More Than Just a Back to School Layout
This week on Scrapbook Live, we’re revisiting a layout you may recognize from my first preview of Creative Memories’ new Die Cutting & Embossing System!
The original version is a back-to-school layout featuring the School Years collection, but the design is much more versatile than its theme might suggest. With a change of papers, colors and title, this layout could be adapted for birthdays, vacations, holidays, celebrations or almost any other story you want to scrapbook.
Combining Embossing, Alphabet Dies and a Classic Punch
One of the highlights of this layout is the vertical cardstock panel created with the Hexagon Dash Embossing Folder. The embossed pattern adds texture and dimension without introducing another patterned paper or competing with the photos.
The Block Serif ABC Dies are used to create the large title across the top of the page. I paired the letters with the Banner Flag Punch, placing individual letters on punched banners to give the second word extra color and emphasis.
I love how naturally these two tools work together. The banners are just the right size to accent the die-cut letters, and the combination creates a title that becomes an important part of the page design.
For my original layout, the title says “Sixth Grade,” but you can easily personalize this area with another short title. The second word works best when it contains approximately six or seven letters—or fewer—so that the banners fit comfortably across the page.
More Details in the Design
We’ll also work with several additional layers and details, including:
- An embossed cardstock panel that anchors the left side of the layout
- A decorative paper strip that provides a foundation for the title
- A punched border used along the top and bottom of the page
- A chain border element as a themed accent
- Two vertical 4 x 6-inch photo spaces
- Simple cardstock mats and embellishments to complete the page
While the in my sample, the Notebook Edge and Pencil Chain Border Maker Cartridges reinforce the school theme in the sample, both can be exchanged for other border designs. That makes it easy to adapt the basic layout to the papers and supplies you already have. I’m planning to demonstrate the design with a different collection during Scrapbook Live so you can see how easily it moves beyond the original back-to-school theme.
Demo Video
Download the Project Handout
The printable handout includes the complete supply list, measurements and step-by-step directions for recreating the original First Day of School layout.
You’re welcome to follow the original design closely or choose a completely different collection and title. Think of the handout as the starting point, then adjust the colors, borders and embellishments to fit your own photos and story.
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