Pick your perfect pockets
Scrapbook Faster With This Photo‑Sorting Method Every Crafter Should Know
From overwhelmed to organized with this simple system.
If you’ve ever sat down to scrapbook and immediately felt overwhelmed by a mountain of photos, you’re not alone. The secret to creating beautiful, story‑driven layouts is simple: prep your photos before you scrapbook. Our Flip Flap™ Tabbed Divider Pockets make this process fast, organized, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you print in 4x6, 5x7, or even 9x6, this system helps you sort by layout, plan your pages, and create albums that flow effortlessly from beginning to end
Step 1 - Pick your pockets
Most scrapbookers will use 4x6 or 5x7 Flip Flap Pockets, but if you print in mixed sizes or want extra room for notes, the 9x6 pockets are perfect.
If you're working on a project that has a lot of larger "memento" pieces, you could even use the 8.5x11 or 12x12 pockets.
Step 2 - Label your pockets 1-5.
Give each pocket a number—1 through 5. This creates a simple, repeatable workflow and keeps your project manageable. If you like to plan a full album you may want to use more pockets - just label them accordingly. You'll reuse your numbered pockets over and over again.
Step 3 - Sort your photos by layout
• A single‑page layout usually holds up to 6 photos.
• A double‑page layout holds up to 12 photos.
Place each layout’s photos into one numbered pocket.
You may have more than 6/12 photos, that's okay put them in the correct pocket and you can make final decisions as you go.
Step 4 - Create a list of what's in each pocket
On an index card (4x6 or 5x7 pockets) or sheet of paper (8.5x11 folded in half for 9x6 pockets) , write numbers 1–5 and jot down what’s inside each pocket. This index page is also a great place to add a title, dates or other journaling notes you might need when you start creating your scrapbook layouts..
Slip this list into the front of pocket #1 so it’s always available for easy to reference.
Step 5 - Store your pockets
Storing pockets in a File Master that you have reserved for sorted photos is a great way to keep the photos you've already sorted organized and ready to go.
Use your Creative Connector to create a label your File Master. The great thing about using the Creative Connector for labeling is that there is no adhesive involved so changing labels is easy.
Step 6 - Start Scrapbooking.
When you’re ready to create, simply pull out Pocket #1 and start building your layout. Then move to Pocket #2, Pocket #3, and so on.
This method keeps you focused, eliminates decision fatigue, and helps you create cohesive, story‑driven albums without the overwhelm.
Why This System Works
• You always know what to scrapbook next.
• Your photos stay protected and grouped by layout.
• You can prep multiple albums at once.
• It turns scrapbooking into a calm, creative flow instead of a chaotic photo shuffle
Shop by Collection
Pockets, File Masters and the Creative Connector
File Masters
Choose the size that fits your pockets.
Creative Connector Tool & Clips
The perfect way to label
1 comment
This is so helpful! This is exactly how I feel when i sit down with my photos. I do not like using a lot of embellishments because of all the decisions that have to be made with them! Thanks for the one, two, three steps.