June 2025 Wk2 Scrapbook Page Layout

Repeating Shapes on a Layout

An interesting technique to experiment with is the repetition of a single shape across both pages. This helps the eye travel naturally across the layout and creates a strong sense of unity, even if the photos or embellishments differ in content. The example layout shown uses circular photo crops repeatedly to achieve this sense of flow.

Each circle holds a pair of firefighters, linking the story visually across the two pages. Their placement at the bottom of the spread grounds the composition and creates a rhythmic visual line. This circular motif contrasts with the rectangular photos above, providing variety while still holding the design together.

Here are some suggestions for using repeated shapes to tie a double-page layout together:

Ideas for Repeated Shapes

• Circles: As shown, circles can be used to crop photos or create clusters. They soften the look of a page and can work particularly well with themes of community, celebration or shared experience.
• Tags: The use of tags for journalling, like those in the top left and bottom right corners, mirrors each other across the spread and anchors the page corners visually. Tags can be handmade or pre-cut and work well to highlight key details or dates.
• Stars: Small black star embellishments appear on both sides of the spread in the example. They add visual interest and create a playful link between the two pages.
• Arrows or Pointers: Consider using arrows, chevrons or hand-pointing icons to guide the eye across the layout. They add motion and can reinforce the story direction or timeline.
• Frames or Photo Corners: Uniform framing around photos on both pages can bring balance and make varied photo sizes feel more coordinated.
• Word Titles or Phrases: A bold central title like “together” spanning across both pages, or echoed with smaller phrases, reinforces the theme. You can repeat a font, cut-file shape, or stamping technique to tie it all in.

Variation Suggestions

• Colour Blocking Shapes: Use repeated geometric shapes—like squares, triangles, or hexagons—in coordinating papers across both pages. This can provide a quilt-like backdrop or playful mosaic effect.
• Layered Shapes: Stack multiple shapes—e.g. circles on squares or stars layered with hearts—to add dimension while still creating repetition.
• Die-cut Motifs: Repeat a themed die-cut shape, such as leaves, butterflies or gears, across the page. This works especially well for thematic layouts like nature walks, celebrations, or mechanical/technical events.
• Negative Space Shapes: Punch or die-cut shapes into one page and back them with patterned paper visible on the second page.