Diagonal Punched Border Layout

Posted in Beach Scrapbook Layouts, Birthday Scrapbook Layouts, Shape Punches, Summer Scrapbook Layouts, Technique Layout by

I love finding unique ways to use our Creative Memories tools! We make such an investment in our tools, so it’s always exciting when we can discover multiple ways to use them in our projects.

The technique I’m sharing today is a fun and creative way to use our Shape Punches — and it adds such a unique touch to scrapbook layouts!

To create my layout above, I used the Celebration Cake Punch and the Birthday Bash Collection — all from Creative Memories!

After punching the border, I cut it apart using the 45-degree line on the 12-Inch Trimmer and then reconstructed the border onto a strip of Bright White Cardstock.

I love how this technique gives a completely different look to the punch and creates such a fun decorative accent for scrapbook layouts!

For my second layout, I used the same technique with a trio of Shape Punches!

This time I used the Embossed Seashell Punch, Sea Turtle Punch, and Fresh Flower Punch along with the Chasing the Sun Collection from Creative Memories.

You can use this technique with a variety of Shape Punches, but I do recommend first testing the spacing of your punches using scrap paper before creating your final border design. It’s a great way to experiment and see what combinations work best together!

You’ll find all of the tools and materials that I used for both layouts on the Creative Memories website. I truly appreciate your purchases using my CM website link — your support means so much to my small business! And don’t forget that I offer a generous Customer Rewards Program too!

Please click here to place an order using my Creative Memories website link.



For a step-by-step demonstration, please view my instructional video. If you haven’t already, I would appreciate your subscription to my YouTube channel.

Please click here to view my demonstration video.


For a printable instructional handout, please click the download button below.



KarynCropsTechTue83HandoutDownload


Register Now & Save the Date!
Join us for the 2nd Annual Memories Matter Alzheimer’s Fundraising Virtual Crop! 

A group of Creative Memories Advisors is once again coming together to host this special event in support of the Alzheimer’s Association. Last year, we raised an incredible amount—and we’re excited to make an even bigger impact this year!

What you’ll get:
For your minimum donation of $35, you’ll receive access to exclusive layouts created by me and 14 other talented advisors.  Each layout will include an instructional handout and video.

The instructional materials will be hosted in a private Facebook group. During the week of June 20th, the printable handouts will be shared in the group. On June 20th, the instructional videos will be released according to the event schedule. All instructional materials will be available for you to enjoy and create at your own pace indefinitely.

Scrapbook with purpose and help us make a difference!

Please click here to make a $35 minimum donation. Please do not donate anonymously as I’ll need to add you to our private Facebook group for the event.

Happy Scrapping!
Karyn

Zigzag/Peak Layout with Creative Memories Border Cutting Tools

Posted in Birthday Scrapbook Layouts, Border Cutting Tools, Custom Cutting System, Outdoor Scrapbook Layouts, Spring Scrapbook Layouts by

I am LOVING all of the different shaped edges we can create with the NEW Creative Memories Border Cutting Tools! These are truly must-have items for your scrapbook stash. The creative possibilities are endless!

There are two different sets, each featuring unique designs:
1. Waves, Swells, Crests & Arch
2. Zig Zag, Peak, Curves & Ripple

For my layout below, I used both edges of one cutting tool to create a fun and unique design — such an easy way to add interest and movement to your pages!

For the layout above, I used the Zig Zag/Peak Border Cutting Tool with the Red Blade to cut one sheet of double-sided designer paper into these fun, unique shapes!

The Bright White Cardstock background gives the perfect contrast and really makes those shapes pop!

I created this layout using the NEW Birthday Bash Papers, Embellishments & Stickers — such a fun and festive collection!

Please click here to watch my demo video for a step-by-step tutorial and see exactly how it all comes together!

I used the same tools and technique with the NEW Spring Equinox Collection and Baby Blue Cardstock to create my second layout — and I’m loving how it turned out!

The circular photo in the center is beautifully flanked by complementary photos, creating a balanced and eye-catching design. I’ll be adding a bit of journaling around the center photo on each layout to finish it off perfectly.


All of the items that I used for both layouts are available at Creative Memories, and I so appreciate your purchases using my CM website link. Please remember to double check that my name (Karyn McDermaid-Rolfe) appears on your check out screen.

