Showing posts with label Tarrah McLean. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tarrah McLean. Show all posts

Tuesday, July 28, 2026

HOMETOWN USA YEAR 6 PROM LAYOUT | with Tarrah

Today I'm sharing a special scrapbook layout featuring some treasured Year 6 Prom memories my niece recently celebrated. I created the layout with the bright and festive Hometown USA Collection. While this collection is perfect for patriotic celebrations, I loved using the classic red, white, and blue color palette to document these memorable photos.


For the background, I combined two patterned papers, placing the soft blue polka dot design alongside a vibrant red print. The split design creates a bold backdrop while helping draw attention to the photo cluster in the centre of the page. To soften the transition between the papers, I added a wavy border strip and layered patriotic bunting across the top of the layout.


The focal point features three photos layered on coordinating cardstock mats and embellishments. I tucked die cuts and icon stickers behind the photos to add dimension and visual interest. The fireworks elements from the Odds and Ends pack work beautifully with the celebratory theme, making them the perfect addition for documenting such an important milestone.


To create movement across the page, I incorporated stars, banners, and decorative accents throughout the design. The adorable character die-cut adds a touch of Doodlebug's signature charm, while the "Time to Celebrate" sentiment reinforces the special occasion.
I used the Alphabet Soup letter stickers in Ladybug to build my title, "Year 6 Prom," placing it prominently above the photos and a little at the bottom. Additional sentiments such as "Having a Blast!" and "You're So Sweet" help tell the story and add extra personality to the layout.


I finished everything off with scattered stars from the Star Spangled enamel pack and added a few layered elements to give the page extra depth and texture. I love how the festive colors and fireworks motifs highlight this happy memory and make the photos shine.


Thanks for stopping by today!  I hope this layout inspires you to use the Hometown USA Collection for more than just holiday celebrations and to document those special milestone moments with bright colors and playful embellishments. Happy crafting!


DOODLEBUG PRODUCTS USED

8525 Hometown USA - Odds & Ends pack
8526 Hometown USA - Chit Chat pack
8527 Hometown USA - Bits & Pieces pack
8531 Hometown USA - This & That Sticker Sheet
8501 Hometown USA - Sprinkles - Star Spangled
8541 Hometown USA - Polka-Dot Pride patterned paper
8536 Hometown USA - Land of the Free patterned paper
8529 Hometown USA - 6' x 6' paper pack
7392 Alphabet Soup letter stickers - Ladybug

OTHER

Black journal pen
Date stamp
Black ink

Tuesday, July 14, 2026

HOMETOWN USA CUTE SPIDERMAN LAYOUT | with Tarrah

Some scrapbook pages simply make you smile the moment you look at them, and this Cute Spiderman layout is one of those projects that bursts with personality. Created with the Hometown USA collection, it blends patriotic charm with playful superhero flair—perfect for capturing a child’s imaginative spirit.


At the heart of the page is a circular photo of my son with his face-painted as Spider‑Man, and the surrounding design brings that moment to life. The bold reds, crisp whites, and classic blues from Hometown USA set the tone, creating a vibrant backdrop that feels both nostalgic and celebratory. The patterned papers—stars, stripes, balloons, and fireworks—add movement and excitement, echoing the energy of childhood play.


The mix of die‑cuts, stickers, and cardstock shapes from the Odds and Ends, Bits and Pieces  and This and That sticker sheet creates a dimensional collage that frames the photo beautifully. Sentiments like You’re My Hero, Cute Spiderman, and You’re the Bomb! add personality and help tell the story without overwhelming the design. Small embellishments such as stars, speech bubbles, and playful icons bring in that signature Doodlebug whimsy.


Whether you’re documenting patriotic holidays, superhero adventures, or everyday snapshots of childhood, the Hometown USA collection offers endless possibilities. Its cheerful patterns and bold color palette make it easy to build layouts that feel lively, cohesive, and full of heart.


If you’re looking for a collection that blends classic Americana with playful storytelling, Hometown USA is a perfect choice. This layout is a reminder of why we scrapbook—to capture the magic of ordinary days and turn them into keepsakes that last.


Thanks for stopping by today! Happy crafting!


