A Blended Idea
Happy August Everyone! Rachael here with another Layering Challenge. This month, we’re celebrating the art of blending and the joy of layering—two techniques that can turn an ordinary page into something truly magical. This month, your challenge is to create a blended background topped with a collage cluster. Think of it as merging a dreamy, painterly canvas with the energy and personality of a well-loved photo collection.
Here is Your Creative Recipe
- Start with a Blended Background
Choose a photo that speaks to you—maybe a breathtaking landscape, a candid moment, or a close-up detail—and blend it seamlessly into your background paper. This is where your artistry shines! Play with masks, brushes, and opacity to get that perfect “part photo, part art” effect. - Add a Layered Framed Collage or Cluster
On top of your blended backdrop, build your collage cluster. This can be:- A layered framed collage template.
- A mix of frames, mats, and elements you arrange yourself.
- A combination of paper layers, photo stacks, and embellishments that make your focal point pop.
Be sure to check out the Scattered Pictures series for inspiration—I’ve linked one of Katie’s templates here. These templates are perfect for this kind of layered look. Add your own touches with a few embellishments, and you’ve got instant magic! Katie has once again generously provided a freebie for this challenge. Our Creative Team has put together a beautiful collection of projects to inspire you for this challenge.
Creative Team Member, Sharon (shannamay) created this gorgeous layout showcasing the beautifully blended photo. The beautifully blended photo of the tunnel immediately draws you into the page, while the layered photo details add wonderful intrigue and interest. Her title work is fabulous, and the carefully chosen elements—especially that bow—are just perfect. The background, with its chippy paper scratches and subtle paint textures, ties it all together in such gorgeous colors. I love it!
Sharon has used the following to create this masterpiece: Scattered Pictures Vol. 06 Layered Template 07, Maybe Not Element Pack, Vintage Artistry Countryside Scrapbook Bundle, Vintage Artistry Countryside Florals, Vintage Artistry Countryside Chipboard, Chippy Foundations Paper Pack 02
Creative Team Member Valerie, (Nana_vg) joined in with this lovely layout Unplug & Unwind. This page is absolutely stunning—the perfect balance of elements keeps your focus on the main photo while inviting you to explore the little details of their Lake Tahoe adventure. The carefully chosen accents complement the photos flawlessly adding depth and dimension. Pure perfection!
Valerie used the following: Scattered Pictures Vol. 06 Layered Template 05, Cottage Charm Scrapbook Kit, Curated Team Favorites Lakeside Scrapbook Kit, Lake Lodge Scrapbooking Kit, Readymade Layers: Beach Clusters 05, Lightly Linens Paper Pack 25
I (myssp) I created this layout using photos of my adorable great-nieces from their recent beach excursion. Katie’s store offers a plethora of versatile elements that beautifully complement any style or theme—making it easy to bring memories like these to life.
Credits for my layout: Dreamy Paper Pack 02, ARToption Mini Mix 02, Color Swatch Combo Ocean Breeze Element Pack, Vintage Seas Layered Frames 01, Summer Porch Ephemera, ARToptions Mini Mix 33, Scattered Pictures Vol. 04 Layered Template 10, Scattered Pictures Vol. 04 Layered Template 01, Beloved Scrapbooking Collection, Vintage Coastal Element Mix
Mix it up, make it yours, and let your pages shine! This is your chance to play with blends and collages in the most fun way possible. Can’t wait to see them! Thanks to my teammates for creating gorgeous inspiration. You will also find the details for their layouts on their posting in the gallery. Happy creating!
Remember to post your layouts in the Layer It On Gallery. If you make your layouts with 100% KPD products, be sure to track them in the August Challenges Participation Sign-in Thread in the forums.
Rachael – (myssp)
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