Author Archives: Karyn McDermaid-Rolfe

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

Easy Jumbo Circle Layout

Posted in Autumn Scrapbook Layouts, Custom Cutting System, Fall Scrapbook Layouts, Technique Layout by

For my Technique Layout and Challenge this month, I’m sharing a quick and easy layout idea. Although it’s quick and easy, it still delivers a great visual impact. And there’s room for plenty of photographs and journaling while preserving the graphic design.

To create my layout, you’ll only need your 12-Inch Trimmer and Custom Cutting System with the Jumbo Circle Pattern. For my layout above, I used the new Grateful Harvest Collection with the new Caramel Cardstock and Beige Cardstock. I also used the new Potter’s Clay Ink Pad to ink the edges of the layout, my photo mats and the embellishments and stickers.

For a step-by-step demonstration on how to create this layout, please view my video by clicking here.

All of the tools and materials that I used are available for purchase by clicking here.

I used the same method to create my sample layout above. For this layout I used the Coastal Scenes Bundle (retired) with Baby Blue and White Cardstocks.

For a printable instructional handout for this layout, please click below.

TechTues75HandoutDownload

This week, Creative Memories released the Magic of Christmas Collection, along with a Jingle Bell Punch, Ornaments Border Punch and Angels Chain Border Maker Cartridge. You can purchase all of these items as a bundle for 10% off.

To celebrate CM’s birthday, you will receive a creativity bundle as a freebie with a $120 purchase. The bundle includes Challenge Cards with instructions for exclusive layouts and projects along with sleeves to store the cards and printed copies of all 2025 Project Recipes and Virtual Crop Sketches. These ideas will keep you scrapping all year long!

Please click here to place an order.

Happy Scrapping!
Karyn

Fall Scrapbooking Layouts

Posted in Autumn Scrapbook Layouts, Croptoberfest Layouts, Fall Scrapbook Layouts by

My husband and I are planning an autumn trip, and I can’t wait to hit the road and explore old towns full of antebellum history, quaint shops and antiques, historic bed and breakfast homes and farm-to -table restaurants. I’ll be watching for apple orchards, pumpkin patches, flea markets, fall festivals and hiking trails along our way and hopefully taking lots of fall photos!

I’ve recently created a few autumn layouts that are ready for the photos that I’ll take on our trip and they’re perfect for your fall photos too! I created the layout above for Creative Life Scrapbooking. Make sure to follow us on Facebook to see our daily posts. You can find the printable instructions for my scarecrow layout at our Shop at www.creativelifescrapbooking.com.

I used the new Grateful Harvest Collection from Creative Memories to create my layout. I also used the Wheatfield, Songbirds and Wood Fence Border Punches along with the Chrysanthemum Punch. Please see my Creative Memories website link to order your supplies.

You’ve already seen one of my Bonus Layouts for my Virtual Croptoberfest Workshop (my post from September 9th), and here’s a teaser photo with snippets of my other layouts. I used the Croptoberfest 2025 Project Bundle and Croptoberfest 2025 Project Receipt Kit from Creative Memories to create (4) double-page layouts and (2) bonus layouts for my event. I also used the new Chrysanthemum Punch, the Leafy Vine Border Punch and the Custom Cutting System with a variety of cutting patterns. These layouts and their instructions are exclusive to those who register. I’ll be hosting sessions on Zoom on Friday, September 26th and Saturday, September 27th to create the layouts together. Everything is recorded for those who can’t join on Zoom.

For more information and to register: https://forms.gle/uPEoa7CrQMk663Rf6

Happy Scrapping!
Karyn

Punched Hollow Frame Layout Using Border Maker Cartridges

Posted in Autumn Scrapbook Layouts, Creative Memories Border Maker Ideas, Croptoberfest Layouts, Fall Scrapbook Layouts, Outdoor Scrapbook Layouts, Scrapbook Borders, Technique Layout by

Fall is right around the corner, and I was anxious to play with Creative Memories new fall collection! I used a fun technique to create a beautiful layout with the new Acorn & Leafs Chain Border Maker Cartridge and Grateful Harvest Collection.

