Vertical and Horizontal

Last summer at CHA, I had the opportunity to spend some time with amazing friends!  Throughout the show, my friend Bri and I would go off a bit and just explore.  We have this thing for disecting scrapbooking... analyzing what works, brainstorming what would look great.  Everything works at CHA...and I think there is a reason.

I remember sitting in front of the Prima booth, looking at Leena's, Iris's and Jamie's work.  It was so dynamic.  Bri pointed out to me that the designs had both vertical and horizontal lines, usually placed along one of the imaginary lines of thirds on the page.  I saw it...There was a clear "up" and a clear "across" on each page...flowers, embellishments, papers, photos sat along those lines.  Bri and I talked a bit and she pointed out that a lot of my work was horizontal in nature.  (That is the type A in me.)  She was right.

That conversation stuck with me.  I reflected on it and began to experiment.  And it really changed the way that I scrap.  I started being aware of both horizontal and vertical lines.  And...I think my layouts are more dynamic.

Here is an example...

This layout primarily has a vertical orientation.  The scalloped edge, the long sheet with the stripes, the numbers in the journaling.  But is also has a horizontal line, right around the bottom 1/3 of the page.  I varied it up, using a material other than paper.  I actually fell in love with this chain-like trim from Webster's Pages the instant I saw it!  It reminded me of a fancy, haute couture belt.  So I looped it a bit and gave it a bow like appearance.  I also used a different color and a cursive alphabet to add some movement on that line.

I wonder if you disect your work.  If you are drawn to someone else's work...do you know why?  Think about why you love that person or yourself.  It adds a cool perspective!

Speaking of CHA, did you hear about Teresa Collins and Cricut?  She has designed two cartridges!  And did you hear about Teresa Collins and Core'dinations?  It was such a big show for her and I am very excited to be able to join in the fun!  I can't wait to share my CHA stuff with you!  Head over to her blog to hear all the details!

P.S. What do you think about the header?  I made it myself...first attempt at digital.  Let me know your thoughts...I would love to hear them!

Happy Friday!