Hi, Sue here today, with my favorite way to use up leftover patterned papers. I’m pulling out my punches! Metal dies or a die cutting machine would work just as well, but nothing beats the speed and convenience of a basic punch. Let’s start today's tour with organic shapes. These are the shapes you find in nature.
Stars are such a fun shape with a variety of meanings. I have star punches in several sizes, as you can see on this layout. The larger stars were perfect for creating a quilted effect using scraps of patterned paper.
Cloud punches are another favorite. I dug into my blue scraps to create this collage that takes up one-third of the page. It might be hard to see, but a few of the clouds are mounted with pop dots while others are outlined in black marker. The small red butterflies (another punch!) add a touch of contrast.
Ah, heart punches. Can you have too many of those? (the correct answer is "no") On this layout, the hearts are placed atop geometric shapes. Yay for circles and squares! Yes, more punches, and some of my most-used.
I have some basic square punches that I consider essential scrapping tools. How else could you take leftover patterned paper from a Christmas collection and make a page about petting a camel at the Fall Fiber Festival? Punches are a great way to disguise themed papers and stretch their versatility.
The triangle pattern in the top and bottom borders of this page are repeated in the middle of the layout. I used my square punch and cut the shape across diagonally. A little stitching adds texture to the contrasting colors. Shape, color and texture: what endless possibilities!
Do you have a collection of punches? Do you still use them or are they gathering dust while you reach for that fancy die-cutting machine? (I’m guilty of that) I challenge you (and me) to take the quick and easy way next time you want to stretch your patterned paper scraps!
