I love embellishments! Embellishments make a drab page fabulous. When I do custom scrapbooking I plan the embellishments into each page. Sometimes they cover the page. Sometimes I place them in groupings. There is no right or wrong to embellishing. The key is to have fun. My favorite embellishments are:
1. Ribbon
–Yes, I save ribbon scraps!
2. Buttons–I am lucky enough that the two generations before me saved buttons!
3. Words (that capture the mood of the photo or layout)–you can clip these out of magazines or books, stamp them or a number of companies design tiny letters and words that you can use.
4. Brads and eyelets
5. 3-D items like rhinestone shapes, big brads and more
I’ve been an art docent for years and I have always told the kids that there are no mistakes in art. If you do something you don’t like, work with it. Sometimes those mistakes can turn into your best pages.
But if you are one of those who like the look but don’t feel comfortable using embellishments, hire a scrapbooker who does. I love to have fun making original pages that celebrate your favorite moments, from vacation scrapbooks, summer vacation scrapbooks, to making a Father’s Day scrapbook or a pet scrapbook. If you’re afraid to use scrapbook embellishments, I’m happy to use them for you!


It’s that time of year when America hits the road with cameras in hand. Here are seven simple tips to help you capture photos that will help make a memorable custom scrapbook.