Creating simple DIY Christmas cards with kids inspires creativity and joy of the season with minimal supplies, such as paper or cardstock, paint, glue and recyclables. Begin with a handprint snowman: paint little hands white, press them onto blue card stock for fluffy snowmen bodies, then add carrot noses from orange scraps, button eyes and scarf strips cut from washi tape easy for even toddlers to stamp “Merry Christmas” on top. Another fun one is the fork print Christmas tree: dip a clean fork into green paint (mix colors for some texture) and print a few lines of forks to form the branches. For mess free options, finger print a flock of robins: press inked fingers on to white cards for the red body, and add wings with blac fine liner; beaks and legs complete the birds before you line them up alongside twig branches (or holly leaves from any green paper offcuts) sweet but easy for all ages. Pop up trees impress recipients too; concertina fold green paper into graduating strips, then stick it in a folded card to give 3D slant, add sequin baubles on strings and bow add your own backgrounds with snowflakes or stars. eir motor skills and develop mementos of their visit. Collect paint, pom poms, googly eyes and little stickers in advance; monitor paint closely to ensure it doesn’t go into mouths for safety. Kids glow presenting their best to family!
Hand Painted Watercolor Christmas Greeting Cards
The Inspiration : Credits Brushstroke/ Cultura, via Getty Images Watercolor Christmas cards found their origin in Victorian England, after artists started hand painting holiday scenes on thin paper. Today, this century old craft tradition provides an apposite antidote to mass produced cards. Every stroke is embroidered with differences in color blending and soft white threads each creating voluminous texture that evoke the warmth, magic and nostalgia of holiday seasons past.
Why it Works : Hand painted watercolor cards are special because it is truly making art by hand. The transparent qualities of water colours mean you can achieve luminous, layered effects that are simply not possible to re create on a screen. Research proves a 40% boost in synchronization shopping handmade takes you emotionally versus store bought. For the watercolors (beautiful and accessible for a beginner) needed only paint, brushes, water and heavy paper quality. The generous attributes of the medium enable colors to mix in a more natural way, resulting in happy accidents that can imbue character and personality. These cards are something people hold onto and keep out displayed every year. Whether just a simple wash showing a snowy scene, to intricate holly wreaths, these watercolor techniques work for all levels of skill and offer thoughtfulness and care that makes people connect with their holiday.
Pro Tip : Begin with a restricted palette of three Christmas colors Prussian blue, burnt sienna and sap green to keep a visual consistency. Work wet on dry for controlled details like pine needles, and then try wet on wet on dreamy backgrounds. Assemble the chosen inks and practice on your scrap paper before stamping your card. Add a dash or two of salt to wet paint and, voila, instant snowflake textures.
Bail Watercolor Christmas Card
The Inspiration : Glassblowers of the Victorian era fashioned the first glittering Christmas baubles in 1840s Germany, inspiring artists to try and catch their light infused beauty. Watercolor ball ornament cards Watercolor ball ornament cards came into fashion as artists were trying to capture the soft, glowing transparency and metallic luster of dangling decorations. These spherical patterns represent unity, hope and the circular rhythm out of which spring returns year after year.
Why it Works : Watercolor is idea for simulating the effect of wondering ornament by painting successive transparent washes that imitate reflections on glass. Its fluidity allows for realistic highlights and shadows with natural luster. The ball ornaments provide variety of sizes and styles with a unique look, and can be painted with no added preparation! From simple stripes to eye popping patterns, these make a one of a kind tile. Research has indicated that a circular design with designs in the center draw customers’ attention for 60% longer and make for more engaging focal points. Its nostalgic image brings fond memories of decorating trees as a child. With bundles of matching ornaments in opposite shades, they allow your eyes to easily bounce around the card while creating beautiful balance and rhythm with a repeated circular structure.
Pro Tip : Paint baubles in three stages: first a light wash as the base colour, second a darker colour but leaving a ‘C’ shape as an unpainted highlight for shine, then work up some reflected colours at the bottom edge. Intricate hanging strings will only work when masking fluid is used, before the background is painted. Add into water colours to create genuine metallic lustre effects.
