Cardmaking

Hands-On Handmade Cards

Making handmade cards is so much fun because when I create one, I know there’s not another like it and the recipient is receiving a very special gift. You can take ideas and inspiration from other crafters, but in the end what you make is one-of-a-kind. I’m usually always looking for different embellishments because I use my software program CraftArtist Professional 2 for the base of my card and this saves me time and money. But, I do like adding stickers, ribbons, and sometimes sentiments to make it more than just a computerized-generated piece.

Here’s some of my favorite embellishments:
    • Stickers. These are great for quick decorations to cards. I found them at my local dollar store and I made sure to grab a bunch of them. I typically look for vintage themed stickers because I just like that style. I also like the 3D style stickers though you have to be sure the envelope has enough depth in order to fit the card inside.
    • Letters. These I use to add additional sentiments to the card, words like: love, hugs, etc.
    • Flowers, leaves. These are terrific for bringing the outdoors in. You can use a glue gun to add flowers and/or leaves to a card and really make it stand out.
  • Ribbons. They can add a border or be tied into a bow and really add color to a card. I also like gluing stickers or flowers on top of the ribbon.
This list are extras that make cardmaking really fun!
  • Embossing machine. This is a good tool to have cause you purchase plates with different designs and you can emboss your paper to make unique card designs.
Cardmaking kits.
These are a good way to get started making cards because they contain the elements you need and of course you can buy many different themes and mix and match.
Debbi Moore Designs. I was looking up some kits and came across this one on Amazon but also on Joann.com too. I love the Vintage Rose package.
Stamping.
This is something I’ve been getting into lately. It’s so much fun and now I’m playing with clear stamps rather than the traditional rubber stamps. Stamping can be used instead of the computer saving on using up ink cartridges. To use the clear stamps, you adhere them to a clear block and then add the ink before you stamp.

The clear block set above comes in sizes: 1×1, 2×2, 3×3 and 2×6 inches perfect for most any stamp set. I really like the different sentiments (pictured l) you get in this set with different font types and font sizes. You can find these for specific occasions as well like birthdays, holidays, etc. Cardmaking is a lot of fun and it doesn’t have to be expensive either. I like to use up my coupons for Joann’s or Michaels and then there’s always the dollar store. Thrift stores are also a good source for finding papers, glues, stickers, and stamp pads and collections.

I remember when I used to sell cards for a living years ago, I wasn’t very successful and I promised myself not make them anymore. Little did I know that I’d be doing it again, but for ministry work instead. I enjoy it much more now and the monies I raise for selling my cards helps me run the church library (UPDATE: I no longer run the library at church nor attend that church anymore, we have a new church home). It’s a good feeling and a lot less stress for me to create and not rely so much on making a profit. I’m at a place in my life where I don’t want to create for a living, but for gifting and ministry fundraising.

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