I was just working on a layout this past weekend and I wanted to create a half circle out of patterned paper for the layout background. My circle cutter was too small for the job, so I started looking around my house for something that I could use as a template for the semi-circle. I was amazed with the variety of things I found around my house that I would be using to help me scrapbook. I’d like to share some of my discoveries with you.
Plates and Platters. A large platter is what gave me just the right curve for this pattered paper. I just turned the paper onto the back and traced the platter shape onto my paper. I then just used scissors to cut along my pencil line.
Here is the layout I made using the platter as a template. Many plates aren’t large enough to create an arch across a 12 x 12 paper, so you may have to search through your larger serving platters.
You can watch for everything I used in this layout in the upcomingSeptember 2006 Scrapbook Circle kit.
Cookie Cutters. Why haven’t I though of using them before? You could trace their shapes onto patterned paper and create cool embellishments for your pages. I was especially drawn to my heart and star shapes. You could also dip the cookie cutter into paint and have fun creating your own patterned paper.
Tupperware. Plastic storage comes in all sorts of shapes and sizes and could make a great template for getting just the right sized circle, rectangle or square. You could use the lids to be placeholder for patterned paper or photo and move them around until you like the desired look.
What items have you found around your house that has a practical use in scrapbooking? I would love to hear about your finds!