Instructions to Make a Handmade Card

There are a few ways to make a handmade card, all of which require the use of paper. Whether it's a Christmas card, birthday card or a sentimental love note, a handmade card shows its receiver just how much the giver cares. The time it takes to put thought and detail into a handmade card shows they are always personalized and unique.

Hard Paper

The use of hard stock paper, or cardboard paper, is often used for wedding invitations and specialized birthday cards. In both instances, this paper can be purchased at paper stores like Paper Source (see Reference link below). For wedding invitations, buy the paper in bulk. If it's individual cards, buy a single sheet. This paper can be cut with regular scissors, and drawn or written on with ink.

Stamps

Available at craft stores like Michael's or Jo-Ann's, you'll find rubber stamps and ink that can be used for handmade card decorations. Some stamps feature simple things like hearts or birds, but some might even have special fonts of messages like "I love you" or "happy birthday" on them. If you decide to use stamps on a handmade card, try combining them with your own handwritten messages too.

Printing

Using your computer, you can print out images or messages that can later be glued to your card stock. Use a glue stick on the actual card, and then lay the printout flat on top of it. If you don't have the nicest handwriting or can't draw very well, print out a nice font or drawing from your computer.

Cut-outs

For added flair and interest, you can stamp or print designs on a different color of card stock, then cut it out and glue it onto the background being used for your card. Be sure to pick card stock colors that fit your theme or compliment one another.

References

• Rubber Stamps
• Paper Source

Resources

• Martha Stewart
• Making Greeting Cards