'Designing' an Abstract

I have just posted an abstract where I said that I just love the freedom of not being constrained by representational work but do have a basic composition in mind before starting out. I have been asked what I mean by this and thought it might be helpful to attempt to reply here in the forum, although I must admit I it has made me give more thought to the process than I have previously given. Well before starting out I draw a few pencil lines on a sheet of paper to produce a basic composition which I feel comfortable with - it’s no more than a simple design and does not necessarily represent anything - but when I start to apply paint I use it a basic template. If I don't do this and go in straight away with paint and with no order in mind I find I end up with a muddle which is usually overworked through trying to make something out of nothing. In other words the ‘template’ provides me with a sense of purpose and helps to ensure that the finished work has both form and structure. Hope this is clear enough – if you want to take a look at the abstract it is at: http://www.painters-online.co.uk/Gallery/Michael-Edwards-Artist-Abstract-12/_ga103941_pg1