There are a huge variety of products for your scrapbooking needs. It can sometimes be a bit overwhelming. Every once in a while, I like to get back to the basics to clear my mind and “start fresh” again. I usually do this by taking out a piece of cardstock that matches my pictures, choosing my favorite shape stamp and creating my own patterned paper.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Themed Make themed paper. By using the latest foam stamps such as Halloween or Christmas, you can make a great background for your holiday pictures.
• Duplicate Create the same pattern out of stamped shapes on two different colors of cardstock. Then, layer the cardstock in whichever way you choose creating the impression that the patterns aren’t homemade.
• Layer Overlap the stamped images on the background, especially if they’re stamped in different colors of paint.
• Circles Reach for those circle stamps and create your own background paper for a fun layout. By stamping circles (both hollow and full) in different colors and patterned textures, you can make an interesting and fun pattern that will be easy to use with your pictures.
• Letters For a fun pattern, stamp with foam letter stamps in random succession onto a piece of cardstock. Let some of them fall off the page, which gives the impression that the pattern continues elsewhere.
• Share and Share Alike Ask your scrapping friends to swap hand-made patterned papers. You’ll be delighted how unique they end up!