June 1, 2003
                                                                               CottageArts.net Introduces “Simply Digital” CD’s

     Is it traditional scrapbooking, or simply digital? Actually it’s both! CottageArts.net, whose mission is to “make memories into lasting works of art,” announces their new product line, “Simply Digital”. They offer CD’s of custom designed layouts, background papers, and embellishments to help scrapbookers create stunning digital layouts, or to print for use in traditional scrapbooks. “Simply Digital” is the creation of co-owner and artist Michelle Shefveland. She believes scrapbooking is on the verge of a digital explosion due to the convergence of digital photography, easy-to-use software, and experienced computer users.

     “Simply Digital” background papers are saved as .jpg files and layout templates are offered in both .psd (layers intact) and .jpg file formats for use with most digital imaging software packages, such as Jasc® Paint Shop Pro™ 8, Adobe Photoshop® and Photoshop Elements®, Ulead® Photo Impact®, or Microsoft® PictureIt!® Digital Image Pro (.psd layers are flattened in DIP). By using one of these packages and a “Simply Digital” CD, anyone can create a custom layout in a matter of minutes. For those who want to use the layout templates to create more custom designs, use the .psd layout files to change the colors, position and size of photo mats, texture of papers, and more. An added bonus:  everything is totally re-usable! 

      At this time, the “Simply Digital” product line consists of five CD’s: “Simply Shabby”, “Simply Elegant”, “Simply Heritage”, “Simply Fun”, and “Simply Papers”. Descriptions, contents, and pricing for each of the CD’s can be seen at www.CottageArts.net.

Why go “Simply Digital?”

     Why would someone want to scrapbook digitally when the world of traditional scrapbooking offers so much fun, creativity, and more beautiful papers and embellishments than one can use in a lifetime? This is similar to the question many photographers have been asking about digital photography for nearly the past decade. Michelle thinks the answer is to enjoy the benefits of both. “I am an avid rubber stamper and traditional scrapbooker, but because of our extensive digital photo library, I love the convenience and flexibility of creating digital layouts, as well. ” She listed the following points to consider about using digital technology to build or supplement your scrapbook albums.

• Time - By using “Simply Digital” layout templates and background papers, you can add your own photos, titles, and journaling and have an incredible page done in a matter of minutes. 
• Cost - Many scrapbookers today already own a computer, scanner, digital imaging software, and a printer, as it is becoming very popular to use the computer to create journaling and titles. By adding one or more “Simply Digital” CD’s, the digital “scrapkit” is complete. 
• Perfect Color Match – With digital, you’ll never have to say you don’t have the right color card stock. With digital imaging software, you can instantly change the templates, background papers, and embellishments to be the perfect shade to complement your beautiful photographs.
• Family Time – Today, most kids are growing up using computers with confidence and enjoyment.  Digital scrapbooking provides a great opportunity to share that excitement together. Kids can learn about family history, re-live family fun, as well as create digital layouts to share with friends.
• Sharing – To share digital layouts, it’s as simple as saving to a low resolution .jpg file, attaching to an e-mail or posting to the web, and all your connected friends and family can share them instantly.

     Michelle concludes “I love the smell of paper, glue sticks, melted embossing powder, and the feel of fibers, mesh, and fabric. There is something very soothing about tearing paper or embossing a title. But, sometimes I feel like creating my own digital embossed papers or making a quick digital layout to frame for a friend. There is a place for both in the wonderful world of scrapbooking.” For those who aren’t convinced that digital might be something worth giving a try, their background papers and layout templates are stored at 300 dpi, and can be printed for use with traditional scrapbooking. See their products, ideas, and tutorials at www.CottageArts.net.  Contact CottageArts.net at info@cottagearts.net.