More people are realizing the wonderful contribution a single letter can make to a layout. With monograms becoming more popular you may find it’s time to join the crowd.

When we think of a monogram we usually think of someone’s initials. This is a good place to start. Try using a large monogram of someone’s initial on a layout that highlights one person. Using a large initial as your title saves time and looks fresh. Basic Grey, My Mind’s Eye and other companies make very large letters that are ideal for a monogram. These large monograms can be embellished by inking or chalking the edges and painting them. Decorate a large letter by adhering buttons to it, wrapping it with ribbon or attaching brads to it. Add stitching on a monogram for a home made look.

In a layout about my son I used a large letter A by My Mind’s Eye to represent his initial and the title "Adorable Boy". I chalked the edges of the letter with black chalk and wrapped the letter with ribbon.

layout using large, die-cut A

Incorporating a large letter into your title could make your page pop. A simple idea is to use a large, die-cut letter to begin your title with and then use other lettering techniques for the rest of your word. You could make whimsical titles such as “P-nut” and “Q-tie pie” with monograms by emphasizing the large letters. Use letter rub-ons or stickers and place your title directly on your monogram. For example, use a large letter A and write “adorable” on the letter itself.

Monograms can be used for other things than a person’s initials. Use a monogram to represent holidays (ie. C for Christmas), seasons or months. Make an entire ABC album incorporating a monogram in every page. You can also use monograms in a descriptive way. Describe a person or place with words that begin with the same letter. For example, use the letter T on the layout of a child. Place descriptive words on the page such as ticklish, ten, talkative, and trendy. Another great use is to describe an emotion with a monogram (ie. H for Happy.)

Monograms don’t have to be limited to one per page. Make a layout with pictures of different individuals. Place a rub-on or sticker letter that represents each person’s initial on the corner of each photo. Use a monogram to embellish the center of a flower. Decorate a tag with a monogram for a clean, simple look.

paper flower with monogram center

You can use your favorite font or stencil to make your own monogram or use some of the great new products available. Basic Grey’s new line has very large letters that can be used for monograms. SEI has come out with monogram coasters. American Crafts has many different colors and patterns of cardstock and vellum with monograms.  Try using a monogram and you will find that a single letter can make a big impact.