Moment

Since the template was working for others, we figured the problem had something to do with the process of downloading and unzipping. We were correct, but the issue was harder to detect for one small reason: the computer was displaying zip files as folders. In some operating systems, compressed files like zips are displayed as a folder. The folder is still compressed by the contents can be viewed. However, in files like a layered PSD, they do not open fully because the contents are still compressed.

While this reader was using OS X, we know this can happen on Windows as well. The solution is to know the behavior of your machine and make sure to extract the files (even though they appear to already be extracted). In this case, the most simple instruction was to drag the files to the desktop and then file them away from there. The important thing was to get them out of that original folder without opening the files first.

Lessons Learned

I’m so glad this reader can finally use templates and get her stories scrapped. If you ever have a strange problem or error, these tips could help you get it resolved:

1. Have someone watch what you are doing. With computers, it could be an easily-overlooked subtlety.

2. File type management, particularly compressed files, can vary between operating system versions and software installed.

3. Never be afraid to ask for help, or even ask multiple people, to figure out the problem. It could make all the difference.

Have you ever had a ‘weird thing’ happen to you on a computer? How did you fix it?

The post How not to use a layered template appeared first on Simple Scrapper.

]]>
https://www.simplescrapper.com/2011/03/how-not-to-use-a-layered-template/feed/ 4
Simple tips for beginning digital scrappers https://www.simplescrapper.com/2010/10/simple-tips-for-beginning-digital-scrappers/ https://www.simplescrapper.com/2010/10/simple-tips-for-beginning-digital-scrappers/#comments Thu, 07 Oct 2010 22:08:42 +0000 http://www.simplescrapper.com/?p=11222 Hear some of my best tool and resource recommendations for a new digital scrapbooker.

The post Simple tips for beginning digital scrappers appeared first on Simple Scrapper.

]]>
At this past Monday’s #scrapchat, I learned that you really really really want to learn more about Photoshop Elements. To satisfy those desires, I will host “More Photoshop Elements Tips & Tricks” next Monday. To help prepare for this fun event, I would love for you to anonymously submit any and all questions you have about photo editing or digital scrapbooking with PSE.

Submit a Question

Together, we can do anything!

In the meantime, I thought I would answer some awesome questions about digital scrapbooking in general. These come from a reader and #scrapchat participant who is just getting her feet wet with the hobby.

One thing I am wondering about as a newbie is what else to invest in. Other than the PSE 8 software, I have not spent any money on this new hobby yet, which I LOVE but has taken a tremendous amount of willpower on my part!! I am thinking my next purchase, which is an expensive one albeit an un-fun one, should be an external hard drive because backing up photos and work is a no-brainer.

This idea is right on track as backing up should be a #1 priority in everyone’s memory keeping routine. An external hard drive (EHD) is a great first step. I also recommend selecting a secondary backup on a different type of media – like online storage or DVDs stored at a different locations.

One additional point to consider – invest in or use free software to automate your backups. I use Sync Toy on PC and File Synchronization on Mac – to make sure I have peace of mind that my files are safe and always updated.

For more ideas, check out…

More classes? Or should I just work on the skills I have obtained via Linda Sattgast’s DVD thus far for now and revisit the training issue in 4-6 months since I feel like I am learning by doing and applying the things I have already learned?

If you’re comfortable using layers, clipping masks and drop shadows – then you’ve got much of the basics covered. While I absolutely love and encourage you to spread you wings through online (or in person) classes, I think the best education you can get is through trial and error. Scrap often, learn as you go and never be afraid to ask someone “how did you do that?” Additionally, so much information can be found online for free, that I would want you to save you money for the fun, inspiration classes that aren’t as technique-focused.

What about supplies? I already have a ridiculous stash of free stuff for a newbie, thanks to Digital Daisy’s email and templates from your site and a couple of others. I am wondering about sites that offer a ‘premium’ subscription? Linda Sattgast’s  site or the Daily Digi are two that come immediately to mind. Are the content, tuts, kits, etc. that you get as a ‘member’ worth the price of subscribing?

Personally, my digital scrapbooking took a huge leap when I started making investments in the supplies I was using. Yes, there are many high quality freebies, but as they say “you get what you pay for.” If you don’t love shopping and just want to be assured of getting great supplies month-to-month, then the digital kit club offerings might be right up your alley. If you’re a little finicky and have particular styles you love, I would just shop around. The New Release Highlights here every Sunday showcase many of my favorite products – so that’s a good place to start.

