Fantastic Flat Lay's Created by Avis Dobbs
By Shelly Thompson
In our last issue of 'For your Heart and Home' we wowed our readers with the amazing creative designs by Avis Dobbs and shared the story behind her Instagram popularity. If you missed that article, there's a link available at the conclusion of this article, you won't want to miss it! Avis has also had her designs and photos featured in Country Sampler Magazine. In this issue we want to focus on Avis's Flat Lay creations...and they are FANTASTIC!
A Flat Lay is a photograph of a grouping of objects laying flat. It's kind of like creating a puzzle and then holding the camera above it and taking a photograph. Here's an example from Avis's Instagram page-
A Flat Lay is a photograph of a grouping of objects laying flat. It's kind of like creating a puzzle and then holding the camera above it and taking a photograph. Here's an example from Avis's Instagram page-
Avis has done a Flat Lay of her vintage 1900's sentiment books. She embellished the books with a background material and flowers.
You might say a Flat Lay gives you a bird's eye view of the objects. Several examples of Flay Lay's might include grouping family photos, buttons, books, platters...the list is endless. They are so popular that companies use them to showcase their products highlighting anything from cosmetics to food items.
They can tell a story and share collections of what you love. If you check out Avis's instagram page, along with her awesome photos, you'll find a fabulous display of Flay Lay's. Here's a few below -
They can tell a story and share collections of what you love. If you check out Avis's instagram page, along with her awesome photos, you'll find a fabulous display of Flay Lay's. Here's a few below -
This is a Flay Lay Avis did to showcase her spools! Notice how she incorporated ironstone also, and the background she added was
Look for her second article on Flaylays in our September/October issue! Until then…check out just a small sampling from her Instagram account below, or click here and go to directly to her Instagram page!
*We were so honored to have Avis contribute in our last issue "The Many Decorating Talents of Avis Dobbs'...if you missed it...click here to read that that article too!
*We were so honored to have Avis contribute in our last issue "The Many Decorating Talents of Avis Dobbs'...if you missed it...click here to read that that article too!
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Avis shares her collection of vintage porcelain sweeping broom ladies on this gorgeous platter. Again, the symmetry is consistent in this photo. These ladies look like they're ready to go out dancing...not sweeping. You can gather up your favorite collections and place them together making them even more interesting.
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This combination of red, white, and blue, with the American flag is stunning. Notice how she combines, croquet balls, pillows, books, postcards, braided string on books, a vintage scale, and a small red wooden box, plus more...for a pulled together look that is visually balanced despite the amount of items. You can copy this photo by Avis creating a great vignette for a dresser in a guest room, or dining room.
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This outdoor summer collection shows a simplistic, yet elegant way to arrange ironstone. The metal spoons add a contrast to the muted pallet. The pieces are arranged and grouped with height in mind. A copycat vignette of this would look great with any pitcher and plates that you might collect. Instead of placing everything in the cupboard, get it out and decorate with it!
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Avis has combined some of her favorite items for this vignette. This vintage table top dress form is amazing! She placed some ribbon, crown, jewelry around the neck, and flowers, on top of the suitcase for a unique look. This would look great on an entryway table. You could place a small lamp behind the flowers. Wouldn't guests love to enter and see this. A cute 'Welcome' sign could be placed on the dress form too!
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These are two very different ideas of how to style under a cloche. Avis placed the cloche over the spoons and marmalade jar without even a base, and it looks beautiful! Often times, a base for a cloche is not required. It will get more of a natural organic look. The bird and books are an awesome combination!
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Here Avis has combined many architectural elements creating a fireplace display that is very cottagy. Notice how she has covered the big black hole in her fireplace. This removes that large dark spot that would be apperaing. This is a great tip to cover a hole, or something you don't want guests to see, using a big architectural piece!
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This is a great way to consider displaying your books! Avis provides two completely different ideas with her amazing collection. The suitcase is filled with lots of other goodies. The collection of pink toned books makes a statement all by itself. What a great way to showcase books!
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Avis has all these manequins set up throughout her home. Wouldn't that be fun, just to have one!
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Hopefully, these photos and tips have inspired you to get your collections out and start creating some amazing and fun vignettes in your home. We would love to share some of your photos in our September/October issue. You can email us a photo at thecafe@thenotebookcafe.com. Please place September/October Photo Vignette in the subject header.
Remember, to look for Avis second article on 'Flatlays' with some photograph tips next time too. To follow Avis on Instagram, click here!
Remember, to look for Avis second article on 'Flatlays' with some photograph tips next time too. To follow Avis on Instagram, click here!
Avis Dobbs lives in Georgia where she is currently an antiques dealer at a local shop. She works for the shop as a decorating stylist and manages the social media pages. She has two nieces that have three children, so she enjoys being a fun Aunt and Honorary grandmother. Her collections tend to keep growing, along with her faith in the good things God provides in this life, if we wait. His timing.