So what is Hybrid Scrapbooking anyway?

Hybrid Scrapbooking has all the tangible qualities of Traditional Paper Scrapbooking paired with the flexibility of Digital Scrapbooking…the ultimate paper crafters 1st choice.

Hybrid = Traditional Paper Scrapbooking + Digital Scrapbooking = unlimited creative possibilities

Sometimes while I am making something it feels almost like magic to me. To be able to imagine something and achieve it using your Computer, Printer and Crafting Supplies. Its just MAGIC to me. Viewing your finished Project and knowing that it is uniquely you. You imagined it, Created it. Just AMAZING!

The awe and wonder from my Daughter as she looks at the stuff I make is worth a thousand words…everytime she oohs and aahs over something I have open on the computer or printed I am so happy to share this creative journey with her. I sometimes wonder what she thinks…if  it is magical to her too?

So how do you create a Hybrid Project? What tools and skills do you need?

PLANNING

I always have a clear idea in mind and planning a Hybrid Project is very important. So I usually first sketch it out. Either on the computer or in my notebook. I record important dimensions and what dimensional/traditional scrapbooking supplies I wish to use. A great site for Inspiration is The Hybrid Chick…the sister site of The Digichick.

DIGITAL SUPPLIES

Not only do I love Hybrid Scrapbooking but I am also a Digital Designer who specializes in the creation of Digital Kits that can be used for Hybrid Scrapbooking. I create High Quality Digital Kits at 300 dpi (Best Resolution for Printing) and they are ready to print from your home computer using Photo Editing Software. You can view my extensive line of Digital Products at The Digichick. Be sure to also view our collection of Hybrid Products in the shop.

PHOTO EDITING SOFTWARE

Although it is not necesary I do recomend having a program like Photoshop Elements or Photoshop to create your project. Most Digital Supplies come in JPEG and PNG format. Some Printable Projects come in PDF format and can easily be printed without using photo editing software, be sure to have Acrobat Reader a free download available HERE installed to view PDF’s.

PRINTER

You do not need a wide format printer to start out but I do recommend a ‘single ink’ system. Single Ink means you will most probably have at least 4 ink Cartridges to replace: Black, Cyan, Magenta and Yellow. The reason for this is with a ‘multiple’ ink system one color always runs out faster than the others and as a result you will have higher maintenance costs replacing ink cartridges which in the end will mean less money to spend on your crafts. I have a Epson Stylus NX415 and I am very happy with it.

PAPER

Here is the crux of Hybrid Scrapbooking…what Paper to use? I love Red River Paper but unfortunately I cannot use all of their papers with my printer…I get trouble with the paper feed. Epson Premium Matte is the best paper for Printing digital supplies. Photo Paper is too glossy and does not stand up so well to hybrid crafts. Cardstock soaks up all the color and makes your projects seem so dull. I have used Epson Premium Matte on most of my projects and is the best available option.

CRAFT TOOLS

Here is my Basic List of must haves:

• Scissors
• Craft Knife
• Craft Mat
• Nail File
• Metal Ruler
• Archival Pen/Gel Pen
• Bone Folder
• Glue
• Baby Wipes

To see more suggestions visit The Cutting Files Blog Post: Tools of the Trade

CRAFT SUPPLIES

I love Flowers, Journaling Cards & Sentiments, Buttons, Brads, Glitter, Glimmer Mist etc. etc. Raid your Scrapbooking Stash…there is absolutely no limit on what you can use with this craft.

I would love to hear your thoughts and opinions about this post! What do you think of Hybrid Scrapbooking?