This layout is fairly simple: split the background into two uneven sections, and float three evenly spaced images on the larger of the two background pieces. Here, I’ve done an ATC in black and white, simply reversing the background papers. Instead of focal images, I’ve used a word.

Why three circles instead of two or four? Odd numbers of elements are more pleasing in a composition than even. In theory, when presented with an even number of elements, our brains start trying to space them out evenly, but when presented with odd numbers, they don’t. I once tried to explain this phenomenon to the owner of a dress company who insisted on putting two buttons on the yoke of all his baby dresses instead of three—and then wondered why, even though two was cost effective, it bothered so many buyers. Their brains were so busy trying to be sure the buttons were evenly spaced from edge of collar and bottom of yoke, they couldn’t see the rest of the dress.

I’ve reversed the background colors here, and added color to the floating circles. Notice how hard it is to tear your eye away from those floating red circles? You can guide your viewer directly to your focal elements by framing them with a strong color.

Also, notice that rather than cutting my background pieces straight, I’ve torn the edge of one. The transition is a little softer. Tearing is a good way to help bridge two contrasting pieces, and give the finished card a softer look.

There are circles, and then there are circular elements. Flowers are terrific circular focal points, because they usually provide such visually interesting edges. Yes, these are circles, but look at all the peaks and valleys they give your eyes to explore.

Using Layout Templates:

The black and white line images on this page are sized for ATCs, cards made from a half-sheet of 8-1/2 x 11 cardstock, and square cards made from a half-sheet of 12 x 12 cardstock. You can save these templates to your computer and print them out as guides. You can also simply use them as inspiration, and cut your pieces to your desired sizes without the templates.