Mini books are a great way to tell a multi-photo story. With this, I went with a very simple formula: Journaling and patterned paper on one side, and photo on the other. This mini book is 3x3 and it took me less than half an hour to make (including selecting, cropping and printing my photos!). The cross-stitch frame's grid made it very easy for my measurments to be precise. A little paint also livens things up and adds dimension.

 

 

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To achieve texture for my photo mat, after I cut it with pinking scissors, I covered the fabric with paint and let it dry. The edges curled nicely. I also used the end of a paintbrush to dot paint around the border of my photos.

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Use a background element to help define the overall design of a layout. With this layout, I echoed the square pattern of the background patterned paper with a square border and a large squared photo mat. For a quick and easy distressed look, use sandpaper on the edges of your photos and patterned paper.

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This layout was inspired by a quilt. Break out your punches-- use a square punch to help tell a timelined story. You can also mix it up with your favorite patterned papers.