Paper Issues sketches #3 and #4

 We’ve all had those days where you sit down at your scrapbooking table, staring at your supplies, and think, "What in the world am I going to do with all of this?" It’s like staring into the abyss of your craft stash, just waiting for inspiration to strike. But here’s the thing—sometimes you need a little help to get those creative juices flowing. Enter Paper Issues sketches, the ultimate solution to your scrapbooker’s block.

Today, I’m showcasing my creations using Sketch #3 and Sketch #4 for Paper Issues, and let me tell you, these sketches were like a warm hug for my creativity. They gave me direction, but also enough freedom to add my own flair.

 

Good Vibes

Sketch #3 immediately grabbed my attention with its layered papers—hello, scrap paper heaven. Who doesn’t love using up those leftover strips of patterned paper? It's like the sketch was practically begging me to pull out my scraps and get to work. And, oh, the opportunity for mixed media, with those circular marks and splatters. Well, let’s just say I took that as a "go ahead, get messy!" sign.

For this layout, I decided to go with a fun water-themed page of the girls dressed in mermaid tails and having a blast mucking around in the pool. I interpreted the sketch to represent their watery fun with all shades of blue, messy splattering, and summer-themed patterned papers. A couple of rainbows and beachy die cuts were the perfect finishing touches to tie it all together.

Now, I’ll admit, the messy splattering of paint had me questioning my life choices for a momment, but once it dried, I couldn’t help but smile. The layout felt like pure summer joy. So, if you’ve got some leftover paper scraps and you’re in the mood to get a little paint on your hands, this sketch is your best friend.

Life is Good Today

Sketch #4 had me really thinking outside the box. I saw that huge conversation bubble and immediately thought: “Comic books? Action figures? I have no idea what to do with this.” I stared at that bubble for a while, feeling stumped. Then, as if the universe knew I needed a sign, I remembered that Bronte had just gotten her license. Of course, a conversation bubble was the perfect way to represent her “big moment” in true comic-book fashion.

Once I had the idea, the layout came together so quickly, I used a bit of paint on the background to break up the patterned paper and really make the conversation bubble pop. I added a printed title from one of my favourite movies (Licence to Drive, anyone?), a few stars, and bam, the page was complete. It’s now a fun, quirky tribute to Bronte's new driving freedom.

I’ll admit, I did have a few “What am I doing with this layout?” moments, but that’s the beauty of Paper Issues sketches. They push you to think differently, to try new things, and suddenly, your ideas just click into place.

If you’re stuck in a creative rut, Paper Issues sketches are like a road map to scrapbooking success. Whether you’re using up paper scraps, trying your hand at some messy mixed media, or thinking outside the box (hello, conversation bubbles), these sketches give you the structure to get started while still allowing you to add your own personal touch.

So, the next time you’re staring at your supplies with zero inspiration, give a sketch a try. I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly your ideas come together. And remember—getting messy with paint? Always a good time!!!

Paper Issues Sketches #7, #8

Today I’ve created two new layouts to share with you where I have used the Paper Issues daily sketches, numbers #7 and #8. Both came together so easily and I had a lot of fun playing with different techniques and embellishments to bring the pages to life. Here are the sketches if you want to play along.

Fins & Scales Adventure (Sketch #7)

This layout captures a fun adventure Bronte and Paige had with Adrian in the heart of the Sydney, where they discovered the Japanese Gardens. While feeding the big goldfish, a curious water dragon paid them a visit, and of coarse Paige had to try and pat it. The sketch balanced out two photos perfectly, one of each of the girls, so I could highlight their individual moments.

I used some fun patterned paper from Coco Vanilla, which had beautiful oranges that matched the vibrant colours of the gold fish. To complement the paper, I created a mixed-media background. I simply sprayed some ink onto a piece of plastic packaging, then blotted it onto the cardstock, staying near the edges to mirror the design of the sketch, then randomly splattered a darker, earthy orange/brown over it. I love how the ink added a soft, organic feel that draws attention to the photos.

To add some extra interest and draw the eye downward, I used some chevron-coloured chipboard shapes across the bottom. The sketch’s design left a perfect spot in the middle of the page for handwritten journaling, so I filled it with a few lines about the fun day.

Big Kiss, Baby Sis (Sketch #8)

The second layout is a sweet moment between Bronte and Paige, capturing Bronte being a loving big sister and giving Paige a kiss on the head. The sketch for this one focused on the centre of the page, which gave me a great opportunity to create a bold mixed-media background. I used a small heart stencil and some colour paste in a vibrant watermelon hue, which contrasted beautifully against the soft pastel colours in the patterned paper and die-cuts I used for the rest of the layout.

This sketch was perfect for a moment like this, as it focused attention on a singular, heartfelt photo. The mixed media background added a bit of texture and fun while still allowing the sweet image of the two sisters to take centre stage, and of course, I just had to add a few tags (my latest obsession) to the mix, with a bit of hidden journaling on them.

Both of these layouts came together so quickly and easily thanks to the Paper Issues sketches. If you're ever in need of inspiration or want to jumpstart your creative process, I highly recommend checking out their daily sketches— they make it so simple to focus on key design elements and play with fun techniques.

