Fussy Cutting Layout: Feeling Thankful Grateful and Blessed

 

What inspires you most when deciding what to create? The default answer should probably be photos, but for me it is always PAPER. I am inspired by the color, the pattern, the weight, the texture, even the smell! This is a very simple layout that I created because I needed to keep my hands busy while watching tv. Do you ever have one of those nights where you just want to munch? I was craving popcorn and M&Ms. Insert a better decision (at least for one night;)...I grabbed my fussy cutting scissors and started trimming flowers. I had a Garden Shoppe paper pad by Paige Evans for American Crafts. She has some of the best floral papers that are great for fussy cutting!

I ended up with a very nice pile of flower clusters. I left a small white border. Nothing is perfect, but it will look just fine on a layout. I also didn't worry about how many single flowers versus clusters of flowers. I even cut half flowers from the edges of the paper. Every flower can be trimmed again or hidden once I start adhering them to my layout.

I used a second sheet of paper that featured letter boards with fall sayings. As I was trimming, I had a photo in mind, so I focused on frames that were in shades of blue and green. The next day, I decided to do something with my pile of flowers and frames. I chose a background paper and printed my photos. Then I selected a few accent papers that would tie together all of my color choices, and add a photo block for the eye to be drawn to. I typed and printed my journaling through the project life app. The only embellishment that I added was enamel dots (my favorite accessory!) from my "yellow" drawer of random bits and pieces. I truly played with the flowers, moving them, tucking them, etc. until I got the layers right. I knew I wanted them to cover the majority of the layout. Some have foam adhesive; some are flat. After adhering everything, I fold some of the flower petals up to give added dimension.

It's important to remember that creating is therapy. I had fun cutting and playing with flowers. Is it my most favorite layout ever? Nope. But I'm happy with the end result, and it served its purpose, keeping my hands busy and my creative juices flowing. I find that Paige's collections and paper pads are perfect for keeping near the couch or in the pick up line at school. I can fussy cut and listen to music or television. I'll link products below. I hope you find some time to create today!

Paige Evans Garden Shoppe Paper Pad

My favorite scissors