Layered Mini Album Tutorial

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I am really excited about this project because it not only a mini-album, which is my favorite, but very versatile.

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The 5 pages in this album are graduated in length which gives you a stage for a 5 square by 4 square mosaic with a row on the end of each page.  Very cool!

I was convinced that there was a way to make this very affordable so I figured out a way to get the album out of 2 sheets of Mosaic Moments® Grid Paper.  Here is the diagram.

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You cut out each page noting that the dimensions are by squares on the page NOT inches.   The circles denote the binding edge.

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You cut a 1/8″ border on all three “non binding sides” leaving the “binding side” (where you punch holes for book rings or use your Bind-It-All.) as is.

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Also notice that when you cut the 4 x 4 squares piece, it is upside down to the other pages.  It makes no difference, the markings for the photo squares works in any direction.  Just line up the bottom edge of the squares instead of the top.  You will see this clearly when you gather the pages. No worries, it is easy.

I started by printing my picture and applying a row of mosaic squares to each one.  If you want to fill the space later with a special photo from your holidays, that would be great too. Just remember to leave them blank.

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I knew I wanted this project to follow a pattern so it would be quick and easy.  I went with a photo mat with a journaling block underneath.  On the cover, I translated this pattern to a title block and year Cornerstone. I love the look of patterned paper or a photo behind the cornerstone.  I used patterned paper (the same paper as my title block) that I inked with Fired Brick distress ink and then added a text stamp for lots of texture.

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I followed the pattern on each page…

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using Teresa Collins’ Tis the Season Christmas Notes journaling blocks on the facing page.

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I was quickly…

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finished and covered the back.  Decorate your rings or coils at will.

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These albums would make up very quickly and be another great inexpensive handmade Christmas gift.  I picture one peeking out of the top of a stocking.  So cute!

I hope you enjoyed this unique mini-album ala mosaics!

Happy Thanksgiving-

Sandi Keene