How to Use Canva to Design Your Own Scrapbook Layouts (Even if You're Not a Designer)
- Rea Weeks
- Jul 21, 2025
- 3 min read
Yes—you can do this. And it’s way easier than you think.
There’s something magical about scrapbook layouts. They capture our stories, our memories, and our favorite little moments all in one beautiful page. But here’s the truth no one says enough:
👉 You don’t have to be a professional designer to make stunning scrapbook pages.👉 You don’t need fancy software or hours of spare time.👉 You can do it all with Canva. Yes, really.
So whether you’re brand new to digital scrapbooking or a lifelong paper crafter who’s curious about the digital world—this post is for you.
Let’s walk through how to use Canva to create your own scrapbook layouts, even if the idea of “designing” feels intimidating. You’ve got this—and I’ll show you how!
✨ Why Canva is Perfect for Scrapbooking
Canva is like a creative playground. It’s beginner-friendly, free to start, and filled with gorgeous elements, fonts, and layouts that make scrapbooking feel fun—not frustrating.
With Canva, you can:
Create custom scrapbook pages from scratch
Use drag-and-drop tools (no confusing software!)
Access thousands of free design elements
Resize pages to fit your planner, photo book, or journal
Save your layouts digitally or print them out for physical books
Ready to start? Let’s do it together.
🖥 Step 1: Choose Your Page Size
Start a new design on Canva and pick your preferred size. Some popular options are:
12x12 inches (traditional scrapbook size)
8.5x11 inches (easy to print at home)
6x8 or 7x9 inches (great for planners and mini albums)
Or go custom for whatever fits your project!
Tip: Give your layout a name like “July Family Picnic Page” so it’s easy to find later!
📸 Step 2: Upload Your Photos
Click “Uploads” on the left panel and drag in your favorite pictures. You can upload from your device or even import directly from your phone or Google Drive.
Arrange your photos on the page like puzzle pieces—big ones as focal points, smaller ones as accents. You can crop, tilt, or frame them however you like!
Need photo inspiration? Think:
Day trips
Summer BBQs
Birthday parties
Cozy family moments
Pets being adorable (because obviously 🐶🐱)
🎨 Step 3: Choose a Background or Theme
This is where your scrapbook starts to shine. You can:
Use a solid color or textured background
Add digital “paper” (psst—check out my shop for cute options!)
Use Canva elements like watercolor splashes, grids, or vintage paper effects
Don’t be afraid to experiment! Play with warm tones, pastels, or seasonal color schemes to set the mood.
✂️ Step 4: Add Decorative Elements
Now it’s time for the fun details!
In Canva, search for elements like:
Washi tape
Stamps
Tags
Doodles
Ripped paper
Flowers, leaves, hearts, stars—anything that suits your style!
You can also layer “frames” over your photos or add stickers and word art. Keep it minimal or go all out—there’s no wrong way to scrapbook.
📝 Step 5: Add Journaling and Titles
Your memories deserve words. Add a title like “Summer Memories” or “Our Beach Day” in a playful font.
Then, insert a textbox and write a few sentences:
What happened that day
Funny quotes from your kids
How you felt in that moment
Inside jokes or song lyrics
Canva has tons of handwriting fonts, typewriter styles, and playful script options to match any vibe.
💾 Step 6: Save or Print Your Layout
Once you love your layout, click Download and save it as a high-quality PNG or PDF.
You can:
Print it at home or at a local print shop
Add it to a digital photo book
Include it in your planner or journal
Share it online with friends and family
Or just admire it, because you made something beautiful—and that’s worth celebrating!
🛍 Want Done-for-You Layouts & Embellishments?
Need a shortcut or creative jumpstart? I've got you covered!
Digital scrapbook papers
Journaling cards
Embellishments and stickers
Canva-ready scrapbook templates
Printable kits for seasonal themes
Everything is crafted to help you tell your story—your way.
💌 Join the Mailing List for Freebies + Inspiration
Want free templates, Canva tips, and creative encouragement sent straight to your inbox?
When you join my list, you’ll get:
A free scrapbook layout template in Canva
A library of monthly creative freebies
First dibs on product launches + sales
Ideas to help you stay inspired all year long
Let’s create beautiful memories—together.
🌼 Final Thoughts
You don’t need to be a graphic designer to tell your story through beautiful layouts.You don’t even need scissors or glue.
With Canva, you already have the tools—and with a little heart and creativity, you’ll be amazed at what you can make.
So go on, open Canva, upload those photos, and start playing. Your memories are waiting to be celebrated. 💛
You’ve got this. And I can’t wait to see what you create. ✨
Comments