:REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: Easier-than-Ever Scrapbooking 2 from Creating Keepsakes

When it comes to scrapbooking, time is always of the essence for me. Therefore, I always looking for resources that help me to get more done in less time.

Of course, quality is also important to me, so when I saw that Creating Keepsakes had a second edition of Easier-than-Ever Scrapbooking coming out, it was on my wish list right away.

Easier-than-Ever Scrapbooking 2 delivers some great 'recipes' for building strong, yet memorable, layouts. The style of the layouts remind me very much of those you would see in our beloved (and missed) Simple Scrapbooks magazine - clean, graphic, linear.

Even if you consider yourself a more elaborate scrapper when it comes to layering and embellishment, I think this special issue may still have something for you. After all, every layout needs a solid foundation to be successful and that's what this issue can offer.

This issue has a cooking theme that runs throughout that makes it a fun read.

It starts off with a section at the front called "The Scrapbooking Pantry" which outlines the basic tools and supplies necessary to using the 'recipes' included in the issue.

From there, the edition is broken down into 3 chapters which are fairly self-explanatory:

1. Pantry-only Pages
2. The Pantry + 1
3. The Pantry + 2

There are 83 layouts included. There are single page layouts included, but I would say that the majority are actually double-page spreads which sets it apart from many of the magazine issues and idea books currently on the market. The layouts included are of both the 12 x 12 and 8 1/2 x 11 variety.

If you're looking for some 2-pager inspiration, this issue is definitely for you. If you are more of a single-page scrapper, you can always still take inspiration and scrap lift one half of any given layout.

Each featured layout includes:

• a timer - clock element showing how long it takes to lift the layout
• from the pantry - a list of supplies used
• instructions for creation in 3 easy steps
• a tip for making the layout even easier (and/or quicker to complete)

There is also a special icon used throughout the issue to indicate the layouts that use strictly 4x6 photos.

Another fun feature is that about a dozen of the layouts also include a card created from the scraps of the featured layout.

GIVEAWAY:
One lucky reader will be the recipient of a free copy of Easier-than-Ever Scrapbooking 2.

To enter, leave a comment to this post with the following:

NAME:
EMAIL:
TELL ME: What supplies are in your 'pantry'? In other words, what tools or supplies do you use on nearly every layout you create?

Leave your comment by Thursday, July 9th, 2009, 11:59 PM (CST) in order to be considered to win.

I will announce and contact the random winner via email on Friday.

WANT TO READ MORE OR PURCHASE?
Visit the Easier-than-Ever Scrapbooking 2 page at Amazon.com. You can also read more of my reviews for other recommendations.

UPCOMING REVIEW:

Scrapbook Secrets: Shortcuts and Solutions Every Scrapbooker Needs to Know by Kimber McGray

Want me to review your book on the AMOM blog? Contact me for further details and consideration.