Freebies can definitely get out of hand but what I like right now is that I am still discovering my style. My scrapbook pages for now look a bit like my closet—lots of separates but no real ensembles!! I doubt if I can do an album or book until I find that cohesive style. Any tips on finding that or if it even exists??

There are really two parts to this question:

1. Yes, every scrapbooker can find her preferred style or styles. As you spend time scrapping, you’ll find that you are more drawn to certain supplies and page designs than others. You’ll also find that while you love to look at certain styles, your hand just doesn’t work that way. The more you scrap and try out new things, the more you’ll find your pages become more cohesive.

2. As for albums, especially the “regular scrapbooks,” I think its important not to worry about everything fitting together cohesively. An eclectic mix & match collection, representing an evolving hobby, is part of what makes scrapbooks so interesting. It’s fun and beautiful to work within a specific theme and design scheme for specific album projects – where I love being matchy matchy – but in terms of the everyday pages, its necessary to let go of that compulsion.

I hope these tips were of help to some beginning digital scrapbookers – and that many of you will join us this coming Monday, October 11 for the next #scrapchat! Do you have any tips for beginners?

The post Simple tips for beginning digital scrappers appeared first on Simple Scrapper.

]]>
https://www.simplescrapper.com/2010/10/simple-tips-for-beginning-digital-scrappers/feed/ 1
How to use layered templates https://www.simplescrapper.com/2009/09/how-to-use-layered-templates/ https://www.simplescrapper.com/2009/09/how-to-use-layered-templates/#comments Mon, 28 Sep 2009 09:00:43 +0000 http://www.simplescrapper.com/?p=4004 This tutorial will show you step by step how to use layered template files.

The post How to use layered templates appeared first on Simple Scrapper.

]]>
It’s no secret around here that I love templates, I love sharing them with you and I whole-heartedly encourage their use for super-simple digital scrapbooking.

While some readers are well-versed in the use of these time-saving files, I get asked often for more specifics on using them. This tutorial will show you step by step how to use layered template files. My example will show PSE 6 for Mac, but the steps are the same for PC versions and for Photoshop.

Today we’re working towards a layout that looks like this:

ZP-SomeLikeitHot-1-web

And we’ll be using the new Template Meg:

template-meg-preview

Use the template (download at the end of the post) to work along with the tutorial. Click on the screenshots to enlarge them.

Step 1. Open the .psd file.

1-open.tiff

Step 2. Use the Move tool to select one of the shapes you want to fill. You’ll see the layer of that shape selected in the layers palette on the right.

2-select.tiff

Step 3. Navigation to File>Place.

3-fileplace.tiff

Step 4. Locate the paper you wish to use to fill the shape. Select the file and hit Place.

4-pickitem.tiff

Step 5. The file will be placed into your layered template above the shape you wish to fill. However, it covers the whole page. Select Ctrl-G (Cmd-G on Mac) to clip this paper to the shape you selected. This is called a clipping mask.

5-placed.tiff

Step 6. Repeat this step will all shapes you wish to fill with papers. Edit the journaling boxes and add further embellishments as desired. Delete any placeholders as necessary.

6-clipped.tiff

Templates are just a foundation, a starting point; feel free to edit/move/delete shapes as you wish. Here are four more tutorials on this very same subject if you’d like some other perspectives/techniques.

Download the template with a Free Membership

The post How to use layered templates appeared first on Simple Scrapper.

]]>
https://www.simplescrapper.com/2009/09/how-to-use-layered-templates/feed/ 11
Essential tips for beginning scrappers https://www.simplescrapper.com/2009/09/essential-tips-for-beginning-scrappers/ https://www.simplescrapper.com/2009/09/essential-tips-for-beginning-scrappers/#respond Sat, 05 Sep 2009 17:14:17 +0000 http://www.simplescrapper.com/?p=3653 Links to some of Simple Scrapper's best posts for beginning digital scrappers.

The post Essential tips for beginning scrappers appeared first on Simple Scrapper.

]]>
989421_beginner

In all blogs, but especially daily ones like Simple Scrapper, great super-useful posts from the past get lost to the Archives. To help you, the reader, find some of these gems, I like to unearth them for you!

This week, I want to remind you of these tips, tricks and tutorials to help beginning scrappers learn the basics.

Even experienced scrappers can learn something new from beginning tutorials, especially since most of us are completely self taught. Also, this is a great post to share with friends and family who may want to get started with digital scrapbooking.

The post Essential tips for beginning scrappers appeared first on Simple Scrapper.