DOODLEBUG PRODUCTS USED

8525 Hometown USA - Odds & Ends pack
8526 Hometown USA - Chit Chat pack
8527 Hometown USA - Bits & Pieces pack
8531 Hometown USA - This & That Sticker Sheet
8514 Hometown USA - Puffy Stickers - Icons
8501 Hometown USA - Sprinkles - Star Spangled
8543 Hometown USA - Blast of Blue patterned paper
8548 Hometown USA - Textured Assorted Cardstock
8504 Hometown USA - Mini Jewels - Patriotic Assortment
8508 Hometown USA - Doodle Pop - Blue Birds
8505 Hometown USA - Freedom Fireworks
8529 Hometown USA - 6' x 6' paper pack

OTHER

Circle punch
Circle dies
Sewing machine
White cotton thread
Black journal pen
Black mist

Monday, July 6, 2026

HOMETOWN USA - PROUD TO BE AN AUSSIE LAYOUT | with Tarrah

There’s something magical about documenting the places that shape who we are. For me, Australia isn’t just where I live—it’s where my heart feels most at home. So when I sat down to create this scrapbook layout, I wanted a design that captured pride, belonging, and a whole lot of happy color. Enter the Hometown USA collection—a red, white, and blue celebration of community that turned out to be the perfect match for an Aussie‑themed project.


One of my favorite parts of this project was blending the collection’s Americana elements with uniquely Australian themes. The “HOME Sweet HOME” and “I LOVE THIS PLACE” stickers couldn’t be more fitting—they speak to the universal feeling of belonging, no matter where you’re from.




The centrepiece of this page is a bold map of Australia, hand traced and cut from the Polka-Dot Pride patterned paper and I added craft foam underneath to add dimension to my page. It creates a playful backdrop that frames the photo beautifully—a snapshot of pure joy, waving the Australian flag with pride. I love how the crisp red frame around the photo instantly draws the eye, grounding the layout with a pop of contrast.


Even though Hometown USA is designed with American patriotism in mind, its versatile patterns and cheerful motifs translate effortlessly into an Australian story. The stars, fireworks, and bold typography add energy and movement, giving the page a celebratory feel that fits Australia Day perfectly.


Thanks for stopping by today! I hope you are inspired to use the Hometown USA collection! 
Happy crafting!


DOODLEBUG PRODUCTS USED

8525 Hometown USA - Odds & Ends pack
8526 Hometown USA - Chit Chat pack
8527 Hometown USA - Bits & Pieces pack
8531 Hometown USA - This & That Sticker Sheet
8514 Hometown USA - Puffy Stickers - Icons
8541 Hometown USA - Polka-Dot Pride patterned paper
8548 Hometown USA - Textured Assorted Cardstock
8504 Hometown USA - Mini Jewels - Patriotic Assortment
8509 Hometown USA - Doodle Pop - Colonial Kitty
8529 Hometown USA - 6' x 6' paper pack

OTHER

Sewing machine
White cotton thread
Black journal pen

Tuesday, June 30, 2026

COLOR ME CRAFTY CUSTOM PLACE CARDS | with Tarrah

A burst of color, personality, and handmade charm — that’s exactly what these custom place cards deliver. Using the gorgeous Color Me Crafty collection, each card becomes a tiny celebration of creativity, friendship, and the joy of making pretty things. Perfect for group events, they instantly make everyone feel seen and included. They’re more than labels — they’re keepsakes.


Each card starts with a sturdy base using various papers from the Color Me Crafty '6 x 8' paper pack. From there, the magic happens:

Step 1: Create the place card bases:

  • Cut cardstock rectangles for the base - mine measure 3.25 inches x 3.75 inches

  • Score and fold each piece in half to create a tent‑style card.

  • Burnish the fold with a bone folder so they stand nicely.



Step 2: Add patterned paper layers:

  • Trim patterned paper panels slightly smaller than the front of your card base.

  • Mix and match patterns—stripes, dots, icons—but keep colors coordinated.

  • Adhere the panels to the front of each base with tape.



Step 3: Build the name panel:

  • Cut a solid cardstock strip or label shape to hold the name.

  • Die‑cut or add alphabet stickers for the person’s name.

  • Center the name on the strip and adhere.

  • Attach the name panel to the card front—use foam tape for dimension.



Step 4: Add some fun words:

  • Choose a word or phrase (BESTIE, FUN, CRAFTY, HAPPY, FRIENDS, LOVE, etc.).

  • Die‑cut or sticker the letters and place them under or beside the name.

  • Layer on a small banner or label behind the word to make it pop.



Step 5: Decorate with crafty icons:

  • Pick icons that match the Color Me Crafty theme—scissors, rulers, cameras, hearts, flowers, paint brushes, etc.

  • Cluster embellishments around the name and word, tucking some behind layers and popping others up with foam tape.

  • Balance the design by spreading color and shapes across the card (top, bottom, left, right).

Step 6: Add finishing touches:

  • Include tiny details like enamel dots, hearts, or small stickers to fill any empty spots.

