Simple Stories Page Kits - Scrapbooking Made Easy

Hi crafty friends. It’s Kristine and today I want to share another tip for any crafters new to scrapbooking. Simple Stories page kits are perfect for introducing the newbie scrapbooker to the art of making layouts. When you are new to a craft, it can often feel overwhelming to know where to start, what to buy, and how to put it all together. Let’s take a look at the Simple Stories Beachy page kit as an example.

Within the page kit, you will receive all of the supplies to make two double page layouts. There are four 12 x 12 background papers, 54 die cut pieces, and 19 chipboard pieces. Also, the page kit contains instructions for putting together the two sample layouts. The nice thing about these page kits is you can follow the instructions exactly and have great scrapbook pages. Or, you can switch things up a bit and make them your own! However, if you are new to scrapbooking, these page kits will show you how to layer pieces on a layout in a cohesive way.

Let’s work on the some layouts using the Beachy kit! I will also be using one of my Graphic 45 ink pads - Peachy Pink. These ink pads are an easy way to liven up your layouts. Also, I love to use gems on my layouts so I’ll grab some matching ones from my stash. These doodads from Buttons Galore & More would be cute with the collection, too! Also, I will be using foam tape to add dimension to some of my embellishments.

Beachy Layout #1

For the first layout, I will follow the directions that come in the Simple Stories page kit. However, I will ink all edges of the papers and cardstock punch outs first. I did not ink my chipboard punch outs. Rather than adding photos, my layout will have white cardstock photo mats and I will add photos later.

Then, I will add some foam tape to some of the embellishment clusters. Finally, I will add just a few gems to each of the pages to provide some extra sparkle.

Simple Stories Page Kit Layout #2

Now that the first double page layout from the kit is done, we will move to the second layout. Similar to the first, I will follow the directions included in the Simple Stories page kit and ink the edges of my pieces. However, I did place the two circular pieces on the righthand page up higher than the example.

Foam tape will be used on some of the pieces for added dimension. Since I don’t have photos printed for my layout, I am using white cardstock photo mats. These pieces are also inked for a pop of color.

Extra Pieces from the Page Kit

In the pictures above, you may have noticed a few “extra” pieces that were not included in the Simple Stories page kit instructions. Since there are several leftover pieces, I like to add a few onto my layout, as needed. So, I will add the starfish between the small photos on the second page.

I really like the anchor punch out and want to include it in my layout. So, I decided to add it to the opposite page, between the two smaller photo mats.

If you are new to scrapbooking, I hope you have found the Simple Stories Page Kits to be less intimidating. The more page kits you make, the more you will recognize the elements of a balanced layout. And if you are a scrapbooking pro, what tips do you have for the beginners? We would love for you to share them in the comments below! Don’t forget to check out the FotoBella online store for more Simple Stories page kits and other paper crafting products.

Until next time, happy crafting!

~Kristine, FotoBella Design Team