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From the CM Blog: Small Squares for the Win!
This week’s Scrapbook Live is showcasing a CM Blog project that is all about small-scale creativity with a layout built from a grid of 2×2 designer paper squares and mini photos in 2×2 and 2×4 sizes. It’s a fun, flexible design that works with any Creative Memories collection and gives you plenty of room to showcase little details, close-ups, or moments that might otherwise get lost on a full-size print. Whether you love a clean grid layout or enjoy mixing shapes and textures, this format gives you tons of room to play.
Why Mini Photos Work So Well
Mini photos let you highlight the best bits of your memories—expressions, small details, or a sequence of actions—without overwhelming the page. They’re also perfect for those events where you took a LOT of pictures (hello, holidays, birthdays, and sports!). The combination of 2×2 paper squares and tiny photos creates a balanced, eye-catching layout that adapts to any theme.
Avoiding Visual Chaos
If you’re worried that a layout built from many small squares might start to feel a little too busy, there are simple ways to keep everything looking clean and intentional. Try mixing in tonal papers, subtle prints, or solid cardstock between your more detailed patterns. These quieter pieces act as visual breathers, helping your eye move comfortably across the page. You can also repeat one or two neutral tones throughout the grid to anchor the design and create a cohesive look. This balance of bold and calm elements gives your page structure while still showcasing all the fun details.
Tips for Printing Small Photos
Printing mini photos can feel intimidating if you haven’t tried it before, so during the livestream I’ll walk through a few easy options. Here are the tools I recommend and what each one does best:
1. Epson Creative Print App (with the Epson PM-400 Printer)
If you have the Epson PM-400, the Creative Print app is a fantastic solution.
- Use the Photo Collage feature to arrange multiple images into a 4×6 print.
- For this layout, you will want to use the 6-up Squares or the 3-up 2×4″ grid.
- After printing, simply cut them down to the exact size you need for the layout.
This is my go-to method for crisp, true-to-color small prints without needing a desktop computer.
2. Project Life App
The Project Life app is a quick way to create perfectly sized photo grids right on your phone.
- Choose a collage that fits several small squares within a 4×6 or 6×8 print canvas.
- Export the finished image and print it at home or send it to your usual photo lab.
- The app gives you clean lines and consistent spacing—ideal for 2×2 and 2×4 photos.
- This app works great for 3×4, 2×2 and 2×3 photos, but not as well for 2×4.
I’ll show some examples during Scrapbook Live so you can see how the sizing works.
3. Canva (Free or Pro)
Canva is another easy option with more control over crop shapes and layouts.
- Start with a 4×6 custom canvas, then drop in your photos.
- Resize and align them using the built-in rulers.
- Export as a high-quality JPG or PNG for printing.
**This is my suggested program if you need to work from your computer and are looking for a free option.**
Canva is great if you want flexibility or you’re already using it for digital planning or photo editing.
Class Recording: How to use the Epson Creative Print App
Printable PDF Handout
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