Making cards is one of my jams especially in between the business side or when I’ve had a long, hard day. And there are some go-to’s that I love to use when making cards so today I’ll share them!
- Die Cutting. This is my absolute favorite thing to do. I LOVE die cutting images with stand alone dies. I like to stamp and have a coordinating die, but I love just having a die which could be flowers, fruit, baskets, hills, grass, birdhouses, even word dies. For me, it all starts here. Check out my page here for my favorite die cutting machines.
- Ink Blending die cuts. My 2nd favorite thing. I love just using my brushes to give the die cuts some dimension with ink blending. This technique takes the look up to the next level and makes them stand out more.
- Pattern papers. This is my 3rd but I think it’s a close 2nd favorite for me. I love using pattern papers and layering them up on my card bases. I normally pair them with other embellishments like sequins, enamel dots, die cut images, emphera and sometimes stamping. I also love to die cut pattern papers and it’s a quick way to make a beautiful card. Take a look at cards I’ve made with pattern papers here.
- Using what’s in my stash. When I’m working on a card projects, oftentimes I have leftovers. Well, I don’t throw them away, I keep them in a folder and they come in handy later on. In fact, I’m challenging myself this month to use the products in my craft stash for cards and not try to buy anything new. My reason is I will buy an item, use it once or twice, put it away in my drawer and then I forget about it. These products we have are good forever so why shouldn’t I break them out over and over again?
- Making backgrounds. This is a favorite especially during times when I’m struggling creatively. I may not have a design in mind but I’ll just make some backgrounds instead and put in a folder. I love using my gel press and inks but also embossing folders on white and color cardstock. Having these on hand makes cardmaking quick, productive and fun!
These are my 5 favorite ways to make cards. Of course, I love so many other methods and techniques. When I switched my hobby from fiber arts to paper crafting, I wasn’t sure I’d like it as much. I’m glad I was wrong. Being creative, however you do it, is fun, relaxing, fulfilling and it heals the soul.
What are your favorite ways to create, whether it be a card, a scrapbook layout, a photo or an illustration? Tell me by commenting!