Handmade Christmas Cards
The Inspiration : The first ever Christmas card was commissioned in London, 1843 by Sir Henry Cole instigating a much loved tradition. And now, in our increasingly digital age, a handmade card brings back that personal touch. And every card is a tangible expression of love affection, emotions and feelings that communicate how loved the recipient really is felt; so each piece becomes an adored keepsake.
Why it Works : Handmade cards forge emotional connections mass-produced counterparts can’t compete with. According to studies, 40% more meaning is attached to a hand-made object over a store bought one. The “simply you” process also decreases stress 25% by therapeutic art studies. DIY Unique cards on budget All you need is a few supplies to make your own cards on the cheap such as cardstock, markers, and decor. The fact that each card is one of a kind means no two cards are identical – recipients know they were particularly thought of. By showing that you are willing to invest your time (dwells) with friends or loved ones, it then deepens relationship around the holidays. Be they simple stamped designs or complex paper cut scenes, handmade cards cater to all skill levels making even a beginner look like an old pro while having the emotion that online greetings can’t match.
Pro Tip : hord an assembly line: cut all the card bases, add backgrounds, embellishments and messages. This process saves 50% time of crafting. Organize a supply caddy by technique stamping, die cutting, painting so you don’t have to rummage for materials every time you want to shift from one card style to another.
Calm & Bright Kit Christmas Card
The Inspiration : Stampin’ Up! ’s Calm & Bright Kit watches over card-making tradition, reimagining it with soft pastels instead of the brighter reds and greens so often assigned to this holiday endeavor. Inspired by the popular carol “Silent night,” this inclusive kit contains enough elements to create eight beautiful cards with coordinating envelopes all you need from the comfort of your own home! add Container Gap.
Why it Works : Take the guess work out of coordinating and pick up everything you need for 9 beautiful cards all in one box! The soft colour scheme Pool Party, Lost Lagoon, Pretty in Pink & Pecan Pie offers a peaceful and non traditional look that is no different from the typical Christmas cards. Pre scored card bases with stitched embossed details, complementary shimmer vellum, fancy die cuts and patterned envelopes with polka dot liners provide professional results without extra tools. It, along with clear “From Our House to Yours” stamps (more kits include a 13 piece set), adhesives, twine and step-by-step instructions that come in handy whether one is just starting out or looking for pretty, fast results. Assembly is a matter of minutes per card, with heartfelt, handmade results.
Pro Tip : Customize every card by using the included Lost Lagoon and Pretty in Pink accents to add a pop of color to your cards. Accent die cuts with Wink of Stella glitter pen for added sparkle, and stamp complementary sentiments inside the card using the included mini ink pad. Assembly line style, batch slap together all nine cards at once for ultimate efficiency.
Christmas Tree Card
The Inspiration : The decorated evergreen has been a cherished holiday symbol since Queen Victoria popularized it in the 1840s. Artists were soon incorporating these festive trees in greeting cards, depicting them with burning candles and ornaments. Today, Christmas trees on cards are still one of the most recognisable holiday motifs and instantly make us feel all childlike wonder and festiveness.
Why it Works : Christmas tree cards just work: The tria ngular shape provides natural visual hierarchy, lifting the eye up towards a star or angel topper, and there’s a good chance you have green ink lying around. The equilibrium of the symmetrical design is pleasing across cultures. The tree provides infinite creative possibilities either as a simple line drawing, a watercolor forest, an intricate 3D pop up or even constructed from collaged paper strips with options for all levels. Research finds that evergreen imagery is conducive to eliciting nostalgia and comfort, thus enhancing emotional involvement. The tree also features built in branches that create room for all of your favorite ornaments, and the hinged design makes storage even easier. Simple or fancy, cards with a tree on them are instantly recognized as celebratory by everyone; ideal for diversified groups and still personal, all the while festive.
Pro Tip : 3 D: Make a green spelled using a ribbon technique: cut strips of green card stock down to smaller sized and fold each in half into loops, lining onto your card base. Add a star topper and small pearl ornaments. This 3D effect is quick to make but has professional looking and ornate results suitable for giving.
Dog Christmas Card
The Inspiration : The idea for dog Christmas cards began the time of the Victorian love of pet portraiture, and Christmas greeting. Today’s editions capture the unique relationship with families and their furry friends, making these sentiments a precious part of holiday memories. From a pup in Santa hats, to candid shots of dogs by gift wrapped presents, the cards honour pets as cherished members of our families as well sharing seasonal warmth.
