Well friends, I've been told that I've a knack for putting seemingly disparate elements in a somewhat cohesive manner on my layouts. Really? I've been scrapbooking for so long now and my only goal is just to use up my stash! But I did a run-through of my layouts to pick out some commonalities that might help you use seemingly disparate elements on your layouts too. *winks*
Are you ready?
1. Try using paper strips of similar width.
Even if the papers don't match, the paper strips provide a cohesive feel that help tie the pieces together. On this particular layout, the paper fish tails really aid in guiding the eye throughout the layout.
2. Have your patterned paper characters look at your subjects.
This is a technique I use a lot - having fussy-cut patterned paper characters look at my subjects. It is a fun way "frame" your photos.
3. Try working with just three main colours.
Keeping to a trio of harmonious colours makes it easy on the eyes even if the patterns seem to clash.
4. Keep patterns in small doses.
Play with little bits of patterns so they serve as little accents and don't distract the eye from your photos.
5. Use a grid format.
Somehow laying elements within a grid structure just works because the eye has a "framework" to guide it through the elements.
6. Go whimsical.
Well, nothing has to make sense in a whimsical scene so just have fun! Here, I went with a postcard scene and even added props!
7. Use repeated shapes.
Repetition of shapes - circles and rectangles- provide the eye relief to this seemingly messy layout.
8. Create a decorative "frame" around your photos.
Place all your decorative elements along the perimeter of your photos. This creates a "frame" that ties everything together.
There you have it, 8 ways to use seemingly disparate elements on your layouts. Have you employed any of them on your layouts?
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