Hi Everyone!  Did you enjoy Spring Training?  I sure did!  I’m hoping it left you energized and ready to tackle this month’s challenge
 

Before we get to this month’s first sketch though, I wanted to clear up any confusion about the series.  This month because of Spring Training the sketches will be posted on the 2^nd and 4^th Monday of the month.  The schedule will return to normal next month with sketches being posted every 1^st and 3^rd Monday of the month from June through September.  For those who are new to the series you can read more about it here.
 
Now, let’s get to that sketch!  Here it is
 

and here is an 8.5 x 11 version
 

This month I stretched the sketch too.  From the original 12 x 12 version of the sketch I replaced the two 4 x 6 photos with one single 5 x 7 photo
 

and created this layout
 

Notice that I also replaced the 3 x 3 photos with 2 x 3 sized photos and created a photo-strip with cardstock.

I asked Ella Friend Jenni Hufford to join me for this month’s challenge and here is the layout she created
 

Jenni said, “I followed Donna's sketch fairly close, switching out only the number of photos in the center and added a border.  Instead of two 4x6 photos, I added six wallet sized photos.  The border was included (instead of photos) by adding three strips of pattern paper from Crate Paper's Toy Box collection.  I framed my wallet photos with stickers from the Toy Box collection.  In order to create the paper with the yellow circles, I created a circle mask and sprayed Studio Calico's Calico White Mr. Huey mist.  Once dried, I painted over the circles (with the same mask) with yellow paint.  I love how it turned out and feel like it adds so much to have little circles peeking out from the page.  I loved using this sketch-- there are so many possibilities!!”
 
Want to join in the fun?  Here's how to play:  First, create your layout based on the sketch.  Next, post it to your blog or any online album and be sure to mention where you got the sketch in your post or caption.  Third, come back to this post and share the link to your layout.  All entries must be posted by May 31, 2011, 11:59 pm PST.  The winner of each month will be chosen at random and will be announced here on The Daily Trumpet.  Prizes will only be shipped to U.S. addresses.  In the event that an international participant wins, she'll receive an Ella gift certificate, and a new winner will be drawn for the physical prize.

Remember, there will be two sketches posted each month.  If you create two layouts, one from each sketch, you will have two entries which will double your chances of winning!
 
Are you ready to hear about the prizes? 
 
We are happy to announce that Fiskars is sponsoring this month's Stretch Your Sketches Challenge Series!
 

 
So in addition to winning a free copy of my eBook, Stretch Your Sketches 

the winner will also receive this prize package
 

 
It features the large and extra large cloud punches from Fiskars.  It also includes corresponding cloud stamps from Studio Calico, exclusive Studio Calico patterned papers and a happy mix of spring-themed papers and embellishments.
 
I hope you all will participate with me and make a layout based on this sketch.  If you are playing along here is a button for you to post on your blog. 



I can’t wait to see your interpretations! 

***Winner of April's Stretch Your Sketch Challenge is Ella reader goldnuggt!***