The Art of Cardmaking.

Handmade cards -  Ever since I received a hand painted card from my mother for my 7th birthday (which I have in a keepsake box), I have made cards for others.

There is something magical about giving and receiving a handmade card for any occasion; the appreciative feeling of knowing that the person has taken time and effort to create something special and unique for you.

Making and giving the card also gives the creator a warm caring nature towards others, a sense of satisfaction, a generosity like no other.

A handmade card can be created to match the personality and likes of the receiver, with handwritten sentiments and words: a gift more likely to be kept and treasured in favour of something mass produced.

You don't need to be Picasso to paint something or indeed have any paints.

I sometimes use watercolour pencils, easy to use and store, especially if you are living on a boat.

I gifted Maverick with a watercolour of our cat. He kept the card and has since framed it. 

If drawing and painting is not your style, try recycling old cards and adding extras such as buttons, ribbons, string, beads and lace etc. Google Images will help you with ideas.

For the birth of a new baby. Made using cocktail sticks and embroidery cotton.

Cut a template of a teacup using an old floral birthday card or gift wrapping paper. Glue the edges of the teacup onto the front of your folded card, leaving the top open (unglued). Decorate the card in any other way you like. 

Insert a teabag, preferably with a tag attached. Write your personal message inside. 'You are my cup of tea.' 'Have a drink on me.' 'You are tea-riffic.' 'Happy Birthday.' 'Get well soon.'

Using just string and a homemade label. Simple yet effective.

This Christmas card is made using a series of ink pen dots (draw a faint pencil line first and then rub out.) Add a button for a nose.

The same technique is used to make this snowflake card with tiny beads added (taken from an old blouse).

Card making is such a relaxing craft and much more fun if they are made using recycled materials. Start asking friends to save buttons, lace, old cards etc and store in a decorated shoe box.

There is no need to spend a lot of money on craft card kits. I buy cheap envelopes in bulk and cut good quality drawing paper from pads to fit the size.

PVA glue or a small glue gun is ideal for this craft.

HAPPY CRAFTING