Hello everyone! Today I'm sharing a new 12 x 12 layout created with the beautiful Fresh Start collection from Pinkfresh Studio. This project was inspired by this monthly Pinkfresh Studio challenge: Striking Stripes, and I had so much fun playing with colorful paper strips and fussy cut details.

For this layout , I used the striped paper from the 6 x 8 paper pad as the starting point of the design. I also fussy cut the pencils and several embellishments from one of the 12 x 12 patterned papers to create a playful composition full of movement and color.

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

1. Create the striped background. Start by cutting strips from the striped paper included the 6x8 paper pad. Arrange the strips vertically across the layout, leaving small gaps between them to create a light and airy design.
2. Add Texture with stitching. Once the strips are in place, sew along the center of each strip using matching thread colors. This simple detail adds texture to he page.
3. Create the photo clusters. Place your photos on top of some of the paper strips and layer them using frames, die cuts , and embellishments from the collection. I created two main clusters, one on each side of the page to balance the composition.
4. Add the fussy cut elements. Now it's time to the fun part! Fussy cut the pencils, scissors, clips and your favorite elements  from the patterned paper and place them around the photos and stripes. Use the tone-on-tone technique.
5. Finish with the title and small details. To complete the page, add a colorful title using the alpha from the collection and finish with enamel dots, hearts and tiny embellishments scattered around the layout.  These little details help bring everything together beautifully.

TIP

Try combining different stitching styles or varying the spacing between the strips. Small changes like these can completely transform the final look of there page.

I hope this layout inspires you to join this month's Striking Stripes challenge and create your colorful background designs.

Thanks for stopping by today and happy crafting!

Susi