13 Tips and Tricks for Card Making

Tip: Selecting a Background Color for Handmade Cards

Beginners may find color selection challenging. One approach is to choose a color from an image or patterned paper you are using and make that the background color of your cardstock. Then, select one or two other colors from the image or patterned paper for embellishments and coordinating details on your card.

Cost-Effective Crafting: Utilizing Paper Scraps in Card Making

Specialty craft papers can be an investment. Consider reusing paper scraps. Paper punches and die-cutting machines can create simple shapes from these scraps, which can then be used to decorate cards. This practice can contribute to saving money and reducing waste.

Alternative Sources for Card Making Paper Supplies

Consider using materials like decorative gift bags and wrapping papers for card making. Gift bags are often made from heavier paper stock, which can be suitable for card making. They can be unfolded and cut, avoiding crease lines.

Wrapping paper is generally thinner and may need to be reinforced by adhering it to a thicker paper base. While these unconventional papers might require some extra preparation, they can add unique elements to card designs. Spray adhesive can be used to attach wrapping paper to cardstock. Ensure careful placement of the wrapping paper onto the sprayed cardstock and smooth it down with a finger or a bone folder to help prevent wrinkles or air bubbles.

Using a White Polymer Eraser for Cleaner Results in Card Making

When positioning paper cutouts on a card, light pencil marks are sometimes used as placement guides. After adhering the embellishments, these pencil marks should be erased. It is advisable to use a white polymer eraser. Pink erasers or pencil-top erasers may leave smudges or marks on the card.

Enhancing Designs with Rounded Card Corners

Using corner punches can give cards a more polished and professional appearance. For example, a 10mm corner rounder punch can produce good results. This tool can also be used to give photos and business cards an updated look.

Adding Dimension with Foam Tape Squares and Dots

Adding dimensional elements can enhance card designs. Foam tape and dots create space between layers on a project, making elements appear raised and more prominent.

Technique: Making Permanent Tape Temporarily Repositionable

When deciding on the final placement of elements, it can be helpful to temporarily position them. To reduce the tackiness of permanent adhesive tape for this purpose, try dabbing it on a piece of fabric (such as denim) a few times. This can make the adhesive less aggressive, reducing the likelihood of damaging the card’s background if elements need to be repositioned.

Stamp Maintenance: Cleaning Craft Stamps for Optimal Impressions

If using water-soluble ink, lightly spray the stamp with cold water (without soap) and pat it dry with a paper towel or a clean cloth. Avoid rubbing the stamp, as this could potentially damage its surface. Proper care can help extend the lifespan of your stamps and ensure clear impressions.

Tip: Maintain a Supply of Versatile Handmade Cards

Creating a collection of cards with simple, adaptable designs can be useful for various occasions. When a card is needed quickly, you can add a specific sentiment with a stamp, and the card is ready.

Organization Tip: Using a Monthly Card Box System

Maintain a box with dividers or folders for each month. Prepare cards in advance and file them in the corresponding month’s section. At the start of each month, retrieve the necessary cards for mailing. This system can help avoid last-minute card making.

Ribbon Tip: Preventing Fraying Edges

Ribbons can be an attractive addition to card designs, but cut ends may fray. To prevent this, apply a small amount of clear nail polish or a fray-stopping liquid to the cut ends of the ribbon.

Alternative to Foam Tape: Creating Dimension with Foam Board

If you have run out of foam tape or dots while making a card, a piece of foam board can be cut to the desired shape. Glue this foam piece to the card base where height is desired, and then attach the main element on top of the foam to create dimension.

Exploring Different Card Folding Techniques

Learning to make cards using various card folding techniques can add interest and interactivity to your creations.

Card maker Beccy Muir from Australia shares numerous examples and tutorials for card folding and design on her blog, which can be a source of inspiration for creating unique cards.