Why it Works : Dog Christmas cards work so well simply because they bring two of the worlds most popular themes together, cute dogs/offit pets and Xmas. Studies have shown that pet themed content garners 38% more engagement on social channels than standard holiday material. These cards make emotional connections, bring smiles to recipients and showing off the personality of your pet. They are conversation starters that recipients actually keep, rather than throw away. Including their pet is a way for dog owners to recognize their importance in the family. The cards double as annual photo albums for your dog, offering a lifetime of memories something generic online prints simply can’t offer!
Pro Tip : Plan a photo shoot in natural light two weeks before the card cutoff, and use treats and beloved toys to capture real expressions. Opt for clean backgrounds that won’t draw attention away from your dog’s face and line up several shots so you have options capturing your pup at his or her best in terms of personality and holiday spirit.
Tree With Star Small Christmas Card
The Inspiration : the tree with star design goes back to the Star of Bethlehem leading the Three Wise Men and represents hope and guidance. Tiny Christmas cards were born of the paper rationing in World War II, a time when short greetings made sense and mattered. Miniature tree and star cards today combine this deep symbolism with modern minimalism for a simple and classic way to send holiday wishes without the recipient’s space or your budget getting completely overwhelmed.
Why it Works : Little tree with star cards shine in their versatility and appeal. Their petite size (roughly 3×5 inches) is also great for gift tagging, cash storage, or taping to your presents something a little extra that every present deserves. The iconic images are universally understood, so they’re great for business contacts and international pals. Research finds that the minimalist design boosts message recall by 42 per cent over those cluttered cards. And the smaller size means you save 60% on printing but lose none of the impact. Because they are so portable, your members can enjoy displaying multiple cards without adding unnecessary bulk to a mantel or bulletin board.
Pro Tip : Add depth by layering metalic gold or silver foil on the star element to create a bold highlight that catches the light. Combine with matte cardstock for the tree to add texture and for low cost cards that still feel premium and well designed, which is great on the eyes.
Three Color Design Tree Small Christmas Card
The Inspiration : The three colour tree small christmas card harks back to traditional printmaking, when restricted palettes produce strong and memorable graphics. Designers observed how holiday decor in Scandinavia uses just a few color for calm, cozy interiors. By rendering that concept onto a single, small card, the tree icon remains minimal and bold instantly festive without visual noise.
Why it Works : Three color design Stick with the principles of timeless graphic design: limitation breeds clarity. Three is the magic number, limiting your options team (typically green, red and a neutral or metallic) means you can create sharp contrast and great legibility on something small. Studies of visual cognition indicate that small color palettes enhance focus and recall, making it more likely you will remember the sender. Small cards are less wasteful feeling but still special, a good choice if you’re planning an eco conscious holiday or printing in bulk on the cheap. The easy to read tree shape pops from a distance, looks gorgeous on any fridge or gift wrap and photographs beautifully for social media efforts that amplify you and your brand’s vision.
Pro Tip : Select one main color for the tree, one accent color to serve as ornament or trunk, and a background color that’s going to tie everything together. First, test that your palette works in grayscale and has enough contrast, then print a sample card. If the tree still “pops” at an arm’s length, then the three color balance is good.
Juggling Snowmen Christmas Cards
The Inspiration : Snowmen juggling cards sprung from a whimsical trend to anthropomorphize winter figures. Victorian era illustrators incorporated playful activities into snowmen beyond standing still, having them dance, ski or perform tricks. Today’s juggling snowmen capture that nostalgic appeal and add the universal circus entertainment of simple but satisfying fun to create greetings that evoke smiles, chuckles, and memories of an innocent holiday spirit.
Why it Works : Snowmen card juggling works by connecting humor with unexpectedness. Studies show that for the humorous holiday card option: Humorous holiday cards accumulate a 56% average lift in engagement and display duration. The silly scene of snowmen juggling ornaments, snowballs or candy canes defies tradition, getting recipients to stop and grin. This is cute and produces special moments that helps build a sender recipient relationship. The fun, funky design is universally appealing kids are entertained by the silliness and adults love the wit. These cards also telegraph personality, communicating you are fun first and foremost, not formal. For businesses, juggling snowmen make for a friendly approach without losing the festive warmth of the holidays.
