Store bought cards can be snatched up while buying the milk (all your Loved Ones know that – they’ve done it). Hand made cards are so much more valued.
Plus that , YOU GET TO CREATE!
Left: When Abby Sivy made this rooster card in class, she wasn’t thinking of Valentine’s day, but with a caption such as Our Love Is Something to Crow About, it would be great. You don’t have to paint hearts.
So, here’s how:
1. Fold a piece of paper in half. While you can use any paper, heavy paper is best. Canvas paper was used in the examples shown, but often I use Bristol paper or card stock.
2. Tape the paper to a work surface / board. Note: You want the fold to be on the top if you do a horizontal card and on the left if you do a vertical card.
The tape not only holds the paper down, it also makes a border or frame for the image (once removed), so be sure to place it evenly on all edges.
3. You don’t need a full set of paints. You can use acrylics, watercolors, even crayons. Paint from your imagination, look at something in front of you, or use a photo reference.
Work to your heart’s content. Stay relaxed about the results – “it’s the thought that counts”. I suggest that students do this exercise to relax if they are nervous about painting. “It’s a CARD not fine art.” Funny how well they turn out with this attitude!
Making cards is a way to loosen up your painting while delighting your Significant Others. Note the tape (blue) on the card's edges.
Dina Elder - hand painted card. Shown in process at left.
JP's card. Note the clean borders from the taping.
4. Take off the tape, and think of a clever note to write on the inside. Voila!
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