  • Check dimension—make sure nothing overhangs so much that the card won’t stand or store easily.

  • Gently press everything down so the adhesive grabs well.

  • Machine stitch along the strip of paper and the top of the scalloped border sticker for a handmade touch.


The result is a lineup of cheerful, layered place cards that look like tiny art pieces — perfect for brightening any creative space.

Perfect for group events, they instantly make everyone feel seen and included. They’re more than labels — they’re keepsakes.




DOODLEBUG PRODUCTS USED

9090 Color Me Crafty - Odds & Ends pack
9091 Color Me Crafty - Chit Chat pack
9096 Color Me Crafty - This & That sticker sheet
9077 Color Me Crafty - Puffy Icons stickers
9078 Color Me Crafty - Puffy Words stickers
9076 Color Me Crafty - Mini Icon stickers
9095 Color Me Crafty - Icon stickers
9063 Color Me Crafty - Shape Sprinkles - Crafty Girl
9094 Color Me Crafty - 6' x 8' paper pack
7391 Alphabet Soup Puffy stickers - Bubblegum
7401 Alphabet Soup Puffy stickers - White

OTHER

Sewing machine
White cotton thread

Tuesday, June 16, 2026

COLOR ME CRAFTY I LOVE SCRAPBOOKING LAYOUT | with Tarrah

The new Color Me Crafty collection is so gorgeous and fun for documenting this hobby we all love! I recently got Chat GPT to create a fun photo of me crafting away at my desk! This page celebrates all things creative with bold color, playful details, and a whole lot of personality.


I used an  'I Love Scrapbooking' cut file (linked below) and cut it from white cardstock.  I backed all of the open spaces from the various patterned papers in the 6 x 8 paper pad, from rainbows and florals to soft pastels and playful prints—creating a patchwork effect that perfectly reflects the fun and variety of crafting. I trimmed down another sheet of white cardstock and adhered it to the Rows of Ribbons patterned paper. I also took 2 of the scalloped border strip stickers from the This and That sticker sheet, placing 1 at the top and 1 at the bottom of the layout.


The mix of patterns brings the whole composition to life while still keeping everything cohesive thanks to the collection’s signature color palette.
The tiny banner at the top spelling 'Crafty' adds a playful finishing touch and ties in perfectly with the theme.


On the right side, the photo becomes part of the story—a vibrant, illustrated image of a crafter surrounded by tools and supplies. The colors and details in the photo blend seamlessly with the Color Me Crafty collection, making it feel like a natural extension of the layout.

Layered embellishments around the photo—including tabs, labels, and icons—help build a visual cluster without overwhelming the design.


This design shines because it balances boldness with structure:

  • The large title anchors the layout
  • The rainbow borders frame the design without overpowering it
  • The embellishments are playful but thoughtfully placed
  • The color palette stays consistent while still feeling energetic

This scrapbook page is a joyful tribute to the love of crafting. The Color Me Crafty collection makes it easy to combine bright colors, whimsical icons, and meaningful sentiments into a layout that truly celebrates creativity.

If you’ve ever wanted to document your passion for scrapbooking (or crafting in general), let this page inspire you—go big with your title, mix those patterns, and most importantly… make time to create!



DOODLEBUG PRODUCTS USED

9092 Color Me Crafty - Bits & Pieces pack
9091 Color Me Crafty - Chit Chat pack
9077 Color Me Crafty - Puffy Icons stickers
9078 Color Me Crafty - Puffy Words stickers
9096 Color Me Crafty - This & That sticker sheet
9094 Color Me Crafty - 6' x 8' paper pack
9091 Color Me Crafty - Rows of Ribbons patterned paper
9071 Color Me Crafty Doodle Pop - Tools of the Trade

OTHER

White cardstock
Black journal pen
Date stamp
Black ink

Tuesday, May 19, 2026

BUTTERFLY KISSES BEAUTIFUL YOU LAYOUT | with Tarrah

The perfect way to celebrate and document those everyday moments of love and connection, was using the Butterfly Kisses collection! For this layout, I wanted to create a bright, cheerful design that highlights a sweet photo while letting all those happy colors and playful patterns shine.


The standout feature of this page is the diagonal patchwork background. I created a grid of square pieces using a variety of patterned papers from the 6' x 8' paper pad —florals, ginghams, butterflies, and tiny icons—all arranged on a diagonal for a fun, dynamic feel. This design adds movement and visual interest while allowing multiple patterns to come together in a cohesive, eye-catching way.

To frame the page, I matted the white cardstock to the 12' x 12' Garden Gingham patterned paper that neatly ties everything together and keeps the layout grounded.


