by Cindy Hartzell

Created on: June 23, 2009   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

Ever since the December 2000 release of "Simple Scrapbooks, " written by Stacy Julian and Gayle Humpherys, the idea of producing a simple scrapbook has been a very popular one. The great success that followed this idea brought about "Simple Scrapbooks" magazine and a website to deliver even more ideas for simple scrapbooks. However, for those new to scrap booking or unfamiliar with this popular trend, the word simple can actually be quite confusing!

The reason there are so many simple scrapbook fans is because a simple scrapbook is quite a departure from the traditional chronological albums and scrapbooks. The founders and other contributors of the simple scrapbook movement came up with the "Five Fs" to help explain what distinguishes a simple scrapbook: Framework, Format, Finished, Fast and Freedom.

Framework:

Simple scrapbooks have a definite structure and are well organized by containing title pages, and other optional organization pages. Based or your needs and theme, include a dedication page, an introduction page, table of contents page, section pages and/or a closing page. Organizational pages are completed first and followed by filler pages.

Format:

Every simple scrapbook will have a recognizable format. This is accomplished by repeating design elements throughout the book, such as: using one color scheme, repeating a layout on several pages, and using one lettering font. The consistent use of repeating design elements give the pages a similar look and pull the book together. One easy and popular way to do this is to make all the organization pages with the same layout.

Finished:

A simple scrapbook is quickly finished as opposed to typical scrapbooks that are filled chronologically with no end in site! Pick out a meaningful theme or even a mundane occurrence and complete a scrapbook of a few concise pages on that topic. A simple scrapbook could be about a rainy Saturday or a tribute to your favorite dessert. Simple scrapbooks give scrap bookers a breath of fresh air by providing a sense of accomplishment because they actually come to an end.

Fast:

One of the reasons why simple scrapbooks have such mass appeal is that they are quickly completed. Some simple scrapbooks can even be started and finished in just a weekend!


Freedom:

Possibly the best feature of the simple scrapbook is the freedom from the requirements of traditional scrap booking. You are free to discard what doesn't work for you and pick what you like about scrap

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