Most scrapbookers feel "blocked" or "stuck" once in a while. When those layouts start to all look the same and you are feeling uninspired, it might be time to try a new technique to get the creative juices flowing.

There are several ways to expand your scrapbooking skills.

1. Take a class. Scrapbook Paradise (formerly Treasured Memories Too) in northwest Reno offers many classes, including a variety of lessons for using the Silhouette Digital Craft Cutter. Check their class calendar for more information. Treasured Memories, Reno's original scrapbook store, also has classes and workshops sure to jump-start your creativity.

2. Scrapbook with friends. Often times, inspiration comes from seeing others working on their pages. Don't be afraid to ask, "how did you do that?"

3. Search for tutorials online. There are so many out there, from basic design principles to advanced distressing techniques. This tutorial shows how to make beautiful art from ordinary napkins. Another teaches how to use melted crayon wax in new and different ways. Keep an eye out for inspiring blogs, and be sure to bookmark them for future reference.

4. Take a class online. Scrap In Style TV has an assortment of webisodes showing all sorts of fun ideas and techniques. Big Picture Scrapbooking is another a great source for online classes.

Taking a class, reading a tutorial, or watching a webisode can really help take your scrapbooking to the next level. There are no rules in this ever-changing craft, so think outside the box and see what you can create!