In an effort to better understand what worked for me and what didn't, I began to take design classes. Some worked better for me than others. Some were so immersed within the teacher's own style that I could not absorb the information. A few years ago, I began to take Masterful Scrapbook Design. I had found a place in which, my own style could prevail while I analyzed it and tweaked it. I began to see myself develop and grow. Many more of my layouts pleased me.
Now, here I am today, once again revisiting the basic structures of layout design. There are, after all, only so many basic structures which one can use to adhere photos and paper to a canvas. This time, the exploration of design is even more fulfilling for me. In the past year, I have come to understand my style and process more in depth. Just when I think I have all my bases covered, something new unfolds.
If You Catch a Tiger by the Tail by Christy Strickler | Supplies Cardstock: Colorbok; Border,Patterned Paper: Bazzill; Letters: Jenni Bowlin,American Crafts; Ink: Ranger; Stencil: Crafter’s Workshop; Stamp: Studio Calico; Sequin, Ephemera, Tape, Rub-on: Jenni Bowlin: Other Staples, Tag, Twine; for Get It Scrapped
I didn't realize just how much I rely on the basic block until the recent Scrapbook Coach class or the Masterful Scrapbook Design Seminar about Grids and Blocks. I knew grids weren't my best design ( I can't sew straight or cut straight). I thought the block design was just plain jane. As I explored both classes, I came to realize just how versatile the block was. In fact, I began to purposefully use it. A LOT.
Revisiting design structures through Scrapbook Coach has taught me new things about my process. It's like walking up a spiral staircase. Each time you reach a new floor, you come to a new awareness. Then you set out to climb to the next level. Those first floors I reached a few years back taught me that I could understand design and develop my own style. I then learned that I could make better decisions both in product choices and design concepts. All of this led to more layouts produced in less time.
My understanding of the block design has allowed me to use it more effectively. I am ready to experiment with another structure. So here I stand once again at the landing, one foot on the step, ready to climb the staircase to the next level.
Supplies
I am often asked about the foil animals and pieces used on my layouts.The supplies used were originally from a JBS Mercantile Kit. Jenni often adds German Foil to her Antiquarian kit. The kits do sell out fast and sadly, at this time, the particular kit the foil tiger came from is sold out. Kit subscribers get first choice of these fabulous kits every month.
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| On a Block |
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| Grids and Blocks |
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Great use of the block design, Christy! I love the bright Orange background. It really makes all of the elements pop on your page!
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