I used only one double-sided sheet of the Grateful Harvest Tone-on-Tone Papers to create the gorgeous layout above. I folded the sheet in half on the diagonal and punched using the Border Maker System with the Acorns & Leaf Chain Border Maker Cartridge. (Please use a chain-style border maker cartridge and only use designer paper. Cardstock is too heavy for this technique.) You’ll want to watch my video for instructions and tips.

Please click here to view my demonstration video.



I used the new Rich Cocoa Ink Pad to distress the outside edges of a sheet of Bright White Cardstock, the center piece of paper and also the 4″ x 5-7/8″ photos mats and embellishments. I also used the ink to add a smear of the rich cocoa color to the caps of my acorns. I cut a variety mat to 6-1/2″ x 3-1/4″ for the title piece. Lastly, I used the new Chrysanthemum Punch to create some layered flower embellishments that I also inked.

You may purchase the items that I used at www.creativememories.com/user/karyn.

To create my second layout, I used the Follow the Trail Chain Border Maker Cartridge with the Wandering Wild Collection (both from 2025 Secret Box #3) and a sheet of the new Caramel Cardstock. Again, I used the Rich Cocoa Ink Pad to ink the edges of the cardstock pieces. My photo mats are (1) 3-3/4″ x 4-1/2″ and (2) 5-1/4″ x 3-3/4″. The journaling piece are 3-3/4″ x 3/4″.

Please click below to download a printable instructional handout.

KarynCropsTechTue74HandoutDownload

It’s time to register for my Virtual Croptoberfest Workshop!

For the workshop, I’ll share printable instructions and recorded videos to create several of my own exclusive Croptoberfest layouts. There are (4) double-page layouts, (1) Bonus double-page layout and (1) Bonus single-page layout. I’ll also host sessions on Zoom on September 26th and 27th to view my instructional videos together. You’ll be able to crop along and ask questions. Below is a look at the Bonus Single-Page Layout that I created.

Please register now so you’ll have plenty of time to order your supplies! For a Supply List and complete information, please see my registration form.

Please click here for Virtual Croptoberfest Registration Form.

Happy Scrapping!
Karyn

Another Punched & Folded Border Layout

Posted in Border Punches, Outdoor Scrapbook Layouts, Technique Layout, Travel Scrapbook Layouts by

Have you seen my Technique Layout & Challenge for August yet? Have you given it a try? Well, here’s another version to inspire you. Instead of using one border punch, I used two different border punches for this twist on the technique. (To see my original layouts and post, just scroll down to my post from August 13th.)

To create my layout above, I punched a strip of double-sided tonal paper with the Whale Tail Border Punch and the (retired) Alpine Mountains Border Punch and folded the whale tail end up. I used papers and stickers from the Pacific Scenes Bundle, Bright White Cardstock and Navy Cardstock. The Pacific Scenes Bundle sold out quickly with Creative Memories, but I have a few bundles in my personal inventory. Please contact me if you are interested.

To see a demonstration of how to create this layout, please view my video at https://youtu.be/MgqC5frjPCQ.

To purchase the Whale Tail Border Punch and other Creative Memories products, please see my website link at www.creativememories.com/user/karyn. On Monday, CM launched its new fall collection, new coordinating tools, Croptoberfest items and a new bundle of inks, brushes, and a fall stencil.

Registration is now open for my September 26th & 27th Virtual Croptoberfest Workshop. I’ll be sharing layout instructions for my own exclusive Croptoberfest Layouts. There will be printable handouts, recorded video instructions, creating sessions on Zoom and a private Facebook for sharing.

For Info and To Register: https://forms.gle/tHhw8xPpEzAU4Via8

To create my exclusive layouts, you’ll need the Croptoberfest Project Bundle, the Croptoberfest Project Receipt Kit, Chrysanthemum Punch, Leafy Vine Border Punch and several sheets of Bright White Cardstock all from Creative Memories. I’m putting the finishing touches on my layouts now and will share a complete Supply List soon.

