Elegant - adj. Combining simplicity, power, and a certain ineffable grace of design.
Not all of your photos and memories require bright colors or busy embellishments to make a meaningful layout. Now and again you can have a timeless, graceful layout that speaks to your grownup side. Here are some techniques that will be sure to add that simplicity and polish to your layouts.
White Space - White space is so important to any layout, especially one striving for a more elegant look. The eye needs to have a place to rest among the hustle and bustle of any design. White space is the space on a layout that is not covered by photos, print, or embellishment. Utilizing white space as part of your design will give it a more simplified, less cluttered look.
Layers - In our homes, we like to mix and match textures and patterns, much like throw pillows on a couch. Use that same concept in your layouts. Mix and layer cardstocks and specialty papers for dimension and depth.
Photo Focus - The focus of your layout should always be on the photos. Be careful not to over-embellish your layouts with elements that detract from your photos and memories!
Color Blocking - For an interesting background, combine large chunks of color for a color blocked look. Color blocking helps add strong, clean lines to your layout without detracting from the photos.
Matting and Photo Corners - If it is a photo you would frame to hang on the wall in your home...then frame it as well in your scrapbook! Matting your photos is a surefire way to add elegant appeal. Mat it once, double-mat or triple-mat it - whatever the photo calls for. If you just don't like the look of matting a particular photo, but are still looking to create an elegant design, consider adding photo corners. An unmatted photo has a more casual look, but adding photo corners quickly adds a bit of refinement.
Lettering Styles - The style of lettering you choose can really set the tone for your layout. Stick with classic designs that include serifs (those little lines that finish off the main strokes of letters) or scripts.
Colors and Monochromatic Color Schemes - Elegant colors are traditionally either rich and strong like brown, navy, or black, or soft and subtle like pastel greens, blues, yellows, and reds. If you would like to create an elegant layout that doesn't follow a more traditional color choice, try using a monochromatic color scheme. By choosing different shades and values of a single color, it unifies the colors and softens the look.
Patterned Papers - When choosing patterned papers, look for designs that are more delicate and refined. Soft florals, plaids, stripes and geometric designs are a more elegant style. There are many companies that offer beautiful papers and coordinating embellishments. For a more classic style, look for designs by companies like K & Company, Anna Griffin, and Making Memories (Watercolor and Heritage Collections). For a more contemporary feel, look for designs by KI Memories, Two Busy Moms by Deluxe Designs, and Karen Foster Design.
Remember, no matter how you scrap it, elegant pages are always in style.
