DIY Holiday Cards
DIY HOLIDAY CARDS
Hi guys! Happy Thursday! We are halfway through this week and almost halfway through December... crazy right? If you're planning on mailing out holiday cards, hopefully you've already done so, or are aiming to have them sent out no later then Sunday! Time flies, so it's important to always plan ahead, especially during timely months of the year (such as this). The key to enjoying your holiday season or any important occasion for that matter, is learning how to stay one step ahead. It's easier said than done, but not impossible. If you're looking to create beautiful holiday cards that will leave your recipients all the merrier, look no further. I'm here to share a few DIY tips with you that I personally used to make my cards.
Crafting cards can be done all year round for a multitude of occasions. It's both a fun and rewarding activity. It's an excellent creative outlet and means a whole lot to those receiving your cards. It surely is a gesture that doesn't go unnoticed. The holiday season is a time for giving, but I'm not just talking about gifts. I'm referring to the extra quality time that is given to others as well as the thought that's more commonly seen around this time of year. A holiday card can go a long way and become invaluable to those receiving them. There is something special to be said about anything made with love, so I hope my DIY tips come in handy for you as you create your very own holiday cards.
14 DIY HOLIDAY CARD TIPS
1.DECIDE YOUR THEME
This is the foundation to any project. Once you envision and decide on your theme, everything else can fall into place.
2. CHOOSE YOUR PHOTO/PHOTOS
I love adding a personal touch to any craft and what's more personal or unique than you? They say a photo is worth a thousand words, so select one of your favorite festive shot(s) and set it aside.
3. DESIGN YOUR CARD ONLINE
I am a big fan of Vista Print, Shutterfly, or any other printing company out there. I personally use both multiple times a year for different occasions and am always very pleased with my finished product. This is a great way to design a custom, high quality card you'll be excited to mail out.
4. ORDER CARDS
The companies listed above are always offering some sort of discount, so be sure to keep an eye out for those. If you're able to stay one step ahead and be ready to order your holiday cards by Thanksgiving, you'll be in great shape. This allows you to benefit from the Black Friday sales. Just to put it in perspective, I purchased my cards this Black Friday and received 60% off the entire order (can't get much better than that).
5. BUY YOUR SUPPLIES
You can be sure to find me at Paper Source when I'm working on any custom card, stationary or holiday project. They have everything I need to make it perfect. Their excellent staff are extremely welcoming and can be very helpful. I purchased all my supplies ("All is Merry and Bright" stamp, red ink, festive tape and gold gel pen) from them.
6. SET ASIDE TIME AND MAKE A DEADLINE
This may sound silly, but it's important. Making time seems easy, but can be challenging, especially when you have a lot going on. Dedicate some time to solely craft and assemble your holiday cards. Cozy up with your winter beverage of choice while you softly play Christmas tunes in the background. Setting a deadline is important because it holds you accountable and keeps you on track so you're able to complete your holiday cards and get them sent out in a timely manner.
7. MAKE A SAMPLE
A sample card of your final product is a very useful tool when making a bunch of similar cards. Each will still be unique, but you'll want all your cards to have a cohesive appearance.
8. FORM A RHYTHM
This will take most of your time, so plan accordingly. Get into a rhythm and find your flow. For example, I like to write all my addresses one night, then stuff and decorate the next. Assembling holiday cards in stages definitely makes for a smoother process.
9. SEAL WITH A KISS, STAMP AND A LITTLE CALLIGRAPHY
I believe the envelops are just as important as the cards themselves. Presentation is everything, so add a little festive flare to both the inside and outside of your holiday cards. Whether you're adding stickers, stamps, calligraphy or all the above to your envelopes, make it a work of art.
10. WRITE YOUR RETURN ADDRESS
Be sure to write your return address on each of your envelopes. For some strange reason if your card doesn't get delivered to your recipient on the first try, at least it will be safely returned to you.
11. STAMP IT
You can't go wrong with Forever stamps. Go to USPS.com and look for a stamp that will complement your theme. You can also do a collage of vintage stamps, but this could add up quickly.
12. DOUBLE CHECK
Once your holiday cards have been sealed, stamped and left out to dry, it never hurts to take one last look at them before sending them through the mail. Make sure each one is sealed and all your "i's" are dotted and "t's" are crossed.
13. HEAD TO THE POST OFFICE
Head to your mailbox or nearest post office where you can send your beautifully crafted holiday cards on their way.
14. YOU'VE GOT MAIL
Enjoy your holiday season feeling delighted with the thought of making someone else's holiday a little brighter!
