How To: Creating Layouts for Boys

I happen to have three pretty special guys in my life: my husband, Brett; my oldest son, Joseph; and my youngest boy, James. That makes for several masculine topics that I need to cover in my albums. Today I thought I'd share some basic concepts to consider when creating layouts for boys.

#1: Design for the boys. While you might enjoy ribbons, doilies, and pretty pink papers, the boys not appreciate it quite as much. And though sometimes I go ahead and incorporate those items into my layouts, I try to design with my boys in mind. I want them to enjoy the layouts I created. So I consider that when designing. Here's a layout that a boy would appreciate for the masculine colors and elements:

 Source: Northridge Publishing Newsletter

#2:  Details, details, details. Think texture, color, and purpose when designing a layout for boys. This layout shows my son's love for bugs. I incorporated items that fit this theme. Every detail was carefully pre-planned.

 Source: January 2011 Scrapbook Trends Magazine

#3: Perspective. Tell the story from their perspective. Ask them to contribute to the journaling. Use descriptive words like the large, bolded words in this layout to describe the event. Even incorporating their handwriting will make the layout more special.

 Source: Two Peas In a Bucket

In need of additional ideas? 

 Click HERE to purchase this class!

If you're looking for a comprehensive guide to creating layouts for the boys in your life, be sure to check out my True Scrap 4 class called "The Boys Are Back in Town." This $12.95 class includes a full-color, printable PDF with instructions and guidelines for creating masculine layouts. It also includes a helpful 30+ minute video, including three start-to-finish layout samples. I cover everything from selecting papers and embellishments to designing for toddlers, teens, and adult men. You'll look at your masculine layouts through fresh eyes after completing this at-your-own-pace course.

Here is a close-up photo of one of the projects I created for this course:

You can find more details HERE through True Scrap.