]]>
https://www.simplescrapper.com/2009/09/essential-tips-for-beginning-scrappers/feed/ 0
What is simple scrapping? https://www.simplescrapper.com/2009/08/what-is-simple-scrapping/ https://www.simplescrapper.com/2009/08/what-is-simple-scrapping/#comments Thu, 13 Aug 2009 19:02:54 +0000 http://www.simplescrapper.com/?p=3429 I came across a beautiful blog yesterday that caused me to pause and ask, "am I really a simple scrapper?" I quickly retorted to myself, [...]

The post What is simple scrapping? appeared first on Simple Scrapper.

]]>
I came across a beautiful blog yesterday that caused me to pause and ask, “am I really a simple scrapper?” I quickly retorted to myself, “well duh, of course you are Jennifer”.

mollyirwin

Layout from Molly Irwin’s Summer 2009 album

While I do adore the beautiful artworks created by the likes of Cathy Zielske, Ali Edwards, Molly Irwin and others, the graphic design style is only one facet of what I believe it means to be a simple scrapper.

So, what is simple scrapping to me?

  • Honoring the past & present
  • Focus on storytelling
  • Allowing photos to shine
  • Conscious choices in shopping
  • Purposeful design
  • Choosing balance
  • Streamlining processes
  • Effective use of minimal time
  • Cherishing imperfection

It is not just a design ethic or style, but a philosophy about fitting memory keeping into a busy life. What is simple scrapping to you?

The post What is simple scrapping? appeared first on Simple Scrapper.

]]>
https://www.simplescrapper.com/2009/08/what-is-simple-scrapping/feed/ 3
You asked … about getting started https://www.simplescrapper.com/2009/05/you-asked-about-getting-started/ https://www.simplescrapper.com/2009/05/you-asked-about-getting-started/#comments Sat, 09 May 2009 18:12:23 +0000 http://www.simplescrapper.com/?p=1940 Every Saturday, Simple Scrapper answers your questions. In this post, you can learn how to create your first digital scrapbook page.

The post You asked … about getting started appeared first on Simple Scrapper.

]]>
Wow, life got in the way yesterday. My Friday was such a blur – from hosting a webinar at work to caring for my husband who is still recovering from knee surgery to watching my stepson direct The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) at the high school last night. We’ll return to regular programming today with “Ask Simple Scrapper”.

I received a great question yesterday from a beginning digital scrapper. She has photos and a kit all ready to go. She has Photoshop Elements 7 installed, but just doesn’t know where to begin. This post will take you step-by-step through your first layout. (I’m using Photoshop Elements 6 for Mac so each screen might not look exactly the same.)

Step 1:  Creating a foundation page
Open Photoshop Elements. If there is a startup screen, select “Start from scratch”. In my version, the “New” box automatically pops up. You can also create a new page by selecting “File” and then “New”.

In this box, you want to create a document that is 12 inches wide and 12 inches tall with a resolution of 300 pixels per inch. You also want to select RGB color and the background to be white. Optionally, you can also name your file in this dialog box.

newpagetiff

You should end up with a square blank page.

blankpagetiff

Step 2: Add a background paper
The easiest way I’ve found to get digital supplies from folder to page is with the “Place” function. Go to “File”, then”Place”. This will open up a window that allows you to browse all the files on your computer. You want to navigate to the location of the background paper you want to use. It helps to have one folder were you keep digital scrapbooking files.

browsebackgroundtiff

For this example, I’m using Amy Sumrall’s Wubulous kit, her entry to DSA’s SYTYCD contest.

bkgdtiff

Step 3: Adding elements
This is the fun part, where you can add more papers, elements and alphas to create an attractive design. Just as with the first background paper, you want to use “File” and then “Place” to add new items to the page.

As you can see here, I’ve added a frame.

frame

You can change the layering of items on the page by dragging and dropping within the layers panel.

layerstiff1

I added a second element, some heart doodles, to my page using the same process.

secondelementtiff

Step 4: Adding photos
When I add photos to a page, I find it is most helpful to create a box the photo will fit in. Start by selecting the “Rectangle Tool” from your toolbar.

rectangletiff

Then, use this tool to draw a rectangle the size you want your photo. Your new rectangle might not be on the desired layer. You can drag, within the layers panel, to change the layer order.

photorectangletiff1

Now, you want to make sure your “Move Tool” is selected again.

movetooltiff

Click on your new box so that its layer is selected in the layers panel. Go to “File” and then “Place” to locate and place the photo you want to add to your page. Hit “Enter” to confirm the placement. This simply places the photo in the layer above your rectangle.

