Article by Candy Spiegel
Tradesmen know the right tools are essential to complete a job quickly and professionally. Scrapbooking is no different -- the right tools are crucial for a beautiful layout. And perhaps the most important tool is Mosaic Moments® Grid Paper. I cannot imagine scrapbooking without it!
Here are 10 reasons why I love Grid Paper:
1. It's the Foundation
12x12 Lakeside Grid Paper Shown Above
Grid Paper gives me a background color and a border to frame my design.
There are lots of colors and patterns to choose from so I always have the perfect color to match
my pictures.
2. It Defines the Space
First, Place Largest elements
Continue to add Smaller Ones
Fill Left Over Space
I know I need to cover all of the grid lines. That simplifies things for me. I know where to put my elements on the page. I put the most important, and largest ones, in first. Then, I add the smaller ones. Once everything I want is on the page, I can easily fill in any
leftover spaces with cardstock or patterned paper. Then, if I choose, I can add embellishments
on top of those spaces. Little elements are automatically grounded by the paper underneath
them.
3. It Keeps Everything Straight & Organized
Small & Large Elements are straight & Organized
Without the grid lines, my pages would be rather
wonky. Even if I am just putting six large photos on the page, I use the lines to make sure they
are straight.
4. It's Neat & Clean
Every element has the same size border around it, which keeps my pages
looking fresh naturally – without me even thinking about it.
Every element is aligned - giving the page a clean look
5. There are Hundreds of Patterns to Copy
Pattern #202
Use Patterns to Plan Your Layouts!
This leaves me free to worry about my photos,
colors and embellishments rather than wasting time trying to figure out a pleasing layout. And
since I’m working on a grid, it’s easy to modify a Page Pattern to fit my photos. Just swap out a
couple of elements for a single one or break a large one into two. There’s no thinking or
stressing out.
6. It's Versatile
Use the Basic Dies for Simple Layouts
Create Lots of Details with Dies!
I can do a quick and simple layout or spend the time adding intricate die cuts and
unique shapes and patterns. I like to mix it up, letting my photos and time restraints be my
guide. And, I think the variety makes for a more interesting album to look at when I’m done.
7. It Saves Me Money
Use Patterned Paper from 6x6 Paper Pads
For matting and embellishing, I can buy 8 1/2x11 cardstock and 6x6 paper pads, which are less
expensive than 12x12 sheets. The smaller papers are perfectly sized for die machines, cutting titles, mats and decorating my pages. I Only need small pieces; so, I have less waste. They are easier to store, too.
8. Easy Count & Cut
I can look at the squares and know exactly how big to cut
my photos or paper. I can grab a die and lay it on the Grid Paper and know, at a glance, how
it will fit. There’s no measuring or guessing. It’s all quick and visual, which works
for me.
9. It Brings Out the Details
Layout showcases desert garden details
Cutting photos into smaller pieces magically showcases elements in the
photo I might not have seen originally. It allows me to showcase the pattern of the frost on the
grass, a child’s hand, a bee on a flower or a special Christmas ornament. These are important
details that sometimes get lost on a traditional page. With Grid Paper, they are highlighted.
10. It Pushes My Creativity
Create a Panorama cut into strips
Try Out the X-Factor for a New Look!
Double Up on Matting!
Cut Photos into 1" Squares
I am challenged to take photos that work well on the grid or that fit a
certain Page Pattern. On the other hand, I am moved to find unique ways to showcase the
photos I already have. Should they be cut into 1-inch squares? Double matted? Highlighted by
themed paper? Maybe I should try strips or the X Factor? I can never get bored with all of these
options!