Scrapping in a Flash: Birthday Layout

    I love scrapping with both paper and digitally. Unfortunately, I'm gearing up for two craft shows, so my crafting time is sort of mostly spoken for. I would do traditional digital scrapbooking, but my laptop died over a year ago. Currently, I am using a 5+ year old laptop and it is not up to running photoshop and loading a bunch of images, plus the large photo files themselves. For that reason, I can only digitally scrap late at night when hubby isn't on his computer. By that time, I'm tired and cranky and not into the "scrapping zone"

    These are just a few reasons that I was excited when I was introduced to Studio J. I made the layout that I'm about to show you in less than an hour. I got to choose from several templates and paper/embellishment collections. I could even mix and match them, which can be pretty fun. I also love that nothing is downloaded to your computer and you don't have to pay per image, template or per image collection like traditional digital scrapbooking. Signing up is free. Playing around with the digital supplies is free! The only thing that costs you is the finishing. For each two page layout, it will cost 2.95 to just get the images themselves (so you can print them at home OR have them printed at the location/website/company of your choice). Of course, Studio J can print them too, but that's 6.95. That makes the cost roughly 3.50 per printed page and roughly 1.50 per digital page. This includes all images, templates and pre-made desgins (if you wish to use those), so it can be a bargain.

    Buying a lot of digital collections can add up fast. Trust me. I know from experience. I know some free digital files can be found online, but there were many times when what I needed/wanted was only for a pay set of images or templates. Not only that, but they don't design it for you. I don't know about you, but sometimes I need design inspiration and color palette help, all of which is included in that price! There is also the risk of downloading some not so fun things like viruses or spyware if you're not careful about the source of the images. Trust me, I know all about that too *nervous cough*

Okay okay, I know.. I'm rambling a bit. Let's get to the image. Here is what I created this week with Studio J in less than an hour.

That's my niece, Zoe at her first birthday party. It's much easier to scrap when the model is so adorable. What do you think? Have you tried digital scrapping or Studio J? How did it go? If you haven't already, run on over and try Studio J. Making an account is free!


Happy Crafting!