Pro Tip : To give your drawing some movement and energy, try adding motion lines or having the juggling objects set at different elevations. Bright colours will really stand out against the white snowman body, making sure everything pops and can be read easily at a glance.
Joyful Glimmer Hot Foil Plate cards
The Inspiration : Joyful Glimmer Hot Foil Plate cards mix traditional letterpress elegance with contemporary paper crafting technology. Inspired by vintage gilded stationery and midcentury foil holiday cards, crafters began using hot foil plates to embellish with glistening sentiments and designs. The effect is a shimmering, tactile hello that seems handmade and luxurious and celebratory at once.
Why it Works : The Joyful Glimmer with Hot Foil Plate cards are effective because they appeal to both sight and touch. The pressed foil reflects light and immediately catches the eye, taking even the most mundane designs up a level. On a psychological level, metallic shine communicates celebration and value, so the recipients will feel that these cards are more special and can be kept as keepsakes. The durable impressions from hot foil plates produce professional results at home, as well as communicates a maker’s brand or personal style. Foil stamping sentiments draw out these unique appointments in a crsip, easy to read format. Foiled elements also tend to perform well when shared on social media, because reflective surfaces look great in photos and grab attention in your crowded feed.
Pro Tip : Fully pre heat your hot foil machine and allow the plate an extra few seconds to heat up evenly. Cut on nice, smooth cardstock to the size of plate you have and trim your foil pieces slightly large than the plate. Once it’s foiled, allow the panel to cool completely before handling so you don’t smudge it and destroy that beautiful, Joyful Glimmer impression.
Peace On Earth Christmas Cards
The Inspiration : The origin of Christmas cards bearing the phrase ‘Peace on Earth’ dates to World War I, when soldiers and families sought peace amidst conflict. The language mirrors the angels’ declaration of Christ’s birth, grounding it in Christmas tradition. Today’s versions carry forward centuries old wishes for world peace, individual serenity and solidarity amidst separation into modern seasonal hopes.
Why it Works : Peace on Earth cards are recognized worldwide transcending religious and cultural differences through their message of hope, peace (and love.) The message speaks to our communal desire for safety and kindness, so it’s well-suited for various recipient lists: business colleagues, interfaith friends and international connections. Messages that mention common values increase feelings of connection by 47% vs generic messages. They also give comfort telling trying years to fuck off, because they recognize that and offer hope. The phrase is one of a timeless stretch, traditional transposed and also relevant, across generations. For companies, Peace on Earth messaging has a values driven quality that’s not preachy (or excluding), your recipients are made to feel like part of positive intentions.
Pro Tip : Combine the Peace on Earth message with symbolic imagery for peace among all nations doves, olive branches, or worldwide landscapes mystically doing light images. Select soothing color schemes like blues, silvers and whites to visually emphasize tranquility. Include a handwritten note that refers to specific well wishes for the recipient.
Santa Claus Hat And beard Cards
The Inspiration : hat and beard cards were the byproduct of Clement Moore’s 1823 poem and Thomas Nast’s 1863 illustrations which cemented Santa Claus’ look. The hat and beard image, suddenly without company in the reproduction universe when old time advertising took it up by the mid 19th century, was used to represent jolly gift giving people who weren’t looking straight through their own winking peepers. This minimalist look leaves the rest to the imagination Santa’s sparkling eyes, his warm smile.
Why it Works : Santa hat and beard cards work because they are immediately recognised, authentic and nostalgic. The red and white color combination translates straightforwardly as “Christmas” across cultures; there is no need for translation or explanation. Psychologically, a partial image triggers the brain’s sense of closure, and it leads viewers to complete the picture in their minds’, attaining more attention with card. Kids will instantly recognize Santa, and grown ups will appreciate the playful simplicity. These cards are photographable for social media, too: the fluffy textures and striking colors make for attention getting posts. The design also adapts well to creative deviations glitter beards, 3-D pom poms and embossed textures are included, providing the crafter a bit of freedom while still delivering the comforting presence of a familiar Santa who brings holiday warmth so quickly upon sight.
Pro Tip : If you want to add some dimension, layer on another bit for the beard and a real pom pom on the tip of the hat. Substitute red glitter or velvet paper for the hat to add texture contrast. These Touch worthy details will make recipients not only want to feel them but not let go or keep it in their wallet.
