Printer’s Trays were type cases that were manufactured from round the 1890’s to the 1960’s. They were used to store characters – the typeface – used in printing, such as the letters of the alphabet. More recently, they have become a popular way to display small mementos or store and sort small objects. And even more recently, they have found their way into the scrapbooking world. Because there’s nothing scrapbookers love more than finding creative ways to display small precious memorabilia and photographs.

7Gypsies has several versions available, including trays that hold 4x6 photos, trays that hold wallet-sized photos, and letterblock trays that have compartments of various sizes, and they all come in different colors. Summer 2010, they debuted curio-styles cases, and other companies presented their versions, including Maya Road and Tim Holtz. All this variety means there is plenty for scrapbookers to choose from, and chances are strong that anyone can find something out there to fit their needs.

Dad ATC Tray by Janis Medina-Maghinay

Supplies: Papers, Corrugated Alphabet, Fabric Flowers, Stickers, Button, Twine: Jillibean Soup, Tiny Circle Alphabet Stickers: Jenni Bowlin Studio, Stamps: Indinkado, Hero Arts, Pearls, Pebble: Prima Marketing, Fabric Sticker: Claudine Helmuth, Crackle Paint, Distress Glue, Ink: Ranger Industries, Paint: Making Memories, Acrylic Charm: Tim Holtz, Other: kraft coin envelope, embossing powder, leaves, ball trim, lace, corrugated board, metallic key, metallic brads, acetate.

Design Notes: I made this ATC Tray as part of my guest designer stint for Jillibean Soup. This was actually a gift that I made for my husband last Father's Day.

Antique Printer's Tray by Beth Perry

Supplies: Paper: 7Gypsies, Ink Bottle: Ranger Industries, Other: vintage findings.

Design Notes: I used mainly 7Gpysies papers for the background. Also, I made many of the squares the same background, which gave it the illusion that the paper was connected in many spots. Then, I filled it up with my little vintage findings and what nots.

Love & Life Printer's Tray by Tina Walker

Supplies: Paper, Chipboard, Alphabet Stickers, Sticker, Ink: Colorbok, Printer’s Tray: 7Gypsies, Flowers, Die Cuts, Journaling Spots, Transparency, Pins: Maya Road, Ribbon: Tim Holtz (Ranger Industries), Charms: Making Memories, Glitter: Tattered Angels, Other: old keys, tiny bottles, doilies, buttons, watch faces, old zippers, watch hands.

Design Notes: I love to use everyday, common things and objects in my 'art', especially if it's vintage. I love metal, fabric, and layers...lots of layers.