How do you know?
 

The sketch challenge on Wednesdays here on SCS prints really close to actual size and I can measure the different layers or get a pretty close idea. My question is: on other sketches from different companies, blogs, etc. that do not print actual size, how do you know what size to cut the cs and/or dp? I'm very bad at guessing and I find I'm wasting a lot of paper because I'm cutting it the wrong size. How do you judge what will work, without cutting so many times?

I would think that most sketches are only a guide and you don't have to be exact. It wouldn't matter if your panels are bigger smaller or even a different shape so long as you've used the sketch as a guide. :D

I agree with Metalcharm, a sketch is a guide, not a technical blueprint. I often take a sketch that's done as an A2 card and make a square one, change a circle or oval element for a square or Nestie label shape etc. Just take the basic elements and approximate placement of them and call it good.

If you really feel you're wasting paper because what you have is "wrong", you could try cutting scrap paper first (magazine page, junk mail, whatever you have in your recycling bin) to make yourself a template before you cut in to the good stuff.

I know the sketches are meant for a guide but, it must be the OCD in me because sometimes I have to make it exactly how the picture is. lol
Thank you for the suggestion to cut scrap first, then I can see what will work. Great idea. I'm always amazed when I search here for ideas because it's the simple suggestions that make my world so much easier. I wonder why I didn't think of that. lol You guys are the BEST.