Here is another dependent vertical 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.

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 two vertically offset photo masks. The masks can be rectangular or circular.
• Add frames to the masks if you wish, but using frames is going to add to the number of elements you are using and could very easily complicate the cluster.
• To keep the focus of the class on clusters, do not add photos to your clusters in Step Three.

Note: Using less than two photo masks in this cluster is not recommended because the arrangement of the masks helps to give the cluster its vertical appearance. However, you may add more than two photos if you are very careful to only have one focal point.

• Choose six elements from your stash that are similar to the ones provided in this lesson. For help choosing your own elements, re-read Why These Five Elements from Step One.
• Using your six chosen elements, create a dependent vertical cluster similar to my solution in Step Three.

Check Up

• Does your cluster contain two vertically offset photo masks (without photos clipped to them)?
• Does your cluster contain a variety of textures?
• Did you stick to a coordinating color theme?
• Does your cluster contain one central focal point?
• Do all of your elements stem from or pass through the one focal point?
• Try the arrow test.
• Are your linear elements spanning from the top of your cluster to the bottom?
• Did you keep the width of the cluster under control?
• Did you avoid symmetry?
• Did you apply your cluster's drop shadows appropriately? Use my Drop Shadows chart in Step Two as a guide.