Please click here to place an order.

Please click below for a printable instructional handout for this layout.

KarynCropsTechTues82HandoutDownload

Register Now & Save the Date!
Join us for the 2nd Annual Memories Matter Alzheimer’s Fundraising Virtual Crop! 

A group of Creative Memories Advisors is once again coming together to host this special event in support of the Alzheimer’s Association. Last year, we raised an incredible amount—and we’re excited to make an even bigger impact this year!

What you’ll get:
For your minimum donation of $35, you’ll receive access to exclusive layouts created by me and 14 other talented advisors.  Each layout will include an instructional handout and video.

The instructional materials will be hosted in a private Facebook group. During the week of June 20th, the printable handouts will be shared in the group. On June 20th, the instructional videos will be released according to the event schedule. All instructional materials will be available for you to enjoy and create at your own pace indefinitely.

Scrapbook with purpose and help us make a difference!

Please click here to donate/register for the Memories Matter Virtual Crop.

Happy Scrapping!
Karyn

Border Cutting Tools Layout with Creative Memories Custom Cutting System

Posted in Custom Cutting System, Family Scrapbook Layouts, Summer Scrapbook Layouts, Travel Scrapbook Layouts by

The Custom Cutting System is one of Creative Memories’ premier tools and truly unique in the marketplace. We’ve loved it for years for cutting perfect circles, ovals, hearts and other shapes quickly and easily. It’s a must-have tool for so many scrapbookers!

Earlier this year, CM introduced the exciting new Border Cutting Tools, designed to be used with the Custom Cutting System Mat and Blades. With these new tools, you can now create beautiful decorative borders featuring wave, swell, crest and arch edges — adding even more versatility and creativity to a tool we already love!


Be sure to watch my video for helpful tips and a demonstration on making precise cuts in specific measurements using the Border Cutting Tools with the 13″ x 13″ Cutting Mat!

For my featured layout above, I used the Curves Template along with the exclusive Delicious Memories Paper & Embellishments — such a fun combination!

The exclusive Delicious Memories Paper & Embellishments was my 1st Quarter 2026 Customer Rewards Gift, and I already have a super cute gift planned for the 2nd quarter!

When you shop with me, you’re automatically enrolled in my Customer Rewards Program. I send out quarterly gifts for qualifying purchases as my way of saying thank you for your support.


Please click here to watch my demo video.

I used the same technique for my second layout featuring the new Chasing the Sun Collection!

This bright and cheerful summer collection is full of fun, colorful designs and includes playful icons for the pool, beach and backyard barbequing. It’s the perfect collection for capturing all of your favorite summer memories!

Please click here to shop with me at Creative Memories.

* When shopping on the CM website, please make sure that you have selected an advisor before you click the final payment button. The website has been removing advisor affiliations, so you may need to select an advisor several times. You can search for me by using my name, Karyn McDermaid-Rolfe. You only need my first name and not my zip code.

P.S. Secret Box #2 launches on Monday, April 20th.



LAST CALL for My Virtual National Scrapbook Day Workshop — May 1st & 2nd!

Don’t miss your chance to join this fun and creative event!

Even if the live dates don’t work for you, all classes will be recorded so you can create at your own pace and on your own schedule.

You’ll receive instructional handouts and videos to complete 5 exclusive double-page layouts that I designed especially for this workshop.

For full details and to register, please click the button below!

Please click here to register now.

LAST CALL for the Creative Life Scrapbooking PJ Party Virtual Crop — April 24th!

Don’t miss this fun and creative event!

If the live date doesn’t work for you, no worries — all Zoom sessions will be recorded so you can create whenever it’s convenient for you.

You’ll receive instructional handouts and videos to complete 7 versatile double-page layouts designed to work with a variety of paper collections and tools.

For full details and to register, please click the button below!

Please click here for information and to register for the April PJ Party Virtual Crop.

Happy Scrapping!
Karyn

2026 National Scrapbook Day Layout

Posted in Custom Cutting System, Floral scrapbook layouts, National Scrapbook Day, Spring Scrapbook Layouts, Summer Scrapbook Layouts by

For my post today, I’m double-dipping a bit! I’m sharing one page from my exclusive National Scrapbook Day layouts as my Monthly Technique Layout.

