After the holidays, I actually enjoy sitting down to write thank you notes (though I’m not always the best at getting them out in a timely manner). It does take a bit of time, but taking that time to sit and remember the generosity and kindness of friends and family is time well spent.

I don’t always take the time to make my own cards, but if I can, I like the extra thought that goes into a homemade card.

To make these cards, you will need:

cardstock in colors of your choice
scrap paper in tonal or coordinating shades
glue stick
paper cutter
scissors
pen or embosser

 

1. Cut the cardstock base to your desired card size and fold.
2. Cut thin strips of the coordinating papers; I like using a variety of shades and textures to give the card more interest. I often make this card using all tonal stripes of one color, which is also really fun and striking. Cutting the strips is easier if you have a paper cutter, but still possible with scissors. The strips should be longer than the width of the card base; you’ll trim them later.
3. Use the glue stick on the back of the strips and place them on the cardstock at slightly different angles, crossing some. When the glue is dry, trim the strips and add a greeting to the front of the card with a black pen or, if you have one on hand, a paper embossing tool.

This card is very quick and easy to make in bulk—perfect for sending out after a season of giving.
 

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