Don’t forget that Creative Memories is offering FREE SHIPPING on orders of $100US until noon CT on September 5th.

Happy Scrapping!
Karyn

Berry Harvest Layout

Posted in Border Punches, Custom Cutting System, Summer Scrapbook Layouts by

What is your favorite summer berry? I recently asked this question in my private Facebook group, Karyn’s Croppers, and the majority answer was strawberries! I really love all berries, but I have a particular fondness for blueberries as my blueberry bushes are one of my garden successes. My bushes have matured and in recent years, they have been producing bumper crops for me. I spend a few weeks each summer picking blueberries every few days, baking with them, freezing them and eating them by the handfuls. They taste so much better than store bought berries!

I was excited when Creative Memories released their Berry Harvest Collection last month! The paper prints, stickers and embellishment icons are adorable, and I couldn’t wait to create with them. I’ll use my layout above for some photos of my granddaughter making our traditional blueberry pancakes. But you don’t need berry photos in order to use the Berry Harvest Collection. You can use it to create sweet summer layouts.

To create my layout, I used the Berry Harvest Collection, the Custom Cutting System with the Jumbo Wavy Square Frame Pattern (retired) and the Leafy Vine Border Punch (one of my favorite punches). I also used the new White Jelly Roll Pen to add some white accents to my blueberries and leaves. You can substitute the Jumbo Circle Cutting Pattern for the Jumbo Wavy Square Frame Pattern.

For step-by-step instructions and a demonstration, please view my YouTube video.

Please click here to view my video.

You may purchase most of the items that I used with my Creative Memories website link at https://www.creativememories.com/user/karyn.

Please join me for my 2025 Virtual Croptoberfest Workshop!  For your registration, you’ll receive access to instructional videos and printable handouts for my own exclusive Croptoberfest layouts.  These layouts will be decorative and feature unique techniques.  We’ll have a private Facebook Group for sharing, and I’ll host sessions on Zoom on September 26th and 27th to view my pre-recorded instructional videos together.  The fee to register is $22.

I will use the Croptoberfest 2025 Customer Bundle, Croptoberfest Project Recipe Kit, Chrysanthemums Punch, Leafy Vine Border Punch and several sheets of Bright White Cardstock to create my own exclusive layouts.  Once I complete my layouts, I’ll share a complete supply list.

These layouts and the instructions are for Personal Use Only and are not to be shared with others or anywhere on the internet.

To register: https://forms.gle/nXxvGwcx1XUqLtbw7

Happy Scrapping!
Karyn

Punched & Folded Scrapbook Border

Posted in Beach Scrapbook Layouts, Border Punches, Family Scrapbook Layouts, Summer Scrapbook Layouts, Technique Layout by

I focused on the border punches from Creative Memories for my August Technique Layout & Challenge. This technique will work with border punches that punch on the edge of paper or cardstock or knockout a design from the paper or cardstock. This technique will not work for a chain style border punch.

With this quick and easy technique, you only need to punch both ends of a strip of tonal paper and fold! Make sure to select a paper that has a different color tonal design on each side and use the 12-Inch Trimmer with the Scoring Blade to get a nice fold. The size of your strip will depend upon the border punch that you use. For my example above, I used the (retired) Bubble Scallop Border Punch with the Sun-Soaked Collection and my strip was 12″ x 4″.

For my layout above, I used the Noteworthy Days Collection, Floral Essential Embellishments and the (retired) Scalloped Crochet Border Punch. My strip for this border was larger at 12″ x 4-3/4″.

Please view my video to see a step-by-step demonstration of creating my first layout.

Please click here to view video.

For a printable instructional handout, please click below to download.

KarynCropsTechTues73HandoutDownload

Make sure to check back in a week or two when I’ll share another variation of this technique! You can check out all of the new items from Creative Memories and place an order using my website link. With your purchase, you’ll be enrolled in my own Customer Rewards Program.

Please click here for the Creative Memories website.

Happy Scrapping!
Karyn