Welcome to January 2026! The start of every new year often means resolutions are set (and let’s be honest, sometimes broken within weeks — no judgment!). So, why not also focus on scrapbooking, crafting, and/or creative goals?! Last year I started designing my first ever sketches, which is something I hope to continue.
Today, I thought I’d walk you through how my sketch process started (and why). I will showcase sketches I’ve created so far, along with matching layout projects for inspiration. At the end of the post, I’ll also be sharing a brand new, exclusive sketch just for you! Not only will it feel like a bonus creative project to get your 2026 crafty mojo going, it will also jumpstart my goal of continuing to design sketches that feel fun, fresh, and useful.
My Why (and How It Came Together)
There are two main reasons why I started creating my own sketches. First and foremost, about a year ago I started holding my own virtual crops on Zoom. During the first crop, I wanted to plan a layout demo that included a corresponding sketch that available for attendees. (If anyone is interested in joining in on the fun, feel free to request to join Lindsy’s Scrap & Smile Private Facebook Group).
Secondly, most sketches I see are black and white. Obviously, considering they are meant to emulate a quick idea we might’ve scribbled on a scratch piece of paper, it makes sense. But, living life in black & white is just not my style. I’m more of a live-life-in-colour kinda gal. In order to find sketches to match my colourful personality, it meant learning to create my own.
To make my sketches I use Canva. Luckily, because I’m an educator, I do have access to an premium version offering more images and upgrades. But, even the free version has plenty of options. I love to start with a random background or poster template (in a 1:1 Insta Square Post ratio), and then play around with the elements to incorporate features typical of a layout.
We All Have to Start Somewhere
One of my first sketches – from February 2025 – was based off of the layout I prepped ahead of time for my inaugural virtual crop demo. Because I’d pre-cut and developed a plan prior to the crop, I was able to lay all the pieces out before the demo (but didn’t adhere them in place). I then looked at the general placement to create the sketch I provided for attendees to follow along with.
I revisited this sketch for the 2025 ScrapHappy Reunion in Portland! Those able to join in on the summer adventure were treated to a sketch class, where they received an accompanying instructional PDF along with supplies to complete their layout.
My earliest sketches were also generally drafted after I’d already created layouts. Essentially, I looked through my albums to select an original layout I could use as a visual template. I’d then layer the digital elements in Canva to match the papers, photo placements, ephemera, and embellishments.
The following example illustrates this ‘reverse-design’ concept. This northern lights layout was crafted in early January 2025, while I didn’t build the sketch until later in the month.
Reverse-Design Remix
Since my system seemed to be working, the third sketch I created followed the same general strategy. I took a previously-built layout and used it to add design elements onto my sketch. However, this time I played around with a few of the dimensions. My original layout featured 3×4 photos, but for the sketch I suggested 4×6 photos.
Then, to take it to the next level, I used the sketch I’d based on my previously designed layout to craft a second NEW layout. Make sense?
But, I brought in a further variation. Instead of featuring two 4×6 portrait photos, I filled those spots with four 3×4 landscape photos. It was a great way to integrate more photos from the documented event, while still maintaining a larger centralized focal point.
Sketches for ScrapHappy - Sketch First!
I’m honoured to have had two of my original sketches featured in previous ScrapHappy blog posts. In both of these instances I ditched my previous method and completely built the sketches from scratch! Then, these sketches provided the inspirational framework for myself and other members of the Blog Team to tell our stories.
If you’d like to see these posts, and the Team’s takes on these sketches, you can check out:
Scrapbook Layout Inspiration with a Dreamy Touch
🎶 Finally It’s Christmas 🎶 : The Most Sketch-able Time of the Year
Seasonal Sketches Don't Have to Be Seasonal
In November I shared an original festive sketch with participants during another virtual crop. However, I wanted to demonstrate versatility by designing a matching layout that was anything but Christmasy. Let this be your reminder that even if a sketch feels thematic, your layout doesn’t have to follow suit.
Here’s a Halloween-inspired sketch I posted in my Scrap & Smile Facebook group this past October. If Spooky Season isn’t your thing, how could you see yourself changing it up?
A Brand New Original...Just For You
As promised, I’m finishing off this post by leaving you with a sketch fresh off the press!
To accompany this newly-revealed sketch I’ve included a sample layout for added inspiration. Additionally, I’ve linked a printable PDF with basic assembly instructions. I can’t wait to see what you all make, so be sure to share in the Circle Gallery if you’re already a ScrapHappy Member. If you aren’t a member I hope you’ll consider joining us: ScrapHappy Membership Available in the Online Shop. You can also feel free to tag me on Insta using the handle @migimon2002.
Downloadable/Printable PDF: ScrapHappy Blog Exclusive Jan 2026 Sketch
Where You Sketch, I Will Follow
And that’s the (slightly messy, very fun) journey of how my scrapbook sketches have come to life – from the first inkling of an idea taking shape to something I’m excited to share and see interpreted a hundred different ways. Thanks so much for reading and coming along for the ride. I hope it’s nudged you to try something new in 2026, even if it feels a little out of your wheelhouse or not your usual thing. And, as long as people feel inspired to interpret and use my sketches, I’ll keep making them.
Until next time…stay fun and fantabulous, scrappers!