|
By Robert Michael
1. There are many types of cards you can choose from . Design
the ones that you need or that sound the most interesting to
you. Try birthday, anniversary, cards for children, wedding,
sympathy, holiday or get well.
2. To begin the design you will need good paper. Look for
pre-folded cards or use cardstock and fold your own. Using a
bone folder is helpful here because it makes a very nice clean
fold. There are several sizes to choose from, make sure you
have an envelope to fit or be prepared to make one. There are
templates galore for this type of thing.
3. Next choose a sticker or rubber stamp for the image on the
front of the card. If using stamps, try different color stamp
pads until you get the design and color you like. You can
layer
the stickers or stamped image on other paper to create a more
pleasing design. Try using a combination of plain and matching
patterned paper for this step.
4. There are embellishments you can use instead of a stamp or
sticker. These are often dimensional and add a lot to the
design of your card.
5. Make certain you have appropriate glue. Carefully consider
the adhesive you want to use. A glue gun works well for heavy
items but will wrinkle most papers. Glue dots and strips are
handy for many design gluing jobs. I really like the glue
stick
that says"heavy duty" on the label, it is good for almost any
paper and dries smooth and clear.
6. Design the words next. Think about what you want the card
to
say. Do you want the greeting or message on the inside or on
the
front of the card? You can use rubber stamps for this,
stickers
or computer generated greetings. There are so many fonts
available that every card can be unique.
7. Lay your design out on the card before you attach the
different elements. Check to make sure it all fits and that
you
like the design. Glue everything down and making sure all
pieces
are secure.
8. Now look at the inside of your card. If you are going to
put
a message there think about layering it on other paper to
match
the design on the front of your card. Attach these pieces to
the inside of the card.
9. Check out the whole card now. Are you happy with the
design?
Does it need anything extra like colored brads or buttons? Is
there part of the design that would look nice colored in with
marker, colored pencils, chalks or watercolors?
10. I believe a card is not finished until the fiber is added,
both inside and out. Matching colors from the design, take two
or three strands of coordinating ribbon, yarn, metallic thread
or wire and tie into a knot. Trim the ends so it looks the way
you want it. Attach with your glue gun and you are done with
the card.The envelop please! To put a final touch on your
design decorate the envelop to match the card. Use your
markers, chalk, stickers and stamps to create an envelop that
is as gorgeous as what’s inside!!
In very little time you can create a special and unique card
and envelop using your own design.
About The Author: Robert Michael is a writer for Fhg
Designs.com which is an excellent place to find design
links, resources and articles. For more information go to:
www.fhgdesigns.com
|