Sketch-N-Scrap has a new sketch this month and it worked really well for a birthday layout. Here is the sketch I used:

And here’s my layout, featuring my step-son celebrating his 2nd birthday

I also did this layout for the 4X4 Challenge at ACOT. 4X4 means you only use two double sided papers and only 4 embellishments, with alphas and misting/inking is free. The hostess gives you a wonderful explaination. But alot of people might wonder, how do you use BOTH sides of pattern paper? The answer – you must plan your layout carefully, and then cut out a piece without much notice. When I was working on this layout, I chose to use My Mind’s Eye “Hip Hooray” collection. When doing the 4X4 Challenge, I like to use papers/embellishments from a kit, to make it a little easier.

For this layout, I used Hip-Hooray Boy “Surprise” paper as the background. And I cut out a small rectangle at the bottom:

Then, I flipped the rectangle over to reveal the blue background, and put it right back:

I flipped the sheet over and taped the rectangle to hold it in place:

And if you count my embellishments separately, you’ll count 4 die cuts and 2 strips of washi tape, making the total 6. But I’m supposed to only use 4? How did I do it? Well, if one embellishment is touching another one – like the yellow washi tape under the “Put On Your Party Hat” die cut; or the yellow washi tape under the Party Hat die cut – you count those as ONE. Makes you really think about how to use your supplies and get the most out of the challenge.

And last but not least, my title. I was going thru my birthday stash and just couldn’t find anything that I liked. I decided to check out the CCR – Cricut Craft Room – to see what the freebies were for the week. And lo and behold, they had a birthday cartridge! “Something to Celebrate” is availalbe for free this week only. I love checking out the free carts each week. It allows a newbie – like me – to try out a cartridge before I buy it.