Christmas cards have been a tradition for a long time.It is possible to make your own cards to express your Christmas wishes.Beyond the individualized aspect of making your own Christmas cards, it can also be a useful activity to occupy children and even a way to save money.Sending a Christmas card is a great way to show your appreciation and make someone happy.
Step 1: Start early.
It takes a lot of time to make Christmas cards by hand, so start crafting them early so they arrive to the recipients by Christmas.
Step 2: A format is what you choose.
You can use a variety of different formats to make your Christmas cards.If you want to send everyone on your list, you can either personalize each card to its recipient or have one overall design.You can find a sense of card formats in magazines and websites.Better Homes and Gardens, Martha Stewart Living, and Real Simple have examples of different card formats you can make.There are websites that suggest picture cards.
Step 3: A basic design is what you should sketch.
It will be easier to gather the proper supplies if you have a good idea of how you want your card to look.Consider a variety of design aspects, from color to message and whether each element matches the others.There are a lot of Christmas motifs on your card.You could use a Santa design for children.There are many different Christmas messages you can write in the card for adults, such as "Season's Greetings" or "Noel."If you want to write a personal message in each card, you can use something like "Wishing You a Merry Christmas."Matching your message and motif is another option.If you wanted to use stockings hung by a chimney for your theme, you could write "The Stockings Were Hung..."
Step 4: Purchase paper and envelopes for your cards.
Pick the paper you want to use when you have a developed idea for your card.There are many different paper types and colors to choose from.You'll need something in which to send the cards if you buy envelopes.Holiday favorites red, green, silver and gold are included in the variety of colors on the paper.If you're going to make a photograph card, use a piece of paper that holds the weight of the picture.It is a high quality paper that is not heavy.You can use it to make Christmas cards.The paper is pre-folded.If you want your card to have a portrait or landscape orientation, you can make that decision at this stage.Purchase the paper for your cards at large stores such as Target or Michael's.You can buy your card paper online at Target, Michael's, and Paper Source.You can find a nice paper selection at local printing shops.
Step 5: Purchase decorations.
Glue, scissors, and decorations are some of the supplies you'll need to make your cards.If you need to change the design, having a well-stocked selection of supplies and decorations is a good idea.You can purchase both supplies and decorations in stores or online at a number of different retailers, including Michael's or Hobby Lobby, department stores like Walmart or Target, and paper or card stores such as Paper Source or Papyrus.You will need glue, tape, scissors, pens, and a ruler to make your card.For the best results, use clear tape and clear glue.There are a lot of different decorations you can use.There are examples of ribbons, Christmas stickers, and glitter.There are online templates that you can use for decorations.Martha Stewart Living has templates that you can download and draw on.
Step 6: Do a test run.
You can use your basic design sketch to make one card.If you do this you will be able to see if everything matches and what size writing is best for your decorations.
Step 7: You can write your messages on the card.
You can either write on the inside of the card or print it out.Make sure that your writing is straight by using a ruler.If you have a message for the front of the card, make sure to leave enough room for your decorations.If you want to write "The Stocking Were Hung..." on the card, you'll need to make sure you have enough space to hang your stockings.If you want to include a message with a photograph on the front of your card, make sure there is plenty of space for both or tailor the size of the message to accommodate the picture.Print out your message from a design you like on the internet or one you create in a Word program on your computer if you don't have the most beautiful handwriting.After you've finished the front, write your message on the inside of the card.If you want, you should sign your name and those of your family members.Allow enough time for pens or glue to dry before you start decorating the card.
Step 8: You can decorate your cards.
The fun part is here.You're ready to decorate the card once you've written your messages on it.As you work, have your decorations available.If you make a mistake, you might want to have cotton or orange sticks to fix it.If you don't have enough decorations, you can use other supplies, including your paper.
Step 9: Allow the cards to be set.
Before you place your handcrafted Christmas cards in their envelopes to send, allow them to set overnight to make sure they don't shift.
Step 10: You can choose a format.
If you want to make your Christmas cards personal, but don't have the time or money to do it yourself, using an online service is an excellent option.You can use a variety of formats, from individualized designs to photo cards.You can get a sense of the different card formats from different websites.
Step 11: Choose from a basic design or template.
When you've had a chance to look at the different options of card formats and services available online, you should decide which one is best for you.You can personalize your messages and designs from a simple template on most online services.You have to check the prices for the cards.Your card is going to be more expensive if it is more elaborate.The cheaper your order will be, the more cards you buy.
Step 12: You can design the front of the card.
After looking at the different options for the front of your card, choose one and enter it into the online interface.If there isn't one write a message on the card.You can add an additional message to anything that already appears in your design.You'll only have one side to your photo card if you use a service like Shutterfly.Attach your message to the front if this is the case.Don't put too much on the one-sided card.
Step 13: You can design the inside of your card.
You could include a personalized message inside of each card.You can rewrite the message if there is a pre-formulated one inside the card.
Step 14: The final product needs to be checked.
To make sure there aren't any mistakes, check each aspect of the card before you place your order.Fix them and check until you like it.Make sure your designs and messages match up.You don't want a blue and silver traditional front design with a green and red modern inside design.
Step 15: You should order your cards.
You can place your order with the online service once you've designed and personalized your Christmas card.If there is a problem with your shipment or design, print out the confirmation.Check the cards for any mistakes from the original order when they arrive.