Author Archives: Karyn McDermaid-Rolfe

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

Life at the Lake Postage Stamp Layout

Posted in Family Scrapbook Layouts, Outdoor Scrapbook Layouts, Summer Scrapbook Layouts, Travel Scrapbook Layouts by

Today I’m sharing another postage stamp layout with you. I really love the look of the two layouts that I created and shared earlier in the month, so I created a third layout using the 12-Inch Trimmer and Postage Stamp Blade from Creative Memories. Make sure to check out my blog post from July 8th for a look at my Monthly Technique Layout & Challenge Layouts.

For my layout above, I used the Postage Stamp Blade to create some decorative stamps as a border. I filled the stamp shapes with embellishments and a cut down variety mat, and I adhered the stamps with Foam Squares for dimension. All of the decorative elements and paper are from the Life at the Lake Collection. Make sure to view my new demo video for a discussion about the Stamping Blade and for some tips for using it to get the correct pattern. You may purchase all of the tools and materials that I used at my website link with Creative Memories.

Please click here to view my video.

To Create My Layout:

1. Cut a 9″ x 11″ piece of Bright White Cardstock using the 12-Inch Trimmer with the Stamping Blade. Please view my video first for tips on using the blade and getting the correct pattern.
2. Cut (2) 3-1/4″ x 4-5/8 and (1) 5-1/4″ x 3-1/2″ photo mats from Island Waters Cardstock. Cut (2) 5-1/4″ x 3-1/2″ photo mats from log paper. Adhere the mats to the white piece as shown.
3. Use the 12-Inch Trimmer with Stamping Blade to cut postage stamp pieces to size from Bright White Cardstock. My pieces are: 2-1/4″ x 2-3/4″, 2-1/4″ x 3-1/8″, 2-1/4″ x 2-1/8″ and 2-1/4″ x 3″.
4. Cut rectangles from log paper that measure: 1-7/8″ x 2-3/8″, 1-7/8″ x 2-13/16″, 1-3/4″ and 2-5/8″. Center and adhere the pieces to the white stamp pieces.
5. Adhere embellishments to the stamps as shown. Cut a variety mat to 1-3/4″ x 2-11/16″ and adhere to the largest stamp piece.
6. Arrange the stamp pieces and the photo panel on a sheet of plaid paper for spacing and adhere. Adhere the stamps with Foam Squares.
7. Use the 12-Inch Trimmer with Stamping Blade to cut a 3-7/8″ x 1-1/4″ piece from Bright White Cardstock. Cut a 3-9/16″ x 1″ piece from log paper. Cut a 3-1/2″ x 7/8″ title from a variety mat. Layer and adhere the pieces. Adhere the finished piece with Foam Squares as shown.

Today – July, 21, 2025 – Creative Memories launched a new collection called Berry Harvest. This collection features vintage prints and sweet icons that are perfect for summer layouts. The Buy-It-All Bundle that includes all of the items in the collection and also the new Canning Jars Border Punch and the Mason Jar Build-A-Punch is available for 10% off with a FREE Project Playbook until noon CT on August 1st or while supplies last. Today’s product launch also includes Secret Box #3. This Secret Box is priced at 10% off and includes an exclusive Border Maker Cartridge!



To see and order the new items, please click here.

Happy Scrapping!
Karyn

Heartfelt Noteworthy Days Layout

Posted in Birthday Scrapbook Layouts, Scrapbook Page Layouts, Shape Punches, You-Pick-It Promo by

Creative Memories offers great promotions throughout the year, and their current You-Pick-It Promo has 3 incredible gift options that you can select for FREE with a purchase of $150! All three choices are wonderful, and you might fight it difficult to select one. But no worries – with higher priced purchases, you can select more than one gift. Don’t delay – the promo ends, Sunday, July 20th at 11:59pm CT.

The freebie items include:
Rainbow Dots Collapsible Bag Set (Mini + Medium Bags) — compact, colorful and great for organizing

Rainbow Dots Deluxe Collapsible Bag — roomy enough for all their crop-day must-haves

Heartfelt Noteworthy Days Bundle — ideal for meaningful, memory-filled pages

Please click here for an overview with more details about the promo and the freebie items.

Please click here to place an order.

With your purchase through my website link, you’ll be enrolled in my Customer Rewards Program to receive gifts from me! When your purchases total $200 in July, August and September, I’ll mail an exclusive set of papers, embellishments and laser borders to you.

I used the Heartfelt Noteworthy Days Collection that’s one of the You-Pick-It Promo freebie items to create my layout above. I love the color palette of blue, plum, turquoise and gold, and the watercolor style stickers are gorgeous! The collection includes a pack of designer paper, a designer mat paper pack, stickers, Plum Serif ABC/123 Letter Stickers and Island Waters Serif ABC/123 Letter Stickers. The items in this set also coordinate with the Noteworthy Days Collection that is currently available for purchase. To add a touch of fun to my layout, I used the Celebration Cake Punch that is also available for purchase.