My National Scrapbook Day layouts are exclusive and will only be shared with those who register for my event. But I wanted to give you a little sneak peek so you can get a feel for what you can expect from my layouts!

I can’t wait to share the full projects with everyone who joins me for my Virtual National Scrapbook Day Workshop! I’ll host Zoom sessions on May 1st and 2nd, and all instructional videos and handouts will be available indefinitely in a private Facebook group for the event.

Just like this page, all of my NSD layouts are beautiful with lots of layers and fine details. I downplayed the chicken elements and focused more on the floral aspects of the materials to create more versatile layouts.

This page is one half of a double-page layout, and I’ve created five double-page layouts in total that I’ll be sharing during my Virtual National Scrapbook Day Workshop. I’m really excited about these designs and can’t wait to create them together with those who attend!

For more information about my event and to register, please click here.


I used the NSD 2026 Project Bundle to create my layouts and extra sheets of Bright White Cardstock. I also used the new Sunflower Chain Border Punch and the new Spring Blooms Build-a-Punch all from Creative Memories.

Please note that the original NSD Project Bundle has sold out with CM. There is a smaller bundle now available that does not include the Project Recipe Kit that I also used. If you will be participating in my Virtual NSD and need a bundle, please reach out to me.


I appreciate your purchase of these items using my Creative Memories website link.

To watch me create this layout, please view my YouTube video and make sure to subscribe! Click below for a printable instructional handout.

PLEASE NOTE: If you will be joining me for my Virtual NSD Workshop, please DO NOT create this layout until the event. You will need to create it in sequential order with the other layouts, so you’ll have the correct amount of paper pieces to complete ALL of the layouts.

Please click here to view my instructional video.
KarynCropsTechTue81HandoutDownload

Please click here to register for my Virtual National Scrapbook Day Workshop.

Please click here to order your Creative Memories supplies.


Happy Scrapping!
Karyn

Punched Corners / Hollow Frame Scrapbook Layout

Posted in Frame Punches, National Scrapbook Day, Scrapbook Page Layouts, Spring Scrapbook Layouts by

Happy March! Spring is almost here, and I’m already seeing some of my earliest bulbs and perennials beginning to bloom — such a welcome sight!

This year, I’ll be using the NEW Spring Equinox Collection from Creative Memories to document all of my spring blooms and sweet spring memories. The colors and patterns are absolutely beautiful for the season!

For my Monthly Technique & Challenge Layout, I used the Spring Leaves Frame Punch to create a hollow frame with punched corners — and it makes such a gorgeous accent for a spring page! It adds beautiful detail while still keeping the layout light and fresh.

For this layout, I used the NEW Spring Equinox Collection along with Songbird Blue Cardstock from Creative Memories — such a fresh and cheerful combination for spring!

I created beautiful, punched corners using the Spring Leaves Frame Punch, which add such an elegant, detailed touch to the page. Be sure to watch my video for tips on creating those punched corners and a demonstration of the NEW Cutting Mat Layout Ruler to help create my hollow frame.

To finish it off, I added touches of white to brighten the layout and give it extra depth and dimension. It really makes the design pop!




For my second layout, I used the exclusive Sunbeam Frame Punch from the 2026 Secret Box #1 to create the punched corners of my hollow frame — such a fun and unique detail!

I paired it with the On the Bright Side Collection and used Bright White Cardstock to help temper the bold, cheerful colors of the papers. The white really balances everything and keeps the layout feeling clean and fresh.

You can purchase all of the tools and materials I used at Creative Memories. Thank you so much for shopping through my CM website link — I truly appreciate each and every purchase!

And don’t forget, I offer a generous Customer Rewards Program as my way of saying thank you for supporting my business.

To view my demonstration video, please click here.




Please click below to download my printable handout.



PunchedCornersHollowFrameHandoutDownload

National Scrapbook Day 2026

Registration for my 2026 Virtual National Scrapbook Day Workshop is now open! I am creating my own exclusive layouts for my event and will share demonstration videos with printable handouts for the layouts. We’ll have Zoom sessions on May 1st and 2nd to watch the videos and create together.

I’m using the 2026 National Scrapbook Day Project Bundle, Sunflower Chain Border Punch and Spring Blooms Build-A-Punch to create my layouts. I’ve also used extra sheets of Bright White, Caramel and Blue Cardstock. I’ll share the complete Supply List once I’ve completed my layouts. Please note that I’m using the chickens in a minimal way for my layouts.

