One year I got a mini album but never did any pages.
Other than that, I’ve never tried my hand at a December Daily album. Mainly because, well, I wouldn’t do it. The “daily” aspect and numbered pages are unappealing to me, as is the pre-made page bases. FOR ME. Don’t get me wrong – I think it’s AWESOME and every year I get jealous of the ones I see. It’s such a cool thing and I adore how Ali makes it work and how inspiring she is. I just know the idea doesn’t quite fit for me and I wouldn’t enjoy doing it that way.
I was contemplating trying it my own way, an “inspired by December Daily” project, and after some thought I ordered up an American Crafts 8 1/2 x 11 album off amazon and made my plan. My book is not “my book”, it’s the family album. This is going to be an old school SCRAP BOOK – bits of life, stories, part journal and photos optional.
The photos are the tricky part. In fact they are a huge part of why I’ve never taken this on. I don’t print my own photos unless it is an emergency. I found a solution. I will cut out a 4×4 and 4×6 (to account for hipstamatic and regular prints) piece of chipboard and keep them handy. i will mark where/what photos I am using AS I GO. This way I can create and play and have fun – and I will just add in photos once or twice.
I’m really excited about this project and how much fun it will be to add in things like:
- things the kids say
- “wish lists” for santa
- kid artwork
- funny stories
- traditions and why we do what we do
- information about special decorations
- a page for our holiday guests to sign/make notes
- recipes new and old favorites
- just for fun/because pretty art journal/quote type pages
- notes & stories from anyone who wants to contribute
My album is ready, I have 8 1/2 x 11 cardstock purchased and ready to use. It’s going to be simple, the pages won’t be my usual “scrapbook page” looking pages. It’s going to be a new adventure. I will check in a few times when I come up with something cool or noteworthy to share.
I made a video of my creative process in making my cover – in case you want to check that out:
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6GhGJoalKQ]
Supplies used:
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I am not designating a “Dec Daily” folder or box or anything. I will just use/pull whatever is out or strikes my fancy as I go along. To be perfectly honest my studio is a MESS and I have everything out already.
That said – MAD LOVE to the October Afternoon holiday line (link shown above), Cavallini tapes, and the real vintage Jenni Bowlin treats I scored. I will be using all of these things, and most especially my Green Patina perfect pearls mist – and more.
Are you taking on a big holiday craft project? I’d love to hear about it!