Weekend Crop Tips & Checklist

As I am getting ready for my weekend crop next week thought I would share how I go about my planning process. With some careful pre-planning you can have a very fun & productive crop!


Send photos for printing. I try to narrow them down. I do one scrapbook per year so figure for most events you will only have room for 2-4 photos. In some cases you may do a 2 page layout so you’ll need a 4-8 for that. I use Snapfish for my photos. Don’t forget to order some 5x7’s for your pages or even 8x10’s!

After you get the photos back start to narrow those down even further - you can pass along extras to Grandmas or friends.

I like to plan things out so if you are doing a 2 page layout it falls on a left and right page. Not only are my scrap books in order but I must scrap them in order (just a little one of my super organized traits). Also gather up any other mementos for your layout - for example an invite, ticket stub, etc.



I use sketches alot - they are an easy blueprint to reference. They are usually pretty basic and a great starting point. Here is an example of sketch:

Here are a few of my favorite sketch sites:
Click on the image to go to the site.

ally scraps
See the sidebar for Debbie’s Sketches. Here is Debbie’s blog - worth a visit!

Get out your paper and pen and sketch out your page and write down some notes for journaling. It will help to think of things before the day of the crop. Also pick a title. If you are stumped on a title check out scrapbook.com for lots of great ideas.


Pull your papers for the page and put them into the folder. Don’t forget to include patterned papers along with some solids. If you stick to one line then you’ll be sure to match but does not hurt to mix and match too.

You could also cut any titles if you have time but if you take your cutter to the crop this isn't really necessary.


Check out magazines, blogs - you can always follow me if you like :) I also have a collection of scrapbook layouts on Pinterest. Even though you already have a good plan you can get ideas for techniques.

Check out this layout from my Pinterest Page ~ Scrapbook Layouts Board:

I am loving how the twine is strung thru the hearts
and may string it thru my banners that way.

This should be all the prework you will need to do!

Here is a checklist for what I bring to a crop.
Your list may be different but this is a good starting point if you don't have a list!

Have fun cropping! I'll share my finished Graduation Layout here and on my FB Page after my crop. Stop back by to check it out!