the art of greeting cards
Whether it’s a birthday, Valentine’s Day, or an anniversary, almost everyone has probably bought and given a greeting card at some point in their life. Now, think for a second, how many of those times that you have bought a card did you just pick up a card that seemed good because it “fit” the theme of the occasion? Not much thought, just looking card after card at the store until you find a premade one that feels like “this will work”. You add some words or just sign it, mostly letting the prewritten words do the talking. Cards these days have become more of a gift necessity than actually being a gift themselves, and I think they are truly an overlooked opportunity to express gratitude, love, and appreciation.
the spark that started my card kick
A few years back, almost every night, a small family of bears would visit. I know this seems random and a bit off topic, but stick with me. My family, specifically my Mother, loved them, going so far as to name the mother and cub duo, Yogi and BooBoo. Soon, when Mother’s Day came around, I wanted to incorporate our new favorite friends in her card, especially because my Mom has always been referred to as Mama Bear. When looking around the store, I realized no card would portray exactly what I wanted, as it was such a personal experience. I left the store empty-handed, went home, grabbed some colored pencils, and made my own out of printer paper! When I started making it, I realized I could add so many more personal details that I know she would enjoy, whether it be her favorite color incorporated somewhere in the card, or a saying she always loved.
When she opened the handmade bear-themed card and saw how personal it was to her, she lit up! From that moment forward, I wanted everyone, on every special occasion, to get a card that was personalized just for them. I found that handmaking cards was a small and simple way to show that I care, listen, notice, and remember things that are special and personal to them!
why cards are my kind of therapy
As I got further into my card-making journey, I have come to believe that there is something effortlessly chic about being known for crafting beautiful, heartfelt cards. It’s more than just stationary, it’s an art with a personal touch that never goes out of style. Soon family and friends would tell me they were so excited to see what I would come up with for their card! Now, maybe it’s a good time to mention how I love to focus and not overlook any detail when it comes to gift giving, whether that be the wrapping, the bag, or the ribbon; everything is made with intention and not overlooked. So, discovering how easy it is to make a card to fit each person and aesthetic I am trying to achieve, I instantly knew this was gonna be my new favorite hobby. It became such an easy way to leave a lasting impression on people, whether they are new friends or close family, it is something each person appreciates and remembers.
As someone who loves cute and artistic crafting supplies, this was a perfect way to use those stickers, cardstocks, and glitter that I hastily bought just because I thought they were pretty, or even the leftover school supplies from years ago that have been collecting dust in my garage. The creativity in matching cardstock with designs, stickers, or even printed photos became such a calming outlet for me. Just coming up with design ideas to suit the person receiving the card is so enjoyable, especially as you learn and find new techniques or items you can add to cards. It truly is endless what you can do!
enough talk-go make a card!
Now, in no means am I saying people who would prefer to just pick up simple cards from the store or don’t have the time to make one are any less thoughtful, loving, or caring, but I do truly encourage trying at least one time to create a card for someone you love. Whether it be just a stick man on folded paper because you know they will like it, or something more elaborate. Just even adding some small personal details can elevate a gift, and I think you will realize how joyful it is for you to create one, and how fulfilling it is to be able to gift something homemade with love, care, and thoughtfulness to the people you treasure!
So go out, make a card, be known for this cute niche hobby- make it your whole personality even! It is a good reminder, either way, that you can turn simple, mundane, overlooked, common things into something more chic and meaningful!
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