To Create My Layout:
1. Cut a 2″ x 12″ strip from blue heart paper and adhere to the left side of a sheet of Bright White Cardstock. Cut a 3/4″ x 12″ strip from plum hearts paper and adhere next to the blue strip.
2. Cut a 10-1/2″ x 8″ piece of starburst turquoise paper and adhere to the left center of the page.
3. Crop photos to 3-1/2″ x 5-1/2″ and adhere to the center of the layout.
4. Use the Celebration Cake Punch to punch (4) cake pieces each from gold star, blue strips and plum check papers. Adhere as shown.
5. Cut a 4-3/4″ x 1-1/2″ strip from gold star paper. Cut the right end into a ribbon and add Plum and Island Waters Serif ABC/123 Letter Stickers for a title.
6. Cut a 3-3/4″ x 1-1/4″ strip from gold star paper. Cut the right end into a ribbon and add lines for journaling.
7. Add stickers using Foam Squares as shown.

You can select the Heartfelt Noteworthy Days Collection as your freebie item with a $150 purchase. Hurry, the promotion ends Sunday, July 20th at 11:59 pm CT. Please click here to place an order and select your freebie!

Happy Scrapping,
Karyn

Postage Stamp Scrapbook Layout

Posted in Scrapbook Page Layouts, Technique Layout, Travel Scrapbook Layouts by

Did you know that Creative Memories offers 8 different decorative blades for its 12-Inch Trimmer? With these unique blades, you can cut a variety of decorative edges. For my Technique Layout & Challenge this month, I challenged myself to use a blade that I don’t use very often – the Stamping Blade. With the 12-Inch Trimmer and Stamping Blade, I created decorative postage stamp embellishments that I used as border pieces on my layout.

Scrapbook layout featuring scenic design elements, decorative postage stamp embellishments, and empty photo slots for customization. Includes a sign reading 'Putting on the Miles' and another sign asking 'Are we there yet?'.

I used paper, stickers and embellishments from the Hit the Road Collection for my page. By cutting apart a sheet of paper with the large scenic design, I was able to preserve the important elements of the paper while also making room for 3 larger photos and journaling. I love how the Stamping Blade added a fun graphic element that created more interest and texture.

Please watch my video for step-by-step instructions and also suggestions on using other types of papers and Trimmer Blades.

Please click here to view my instructional video.

A scrapbook layout featuring decorative elements like a vintage-style sign that reads 'Putting on the MILES' alongside images of a winding road and scenic mountains. The layout includes space for journaling and several photo slots.

Please click below to download a printable instructional handout.

KarynCropsTechTues72Download


The materials and tools that I used are available for purchase through my Creative Memories website link at www.creativememories.com/user/karyn. With your purchase, you’ll be enrolled in my Customer Rewards Program to receive bonus gifts from me! Creative Memories is currently offering a free gift with a $150 purchase. There are 3 great gifts available for you to select! Check out the CM website for more details!

Graphic promoting the 'PJ Party Virtual Crop' event on July 25, 2025, featuring names of participating designers and a colorful background with illustrations of diverse characters.

It’s time to register for Creative Life Scrapbooking’s July 25th PJ Party Virtual Crop! I’ll be sharing one of the 7 layouts for this event and teaching how to create the layout during our Zoom session. For each of the 7 layouts, you’ll learn a special technique. And we design the layouts to be versatile so you can use your stash without purchasing special supplies. The layouts are all double-page and have room for multiple photos.

Our special guest designer for this PJ Party is the very talented, Kylie Kingham. For more information about the virtual crop and to register, please see the Creative Life Scrapbooking website at www.creativelifescrapbooking.com.

Happy Scrapping!
Karyn

Hollow Frame Mosaic Scrapbook Layout

Posted in Custom Cutting System, Scrapbook Page Layouts, Technique Layout, Travel Scrapbook Layouts by

Do you love Creative Memories Custom Cutting System? It’s one of CM’s most beloved tools! Today, I’m sharing a technique that you can use with the Custom Cutting System to cut hollow shapes that you arrange to create a mosaic style layout. If you would like 6 more unique ideas for the Custom Cutting System, please consider joining me and two of my designer friends for our Crop Class: Custom Cutting System Edition. Please see the end of this blog post for more info about the class.

