First things first: Don’t clean your sink!

A sink full of dishes might not seem like much to look at. But think of all the shapes, colors, textures, and surfaces that collect there. A shiny spoon, a ceramic mug, a crumpled dishcloth, a bright sponge. Even an ordinary mess can make an interesting composition.

Take a moment to look at what’s gathered in and around your sink. Notice how objects overlap, how their shapes interrupt one another, and how different surfaces catch the light.

Start with the largest shapes. YMaybe it’s the basin itself, a stack of dishes, or the countertop surrounding everything. Lay down those big areas of color first, then build with smaller shapes. What happens where one object meets another? What interesting spaces appear between them?

Let your palette lead. The colors you’ve been given won’t necessarily resemble what’s in front of you. That’s the fun of it. Use them to transform an everyday scene into something unexpected.

A few tips

• Cover the white paper completely to create a world of color and shape.

• Begin with the largest shapes before adding details.

• Move your pieces around before gluing them down.

• Remember, your colors don't have to match the original.