How to Make Valentines from Old-Fashioned Paper Dolls

Turn reproduction antique paper dolls into one-of-a-kind Valentines using simple craft supplies and a little imagination. Whether it's a romantic design for someone special or a whimsical piece for friends and family, a reproduction paper doll is perfect for creating a unique and elegant card. Styles range from colorful children's designs like Dolly Dingle or Raphael Tuck's dolls to sophisticated fashion dolls like Godey's Ladies and Harper's Bazaar dolls from the Victorian era, all with their own unique charms.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• reproduction paper dolls
• glitter
• scissors
• glue
• stickers
• sequins
• paper doilies
• metallic thread
• decorative pinking shears
• calligraphy pen
• blank business cards or cardstock cut into small rectangles

1. Cut out the paper dolls of your choice: smaller is better, although larger dolls can be "cropped" using pinking shears, so they're shortened at the knees or waist. Be sure to glue the outfit of your choice on your doll, however, before cropping.

2. Glue on any details like decals, sequins, stickers, or other decorative items. A bouquet in hand or a mini Victorian heart sticker is the perfect touch for a paper doll; a series of clear sequins can spruce up a miniature ball gown or elegant hairstyle.

3. Trace the edges and prominent details of the doll with glue, then sprinkle with clear or colored glitter and let dry.

4. Fold a paper doily into an envelope sized to fit your doll; glue the sides in place but leave the top or opening flap free.

5. Take a blank business card (or white cardstock cut the same size) and fill out your valentine message. Add stickers, glitter, or decals if desired.

6. Tuck your doll inside the envelope, along with the message card. Fasten it closed with an old-fashioned sticker and place in a mailing envelope to send it in the mail.

Tips & Warnings

• Use crumpled brown paper and rubber stamps to make soft old-fashioned envelopes if preferred.
• Be creative with your designs -- use metallic thread to add a loop to the top so the recipient can hang their card or create a decorative "chain" of paper hearts and flowers dangling from your doll or its envelope.