Please click here to register for my 2026 Virtual National Scrapbook Day Workshop.

Please click here to purchase your Creative Memories items.

Happy Scrapping!
Karyn

Sticker Heart Layout

Posted in Heart Layouts, Heart Scrapbook Layouts, Love Scrapbook Layouts, Winter Scrapbook Layouts by

Happy February! It’s the month of love, and I have a new heart layout for you. My Sticker Heart Layout is a great way to use leftover stickers! After scrapping with a collection, I’m often left with a few extra stickers that I just can’t throw away. This is especially true with Creative Memories Simple Page Kits. The Simple Page Kits include an entire sheet of stickers to give us options, but there will be some leftover stickers after creating the Simple Page layouts.

For my layout above, I used papers and stickers from the Noteworthy Days Collection and leftover stickers from the Noteworthy Days Simple Page Kits. The mishmash of sticker clusters really pop against the Bright White Cardstock background of my large heart. I also used Foam Squares to add dimension to some of the stickers.

I created my own jumbo heart template. Please refer to my YouTube video for a discussion about this. Instead of a heart background, you could use a different shape or use the technique to create borders.

Please click here to view my instructional video.

My layout is going to be great for some Valetine’s Day selfies of my hubby and me! The close-up selfies will look great against the busy sticker background. Now that I have the layout completed, I’ll have to make sure that we celebrate with a dinner out or a visit to the bakery for a sweet dessert!

Please click below to download my printable instructional handout.

KarynCropsTechTue29Feb2026Download

Make sure to check out CM’s new Your Own Way Collection that replaces Noteworthy Days as our year-round collection. Creative Memories will keep Your Own Way in stock all year long and this year’s Simple Page Kits will all coordinate with Your Own Way. You can purchase the Your Own Way Simple Page Kits individually each month as they are released, or you can purchase a quarterly Kit Bundle that includes the three Simple Page Kits for the quarter along with 3 packs of exclusive Mini Stickers.

To see these items and everything else that is new – including CM’s Secret Box #1 – please click here.

Please note that Creative Memories is offering FREE SHIPPING on purchases of $100+ through February 27th! That’s an entire month of FREE SHIPPING! Please click here for FREE SHIPPING!


Happy Scrapping!
Karyn

Winter Scrapbook Layouts

Posted in Creative Life Scrapbooking, Creative Memories Border Maker Ideas, Family Scrapbook Layouts, Scrapbook Borders, Shape Punches, Technique Layout, Winter Scrapbook Layouts by

Brrr! It’s a blistery 8 degrees here in central Illinois today—absolutely perfect weather for scrapbooking! I’m hunkered down and busy designing layouts that I’ll be teaching at my upcoming weekend scrapbooking retreat on February 12–15. But I also have some other layouts to share with you right now, so you can start creating today!

For my February Technique Layout, I created a beautiful wintery design in shades of blue and tan using the new Winter Bliss Collection from Creative Memories. I also used the Custom Cutting System with the Jumbo Circle Pattern, along with the Gingerbread Border Punch, Dancing Snowflakes Border Punch (sold out), and Ice Skate Punch (retired)—all from Creative Memories. This layout is easily adaptable using any papers and any combination of punches you have on hand.

👉For a step-by-step demonstration, be sure to watch my YouTube video. At this time, there is no printable handout available for this layout.

Last week, Creative Memories introduced the NEW On the Bright Side Collection, featuring the Whimsical Scallop Border Punch. I was delighted to create the marketing layouts for Creative Memories using this cheerful new collection. I loved working with the joyful color palette and playful paper designs—they’re such a treat to create with!

👉You’ll find step-by-step instructions for recreating this layout on the Creative Memories blog.

The Winter Bliss Collection, Gingerbread Border Punch, On the Bright Side Collection, and Whimsical Border Punch are all available for purchase through my Creative Memories website.
👉 Click here to shop with me!

When you shop through my link, you’ll be automatically enrolled in my Customer Rewards Program—and I’m excited to share a brand-new first quarter Customer Rewards gift with you!

Please click here to shop through my Creative Memories website link.

