Simple & Stepped Up


Are you ready for a new Sketch Starter? As you might know, as a Design Team Member for Altenew, I create monthly inspiration projects that feature two distinctly different projects using the same sketch. I encourage you to give the sketch a try and share your results on social media (tag me @nicolewattcreates).

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sketch #15

Feel free to pin this image on Pinterest for future reference! 

start simple

For this duo, I wanted to show how I could use the same exact elements to create both a simple design and a stepped-up version. Just because a design is “simple” doesn’t mean it has to be plain. I chose a contrasting color scheme, focusing primarily on the yellows, with aqua as a supporting color. That’s the beauty of paper flowers, you can create any color scheme you like! Adding a soft glow behind the flowers keeps the simplicity, while adding just enough interest to move away from being plain.

Be sure to watch the video for my tips on curving the sentiment to match the curve in the banner!

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simple additions for a step-up

For the second take, I did three simple step-ups that really highlight the simple look, but add a little bit of texture and refinement to catch your eye.

The first step-up was adding embossing paste to the blended background. I used the Feeling Dotty stencil for the perfect texture. An interesting feature of the Altenew Embossing Paste is that it will take on the color that is underneath. Once dry, any of the dots that were in the aqua area took on an aqua hue. This helps it to blend into its surroundings for a more subtle look.

The second step up was adding clear embossing to the last layer of the flowers. It’s really simple if you’re using a stamp positioning tool. Just stamp the last color, then re-stamp that layer with embossing ink so the clear embossing powder will stick.

The last step-up was adding some sketchy detail to the banner. Adding a few flicks in the shaded areas helps give more movement to the banner. Simple!

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sketch starters with nicole #015

Here’s the companion video that will walk you through creating both designs!

Simple to Stepped-up in Only Three Steps! | Sketch Starters with Nicole

your turn!

Feeling inspired or challenged? Now, it’s your turn to give the sketch a try and share your results on social media (tag me @nicolewattcreates).

Thank You!

Time is precious and I’m truly grateful that you chose to spend a few minutes of your day here!
I would love to connect with you on Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest where we have the opportunity to share and interact even more!

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1 thought on “Simple & Stepped Up”

  1. Great video on the process. I like the two showings of the design and how it can go from a simple stamping to the touches to make it more complex. Hoping to work on this and share.

    Reply

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