For my layout above, I used the Custom Cutting System with the Rectangle Cutting Patterns to cut hollow shapes in a variety of sizes. You could also use any of the other Cutting Patterns to create a similar layout. I arranged the hollow frames into an inter-locking pattern to create an interesting design. I thought that this technique worked well with the new Hit the Road Collection from Creative Memories. The mosaic pattern reminds me of an interwoven highway system in a large city.

I used the leftover solid shapes to create a second layout that is oriented horizontally. You’ll notice that my first layout is oriented vertically. I used the retired Road Signs Mini Trio Punch Set to punch some embellishments for both pages and also added stickers and embellishments from the Hit the Road Collection.

To purchase the tools and materials that I used, please shop with me at: https://www.creativememories.com/user/karyn.

For an instructional demo, please view my video at https://youtu.be/FxlBj2RoBLE.

For printable instructions, please click below.

KarynCropsTechTue71HandoutDownload

Above is a peek at the 6 unique layouts that you’ll receive instructions to create by registering for Crop Class: Custom Cutting System Edition. We share layouts that feature the Circle, Oval, Rectangle, Gemstone and Jumbo Circle Patterns for CM’s Custom Cutting System.

For more information and to register, please click here: https://www.thecreativechatterbox.com/shop.

Thanks so much for visiting with me today!

Karyn

Adding Texture to Scrapbook Layouts with Punches – Part 2

Posted in Floral scrapbook layouts, Shape Punches, Spring Scrapbook Layouts, Summer Scrapbook Layouts, Technique Layout by

I received such great feedback about my technique layout last month that I decided to share another similar idea this month for adding texture to scrapbook layouts using Shape Punches. This time I created monochromatic texture by using one punch instead of multiple punches. Make sure to see my post and layout from April if you missed them.

For my first layout, I used the Spring Soiree and Mandevilla Punch from Creative Memories to create a pretty spring layout. I cut my strips on a diagonal and used Foam Squares to add punched pieces to each strip to create the monochromatic texture. I embellished my layout with flowers and a title from the current Floral Essentials Bundle. When you purchase the bundle, you’ll receive six packs of Floral Essential Embellishments in red, orange, yellow, teal, blue and purchase. You’ll also receive a FREE pack of This Life Word Embellishments that coordinate with the flower embellishments. The colors of the flowers and word titles also coordinate with many of CM’s other current collections.

I used the Sun-Soaked Collection and the Embossed Blossoms Punch to create my second layout. Again, I used Bright White Cardstock for my background and Floral Essential Embellishments and This Life Word Embellishments to complete my page. For this layout, I adhered my strips horizontally and used vertical photo mats. Please see my video for a demo on cutting the diagonal ends on the strips.

You may purchase all of the tools and materials that I used for both of my layouts at www.creativememories.com/user/karyn. I so appreciate your purchases and offer a generous Customer Rewards Program!

Please click here purchase from Creative Memories.

For a video demonstration and tips on creating this layout, please view my YouTube video.

Please click here to view my instructional video.

For a printable instructional handout, please click below.

KarynCropsTechTue70HandoutDownload

Happy Scrapping!
Karyn

2025 National Scrapbook Day Layout

Posted in National Scrapbook Day, Outdoor Scrapbook Layouts, Spring Scrapbook Layouts, Summer Scrapbook Layouts by

Happy National Scrapbook Day! Today we celebrate our shared love of scrapbooking and memory keeping. Did you know that Creative Memories initiated the very first National Scrapbook Day in 1994, and that we’ve been celebrating NSD on the first Saturday of May ever since?

I created the layout below to share with you today on this special occasion. I used the NSD 2025 Project Receipt Kit, Flower Pots Border Punch and Watering Cans Border Maker Cartridge all from Creative Memories. I also used the retired 12-Inch Decorative Trimmer (Please contact me directly to purchase as it is sold out with the company.).

For step-by-step instructions on creating my layout, please view my YouTube video.

Please click here to view my instructional video.

Please click here to purchase Creative Memories products.


I held my 2025 Virtual National Scrapbook Day Workshop last month, but you can still join the fun! I used the NSD 2025 Customer Bundle to create my own exclusive layouts. There are printable handouts, recorded videos and a private Facebook group for sharing.

Please click here for info about and to register for my Virtual NSD.

Happy Scrapping!
Karyn

Use Shape Punches to Add Texture to Scrapbook Layouts

Posted in Beach Scrapbook Layouts, Shape Punches, Spring Scrapbook Layouts, Technique Layout by

I love adding texture to my scrapbooking layouts! It adds depth, dimension and interest. And it really draws me into the layout making me want to touch it and experience it not only in a visual way but also a tactile way. I used a variety of Shape Punches from Creative Memories to add texture, interest and depth to my layouts below.

