If you are just starting, why not consider just a 12x12 layout -- a piece of cardstock or pattern paper, then place photos and some embellishment and put it in a page protector.  Talking about how to start then talking about waterfalls and chipboards --- you've jumped from beginner to intermediate b...

  How did you find ACOT??    I saw a referral someplace .. can't recall where. I liked that a bunch of new products were available and placed an order.  Much more recently I've seen more about the site What technique would you like to learn?  I'm very technique driven .. love to play with paper.  W...

If you like mini albums, you might take a look at Kathy Orta at Paper Phenomenon.  She creates all sorts of mini albums and offers tutorials on her blog.  You may have seen her work in Tim Holtz' booth at CHA (or, like me, IN CHA pictures!!)