Making Your Own Greeting Cards

It’s hard to believe, but the holidays are less than two months away. I used to send greeting cards for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, and also birthdays, anniversaries, and much more. Now with the Internet, I tend to just send off a quick email or post on Facebook. I started thinking it’s not personal enough, so I went back to cards. However, now I make my own.

Step 4: Now, place the piece of felt on top of the pulp. Water will begin coming through the felt. Start sponging the water off until it feels fairly dry. This may take 15 minutes or more depending on the size of your mold. Keep sponging until you have absorbed most of the water coming through.

Step 5: Once the pulp appears somewhat drier, carefully start peeling the paper off the mold with the felt still in place. (If you keep the felt on, you stand a better chance of keeping it in one piece.) After you do a few, it will get easier. When you get the paper sheet off the mold, lay it on a dry sheet of white paper or a thin dish cloth with a towel underneath. Place another piece of paper or thin dish cloth on top, then some newspaper and then some heavy books on top of that. This will help squeeze out any remaining water. After a few hours, take everything off and place your new paper on a drying rack. (I lay it on a flat piece of cardboard on top of my refrigerator.)

Step 6: Within a day or two your paper will be dry enough to write on. Fold it in half and find an envelope to match. Use paint, colored markers, photos, or whatever you like to write your message.

Creative Variations

You can use just about any type of paper. I’ve used old copy paper that is wrinkled and then added some crepe paper for color. I’ve also used ribbon, buttons, and other pieces of art to personalize the card. I’ve even added flower seeds so that after the recipient has gotten the card, it can be recycled right into the garden. If you do this, be sure to let them know so they can plant it right away!

I’ve also made larger pieces and made them into wall hangings with the help of a friend who does calligraphy. And I’ve added a drop or two of essential oil to make it even more special. In the fall I’ve added pieces of colored leaves to celebrate the season, and then pine needles in the winter.

Have you made paper before? Tell us about your experience!

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