Hand Drawn Christmas Cake Cards
The Inspiration : Handmade Christmas cake cards celebrate the great British fruity cakes, covered with marzipan and royal icing. Victorian families shared illustrated recipe cards and baking tips at Christmas. Contemporary artists brought this fresh, sentimental imagery back to life, expressing the appeal of multi layer confections trimmed with holly sprigs, snowflakes and seasonal tableaux turning a culinary focal point into warm hearted, fanciful tidings.
Why it Works : Nothing vampire handwritten Christmas cake cards, they work because of their warmth &authenticity. The rough lines and personal touch of hand-drawn art appear more authentic than boring mass produced designs, showing people they’re worth a little extra. Studies reveal that handmade or hand drawn objects are 63% more perceived as thoughtful. The iconography of cake calls back sensory memories a mélange of molasses and ginger flavored exoticism family gatherings, frivolous feast days all the emotional resonance disassociated from what you eat because you can’t actually have it. These cards will please bakers, foodies, and folks who miss old time seasonal revelry. The illustration style also provides ample creative freedom: Watercolors are soft and approachable, pen and ink give vintage vibes, colored pencil is perceived as cozy and warm senders can pick the aesthetic that suits them best.
Pro Tip : Start by sketching your cake in light pencil, and then build frosting details with watercolor or markers. (Don’t you just love giving dimension with a white gel pen?) And include little imperfections like a somewhat wobbly layers they add to the handmade factor and make your card feel genuinely personal and homey.
Gathering The Holly Cards
The Inspiration : Collecting All the Holly cards take inspiration from ancient pagan and Celtic customs when families would travel into winter woods to harvest evergreen branches to adorn for Yuletide. Victorian carolers turned this ritual into a romantic one in songs like “Deck the Halls.” These cards illustrate that timeless moment of getting all bundled up, basket in hand, scouring for the perfect holly sprig celebrating preparation, nature, anticipation.
Why it Works : Collecting Holly cards tie in nicely with their narrative and Winter/Seasonal feel. It’s an active and participatory tradition, rather than a passive decoration, and encourages people to think about their own holiday preparations. Studies have proven that narrative based cards evoke 52% stronger emotions than static images do. The holly gathering passage rouses multi-sensory memories: fresh winter breezes, snow that crunches underfoot, bright berries clashing against evergreen foliage. This old fashioned task appeals on multiple generations: to grandparents, it recalls a bygone era of real foraging and to younger recipients it’s all about the farmhouse aesthetic in 2018. The cards also subtly celebrate slowing down and nature connection, values more and more desirable during rushed holiday seasons, so they feel thoughtful and countercultural.
Pro Tip : Draw figures in classic wintry garb woolen coats, knitted scarves, wicker baskets to play up the storybook timelessness. Pair with falling snow or woods with a subtle colors, and make holly berries the only bright red to give the eye an immediate place go.
Hand Drawn Merry Christmas Cards
The Inspiration : Hand drawn Merry Christmas cards date back to a 1843 commission by Sir Henry Cole the world’s first commercial Xmas card had hand colored enchanting drawings. Before the advent of mass printing, pen and watercolor sketches personalized greetings for families. The hand drawn revival today eschews digital perfection, embracing genuine artistic expression that respects this 180 year old tradition of making something so uniquely personal for someone you love.
Why it Works : Handmade Merry Christmas cards have emotional appeal because you can see they were made with human effort. Recipients appreciate the time commitment each stroke takes thoughtfulness and intention that can’t be re created by digital designs. Neuroscience research proves that handcrafted items stimulate the brain’s “reward center,” motivating social bonding and human connections 71% more than purchased cards. The uneven lines and slightly ragged edges add to the quality of the print, providing a charming aesthetic unique to letterpress gree cards. For artists and crafters, hand drawn cards can display creative skills while also developing a personal brand. The tactile, ink texture and paper grain, have a soft finish with subtle colour variation Creating memorable experiences that they pass on and share; extending the impact of your card beyond its opening.
Pro Tip : “O A master template you can trace through with light pencil guidelines Draw the lettering in the same spot on each drawing, then vary decorative elements: a different border style or flourish, small illustrations. This balances efficiency with uniqueness. Archival ink pens resist fading to keep your hand drawn design looking fresh over time.