placedphototiff

Now you want to re-size and move the image so it is in the correct location. Normally, you can resize an image by dragging from one of its corners. To scale an image properly, hit the alt (option on Mac) key at the same time. You can also use your “Move Tool” to drag your photo around the page. In doing this, you want to keep in mind the box you have created below. You want the re-sized image to fully cover the box.

resizephototiff

To crop your image to the box you created, you will use “Ctrl-G” (Cmd-G on Mac). This is what as known as a “Clipping Mask”. You clipped the photo to rectangular box below it. I use this is every single layout. You can clip any image to the shape of the one below it.

clippedphototiff

Step 5: Finishing Touches
You might find that your background paper doesn’t quite fit afterall, but you love the color or pattern. Use it to mat another background paper. Add in stitching or other borders, alpha or text titles and additional embellishments as you desire. Use drop shadows to add dimension.

finaltiff

One your layout is done, it is time to save it. If you go to “File” and “Save”, this will save your file as a PSD. You definitely want to do this, in case you need to make any changes.

However, you also will want to save your file as a full resolution jpg. Choose “File” and “Save As”. When the prompt comes up, look for the “Format” drop-down and choose “JPEG”. Make sure the location where you want to save is selected and then save. A prompt will come up, asking about the quality you want to save at. Move the slider all the way to the right, to choose the maximum quality. This will be the file you print from.

saveasjpgtiff

Finally, if you want to share your layout on the web, follow the directions in this post to create a smaller, web-ready image.

Do you have a question for Simple Scrapper? See the answer here next week!

The post You asked … about getting started appeared first on Simple Scrapper.

]]>
https://www.simplescrapper.com/2009/05/you-asked-about-getting-started/feed/ 1
What is hybrid scrapbooking? https://www.simplescrapper.com/2009/05/what-is-hybrid-scrapbooking/ https://www.simplescrapper.com/2009/05/what-is-hybrid-scrapbooking/#comments Thu, 07 May 2009 21:22:42 +0000 http://www.simplescrapper.com/?p=1930 This posts provides an overview of hybrid scrapbooking and provides some great resources.

The post What is hybrid scrapbooking? appeared first on Simple Scrapper.

]]>
This is a digital scrapbooking blog, yes, but about 1/4 of you do some sort of work which you call “hybrid”. I wanted to spend just a little bit of time introducing the concept of hybrid scrapbooking to those who may not be familiar.

What is hybrid scrapbooking?

Hybrid scrapbooking combines the use of a computer with traditional scrapping supplies like paper, scissors and glue. There are many ways you can “do hybrid”, including:

  • Altering a photo in Photoshop (particularly artistic changes) and printing for use in a paper layout
  • Typing and printing your journaling for a paper-scrapped page
  • Scanning a piece of memorabilia and printing to use on a paper-scrapped page
  • Printing out digital elements, cutting and attaching using traditional scrapbook or craft methods
  • Creating a digital layout, printing and adding additional physical embellishments

Hybrid can be any or all of these things at once. It is a way to combine the best of digi (flexibility, details) and paper (tangible craftiness)!

Examples of hybrid projects

somethingbig_web

tags-and-paper

home_sweet_home_card_custom_

Tips for hybrid projects

  • Invest in a great color printer for the best results
  • Always use photo-safe papers and adhesives
  • Try your hand at 8×8 layouts for easy full-bleed printing
  • Dig out that forgotten paper cutter for no-fuss trimming
  • Use copies of original photos to avoid losing precious memories
  • Remember the designer’s TOU if you’re doing scrap for hire/others

Resources for hybrid scrappers

In looking at some of these projects, I am craving some hands-on time with my misplaced glue stick. I love how hybrid adds another level of creativity, while retaining a lot of the flexibility perfectionism of digital. What do you think of hybrid? For those who love hybrid, what are some tips to keep it simple?

The post What is hybrid scrapbooking? appeared first on Simple Scrapper.

]]>
https://www.simplescrapper.com/2009/05/what-is-hybrid-scrapbooking/feed/ 4
Review of Scrapbooking Digitally https://www.simplescrapper.com/2009/03/review-of-scrapbooking-digitally/ https://www.simplescrapper.com/2009/03/review-of-scrapbooking-digitally/#comments Fri, 27 Mar 2009 09:00:36 +0000 http://www.simplescrapper.com/?p=1123 I recently received a review copy of "Scrapbooking Digitally: The Ultimate Guide to Saving your Memories Digitally" by Kerry Arquette, Andrea Zocchi, Darlene D'Agostino, and Susha Roberts. Published in 2007, this 101-level book claims to [...]

