Transform Card Making Dies into Creative Scrapbook Layouts
Have you ever wondered if your card making dies could be used for more than just cards? One of my favorite parts of paper crafting is finding new ways to stretch my supplies, and today’s project shows exactly how you can do that. Not only does this technique give your page a handmade, stitched look, but it also helps you use up those patterned paper scraps in a creative way.
Using the Modern Quilting Block background die from Hip Kit Club kit, I transformed a die designed for card makers into a full quilt-inspired scrapbook layout. This quilt scrapbook layout is a wonderful example of how you can adapt tools you may already own.
SUPPLIES | Modern Quilting Metal Die, April Cardstock Kit, April Pocket Life Cards, April Embellishment Kit, Stitchable Spring Blooms Metal Die, White Cardstock, Embroidery Floss, Embroidery Wax, Embroidery Needle, Glassboard, Glassboard Magnets, Sewing Machine, Photo Printer, P6 Die Cut Machine, Scout Die Cut Machine, Magic Mat, Craft Knife, Fine Point Scissors, Edge Distresser, T-Ruler, Die Lifter Tool, Foam Adhesive Sheets, Skinny Foam Tape, Mint Tape, Artis Glue, Tape Runner, 4″ Double Sided Tape,
A complete list of supplies can be found in my Project Gallery
This project was extra special because it features sweet photos of our grandpup. With such a bold quilt background, I wanted to be sure the focus stayed on my photos. To create the background, I cut the Modern Quilting Block die once from white cardstock and then again with several 6×8 patterned papers. Smaller papers work perfectly here because the prints are scaled down, fitting neatly into each quilt block.
Before die cutting, I applied double-sided tape to the back of my patterned papers, which made assembly quick and easy. Once all the pieces were in place, I stitched between the quilt segments. The straight stitching added wonderful texture and gave the background that cozy, handmade quilt feel.
With such a detailed design behind my photos, I knew it was important to keep that adorable pup front and center. One way I did this was by framing the photos with the same cardstock as my page. This triple matting created structure and naturally drew the eye inward.
I also placed the photos over lighter quilt blocks and left those sections unstitched, which prevented the textures from competing with the images. These simple adjustments are an easy way to keep photos as the highlight of any scrapbook page, even when working with bold backgrounds.
When it came to embellishments, I intentionally kept things simple. Instead of filling the page with lots of layers, I created three small clusters that repeated shapes and colors across the layout. A few stitched tags, soft florals, enamel dots, and two playful green puppy die cuts were all I needed to tie the design together.
Repetition is a great beginner scrapbooking technique. It makes your layout feel cohesive without adding clutter.
Watch the full video tutorial over on my YouTube channel to see how I assembled the quilt background and learn some tips for keeping your photos in focus on bold designs. While you’re there, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe so you never miss a creative tip.
👉🏼 CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO ON YOUTUBE
This quilt scrapbook layout is a wonderful example of how you can adapt tools you may already own. Card makers can stretch their dies into larger projects, and scrapbookers can take inspiration from quilting to use up patterned paper scraps in a fresh way. Imagine trying this technique on a baby scrapbook page with pastels, a vintage heritage layout with muted florals, or even a colorful kids’ page with playful patterns. You could also use this same background die on cards to create a coordinated set of projects that tie your memory keeping together.
I hope this project inspires you to take a second look at your supplies and find new ways to use them.
Hey friends! I wanted to let you in on the products I use in my videos. Just so you know, I’m not getting paid to promote any of them, but I do have some affiliate links available if you want to check them out. If you end up buying something through those links, it would mean a lot to me and my business. And don’t worry, you won’t be charged any extra. Thanks for your support! Learn more
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