For my first layout, I used the lovely Springtime Soiree Collection with the Striped Umbrella, Over the Rainbow, Fresh Flower and Build-A-Kit Punches from Creative Memories.  I used Bright White Cardstock for my layout background and also for the punched pieces to provide some neutrality and to tone down all of the colors and patterns in the layout.  You’ll also notice that I arranged the punched pieces in a variety of different patterns on the tonal paper strips.  Some of the punched pieces are adhered diagonally while others are horizontal or vertical. 

I used the Sun-Soaked Collection with the Striped Umbrella, Fresh Flower, Pineapple and Sea Turtle Punches to create my second layout.  Again, I arranged the punched pieces in interesting patterns on the tonal paper strips. For this layout, I also used the Original Border Maker System with the Citrus Slice Border Maker Cartridge for the borders on the left and right edges.

Please click here to view my YouTube video for a demonstration on how to create these layouts. 

For a printable instructional handout, please click below.

KarynCropsTechTueApril2025HandoutDownload



All of the materials and tools that I used for these layouts are currently available with Creative Memories, and I appreciate your purchases using my CM website link. With your purchase, you’ll be enrolled in my Customer Rewards Program to receive freebies and discounts from me.

Please join me for my Virtual National Scrapbook Day Workshop! I used the NSD Customer Bundle from Creative Memories to create my own exclusive layouts, and I’ll be sharing the layout instructions during my event. We’ll meet live on Zoom on Saturday, April 5th to create the layouts. If the date is bad for you, you’ll be able to watch the recorded videos and use the printable handouts to create the layouts. Please click here for more information and to register. Hope to see you on Zoom!

Karyn

Punched Hollow Rings Scrapbook Layout

Posted in Beach Scrapbook Layouts, Creative Memories Border Maker Ideas, Technique Layout, Tropical Scrapbook Layouts, Winter Scrapbook Layouts by

March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb. Today I’m sharing two layouts that almost represent this age-old adage. My first layout is a snowy version, and my second layout is a tropical version – a little bit of ying and yang. But you can use this technique to create layouts for any themes using any papers.

I used the Original Border Maker System from Creative Memories with two different styles of border maker cartridges to create punched semi-circles with pretty scalloped edges. For the center part of my hollow rings, I used a knock-out or negative space style BMC. And for the punched edges, I used a chain style BMC for my first layout and an edge style BMC for my second layout.

I used the Sun-Soaked Collection with the Footprints BMC (retired) and the Citrus Slice BMC for my layout above. For my first layout, I used the Flurry of Fun Collection with the Mittens and Flurries BMC and Double Fan BMC. All are from Creative Memories.

For a demonstration on how to create my layout, please click here to see my YouTube Video.

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

KarynCropsTechTue68HandoutDownload

Please see my Creative Memories website for most of the items that I used for these layouts. Now is a great time to place an order as CM is offering FREE SHIPPING on purchases of $80+ in the United States until noon CT on March 7th! You might also like to order the National Scrapbook Day 2025 Customer Bundle as I will be using this bundle to create my own exclusive layouts for my Virtual NSD Workshop on April 5th.

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


Happy Scrapping!
Karyn

Graphic Triangle Layout

Posted in Children Scrapbook Layouts, Family Scrapbook Layouts, Technique Layout by

You’re going to love my new Technique Layout for February! It’s easy, has great visual appeal, and is a double-page layout! You’ll only need your 12-Inch Trimmer, a few sheets of cardstock and a double-sided designer sheet of paper to create this fun layout!

I used a sheet of double-sided paper and embellishments from the new Outdoor Play Bundle from Creative Memories. Outdoor Play is one of 7 paper/embellishments bundles that was released as part of the new Growing Up Collection. Growing Up features milestones from youth through the teenage years, and the coordinating bundles contain fun icon prints and embellishments for classic play themes. The additional bundles include Indoor Play, Hello, Lovely, Rollin’ Good Times, Epic Adventures, Magical Moments and Outdoor Play.

When selecting your paper for this layout, make sure that you like the prints on both sides of the paper and that they coordinate. For your background cardstock, select a color that provides a nice contrast from the designer paper. Select a coordinating cardstock color for your photo mats.

The layout is made with 6″ x 6″ squares that I cut into triangles. Please see my YouTube video for a demonstration on creating this layout and to also see a second version that I created with the Noteworthy Days Collection also from Creative Memories.

Please click here to view my video.

I’ve also created a free printable instructional handout for this technique layout. Please click below for the downloadable file.

KarynCropsTechTue67HandoutDownload



You may purchase the materials that I used for both of my layouts and the 12-Inch Trimmer at Creative Memories. I so appreciate your purchases made with my CM website link, and I offer a generous Customer Rewards Program!

Please click here to place an order.


Have fun creating this layout!

Karyn