Do you love your Border Maker System and love playing with your Border Maker Cartridges? You’re going to have a lot of fun creating this layout that I created for Creative Life Scrapbooking! I made this super cute layout to showcase photos of me with friends and family wearing our holiday sweaters and t-shirts. I have a fun collection of Life is Good t-shirts that I love wearing during the holiday season. The sweaters on this layout would also look adorable created in shades of blue for a cozy winter-themed layout.

👉You can find the instructional handout in the Shop section of the Creative Life Scrapbooking website.

Would you love some fresh scrapbooking layout ideas? Join me and my scrappy friends for our upcoming Creative Life Scrapbooking PJ Party Virtual Crop — a fun evening of creativity and connection!

We’ll be sharing 7 double-page layouts, each featuring a unique scrapbooking technique. These layouts are versatile and perfect for helping you scrap your stash!

The virtual crop begins on Friday, January 23rd with our Zoom session. We’ll create 4 layouts together on Zoom, and the instructions for 3 more additional layouts are shared in the private Facebook group for the event. The private group is open so you can begin printing the instructional handouts and creating the Pre-Party Layouts. The Zoom sessions will also be recorded, and you’ll have an entire month to complete your layouts for door prize entries. Plus you’ll enjoy an entire month of inspiration as participants share hundreds of layout examples following the live event!

💰 Special Offer: Register now with our COMBO for all 4 PJ Parties in 2026 and receive a discounted price!

👉 For details and to register, visit: www.creativelifescrapbooking.com.

Happy Scrapping!
Karyn

2025 Christmas Layouts

Posted in Christmas Layouts, Creative Life Scrapbooking by

Happy Holidays! Today I’m sharing a little holiday gift with you. This weekend, I’m hosting my in-person and virtual Holiday Open Houses, and I created a few special layouts for the event. With my instructions below, you too will have fun creating these pages.

I know that you’ll enjoy making my first layout as I had a ton of fun creating it, and I’m absolutely tickled with the results. I used a variety of Border Maker Cartridges to help me create the darling faces and decorations on my sweet treats. The Pinking Blade also added a whimsical element. This layout is ready for Christmas photos of my three grandchildren. Don’t leave off the faux pen stitching! It really adds a lot!

Please click below to download an instructional handout.

2025HolidayOpenHouseSweetTreatsLayoutDownload

To create my second layout, I used the 2025 Open House Tag Kit which is a CM advisor exclusive. Many advisors, including myself, are giving this as a gift to those who attend our Holiday Open Houses. My attendees will be creating this layout as their Make-n-Take project. I’ll also share a Tag Kit with everyone who purchases through me this weekend. (Creative Memories is currently offering FREE SHIPPING on purchases of $100+ through noon CT on December 15th.)

You only need a 12-Inch Trimmer, Tape Runner, a Dual-Tip Black Pen and a White Gelly Roll Pen to create this layout. I cut the tags to get more of their decorative patterns to fill the layout, and CM’s new Caramel Cardstock made the perfect background for the layout. Please click below for a downloadable instructional handout.

2025OpenHouseTagKitLayoutDownload

Please click here to place an order through my Creative Memories website link.


If you love Christmas layouts, you’ll also want to check out the 10 Holly Days layouts that Creative Life Scrapbooking shared this year. You can see all 10 layouts on the Creative Life Scrapbooking Facebook page, and you’ll find the Holly Days Sketch Book on the CLS website. Below are the layouts that I created for Holly Days this year.

I hope that you have the most wonderful holiday season filled with many memory making moments! Thank you so much for following me this year!

Karyn

Quick & Easy Folded Tree/House Layout

Posted in Black Friday, Christmas Layouts, Technique Layout, Winter Scrapbook Layouts by

Ho, ho , ho! It’s the most wonderful time of the year! December has started with a bang over at Creative Memories with a year-end sale of over 175 different items! You’ll be able to find some bargains marked at 60% off!

Also, the Creative Life Scrapbooking Team launched its annual Holly Days feature yesterday. The CLS team is sharing a new holiday layout each day from December 1st – 10th on its Facebook page. Plus, there’s a Holly Days Sketch Book with measurements available on the CLS website.

For my December Technique Layout & Challenge, I’m sharing a super quick and easy layout today. You only need 2 sheets of paper and some cardstock and a few cuts and folds to make this beautiful layout to highlight 2 special photographs.

