Greeting cards from wallpaper
Adults and children can make unusual 5-by-7 inch greeting cards with a variety of decorative and textured papers, stamped images and embellishments for a three-dimensional effect. Gather odd items, from buttons to tiny toys, that can be added onto the cards to make each one special. These handmade cards are sure to put a smile on the recipient's face.
Materials
Purchase packs of white and colored cardstock to create basic cards. Collect decorative papers in various sizes, colors and textures. Find expired wallpaper sample books; these have themed papers and room borders that provide colorful heavy paper with different images for any occasion greeting cards. Other materials should include peel-and-stick paper, foam stickers, gift tags, photographs, buttons, tiny toys, candy, party favors, yarns and ribbons. A paper cutter, plain and fancy scissors, glue sticks, double-sided tape, and hot glue gun and glue sticks are important as well.
Making Greeting Cards
On a paper cutter, cut cardstock sheets to 10-by-7 inches. Fold each one in half to make a 5-by-7 inch greeting card. Decide on a theme for a card, such as birthday, new baby, wedding or other event. Arrange decorative materials on the card, starting with the largest pieces, such as cut or torn papers and large images, then layer other items on top in declining size. Attach them to the card with double-sided tape or glue stick. Three-dimensional items, such as buttons, party favors, candy or flowers, should be attached with a hot glue gun.
A Few Tips
Ask for expired wallpaper sample books at home decorator shops and home improvement stores (which would be discarded if not salvaged by crafters). Have a craft box handy to collect assorted greeting card supplies, ready for use to make projects. Themed materials, such as glittery individual sticky letters that can be used all year long, can be purchased on sale or clearance at craft stores such as Michaels or AC Moore (see Resources below) after a holiday. Be sure to sign the back of the card as the crafter.
