How to Scrapbook With GIMP

Compile your favorite pictures into a scrapbook using GIMP.

Avoid the hassle of cutting and gluing items for your next scrapbook, only to have the pages tear and yellow over time. By using GIMP photo-editing software, you can create lasting memories. By uploading or scanning your favorite photos to GIMP, you can edit and arrange them on a digital scrapbook page that can be saved and used as a back-up if damage occurs after printing. With GIMP's simple-to-use tools, you can make a custom scrapbook that you'll enjoy for years to come.

Instructions

1. Click "File," then "New" to create a scrapbook page. A window will open prompting you to input the dimensions of the project. Click the down arrow next to "pixels" and change the measurements to "inches." Find the measurements of your scrapbook and adjust the page to fit accordingly.

2. Click "File," then "Open" and select a photo you want on the scrapbook page. When the image pops up, click "Select" in its window and then "All." Right click and select "Copy." Click on the scrapbook page, right click and select "Paste." In the "Layers, Paths and Channels" window, right click on "Floating Layer" and select "New Layer." Repeat this process for all of your images.

3. Move photos by clicking on a layer in the "Layers, Channels and Paths" window. Select the "Move" tool in the "Toolbox" window. Click on an image and drag it to move the image. Rotate images by selecting the "Rotate" tool in the "Toolbox" window. Click on an image, then drag left or right to make the image rotate in that direction.

4. Add quotes or titles to pages using the "Text" tool found in the "Toolbox" window. Click on the tool, then create a text box by clicking and dragging on the scrapbook page. Click inside the box to start writing. You can adjust the size, color and font with the "Text" controls found in the bottom of the "Toolbox" window.

5. Select "File" then "Save" to keep a copy of your work for future editing and printing. Click "File" then "Print" to add your work to the scrapbook.

Tips & Warnings

• Experiment using different filters on photographs for an array of effects. To make photos appear old, select the photograph's layer, then select "Filter," "Decor" and then "Old Photo."

References

• Gimp.org: GNU Image Manipulation Program