My Favorite Digital Scrapbooking Layouts From January 2025

By Marisa Lerin Wed, 02/05/2025 - 15:00

Here are a few of my favorite layouts from the last month:

▼ A great festive layout by Beatrice.
digital scrapbook layout

▼ Great use of journaling and a cluster by Brenda.
digital scrapbook layout

▼ A delicately beautiful layout by Tiffany.
digital scrapbook layout

▼ An awesome mixed media layout by Cindy
digital scrapbook layout

▼ A fun photo cluster by Jan.
digital scrapbook layout

▼ Great detailed elements by Susanne.
digital scrapbook layout

▼ Awesome cluster work by Angie.
digital scrapbook layout

▼ Cool mixed media vibes by Lou.
digital scrapbook layout

▼ Another great mixed media layout by Kelley.
digital scrapbook layout

▼ A great pocket page by Sara.
digital scrapbook layout

▼ A pretty layout by AMarie.
digital scrapbook layout

▼ Great use of flowers by Ona.
digital scrapbook layout

▼ Awesome collage by Kelley.
digital scrapbook layout

Layering Like a Pro: How To Create Depth in Your Digital Layouts

By Marisa Lerin Mon, 02/03/2025 - 15:00

Using interesting and visually distinct layers is one of my favorite techniques to use when creating a digital scrapbooking layout. By combining different textures, elements, and shadows, you can add depth and dimension to your pages, making them more engaging and polished. Whether you're using Affinity Photo, Photoshop, or another design program, the principles remain the same.

This post is based on a video I made. Watch me use these principles in action here.

digital scrapbook layout

1. Getting Ready

Before you start adding layers, it’s important to have a solid base for your design. I often like to use a fairly solid background to keep the interest on what comes next. 

I like to choose a kit that includes a variety of interesting layers, such as paint, sequins or scatters, and textured elements like doilies, fabric, tulle, and vellum. I’m especially drawn to scrappy, mixed-media pieces that add depth and character.

Choose your photos. I usually like to put some sort of frame around my photo to help make it pop. Often it will just be a simple white border or white frame. 

digital scrapbook layout

2. Adding Texture and Dimension

One of my favorite parts of scrapbooking is working with different textures and materials. To build depth, I start by layering various digital scraps behind my photo. This could include:

  • Textured paper pieces
  • Vellum pieces(for a semi-transparent effect)
  • Fabric scraps or doilies
  • Strings and Ribbons
  • Vintage Ephemera

As I arrange these elements, I make sure to adjust their size, rotation, and layering order to create a balanced composition. I personally don't like anything to look too tidy. 

After I get the main elements placed behind my photo, I'll add in some paint splatters and scatters/sequins to help anchor the cluster I've been working on. 

digital scrapbook layout

3. Balancing the Layout

After I’ve built up the main focal cluster, I add two other interest points elsewhere on the canvas. Make sure the cluster you've created is small enough so that you have space between your three spots.

Your three focal points can be arranged:

  • Vertically
  • Horizontally
  • In the points of a triangle.

digital scrapbook layout

4. Enhancing with Embellishments

Now it’s time to add the finishing touches! Embellishments are what make the layout pop. Some elements I love incorporating include:

  • Florals – They add softness and elegance.
  • Buttons – Great for introducing different materials like plastic.
  • Greenery – Helps create a natural, organic feel.
  • Word art – Perfect for reinforcing your layout’s theme.

By layering these embellishments strategically, I can guide the viewer’s eye through the design while keeping it visually appealing.

digital scrapbook layout

5. Final Look

At this point, I step back and evaluate the layout. I check for:

  • Depth and dimension – Does it feel layered and dynamic?
  • Flow and movement – Does the eye naturally move through the page?
  • Cohesion – Are the textures, colors, and elements working together?

Mastering layering techniques in digital scrapbooking takes practice, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to create beautiful layouts. By playing with textures, layers, and embellishments, you can add incredible depth and make your pages truly stand out. Let me know if any of this tips sound helpful and what graphics you have to have to create your layout.

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