The post Review of Scrapbooking Digitally appeared first on Simple Scrapper.

]]>
I recently received a review copy of “Scrapbooking Digitally: The Ultimate Guide to Saving your Memories Digitally” by Kerry Arquette, Andrea Zocchi, Darlene D’Agostino, and Susha Roberts. Published in 2007, this 101-level book claims to provide “beginners with all the information they need to get started” as well great new tips for more experienced scrappers. In this post, I’ll give you some of the key facts on this book as well as my impressions.

This reference manual includes 208 organized and well-indexed pages as well as an accompanying CD containing 5 kits and a trial copy of PSE 5 for Windows. Main sections of the book include:

  • Go Digital, Darlin’
  • The Digital Craft Room
  • Digital Layouts 101
  • Working with Photos
  • Letter-Perfect Text
  • Digital Backgrounds and Accents
  • The Digital Kit

One of my first impressions was the book is moderately dated. But, being published in 2007 (and therefore likely written in 2006) that is to be expected. The content is what is important, since new scrappers can get a sense of trends in digital scrapbooking from visiting the forums and galleries. Also, the basic how-to’s of using PSE and similar software has not changed in that time.

Overall, I’m impressed that the authors explored such a wide range of beginner information, ranging from camera selection to extractions and from newbie lingo to font management. Additionally, they not only covered practical skills but important elements of design such as color selection and composition. This book combines tips and tutorials in both technical and artistic aspects of digi. That alone makes it a worthy read for scrappers of all proficiency.

Have you read this book? What did you think? Would you recommend it to others?

The post Review of Scrapbooking Digitally appeared first on Simple Scrapper.

]]>
https://www.simplescrapper.com/2009/03/review-of-scrapbooking-digitally/feed/ 2
A newbie guide to digi lingo https://www.simplescrapper.com/2009/03/a-newbie-guide-to-digi-lingo/ https://www.simplescrapper.com/2009/03/a-newbie-guide-to-digi-lingo/#comments Wed, 18 Mar 2009 09:00:01 +0000 http://www.simplescrapper.com/?p=999 When I first started scrapping, I realized there was a semi-secret language exclusive to this growing community. While it didn't take very long to figure it out, I would have loved to have a primer to [...]

The post A newbie guide to digi lingo appeared first on Simple Scrapper.

]]>
When I first started scrapping, I realized there was a semi-secret language exclusive to this growing community. While it didn’t take very long to figure it out, I would have loved to have a primer to the vocabulary.

Alpha – alphabet files, often as individual letters, to use on layouts for titles

Challenge – a set of instructions to complete a layout or other action in a certain way, often hosted by shops and offers incentives such as discounts or gift cards for accumulated points

CT – creative team, members of a designer’s team who receive products for free and create layouts to promote the designer’s work

CU – commercial use, a type of licensing that allows you to use the items for business purposes

Elements – individual files of ribbons, flowers or other non-paper items for use on layouts, aka embellishments

Enabling – to share your favorite products so that others might want to purchase them

LO – a digital, hybrid or paper layout

NSBR – not scrapbooking related

RAK – a freebie given as a random act of kindness, sometimes from a random drawing

Papers – flattened 12×12 files that are digital versions of single sheets of scrapbooking paper

Quick page – a flattened image with a black space for one or more photos to be placed behind, aka plopper

S4H/S4O – means scrap for hire or scrap for others, generally used as a licensing term

Scraplift – to copy the shapes, placement and/or style of a layout, credit to the creator is encouraged

Sketch – a flattened black & white image indicating shape and placement of papers and/or elements, aka sketch template

Template – usually a black & white layered file in which a user can use as a foundation for a layout

TOU – terms of use, a file accompanying a designer’s work that includes the type of license the items have

On top of this list, don’t forget that the popular digi sharing sites and shops also have their own acronyms. You’ll see these used extensively in forums and galleries. Some good examples include DST = DigiShopTalk and TDC = The Digi Chick. Additionally, there is of course an entire lexicon of internet shorthand like LOL (laughing out loud) that is beyond the scope of this post.

Have I left anything digi-relevant out?

The post A newbie guide to digi lingo appeared first on Simple Scrapper.

]]>
https://www.simplescrapper.com/2009/03/a-newbie-guide-to-digi-lingo/feed/ 1