Hello friendly neighborhood digital artists!
Today we’re tackling the tough, but totally doable, subject of no flower clusters. Because. We *always* add flowers to our clusters, and it does not have to be that way. Flowers makes clustering easy & fast. Digital scrapbooking kits are filled with flowers that magically match our layouts. It’s what we do. It’s our go to. But digital scrapbooking kits also come with tons of non-flower elements. Let’s give those a moment in the spotlight.
Whether you know it or not, most of us follow a simple cluster formula. This works beautifully for both flowered & non-flowered clusters. I’ve created some examples using our current LAD (Layout-a-Day) Science 101. All elements and papers are handed out as free prizes during the event, or you can buy them in our store. I’m using papers & elements by:
Simple Cluster Formula
- Pick one statement element, build your cluster around it
- Tuck medium elements around the statement element
- Add 1-2 longer elements
- Add smaller elements as needed to fill in gaps
- Add a splash, paint or accent underneath
You can also take the normal clustering and add a little twist. For example, try out a cluster stack. Simply take a bunch of papers, scraps, envelopes, sundry “flat” elements and layer them in a… stack!
Cluster Stack
- Layer the paper bits
- Add a flat shadow, my settings:
- blend mode – Multiply
- opacity – 35%
- angle – 40°
- distance – 6 px
- size – 4 px
- Add stitches, washi tape, or other fastners
- Add a ribbon or other long element
- Add a stamp, transfer or accent underneath
- Add a statement element
Another alternative is to create a *series* with your cluster. Our LAD: Science 101 has some great elements that really lend themselves well to a series. Most series work best as a set of 3, but go wild! Create any length or type of series you like.
Series Cluster
- Use 3 similar elements to create a row (column, or block)
- Add long element(s) underneath to tie them together
- Add a fastner or statement element on top
- Add a stamp, transfer or accent underneath
Today our challenge in the LAD: Science 101 forum is to create a cluster without a flower on your layout. Won’t you join us & give it a go?
Thank you Toiny.
You’re right that almost all layouts use flowers in the clusters! I usually pay attention when a layout does not have flowers in clusters – usually a layout about men or boys. So I appreciate your recipe for making flower-less clusters. Thanks.