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
![Image](https://www.mosaicmoments.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Lakeside.jpg)
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
![Image](https://www.mosaicmoments.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/DefineSpace1.jpg)
First, Place Largest elements
![Image](https://www.mosaicmoments.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/DefineSpace2.jpg)
Continue to add Smaller Ones
![Image](https://www.mosaicmoments.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/DefineSpace3.jpg)
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
![Image](https://www.mosaicmoments.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/VABeach2006p1_100.jpg)
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.
![Image](https://www.mosaicmoments.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/FloridaBeach.jpg)
Every element is aligned - giving the page a clean look
5. There are Hundreds of Patterns to Copy
![Image](https://www.mosaicmoments.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/MMPatternImage202.jpg)
Pattern #202
![Image](https://www.mosaicmoments.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/TigerTrek.jpg)
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
![Image](https://www.mosaicmoments.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/StGeorgeUT_100.jpg)
Use the Basic Dies for Simple Layouts
![Image](https://www.mosaicmoments.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/FallBeachTrip_100.jpg)
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
![Image](https://www.mosaicmoments.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/XO_100.jpg)
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.
![Image](https://www.mosaicmoments.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/DieGrid.jpg)
9. It Brings Out the Details
![Image](https://www.mosaicmoments.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Largestrips2.jpg)
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
![Image](https://www.mosaicmoments.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/StripLayout2.jpg)
Create a Panorama cut into strips
![Image](https://www.mosaicmoments.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/XFactor1.jpg)
Try Out the X-Factor for a New Look!
![Image](https://www.mosaicmoments.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/GingerbreadHouse_100.jpg)
Double Up on Matting!
![Image](https://www.mosaicmoments.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/mommyandme_100.jpg)
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!