One of the best ways to save while you scrap is to use materials that can do double duty. Being able to get the most from paper and embellishments will go a long way to stretching your scrapbooking dollar.
My budget for scrapbooking is tight, so finding versatile materials is key. One of my favorite frugal scrapbooking items is double-sided cardstock. The budget-friendly scrapbooking paper features a solid color or pattern on one side and a different solid color or secondary complementary pattern on the opposite side. I only purchase 12×12 double-sided cardstock, though some companies sell 8 1/2 x 11 double-sided paper.
Some ways you can use double-sided cardstock to spice up your layouts include:
1. Cut a strip of the double-sided cardstock to use as a page border, and then use the reverse side as a photo mat on a different sheet of patterned scrapbook paper or piece of cardstock.
2. Add flaps to your layout using opposing sides of the double-sided cardstock.
3. Create space for journaling using the solid-colored side of the cardstock, and then use the patterned side to create an area for photos.
4. Fold a small origami mini-album that can be attached to your layout with your double-sided cardstock.
5. Add pizzazz to a solid-colored photo by folding up a corner to reveal a hint of the secondary color or pattern.
6. Cut-out or punch-out flowers from double-sided cardstock and layer them on a page making sure you alternate the solid and patterned sides of the paper.
7. Use the same idea as the flowers to make a colorful pinwheel to add to a layout.
If you are strapped for cash, then purchasing double-sided cardstock is an economical move. In essence you are getting two sheets of paper for the price of one. What’s more, double-sided cardstock allows you to find coordinating paper for your projects with a simple flip of your wrist. Finally, most double-sided cardstock is thicker than ordinary patterned scrapbook paper, which is a plus if you use large or heavy embellishments.
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