Hello crafty friends! It's Susi here today sharing a fresh and vibrant 12 x 12 layout created with a soft inked background and some fun fussy-cut elements. I love how a simple technique like ink + water can completely transform a white cardstock  into something full of life,, while still keeping that clean and simple look we all love.

For this layout, I used the Crafted Moments collection and I combined a bold purple inked background with citrus elements to create a bright and happy composition full of color and movement.

Disclaimer: For your convenience, all products used are linked below as clickable images. If a product isn't listed, it's been discontinued.

Step-by-Step instructions

1. Create the inked background. Start by using the ink cubes from Pinkfresh Studio in the color Regal Kiss. Mix the ink with a bit of water and apply it to your white cardstock to create a soft watercolor effect. Focus the color on one side of the page and let it fade naturally into the white space. Add splatters and a few circular marks to create extra texture and interest.
2. Work in a diagonal composition . Once your background is dry, create a diagonal flow from the top right corner to the bottom left, which helps guide the eye across the page.
3. Prepare your photos and main cluster. Place your photos slightly off center and start building your main cluster around them. Layer the photos with florals, puffs, and rubons from the collection.
4. Add the citrus elements. Fussy cut lemons and oranges from one of the patterned papers and tuck them into your floral clusters. These little details add fresh and playful touch and help balance the strong purple tones of the background.
5. Create visual movement. To enhance the diagonal flow, add small elements like tiny squares, enamel dots. Repeat colors to keep everything cohesive.
6. Finishing touches. Add your title and small phrases near the photo cluster.

Tip

When working with bold inked backgrounds, embrace white space. Leaving large areas clean will make your colors pop even more and give your layout a modern and balanced look.

I hope this layout inspires you to play with inks and create your own background. It's such a fun technique  and every results is unique.

Thanks for stopping by today. See you next time with more inspiration.

Susi