Sketch Week #2 | How to Use and Adapt Scrapbook Sketches | Day 1

I'm so excited to share another Sketch Week with you all!

Just in case you are new to Sketch Week and don't know what it is, I use one sketch and create multiple layout examples with varying alterations. I share those examples throughout the week along with a detailed description of the variations. It is always fun to see the many different ways you can use a sketch and the changes you can make to adapt it to fit what you are working with.

Check out the other layouts for Sketch Week here:

Day #2 and Day #3

One of the best things about a new Sketch Week is the new (and free) sketch that comes with it!

This one-page sketch will be the sketch I use throughout the week as the starting point for the three layouts I'll be sharing. You can download the full one-page sketch with measurements and placements by clicking here.

The first layout I've got to share with you is a fairly close representation of the sketch with a few differences to fit the theme of my layout.

Variation #1 - Exchanging watercolors for the patterned paper strips.

I've been going through a bit of a watercolor experimental phase lately. I was wanting to play around with a watercolor striped background and this sketch felt like the perfect opportunity. I went somewhat simple by using one color and letting the white background help create the black and white striped look.

Variation #2 - Adding in some extra strips.

I added a few smaller strips and zig-zag stitching on top of the watercolor stripes. I liked the idea of having a tiny bit of color in those stripes, but I really like the look of the simple black and white watercolor stripes. I went small in both width and used varying lengths so I didn't cover up too much.

There are several variations you could use with on in place of those horizontal strips on the sketch. You could try:

• One solid piece of patterned paper.

• Strips in varying widths.

• Strips in varying lengths.

• Cut a point at the ends to create arrow strips.

• Use a patterned template/stencil to create a background.

Variation #3 - Using hearts in place of the stars.

I used hearts in place of the stars to match the theme of my layout. This is the easiest alteration to make to a sketch, changing the embellishments to match your theme. I never see sketches as a something you have to follow exactly, just as a general starting point.

Whenever I have a large cluster of shapes, like the hearts on my layout, I like to use a variety of different elements. I used a mix of patterned paper, chipboard, stitching, and stickers to create a lot of different textures and looks.

Be sure to check back tomorrow for another layout!

Products used - Patterned papers, stickers, chipboard: Simple Stores "Heart"