a scrapping challenge for me

After my vacation almost two weeks ago, I went through my stash of digi scrap supplies to look for elements that I will use for my pages. I noticed that all my printed papers were just there, sitting so pretty  and has never been used. Usually I will try to work on it but at the middle of my scrapping I'll realize that it is not flowing smoothly. So, I would to start again and just get a solid color paper for my background.
And now, after impeding myself to grow as a scrapper, I challenged myself that I will get out of the box and be versatile when it comes to scrapping. From now on, I will use printed papers on my pages. It was not easy for me I tell you. The first layout I did, I changed it three times. I had to step away from my computer to refresh my mind. Nevertheless, after a few days of so much effort, I was able to scrap these...

 Spirited

credits:

- Spline frames by fei-fei's stuff

- Morning Breeze kit by Kitty Designs

everything at Oscraps

That Smile
credits:
- Pic booth frames by fei-fei's stuff
- Storyteller kit collab by Paislee press and One little bird
everything at Oscraps

Swim
credits:
- Correspondence kit collab by Paislee press and Leora Sanford at Catscrap

Milestone
credits:
- Apothecary frames by Paislee press
- What do you see? kit by One little bird
everything at Oscraps

Ok, I am no expert in scrapping but I want to share to you what I learned when using printed papers

1. If you are a beginner, better to use printed papers from the same kit because they are coordinated already.
2. When choosing 2 or more papers, make sure that it highlights each other. For example, if your first choice of paper has small and detailed prints the other one must have big prints or if your first choice of paper is dark, the other one should be light.

3. Put shadows on your papers and elements to make it pop or more visible. This really makes a big difference.

4. Use a thick frame to highlight your pictures better.

5. If you are worried that your journaling would not be readable, you can use a journal tag or use a thick font. You can even add a big solid colored title and place it under your journal to highlight it more.

6. If you are having a difficult time on where to start, don't be shy to use a layered template.

7. Experiment and practice. Its digital so don't be afraid to make mistakes.

I hope I was able to help a bit and inspired you to try out another style of scrapping. If you want to do this challenge for yourself too, here is a set of two layered templates that might help you kick-off your scrapping. You can download this at Oscraps for free! Enjoy and don't forget to share your scrap pages!

Outlined no. 1 & 2