To create my layout, I used the Star of Wonder (Black Friday Promo) Collection, but you can substitute with any materials.

When I first created this layout, I saw a Christmas Tree in my folded piece. But after looking at it longer, I also see a house. Will you create yours as a tree or a house? Make sure to share a photo of your completed version in my private Facebook group for an entry into my December Door Prize Drawing!

For a printable instructional handout, please click the download button below.

TechTueDec2025Download

For a step-by-step demonstration, please see my YouTube video.

I appreciate your purchases through my Creative Memories website.
Please click here to shop.


Creative Life Scrapbooking Holly Days
December 1st – 10th

Please follow the CLS Facebook page to see a new holiday layout each day from December 1st – 10th! You’ll find the downloadable Holly Days Sketch Book that contains sketches with measurements of all 10 layouts at www.creativelifescrapbooking.com.

Creative Memories End-of-Year Sale!
Dec. 1-23 starts & ends at noon CT or while supplies last
Shop early for best selection!

Exciting new things are coming in 2026, but FIRST — “The Next Chapter Event” begins with up to 60% OFF your CM faves! Limited-time deals on your CM favorites to make room for what’s coming in 2026!

  • Shop 175+ deeply discounted products (find them under Deals > Sale).
  • Some items discounted up to 60% off!
  • Discounted Bundles with Digital Project Playbooks: These products, originally launched in 2022, are now available as convenient bundles deeply discounted, complete with a brand-new Digital Project Playbook for each, with instructions to create 6 projects total — created in 2025 by talented Advisor contributors! Shortly after purchase, you’ll receive an email with the Digital Project Playbook(s).
  • Act fast — the discounted items are only available while supplies last!

Please click here to shop through my Creative Memories website link.

Happy Scrapping!
Karyn

3 Border Punch Layout Done 2 Ways

Posted in Autumn Scrapbook Layouts, Border Punches, Christmas Layouts, Fall Scrapbook Layouts by

Thank you so much for all of your great feedback about my Monthly Technique Layouts! It makes my heart happy to see so many of you creating and sharing these layouts. I received a request to show an idea using multiple punches together. In my demo video, I demonstrate how to layer three different border punches from Creative Memories to create a multi-dimensional border. And then I took the technique a step further, adapted it a bit and created a unique layout!

I used the same three border punches as I used for my demo border and created a dissected border that runs across three photo panels. The layout is full of layers and dimension and features a beautiful progression of monochromatic tones. For my layout above, I used the Grateful Harvest Collection with the Spring Leaves Frame Punch, Forest Mushrooms Border Punch and Leafy Vine Border Punch. I also used the Rich Cocoa Ink Pad to ink all of the pieces to add richness, depth and a rustic burnished look.

I used the same border technique and use of monochromatic colors for my second layout. This page has a totally different look that is bright and full of fun. I used the Gingerbread Collection with the Gingerbread Border Punch, Canning Jars Border Punch and Dollop Arch Frame Punch for this layout.

All of the items that I used for both layouts are current items with Creative Memories and are available for purchase.

Please click here to view my demonstration video.

Please click here to purchase the materials and tools that I used.


Please click below for my printable instructional handout.

KarynCropsTechTue76HandoutDownload

Now is a great time to place an order as Creative Memories is currently offering a spectacular Black Friday Promotion! With a purchase of $150, you can select a FREE bundle of items. If you can’t pick a favorite bundle, no worries – with a larger purchase, you can get up to 4 bundles for FREE!

The Black Friday Promo ends on November 14th at noon CT or while supplies last. Make sure to order asap! (Some of the promo bundles ran out yesterday with the launch, but CM has made some great substitutes. Don’t delay in ordering.)

I appreciate your purchases using my CM website link.

Would you like 7 fresh layout ideas that are versatile, feature a technique and hold multiple photos? If so, then you might enjoy the Creative Life Scrapbooking PJ Party Virtual Crop on Friday. We’ll meet on Zoom to create 4 of the 7 layouts, and all of the sessions will be recorded for later viewing.

For more information and to register, please see the Creative Life Scrapbooking website. I’ll be presenting during the Zoom session and have a fun layout to share.

Happy Scrapping!
Karyn