With Valentine’s Day rapidly approaching, you are probably thinking about what to give your loved ones and your friends. For people besides your significant other, giving something simple like a card to show that you remembered the occasion and are thinking of them will do. But you probably do not want to go the store and pick up a bunch of the same generic Hallmark card to send out to the people you care about. First of all, such cards just are not special or individualized enough. Second of all, commercial greeting cards are costly, and depending on how long your list is, buying a bunch of them could really add up.
So, what should you do then? One great idea is to make handmade Valentine’s Day cards. This way, you can reduce costs, personalize the cards, and have a little bit of fun in the process. But while some people are crafts whizzes, those who are less inclined in the artistic realm may be unsure of how to go about such a project. Well, the good news is that it is actually easier than you ever would have imagined. With a quick trip to your local craft store for some cheap, basic supplies, and an hour or so of your time, before you know it you will have individualized cards to send to your family and friends. Here are some great ideas for how to get started.
Make a list of who you want to make cards for. This way you will know how much material you should get–paper, glitter, etc. Next, you want to sketch out the idea you have for the card. One great type of homemade card to give is one that involves a picture. This works best if you have a close relationship with the person you are sending the card to; for example, you are sisters, long-time coworkers, old friends, etc. Find a picture of the two of you together, or with a close group of family members or friends, print it out, and include a brief, personal message.
If you have a roomy budget, you can have the pictures printed on glossy photo paper, and then glue them to cardboard or thick construction paper. If you are working with more limited resources, then you might want to use a laser color printer. The message can be as simple as “Happy Valentine’s Day!” written in pearlescent pens, or something more specific, such as a personally written note. Get creative! Use glitter! Try your hand at drawing borders or little images that speak to your friendship or relationship. Getting a Valentine like this is truly special and personalized, and anyone who receives such a note will be delighted.
But the photo card is not necessarily appropriate for all Valentines that you may wish to send. If you are spending Valentine’s Day at the office, why not bake up some delicious heart-shaped cookies for your co-workers? Homemade pizzas with heart-shaped pepperoni on top, or strawberries and cream can transform a family dinner into a handmade romantic treat.
It doesn’t matter whether you are single or taken this February 14th, Valentine’s Day is a great excuse to get crafty and share some fun with your friends and family.
About the Author: Victoria Crowdell writes articles on family, home & garden and crafting. Her passion is decorative candles.
