Top Tips for Card Making
Card making is a great hobby and for many people it is a good
source of income, but what do you need to think about when
getting started?
Blank Cards - You can always fold your own
card but care mast be taken to score and fold your card accurately
and envelopes
can often be an issue so buying blank cards can often be the
solution. Textured cards often feel and look more professional
but smooth cards allow for embossing.
Designing your card
- This is the fun bit, but always bear in mind that too much
can look over the top, so less is best.
Choose colours that complement each other and avoid too many
colours. Ensure objects are placed centrally and evenly spaced
if dealing with square shapes and ensure embellishments
are central on any layering. For added effect use sticky fixers
to create depth and a 3d effect on your card. Avoid bulky embellishments
that may be squashed in the envelope. If you would like people
to know about you, include your details on the back of your
card, remember lots people will see the card out of the packet
only 1 person sees it in the packet.
Card Inserts - These add the professional finish to your card.
These can be printed on the computer or for those lucky enough
to be gifted with wonderful hand writing can be hand written.
By using decorative scissors you can add a lovely finish to
your insert. When fixing these into the card you can either
use a small glue stick and run it down the very edge of the
insert or cut a thin strip of double sided tape. I prefer to
attach the insert to the inside of the front of the card so
it opens with the card but others prefer to attached to the
back, this is your choice there is no right or wrong. Always
ensure your insert is straight and well secured. Elastic cord
can be tied around the stem of the card for an extra special
look.
Envelopes - There are different envelopes but the triangular
flaps look better for hand crafted cards. For the extra special
touch why not use a stencil and emboss a simple design on the
flap.
Presenting your cards for sale - If you are planning to sell
your cards always present them in the Cello Crystal bags for
the professional finish. Seal these bags with a simple sticker
with your details and the details of any verse inside.
Developing a portfolio - If you wish to make
cards for income ensure you have a range of designs avoid following
only 1 theme
as this theme will not be everyone's cup of tea. Save a copy
or picture of every card you make as a record and reference
for future projects.
Be prepared - Always be thinking ahead, make
Christmas cards in September and Easter cards in January etc.
But remember
over half the cards we buy are Birthday Cards, with Anniversary,
Get Well, Friendship and sympathy cards only having a small
portion of the market. Also consider which events people are
most likely to treasure cards, i.e. The birth of a baby or
a Wedding are both events where people treasure all their cards
and is an excellent occasion for that extra special card.
Enjoy - When making cards becomes a chore
the quality of your cards will decline. Handcrafted cards are
a work of love.
You might be interested in.....
We have included some product ranges and product links which
we are currently featuring in our shop, we have listed those
that card makers may find of particular interest.
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