How to Design a Beautiful Scene Using Just Three Colors: Yippee for Yana
Hi friends! Please join me in welcoming back the oh-so-talented and amazing Yana Smakula! (Please note: our dear friend Yana is Ukrainian. To show support to our brothers and sisters in Ukraine, please see Yana’s post HERE.)
Hello, crafters, this is Yana Smakula for Simon Says Stamp! Welcome back for another Yippee For Yana video! Today, I’m excited to share with you how to create a card using a limited color palette. The best part? You don’t need a ton of colors to create something stunning! In this tutorial, I’ll walk you through my process using just a few colors, which I think will spark your creativity too. Let’s dive into the steps!
Step 1: Choosing Your Limited Color Palette
When I set out to create this scene card, I challenged myself to stick to a limited color palette. It’s easy to get caught up in using every color imaginable, but sometimes less is more. For this card, I chose a combination of pinks, oranges, and a hint of green. By restricting my colors, I was able to create a visually cohesive design that still feels lively and bright. I encourage you to take on this color challenge and see what you can create with just a handful of hues!
Step 2: Stamping the Images
I started by using the Little Things stamp set from Simon Says Stamp. This set features a sweet row of houses that I couldn’t resist — I’m a sucker for anything architectural! Using my Mini MISTI stamping tool, I stamped the row of houses on Neenah Solar White 80lb cardstock with Memento Tuxedo Black Ink, which is perfect for alcohol marker coloring.
To add a little greenery to the scene, I also stamped a partial image of a tree from the same set. I decided to position a few trees behind the houses for added dimension and charm.
Step 3: Coloring with Alcohol Markers
Now, let’s talk about coloring! Normally, I reach for my Copic markers, but today I decided to experiment with other markers to see how they would work with my color palette. For each of the houses, I used just two shades for the main color — a lighter and a darker version of pink or orange.
I kept things simple by using only one or two shades per house, which created a clean, modern look.
Markers used: RV01, RV02, RV04, OR2.2, OR2.3, O2.2, O2.4, YG2.1, YG2.3, YG2.5, B0.3
Step 4: Adding the Final Details
Once the houses were colored, I turned my attention to the greenery. I used green markers for the trees and bushes to add a touch of nature behind the row of houses. The key here was to keep everything simple and cohesive with my limited color palette.
After coloring, I used the coordinating dies to cut out the images and set them aside.
Step 5: Building the Scene
Next, I took a panel of Sea Glass cardstock from Simon Says Stamp, trimmed it to 3 ¾” x 5”, and set it aside as the backdrop for my scene. I stamped the sentiment “I love spending time with you” using VersaFine Onyx Black Ink directly beneath the row of houses. This card was made with a dear friend in mind, so I wanted a sentiment that was both warm and personal.
I used foam adhesive tape to pop up the houses and trees, giving the card a bit of dimension and a nice pop on the Sea Glass background. For a touch of sparkle, I added sequins from Simon Says Stamp’s Duckling Embellishment Mix — because what’s a card without a little shimmer?
Why Try a Limited Color Palette?
Using a limited color palette is a great way to simplify your design process while still achieving a cohesive look. It’s perfect for when you want to challenge yourself or when you have limited supplies. Plus, it helps you think creatively about how to use the colors you have on hand.
So, give it a try! Whether you’re creating a card for a friend or just experimenting, I promise you’ll be surprised at how beautiful and striking a limited color palette can be.
Thanks for joining me today! I hope this tutorial inspired you to try something new in your crafting. See you next time, and happy stamping!
WATCH THE VIDEO:
SUPPLIES:
|
Ways to support Ukraine:
If you are looking for ways to support Ukraine, we encourage you to visit this page on Yana’s blog:
Thanks so much for stopping by, and thanks to Yana for being our guest!
Lovely design, Yana! It’s super impressive that you colored that whole scene with only 3 colors. Wow. It looks surprisingly colorful and interesting. Thanks for the inspiration.