Christmas House Cards
The Inspiration : Christmas house cards grew out of Victorian winter village scenes and the traditions of placing candles in each window. Thomas Kinkade’s “Painter of Light” cottages made shimmering snow covered residences especially popular in the 1980s. These cards evoke the more widespread longing for warmth, shelter and homecoming in winter by turning houses into representations of family, safety and holiday escape.
Why it Works : Christmas house cards can arouse strong emotional connotations of home and belonging. The visuals provoke recollections of childhood vacations, family get togethers and familiar faces back at home during holiday times. Field of Influence: Environmental psychology research has shown that home imagery decreases stress levels by 34% while it increases the feeling of safety. Lights shining through the windows evoke visions of warmth and welcome; snow covered roofs, smoky chimneys make us long for cozy evenings past. These cards are universal showing cottages, Victorians and modern houses because everyone can identify with home as sanctuary. For new homeowners, the cards celebrate first holidays, do it for them and longtime residents celebrate years of memories, so Christmas house cards are timeless and personal.
Pro Tip : Drop in dimensional elements such as micro LED lights behind punched windows or a velveteen flocking on one of the rooftop cards to make quick and easy interactive cards that recipients will treasure all season long! For window glows, use warm yellows and oranges against cool blues and whites for snow; this will play up the cozy versus cold contrast that makes the house feel inviting.
Calligraphy Christmas Cards
The Inspiration : Calligraphy Christmas cards are one way to pay homage to the medieval illuminated manuscripts in which monks devotedly lettered religious texts with elaborate flourishes. The art experienced a resurgence during the Arts and Crafts movement when William Morris extolled the handwritten as beautiful, versus machine made goods. Today’s calligraphers mix these ancient techniques with contemporary design to turn well wishes into elegant works of art that celebrate the visual potential of written language.
Why it Works : Elegant calligraphy Christmas cards stand out for their refinement and skill. The flowing letterforms, you see, slow readers down you tend to take in messages more mindfully than when reading printed text. Studies have proven that hand lettered content can increase retention rate of a message by 58% and perceived value by 83%. Every stroke shows skill and patience, a message of recipient value communicated through time spent. The quality is good enough that cards are frequently frame worthy, as seasonal decor rather than disposal. Calligraphy is so versatile, it can govern mood’ the formality of copperplate for elegance; brush lettering for modern warmth; and gothic scripts for tradition. Calligraphic business cards distinguish brands as refined and meticulous corporations that value client relations through physical luxury.
Pro Tip : Employ base lines and slant lines under translucent paper to keep uniform height of all letters without unsightly pencil marks. Develop muscle memory by practicing your greeting 50 times leading to the day of final execution. Allow metallic or white ink to dry entirely between applications of embellishments so that you do not smudge the pristine calligraphy you have just created.
Gingerbread Man Christmas Card
The Inspiration : Gingerbread man Christmas cards originate from 16th-century European baking customs, when spiced biscuits became a holiday season favorite. According to legend, Queen Elizabeth I presented gingerbread copies of important guests. The folkloric figure from the “The Gingerbread Man” fairy tale infused playfully personality. These cards bring together the legacy of culture cuisine and nostalgia as a child reading storybooks with two sides to every illustration, traditional baking decor taking whimsy wherever it goes!
Why it Works : Gingerbread man cards achieve this through both multi sensory appeal and universal recognition. The imagery evokes smells, like the cinnamony goodness of gingerbread, and calls up memories that allow us to bring the mnemonic a measly 67 percent boost in card memory. The happy figure of anthropomorphic form appeals to all ages, as kids adore its adorable character and adults evoke memories of baking with a parent or grandparent. The brown and white color scheme offers warm, welcoming contrast to standard red green palettes and allows cards to stand out on mantels. The fun topic matter relays an easy going attitude without compromising the holiday cheer, perfect for your more casual relationships with kids or businesses who crave friendly and not so formal seasonal messaging. The gingerbread look also photographs nicely for social posts.
Pro Tip : Incorporate textural elements like embossed “icing” detail with white puff paint or dimensional glaze, and/or small faux candy buttons using rhinestones or glossy dots. Add an unexpected surprise to the back of your card with a scratch and sniff gingerbread scent sticker that your customers are sure to remember!
