If you're a new scrapbooker, mixing patterned scrapbook papers probably seems a bit scary. There are so many different patterns available at your local craft store that it's easy to feel like you'll never find scrapbooking papers that fit together properly.
Obviously, the easiest way to mix patterned scrapbook papers in your layouts is to stick to product kits or lines that include several different coordinating patterns.
Making Memories, BasicGrey, Die Cuts with a View, and K&Company are some of the many manufacturers who make scrapbooking easy by offering these items. However, sticking to kits and coordinating lines limits your creativity and can easily become expensive. On the other hand, mixing and matching various patterns from your personal supply stash is a thrifty way to create stylish baby scrapbook pages.
By keeping in mind a few basic tips for mixing patterned papers, you can learn how to confidently create pages for your child's baby keepsake album.
Decorative Papers With Dots
Dots are versatile patterns that work well for almost any type of layout. If the dots are small, they provide a good resting spot for the eye. Use small patterns in bright colors to add "pop" to a subdued background. Larger dots can serve as places to add circular shaped photos or flower embellishments.
Patterned Scrapbook Papers With Checks
Checks are a great subtle pattern that is suitable for general purpose scrapbooking projects.
You can layer strips of checked patterned papers to make a customized background.
Plaid Patterned Paper
Plaids are excellent patterns for connecting a color scheme, since most plaid patterns have two or three coordinating colors. Punch matching shapes from multiple patterned papers to make a border for your baby scrapbook layout.
Striped Patterned Paper
Stripes can serve the same purpose as plaids, but have a simpler appearance. Smaller stripes work well to help subdue bold flowers, flourishes, or paisley patterned scrapbook papers.
Patterned Papers With Flowers
Flowers are most often associated with baby girl scrapbook layouts, but the more subtle floral patterns can be used on masculine scrapbook pages too. The best way to incorporate flowers into a baby boy scrapbook layout is to use the paper in small doses and to choose subdued colors.
Scrapbooking Papers With Flourishes
Flourishes are often mixed with florals, stripes, and dots. Look for patterns with at least one common color to help visually connect them to the other designs on your page. Frame a large block of decorative paper with solid strips of cardstock to keep it from overwhelming your baby scrapbook layout.
Paisley Patterned Papers
Paisley patterns are often paired with stripes or florals for a slightly retro look. One fun way to incorporate paisley papers into your scrapbook layout is to arrange coordinating patterns in a grid that also incorporates photos and embellishments. If you're using multiple patterns with several different colors, consider using black and white photos on your baby scrapbook layout to make sure your images aren't lost in the shuffle.