Here is another dependent linear cluster I created for this lesson. This cluster is very similar to the first one I made, but I used a different set of elements.

Notice that there is no frame in this cluster, just the photo masks. The same rules apply with or without a frame. When there is more than one photo mask, the key is to keep them in very close proximity to each other.

Step Three: Scraplift

What does it mean to scraplift? In this class, “scraplift” means to copy another person’s design using elements from your own stash.

• Begin with a photo mask(s) of your choice. The mask(s) can be rectangular or circular.
• Add a frame to the masks if you wish, but a frame is optional.
• To keep the focus of the class on clusters, do not add photos to your clusters in Step Three.

• Next, choose five elements from your stash that are similar to the ones provided in this lesson. Make sure a couple of them are linear elements that will span the width of your photo/frame
  For help choosing your own elements, re-read Why These Five Elements from Step One.
• Using your five chosen elements, create a dependent linear cluster similar to the one I created in Step Three.

Examples of Linear Elements

The best type of elements to use to span the width of a photo/frame are natural linear elements, like string or stitches or scattered beads, the longer the better.

Some linear-style elements will not be long enough to span the distance. In that case you may need to duplicate them several times and spread them out, but never stretch them.

---

If you are using mismatched elements to form your clusters, it’s very likely that the colors of those elements are not going to match. If you feel like you could use some help getting just the right color scheme, check out this website: https://color.adobe.com/explore/.

And then, check out this free tutorial on how to use Kuler color swatches to change the color of an element.

Read the tutorial: Kuler Color Change.

---

Check Up

• Is your cluster linear and horizontal? (from Step One)
• Does your cluster have both a Focal Side and a Supporting Side? (from Step One)
• Are all the elements in the cluster represented on the focal side?
• Does the supporting side of the cluster only contain small amounts of the linear elements?
• Did you maintain a focal point on the focal side of the cluster?
• Do your elements form a triangle shape that spans the distance of the photo/frame? (from Step One)
• If you used more than one photo/frame, are they in close proximity (right next to each other)?
• Does your cluster contain a variety of textures?
• Did you stick to a coordinating color theme? If you need to alter the colors of any of your elements, try my Kuler Color Change tutorial above.
• Did you apply your cluster's drop shadows appropriately? Use my Drop Shadows chart in Step Two as a guide. If you used my action set, do you see a stoplight?