No 12x12 Printer? No Problem! In our “Think Outside the 12x12” series, we’re showing you how to scrap 12x12 layouts with TRD printables, even if you don’t have a 12x12 printer!

When it comes to scrapbooking, using smaller pieces of paper can present a creative challenge, and one bar to printables I often see presented by my customers. But fear not! In this blog series, we'll explore an techniques for using non-12x12 papers on your 12x12 layouts that still have that POP that you want for your large layouts!

Lesson Four: Maximize the Paper Size You CAN Print!

When it comes to scrapbooking, we often find ourselves searching for the perfect 12x12 patterned papers to use as the base for our layouts. But what if we told you that you can achieve equally impressive designs using smaller-sized hybrid scrapbooking paper prints? In this blog post, we'll explore the often-overlooked potential of 8.5x11 or smaller prints as the foundation for your 12x12 layouts. Get ready to break free from traditional constraints and discover how large blocks of patterned paper can be created using hybrid prints. Let's dive in!

Don’t count out the 12x12 papers included in my digital/printable collections just because you don’t have a 12x12 printer! 12x12 Printable papers and can be easily resized to fit various paper sizes both inside and outside of photoshop (see linked tutorials below.)

Whether you're working with 8.5x11 or smaller prints, don't underestimate their potential to create stunning 12x12 designs!

One of the advantages of using smaller-sized prints is the ability to use a lot of different patterned papers on your 12x12 layout. Because we’re using cardstock as the 12x12, we don’t have to worry about the patterns we choose clashing with our background! Strategically arrange and overlap multiple hybrid prints to form visually appealing blocks. Experiment with different sizes, orientations, and combinations to achieve a custom look that suits your style.

Once you've found the perfect designs, resize them to fit your 8.5x11 canvas. Software such as Photoshop or free online tools like Pixlr or Canva can help you easily resize and manipulate the prints.

Once your blocks of patterned paper are in place, it's time to embellish and add dimension to your layout. Use die cuts, stickers, ephemera, or even hand-cut elements to further enhance your design. Strive for a balanced composition by distributing embellishments strategically across the layout, ensuring they complement the patterned paper blocks without overpowering them.

By embracing 8.5x11 (or other large-sized blocks) hybrid scrapbooking paper prints, you can add much more dynamic color and pattern to your layout than if you’re relying solely on one large 12x12 patterned paper block as your base. Don't limit yourself to the constraints of thinking that you have to be able to print full 12x12 papers or you can’t use printables.

Explore the versatility and impact of smaller prints as you create large blocks of patterned paper on your 12x12 layouts. The result will be visually stunning designs that reflect your unique style and showcase your creativity.