How to do more with your page protectors

I recently created a scrapbook layout about my extended family on my mom's side. As I was working on the page, I realized there was more information I wanted to include than what the size dimensions  (12x12) would allow. Here's the directions for how I did more with my page protector. 

 Start by cutting as close as you can can to the seam on the left side of the page.

Continue cutting until you reach the bottom edge.

 Find the fold on the right side of the page.

Cut along the fold.

Now the page should open with the bottom section hanging down below the top half, like this:

Decide where you need more "storage" on your layout. I wanted to include a tab with the names of the people in the pictures behind the photos of them. Take your page and lay it under the page protector. You will sew on top of the page protector through both the plastic and the paper (so that the layout is now attached to the page protector).

 I sewed a line of zig-zag stitching on each picture included on the layout.

Next you will need a cutting mat and a blade.

 Using the blade, you will cut through the page protector and the scrapbook layout.

You should be able to slide your finger through the opening.

You'll want to make sure the slit you made is wide enough to fit the tab or whatever else you want to slide behind the picture. 

I used a chunky white brad on the end of the tab so it won't fall behind the page. I wrote the names of all the people in the different pictures.

Next, you will use clear thread to attach the sides again. On the right side, I did a straight stitch down the edge (through the paper and both sides of the page protector).

On the left side, I used a zig zag stitch to make sure the thread caught both the paper and the page protector.

In the end, you'll be able to include a lot of info on your page without it looking cluttered.

Happy scrapping!