Nests Of Winter Christmas Card
The Inspiration : Winter Nests Christmas cards are inspired by artist naturalist prints, and the sad beauty of empty nests covered in snow. Victorian tudies of nature romanticized vacated birds’ nests as emblems of repose, seasonal return, and house. Contemporary designers have rediscovered the quiet beauty of this motif, which evokes winter immobility as well as nature’s hardiness nests holding up against storms and waiting for spring to come back and bring new life.
Why it Works : Winter cards: nest Thoughtful and Dreamy…WINTER cards connect through a complex geometry of symbols. The scenes are attractive to nature enthusiasts, bird watchers, and individuals interested in alternative holiday images that do not include any religion. The psychology of the nest is essentially that of home, protection and family all universal themes that are intensified during holidays. There is meditative beauty in the context of winter, which hints at quiet slumber instead of barren wasteland. Research demonstrates that nature based cards lower the stress level of recipients by 41% over those that are busy and commercial. The muted colors grays, browns, whites offer up a more sophisticated option to bright reds and greens (it’s great for minimalist looks and can be worn with business attire). Also there is the metaphor of standing and staying in shelter through cold days, soothing for anyone going through a bitter span.
Pro Tip : Much like above, layer your watercolor to create a snowy background and then add some intricate nest details with the fine tipped pens for texture. Tuck sparse items here and there, like a single red berry, pine needle, or robin’s feather to enhance the pops of color without overpowering the tranquil winter nest and reflection.
Snowy Backdrop Lawn cuts Christmas Card
The Inspiration : IN THE MEADOW BACKGROUND Lawn Cuts Christmas cards were born from the revolutionary concept of clear stamps and dies where crafting and layering techniques collide. “Using shadow boxes and theatrical stage sets as inspiration, crafters found that cut and emboss dies featuring detailed snow scenes drew them into dimensional winter wonderlands. These cards turn flat cardstock into mini snow globe scenes and convey the magic of looking at a frosty, wintry scene through a window.
Why it Works : Snowy Backdrop Lawn Cuts cards are most interesting for depth and visual interest. Layered die cuts offer realistic dimension that forces you to stop and stare at the details falling snowflakes, distant trees, rolling hills. Studies in human cognition suggest that dimensional cards increase the amount of time spent with a card by 73% over flat designs, increasing memory retention and emotional association. The exact cutting of these makes professional results that look like they took a long time so send the message that the gift was made with love and consideration. These cards photograph very well for social media, and we’ve found that using shadows and layers makes for more visually interesting photos (and increases shares by 45%). The snowy concept is universal, and it casts a calm kind of wintry beauty that’s nonreligious in nature featuring generic holiday imagery so you can easily send them to people with different beliefs.
Pro Tip : Layer three to five layers with foam adhesive squares between each while going from darker to lighter. Front Snow elements use white or light shimmer cardstock and then deeper blues or grays behind to gain the 3D effect. Palettize outer snowflakes with micro glitter, it will beautifully catch the light.
Christmas Greeting Card
The Inspiration : The first Christmas greeting cards started making their way around in 1843 when Sir Henry Cole asked artist John Callcott Horsley to design a card for busy London friends. Until now, handwritten letters also wasted valuable time. Cole’s creation a printed card depicting families feasting together inaugurated a tradition that democratized holiday communication and enabled people to stay in touch even as schedules grew more frantic and loved ones spread further apart.
Why it Works : Christmas cards are a tradition that endures because they meet basic human needs for connection and ritual. Studies have shown that people who receive physical cards are more likely to release oxytocin, the “bonding hormone,” and they are 62 percent more likely to build relationships as well as digital messages. The reality is tangible and makes an impression it’s no small thing that cards pinned to mantels remind people of their relationships all season long. They leave room for personal messages but not long letters, a way to practice mindful communication even in busy times. For senders, cards offer an annual touchpoint to sustain relationships that might have waned. Research shows that senders of cards are shown to have 48% stronger social connections and decreased loneliness, while the act makes recipients feel valued and remembered when times are most special.
Pro Tip : Send mail cards by Dec. 10 with the intention of them arriving on time, but keep copies on hand for late additions. Hand write a sentiment or memory, in one of the sentences. It turns generic wishes into memorable interactions that people value and showcase.
