My first tip before even beginning this type of project is picking out a color scheme. I went for a classic red, white, and blue, but you could use all one color or maybe some pastels. It's all up to you. Next tip, be aware that putting all of the letters down is what will take you the longest time. I am not kidding you this coordination of letters (I know, it's a masterpiece) took me at least 20 minutes. Once this section of the layout was done it was all smooth sailing. If you guys would like other ideas on how to use up those leftover letters let me know! I have a full process video below and some up close photos.



In the video, you can see that I sped up the letter laying section up a bit so it went by faster, but it did take me a long time. I was meticulous with my placement though, I didn't want the same letters next to each other and it to look sort of random. There are plenty of other versions of layouts like this on the internet for your inspiration as well!


I used three alphabet sets to do this fun method. One was a Thicker set from American Crafts, another from KI Memories and the blue set is from somewhere I can't remember, haha. After I laid all of the letters down, I took to some paint! I used white acrylic paint as an additional layer behind where my photo will go. I also watered down the white paint to put some splatters around the page. The splatters add contrast against the otherwise bland kraft background paper.



I created an embellishment cluster to the bottom left of my photo starting with a Tim Holtz label sticker. I also added an Elle's Studio star sticker, an ampersand from the leftover alphabet sticker sheet, and a heavy metal arrow from Michael's. This cluster ended up coming together so effortlessly. Do you ever get the feeling that you set yourself up for success by accident? What I really mean by that question is do you think that having a messy desk promotes creativity? Just kidding! (Although I'm sure it probably does for some people).


I titled this layout "Cat Nap?" because I swear my dog thinks he is a cat. He loves our cats and definitely wishes he could follow them in to the tight places around the house including under coffee tables and couches. He also particularly likes their treats. I knew this story would have a lot of journaling, so I included a pocket from Hobby Lobby's Paper Studio line to keep a tag in.


Lastly, I finished off this quirky layout with a couple of navy buttons. I really like how they add yer another textural element to the alphabet cluster. That sums up this layout guys! I hope you enjoyed the video tutorial and try it yourselves soon! Thanks for stopping by!