I have always prided myself at the fact that I wanted to keep scrapbooking and memory keeping affordable and accessible to everyone. Yes I know every month there are loads of new product out on the market, new papers that are simply prettier
than the previous range, new technique products, more versatile stamps and stencils – and believe me we all fall into the trap of wanting it all.
Which brings me to my point. I made this layout with left-over papers from a double page. The only product I added was thread, 3 flowers, some stamen clusters, gold glitter, diamante and a few leaves – all things I had.
And of course my trusty sewing machine and favorite punch for detail.
Did I want to turn it into a layout with tons of flowers, loads of mixed media techniques, half a jar of art stones, inks, mists, charms, more flowers and stuff – sure I did.
Is it really me, well maybe not so much, only once in a while, does it make sense in my life and those who want to re-create the layout because they have the paper – definitely not as much.

Where then do we draw the line? Create what you love and what you can afford, or succumb to the pressure of industry giants and icons and follow the masses.

I say stay true to you – don’t succumb to something you are not. Just for the sake of happiness and enjoyment and love.

I loved every real minute of creating this quick and easy and affordable layout using this beautiful paper range, I loved adding the gorgeous flowers I had, recycling the leaves and adding thread and some gold glitter.

I love the softness and the delicate flowers…

I love that I could scrap this gorgeous photo of a beautiful soul…

I love what I do. I love to inspire. I love that I can’t afford all those things because it pushes me to be resourceful and real about my life and memory keeping.
I love that after all these years my clothes are still full of ink splats and glue stains, that life is real and that I love being creative even more than before.
Is it easy – by no means – and that just means that giving up is not an option, although some days it really feels like the only option.

Wildflower Meadow Paper Pad by Craft Consortium sponsored by The Funky Llama SA.
Flowers by Little Birdie from The Wholesaler