The photo sits slightly off-center, layered on top of the patchwork design. I kept the photo cluster fun and dimensional with a mix of die-cuts, stickers, and embellishments from the Chit Chat and Odds & Ends packs and the This & That sticker sheet. A soft yellow mat under the photo helps it pop while still blending beautifully with the bright colour palette.

Around the photo, I built layers using flowers, butterflies, and small accents from the Bits & Pieces pack to create a balanced composition. The addition of fluttering butterflies across the page gives the layout a light, whimsical feel—perfectly matching the joyful theme of the collection.


The title “Beautiful You” takes center stage, combining bold, colorful lettering with a handwritten script for contrast and personality. Placing the title close to the photo helps anchor the design and draws attention straight to the focal point.

Just beside the photo, I added a small sentiment piece that reads “Love You So Much,” reinforcing the heartfelt story behind the layout.


To complete the page, I sprinkled in enamel shapes and tiny embellishments, including a cute frog Doodle Pop and additional butterflies, to enhance the playful vibe. A few floral clusters at the top and bottom of the page create visual balance and guide the eye across the layout. I also drew faux stitching on each square paper to add some more interest and make them pop.


If you’re looking for a fun way to showcase your favorite photos, give this patchwork style a try—you might just fall in love with it! Thanks for stopping by today! Happy creating!


DOODLEBUG PRODUCTS USED

8801 Butterfly Kisses - Odds & Ends pack
8803 Butterfly Kisses - Bits & Pieces pack
8802 Butterfly Kisses - Chit Chat pack
8787 Butterfly Kisses - Puffy Icons stickers
8788 Butterfly Kisses - Puffy Words stickers
8807 Butterfly Kisses - This & That sticker sheet
8805 Butterfly Kisses - 6' x 8' paper pack
8819 Butterfly Kisses - Garden Gingham patterned paper
8782 Butterfly Kisses Doodle Pop - Hoppy To See You

OTHER

White cardstock
Black journal pen
Date stamp
Black ink

Tuesday, May 5, 2026

BUTTERFLY KISSES THE GOOD LIFE LAYOUT | with Tarrah

There’s something truly special about documenting special moments spent together. those happy snapshots filled with sunshine, connection, and simple joy. Today I’m sharing a bright and cheerful scrapbook layout created with the Butterfly Kisses collection, and it could not be more perfect for celebrating love and togetherness.

For this layout, I started with the gorgeous Happy Thoughts patterned paper as the foundation, placing it off centre. The soft pastel stripes instantly set a happy tone and create the perfect backdrop for layering. To ground all of those playful colors, I added the Sunny Days patterned paper underneath to ground the diagonal stripes. The contrast really helps frame the design and keeps everything feeling light and fresh.


The photo takes centre stage, layered with scalloped mats and sweet embellishments to help it shine. I love how easy it is to build dimension with the Odds & Ends and Bits & Pieces ephemera packs - those butterflies, flowers, and clouds add so much movement without overwhelming the page. A few butterflies fluttering around the photo bring that whimsical, carefree feel the collection is known for.


One of my favorite details on this layout is the title cluster. Using a mix of word stickers and die cuts, I layered “The Good Life” along the bottom of the photo, surrounded by flowers and tiny accents. It creates a natural visual anchor while still keeping things playful. The small banner at the top of the photo with “I Love You” adds an extra layer of meaning and ties everything together beautifully.



To finish things off, I added a scalloped border and a little stitching detail for texture, along with a few enamel dots for subtle dimension. These finishing touches help balance the layout and guide the eye around the page.


This layout is a reminder of why I love documenting everyday moments—bright colors, happy memories, and a whole lot of heart. If you’re looking for a collection that’s perfect for springtime stories, love-filled moments, or just celebrating life, Butterfly Kisses is an absolute must. Thanks for stopping by today! Happy creating!


DOODLEBUG PRODUCTS USED

8801 Butterfly Kisses - Odds & Ends pack
8803 Butterfly Kisses - Bits & Pieces pack
8802 Butterfly Kisses - Chit Chat pack
8787 Butterfly Kisses - Puffy Icons stickers
8788 Butterfly Kisses - Puffy Words stickers
8807 Butterfly Kisses - This & That sticker sheet
8805 Butterfly Kisses - 6' x 8' paper pack
8812 Butterfly Kisses - Sunny Days patterned paper
8820 Butterfly Kisses - Happy Thoughts patterned paper
8783 Butterfly Kisses Doodle Pop - Rainbow Garden
8156 - Hello Again - Assortment - Sprinkles

OTHER

Black journal pen
White thread
Sewing machine
Date stamp
Black ink
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