Receiving a card in the mail may seem like an old concept when text messages are so instant. But there is something truly special about physically holding a card, and reading a heartfelt message in your loved one’s own handwriting. Handmade cards are even more fun to receive as they took an extra bit of effort to create. Why not send a handmade card to your loved one when the next occasion arises? Or even just because? Even for art beginners, handmade cards can be easy and fun to make.
Card Supplies on a Budget
Spending a fortune on card-making supplies is definitely not necessary. In fact, the dollar store will have the basics needed for card making: cardstock, a glue gun, scissors, markers, and embellishments. The possibilities are endless when it comes to embellishments. These can include pretty stickers, buttons, glitter, pipe cleaners, felt, or even bits of ribbon and string. Supplies can be purchased for under $20 and should include enough to make dozens of cards. This definitely beats pricey store bought cards!
Card Design Ideas
Card design ideas are entirely dependent on the occasion and your mood. Remember that simple can still be special. If you’re not feeling super adventurous and don’t want to add funky embellishments, just layering different colored cardstock cutouts is a great place to start! For example, here is a simple birthday card design made with marble printed cardstock cut into balloon shapes. Balloon strings have been drawn on with a marker. Simple, but pretty!
For spring, here are some simple Easter egg cards made using floral and pastel cardstock cutouts, regular stickers, and 3D flower stickers.
Are you an animal lover? Here are some animal themed cards made using felt and googly eyes as embellishments. The animal shapes were cut out first and the felt was glued on with a glue gun to add a soft texture.
Try incorporating photos of your loved one on handmade cards for an extra special touch. For example, a collage of couple photos works great for an anniversary card. Print the collage and glue it to the cardstock, and add heart embellishments if you like.
For autumn, turkey or pumpkin themed cards would make great surprises, especially since not many people send cards for Thanksgiving or Halloween. And for the holiday season, you can’t go wrong with glitter, silver, and gold themed cards.
Handmade cards don’t have to be perfect, it’s the thought that counts! Your loved ones will appreciate the effort. Be creative and have fun!