If you’re anything like me, you probably have a pile of paper scraps sitting on your desk… and somehow, no matter how many projects you make, it never seems to get any smaller.
In fact, mine might actually be getting bigger 😬
As part of my Use Your Stash Paper Scraps Edition, I’ve been challenging myself to work through that pile—and for this challenge, I wanted to focus on something I usually avoid:
big, bold patterned paper.
Why Bold Patterns Feel So Hard to Use
You know the ones—bright, busy, full of colour and detail.
They’re beautiful… but when it comes time to make a card, they can feel overwhelming.
And if you’re like me, it’s very tempting to flip them over and use the subtle side instead. It feels easier, safer, and more predictable.
But those bold patterns are just too lovely not to be used.
A Simple Way to Make Bold Patterns Work
For this challenge, I used a simple sketch to help break up those larger patterns into smaller sections. That one change made such a difference. Instead of competing for attention, the patterns started to feel balanced and intentional, and much easier to work with.
It also meant I could mix multiple bold scraps together without the card feeling “too much.”
Watch the Full Process
If you’d like to see exactly how this came together, you can watch the full video here:
In the video, I walk through:
- how I chose my patterned paper scraps
- how I used the sketch to guide the layout
- and how I created multiple cards using the same idea
A Few Things That Helped Me
If you’re wanting to try this yourself, here are a few simple tips:
- Break bold patterns into smaller pieces
- Let one pattern be the “feature” and support it with others
- Stick to a loose colour palette to keep things cohesive
- Keep going even if it feels like “too much” at first—it often comes together
I’d Love to Hear From You
Do you tend to use bold patterned paper… or avoid it?
And how do you store your scraps—neatly organised, or a little bit chaotic?
I’d love to know what works for you (and what doesn’t!).
Want More Scrap Card Ideas?
I’m putting together a companion guide for this series with sketches, ideas, and ways to use your paper scraps more confidently.
If you’d like:
- a free bonus scrap busting video
- and to be the first to know when the guide is released
you can sign up here:
I’ve really enjoyed this challenge—and I have a feeling I might not be done with these scraps just yet.
If you’ve got a scrap pile like mine, this playlist will be right up your alley…
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