Tag! You’re It.....Fun Layouts with My January Counterfeit Kit

I’m excited to share what I've been up to with my January Counterfeit Kit so far this month. I've created two fun layouts that came together quickly, thanks to the daily sketches from Paper Issues (Sketches #5 and #6). I’m currently obsessed with using tags on layouts, so I was thrilled to see that one of the sketches already included tags. For the other, I decided to add a tag or two anyway. Tags are such a versatile embellishment—they can frame photos, hold titles, add journaling, or create layers for added depth. I just love how they elevate the design.

Its So Fluffy (Sketch #5)

First up is It’s So Fluffy – a layout documenting an adorable photo of Paige and a fluffy chicken she befriended at the Nowra Zoo, using the Paper Issues Sketch #6. I used a lot of the patterned papers from my kit, mixing them with die-cut flowers and bows in soft pastel colours. I didn't have the tags in the colours I wanted for this layout so I cut out two from some of the patterned paper scraps, and I love how they turned out. 

Full of Colour (Sketch #6)

Next, I worked on Full of Colour – a bright, bold layout capturing when Paige had rainbow hair threads braided into her hair, using Paper Issues Sketch #5. The colour scheme of the layout matched her vibrant braids perfectly. I used tags as part of the photo mat, which helped to anchor the picture while adding layers and interest. I also had some fun with black ink, doodling around the photos, tags, and even the background paper. The little ink splatters and hearts tied everything together in the most playful way.

Both layouts came together so quickly thanks to the kit and the sketches and with my latest obsession with tags (seriously, they add such a fun dimension to any layout!) If you’re ever feeling stuck or uninspired, creating a small kit like this and having a plan (like those daily sketches!) can make all the difference. 

What are you working on this month? Let me know in the comments!

January's Counterfeit Kit Challenge and Paper Issues sketch 2

If you're like me, you’ve probably found yourself scrolling through those gorgeous scrapbook kit club websites, admiring all the beautifully coordinated papers, embellishments, and themes. But deep down, you know you’ve got more supplies than you could ever use in a lifetime. And you’re definitely not alone—I have copious amounts of papers, embellishments, and stamps stashed away in my craft room, just waiting to be used.

That’s where the Counterfeit Kit Challenge Blog comes in. If you haven’t heard of it, this community is all about helping you make the most of what you already have. Each month, the team challenges you to “counterfeit” a kit from a well-known scrapbook kit club by creating your own kit from your own stash. No need to buy anything new! This is a great way to rediscover old favourites and get your scrapbooking mojo back.

For January, the inspiration kit is Hip Kit's September 2024 "Good Things Ahead". I’ve pulled out papers in shades of blue and touches of peachy/orange, inspired by the denim pockets and soft rainbow hues of the Hip Kit kit. I also included some pocket embellishment stickers to tie in with the kit's theme. It’s amazing how just selecting a few coordinating items helps me see the potential in my supplies and gets me excited to create. Here is my kit:

And to kickstart my January scrapbooking journey, I joined in with the Paper Issues Facebook group’s Day 2 Sketch challenge. I love how sketches can quickly jumpstart a layout when I'm feeling stuck. Sketches are a fantastic tool when you want to scrap quickly and efficiently. They give you a clear direction, so you don’t have to spend ages deciding on layout design. Paired with a counterfeit kit, I find it’s an efficient way to create beautiful pages without overthinking. You can follow the sketch closely or adapt it to suit your photos and style—either way, it helps take the guesswork out of creating.

 Using the sketch, I created a layout featuring a sweet memory from a few years ago—my daughters, Bronte and Paige, having fun together at daycare. In the photo, Bronte is pulling Paige around in a toy wagon. It was such a simple, joyful moment, and I’m so happy to have it documented.

One of the things I love about this layout is the colour combination of peach and blue. These two colours might not be ones you often see paired together, but I think they work so well here. The peach tones add a warmth and softness to the page, while the blue brings a fresh, cool vibe. The combination creates a perfect balance between cute and fun, making it ideal for the playful moment captured in my photo—light-hearted, sweet, and joyful. The peach and blue work together to make the layout pop without overpowering the photo, and it really brings the page to life.

Paper Issues Sketches - 1

Happy New Year, Scrapbookers. I am so excited to kick off 2025 with a fantastic challenge from one of my favourite Facebook groups - Paper Issues. This month, they're offering a Daily Sketch Challenge, and I’m all in!  

To start off the challenge, the very first sketch prompted me to use a family photo from our Christmas celebration here in our home in Canberra, it's the first time we have celebrated with everyone at our home. It’s such a cherished moment.

For this layout, I decided to create my own background, I splottched some red colour spray on the white cardstock and then dulled it down by painting a layer of white paint over it. Then I used a stencil to create an explosive effect of lines and stars, giveing the layout a lot of energy. The pop of red stars is really what makes this page, and I love how they stand out against the creamy background. To add a bit of elegance and sparkle, I included small touches of gold here and there to highlight certain areas – because who doesn’t love a little shimmer?

I’m hoping to stay on track and keep up with the daily sketches this month to really get me back on track with my scrapping. 

If you’re looking for inspiration, need a creative push, or just want to be part of an amazing scrapbooking community, check out the Paper Issues Facebook group! It’s full of so many talented people sharing ideas, tips, and beautiful layouts.