52 Weeks of Creative Memory Keeping – Challenge 49
Welcome back to my journey through 52 Weeks of Creative Memory Keeping! If you’ve been following along, you know this series is all about sparking creativity and finding joy in preserving memories. Each week brings a new challenge designed to inspire you to try something different, stretch your skills, and make memory keeping fun and meaningful.
This week’s 52 Weeks of Creative Memory Keeping – Challenge 49 is all about making our own photo corners—finding creative ways to pull items out of our stash and use them in fresh, surprising ways.
To read more about this creative memory keeping journey, visit 52 Weeks of Creative Memory Keeping.
Welcome to Week 49 – Make Your Own Photo Corners
There’s something incredibly satisfying about taking everyday supplies and turning them into something uniquely your own. This challenge is all about rediscovering the joy of creating with intention—digging into your stash, reimagining materials, and letting your creativity lead the way. Making your own photo corners may seem like a small detail, but it’s these thoughtful touches that bring personality and warmth to your memory keeping.

For me, this week was a reminder that even the simplest embellishments can tell a story and elevate a project in meaningful ways.
Challenge – Make Your Own Photo Corners
Making your own photo corners allows you to fully customize your projects while adding depth and character. Whether you use a cutting machine or simple scissors, the process gives you the freedom to match colors, themes, and textures to your story. Instead of relying on pre-made embellishments, you can create something that reflects your style and complements your photos perfectly. It’s a wonderful way to stretch your creativity and see your supplies in a new light.
Tips for This Challenge –
- Start with sturdy materials like cardstock or chipboard for durability.
- Ink or distress the edges to add dimension and a finished look.
- Use patterned paper to tie your photo corners into your overall theme.
- Keep your design simple at first, then layer details like stamping or doodling.
- Try different shapes—rounded, scalloped, or angled—for variety.
- Test placement before adhering to make sure everything aligns neatly.
Design Ideas –
- Use seasonal patterns (like florals, holiday prints, or themed papers).
- Layer multiple pieces for a dimensional, stacked look.
- Add stitching (real or faux) around the edges for texture.
- Incorporate embellishments like brads, buttons, or enamel dots.
- Create contrast by pairing neutral cardstock with bold patterned paper.
- Use metallic inks or pens for a subtle shimmer effect.
My Projects –
Since I’m currently focusing on my Project Life albums, I decided to create a 6 x 4 card highlighting my daughter’s pups and my Tigger patiently waiting for their treats.
I began by cutting a rectangle from chipboard and matching paw print patterned paper, then used a foam brush to apply a layer of matte Mod Podge to the chipboard. Allow to dry.


Using a heat press technique, I adhered the patterned paper to the chipboard square for a smooth, secure finish.
- Select your preferred photo corner design in Design Space.
- Place your material onto the Cricut cutting mat and secure it with painter’s tape.
- Adjust the machine rollers to the side, then load the mat into the machine.
- Use the knife blade to cut out your photo corners.
- No cutting machine? No problem—simply sketch your design and cut the photo corners by hand with scissors.

I distressed the edges using Walnut Stain ink to add a bit of vintage warmth and dimension. The sage textured cardstock provided a soft, neutral background that allowed the photo and embellishments to stand out. Once the photo was adhered, I layered the handmade photo corners on top, framing the image perfectly.

To finish the card, I added a label with simple journaling—“Treat Time”—and drew a small heart detail for a touch of sweetness. It’s a clean and simple design, but the handmade elements make it feel extra special and personal.
Products Used –
- Thin to Medium Chipboard
- Paw Prints Pattern Paper – The Paper Studio (Hobby Lobby)
- Sage Textured Cardstock – DCWV Mat Stack (Bright)
- Design Space & Cricut Maker 3 (optional)
- Roller Adhesive
- Label – from my Ali Edwards’ Product Stash
- Very Berry Fine Tip Marker – Cricut
- Pigma® Micron™ 05 Fine Line Pen
- Mod Podge Matte & Foam Brush
- Mini Heat Press & Parchment Paper
- Ranger Ink Walnut Stain & Mini Round Ink Blending Tool
There’s no right or wrong approach to this challenge—the goal is simply to explore creative ways to incorporate meaningful text into your memory keeping projects. Have fun experimenting with different techniques and discovering your unique style!
Share Your Creation
I’d love to see what you’ve created for the 52 Weeks of Creative Memory Keeping – Challenge 49. Share your project and tell me about your creative journey—what sparked joy, what led to “aha!” moments, and what fun discoveries you made while crafting.
Join me next week for Challenge 50 of our 52 Weeks of Creative Memory Keeping journey. Week 50’s challenge is “Just Tell a Great Story.” I’m thrilled to see what we’ll create together!
Happy Story Telling!
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Down Home at Dee’s
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Just So You Know
Craft Project Heads Up
The craft projects shared on my blog are intended to be both entertaining and informative. I do my best to make sure the supply list is complete and the instructions are correct. However, I cannot guarantee your success with the projects and I am not liable for any injuries, damages, or losses that may result from following the instructions.
Be aware that some of these craft projects may involve the use of sharp tools, hot glue guns, and other items that can pose a danger. It is important to exercise caution and good judgment when attempting any of the projects. If you make a mistake and injure yourself or damage something, I cannot be held responsible.
Please understand that by attempting these craft projects, you are assuming all risk. I am not making any promises or providing any warranties, so please do not expect me to offer assistance if something goes awry.
Ultimately, these craft projects are designed to be enjoyable and educational. However, it is crucial to always be careful and use your best judgement when attempting them. Remember, any consequences that arise from attempting these projects are your responsibility alone.
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