Simple Stories – Take Note Collection | Jackie Ashton
Hi Jackie here, with my first layout for 2026. Today I’m sharing a bright, happy scrapbook layout that celebrates my birthday using the Simple Stories – Take Note collection. This page came together beautifully with lots of texture, layers, and tiny details that make it feel extra special.

I started with a crisp white cardstock base and added interest straight away by working with the Hey Little Magpie Distressed Shards stencil using Tim Holtz Oxide ink in Kitch Flamingo, I softly blended colour through the stencil to create a fun design to the right on my cardstock. I went back in with a fine black pen and traced along each of the shard edges. This simple step really helped define the shapes and added a hand-drawn detail that brings the whole background together.

To add even more dimension, I randomly stamped a selection of scripted words across the page using Hey Little Magpie scripted background stamps
My photo is a 3×4 snapshot of me on my birthday, and I mounted it using patterned papers from the Take Note 6×8 paper pad. I lightly distressed all the paper edges to soften the layers and give the page a gently worn, lived-in feel. Behind the photo, I tucked in a vellum envelope, which holds a little tag with some hidden journalling – a lovely way to keep personal memories close without crowding the design.

The title was created from the Foam Sticker Sheet, giving the page a bit of playful dimension. To finish everything off, I scattered a few brads around the layout to echo the shattered background and tie the whole design together.

This layout feels happy, meaningful, and full of personality – a perfect way to document a special birthday moment.
Till Next Time
Happy Scrapping

Simple Stories.- Take Note Collection