How old do you think card making is? This tradition has been around before paper! Records show in ancient China and Egypt scrolls were used to send greetings. Up until mass manufacturing all cards were handmade. The trend has always been to use the latest technology. While the digital age offers a variety of ways, paper cards are still an option. And there still is a place for personalizing with a handmade card.
Origins of this holiday
It was started in 2006 by Paper Crafts Magazine. This magazine taught lovers of paper a variety of projects, including card making. October was selected to help card makers get a start on making their Christmas cards. There are several other holidays that traditionally include cards in the last quarter of the year. Christmas worldwide, and in the US there’s also Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Hanukkah.
Why should you start
Making cards lets you express yourself creatively. It also personalizes the greeting for the special people in your life. Most of us have some experience. If it was enjoyable then why not do it now? It doesn’t have to be elaborate to be appreciated by someone close to you. Let your knowledge guide you to choose subjects and colors they prefer in your design. If you want to have the message read like a greeting card search Google for ideas.
Beginner Card Makers
World Card Making Day started online as a subscriber only event. The event now brings together makers in live workshops and online to share ideas. For a fee, there are companies that will sell you what you need and provide instructions on YouTube.
If you’re new to card making search for “world card making events for beginners”. I saw several free events. I suggest you watch first. You’ll see the basic equipment. Watch techniques performed. See if it looks like a good fit for you before investing time and money.
building relationships
People need to nurture relationships and cards are a tool. Cards show you care. You thought of them and took actions. The result being tangible evidence they can hold in their hands. A method that has been employed since ancient times because it is effective.
On Etsy most of my cards offer various sentiments so customers can choose the one that best communicates their thoughts. For live events I mostly do note cards, with blank interiors. After years of collecting stamps and learning best practices, I’ve found inside messages are essential for expressing feelings. It’s important to choose them carefully.
Get Creative
Try card making this October. If it isn’t where your talent lies keep exploring. We are all creative and it’s a fact creating is good for our mental health. Sending cards is good for both the sender and the receiver. Cards are available at many locations. If you prefer not to spend time making one, a card maker can help in producing a customized card. You can find a variety of handmade cards on Etsy, the link to my shop is below.
Thank you for reading to the end. If you do decide to make a card snap a photo. I wish I had with my first card. It’s now standard practice. If you continue, I promise you’ll see improvements.
I’d love to hear from you if you do make a card. Have a creative day!
Paper Crafted Bliss 