Out of Context

Often times, with new product releases, we look at a line and think, "That's cute, but it's kind of theme-y, so how could I use that?"  Here's an idea I like to do:  take it out of context.  For example, when Basic Grey debuted their new Konnichiwa line, I thought to myself, now that is one cute collection.  Only problem...there was an Asian theme to the collection and I had no photos that I could coordinate with it...or did I?  When I finally saw it in person at Scraphappy, I decided that I HAD to have it!!  And have it I did!  Once I started looking through the papers, I loved the colors and patterns even more.  So I decided, that with two girls, I could definitely make these papers work for their layouts.  Here is what I did with some of the collection on one of their birthday party layouts:

 
Obviously, this page has nothing to do with an Asian theme, but the fun colors and beautiful flower patterned papers worked great with all of the colors in my photos.  And one thing I really love about this collection, is the awesome patterned papers, that are perfect for fussy cutting (which is basically cutting an element from the pattern paper, to use as an embellishment on your layout).  I cut several of the flowers out and added brads and some hand cut leaves, for quick, easy, and cheap embellishments.  I also love the alpha sheet that is included with this line.  I had fun mixing the smaller and larger letters together, with the circle alphas!

So next time you are browsing through the store and see something that you think is really cute, but probably wouldn't work for your needs...think again!  Take those themed collections "outside of the box" and it may just surprise you to see what you come up with!

Products Used:

Sketch:  Sketch Support (Scrapbook Generation)
Patterned Paper & Stickers:  Basic Grey
Thickers:  American Crafts
Brads:  The Paper Studio
Buttons:  Michael's
Baker's Twine:  The Twinery
Embroidery Floss:  Janlynn
Punch:  Marvy
Edgers:  Provo Craft